bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Emerging Concepts of Regulation of Angiotensin II Receptors
Authors: Mogi Masaki , Iwai Masaru , Horiuchi Masatsugu
Published: August 2007

Angiotensin (Ang) II exerts its important physiological functions through 2 distinct receptor subtypes, type 1 (AT1) and type 2 (AT2) receptors. Recently, new evidence has accumulated showing the existence of several novel receptor interacting proteins and various angiotensin II receptor activation mechanisms beyond the classical actions of receptors for Ang II. These associated proteins could contribute not only to Ang II receptors’ functions, but also to influencing pathophysiological states. Receptor dimerization of Ang II receptors such as homodimer, heterodimer, and complex formation with other G protein-coupled receptors has also been focused on as a new mechanism of their activation or inactivation. Moreover, ligand-independent receptor activation systems such as mechanical stretch for the AT1receptor have also been revealed. These emerging concepts of regulation of Ang II receptors and a new insight into future drug discovery are discussed in this review.
Osteopontin
Authors: Scatena Marta , Liaw Lucy , Giachelli Cecilia M.
Published: August 2007

Osteopontin (OPN) is a multifunctional molecule highly expressed in chronic inflammatory and autoimmune diseases, and it is specifically localized in and around inflammatory cells. OPN is a secreted adhesive molecule, and it is thought to aid in the recruitment of monocytes-macrophages and to regulate cytokine production in macrophages, dendritic cells, and T-cells. OPN has been classified as T-helper 1 cytokine and thus believed to exacerbate inflammation in several chronic inflammatory diseases, including atherosclerosis. Besides proinflammatory functions, physiologically OPN is a potent inhibitor of mineralization, it prevents ectopic calcium deposits and is a potent inducible inhibitor of vascular calcification. Clinically, OPN plasma levels have been found associated with various inflammatory diseases, including cardiovascular burden. It is thus imperative to dissect the OPN proinflammatory and anticalcific functions. OPN recruitment functions of inflammatory cells are thought to be mediated through its adhesive domains, especially the arginine-glycine-aspartate (RGD) sequence that interacts with several integrin heterodimers. However, the integrin receptors and intracellular pathways mediating OPN effects on immune cells are not well established. Furthermore, several studies show that OPN is cleaved by at least 2 classes of proteases: thrombin and matrix-metalloproteases (MMPs). Most importantly, at least
in vitro
, fragments generated by cleavage not only maintain OPN adhesive functions but also expose new active domains that may impart new activities. The role for OPN proteolytic fragments
in vivo
is almost completely unexplored. We believe that further knowledge of the effects of OPN fragments on cell responses might help in designing therapeutics targeting inflammatory and cardiovascular diseases.
Increased Oxidative Stress in Scavenger Receptor BI Knockout Mice With Dysfunctional HDL
Authors: Van Eck Miranda , Hoekstra Menno , Hildebrand Reeni B. , Yaong Yuemang , Stengel Dominique , Kruijt J. Kar , Sattler Wolfgang , Tietge Uwe J.F. , Ninio Ewa , Van Berkel Theo J.C. , Praticò Domenico
Published: August 2007

Objective—

In the current study the effect of disruption of SR-BI, a prominent regulator of HDL metabolism, on the activity of the HDL-associated antioxidant enzymes PON1 and PAF-AH as well as in vivo oxidative stress were investigated.

Methods and Results—

SR-BI deficiency resulted in 1.4-fold (
P
<0.001) and 1.6-fold (
P
<0.01) lower serum paraoxonase and arylesterase activity of PON1, respectively. Furthermore, a trend to slightly lower PAF-AH activity was observed. In vivo oxidative stress was evaluated by measuring isoprostane F2α-VI (iPF2α-VI) and protein carbonyls. Compared with wild-type animals, SR-BI knockouts had 1.4-fold (
P
<0.05) higher levels of plasma iPF2α-VI, whereas urinary excretion was increased 2-fold (
P
<0.0001). Plasma carbonyls were 1.5-fold (
P
<0.05) higher in SR-BI knockout animals. Furthermore, iPF2α-VI and carbonyl levels were 2.1-fold (
P
<0.01) and 1.4-fold (
P
<0.01), respectively, increased in livers of SR-BI knockout mice, and in reaction to the increased oxidative stress the expression of several endogenous antioxidant systems was upregulated. On challenging the SR-BI knockout mice with an atherogenic Western-type diet, a further increase in oxidative stress in these animals was observed.

Conclusion—

SR-BI deficiency results in a reduced activity of the antioxidant enzyme PON1 and a significant increase in oxidative stress, potentially contributing to the proatherogenic effect of SR-BI deficiency.
Predictive Value of Reactive Hyperemia for Cardiovascular Events in Patients With Peripheral Arterial Disease Undergoing Vascular Surgery
Authors: Huang Alex L. , Silver Annemarie E. , Shvenke Elena , Schopfer David W. , Jahangir Eiman , Titas Megan A. , Shpilman Alex , Menzoian James O. , Watkins Michael T. , Raffetto Joseph D. , Gibbons Gary , Woodson Jonathan , Shaw Palma M. , Dhadly Mandeep , Eberhardt Robert T. , Keaney John F. , Gokce Noyan , Vita Joseph A.
Published: August 2007

Objective—

Reactive hyperemia is the compensatory increase in blood flow that occurs after a period of tissue ischemia, and this response is blunted in patients with cardiovascular risk factors. The predictive value of reactive hyperemia for cardiovascular events in patients with atherosclerosis and the relative importance of reactive hyperemia compared with other measures of vascular function have not been previously studied.

Methods and Results—

We prospectively measured reactive hyperemia and brachial artery flow-mediated dilation by ultrasound in 267 patients with peripheral arterial disease referred for vascular surgery (age 66±11 years, 26% female). Median follow-up was 309 days (range 1 to 730 days). Fifty patients (19%) had an event, including cardiac death (15), myocardial infarction (18), unstable angina (8), congestive heart failure (6), and nonhemorrhagic stroke (3). Patients with an event were older and had lower hyperemic flow velocity (75±39 versus 95±50 cm/s,
P
=0.009). Patients with an event also had lower flow-mediated dilation (4.5±3.0 versus 6.9±4.6%,
P
<0.001), and when these 2 measures of vascular function were included in the same Cox proportional hazards model, lower hyperemic flow (OR 2.7, 95% CI 1.2 to 5.9,
P
=0.018) and lower flow-mediated dilation (OR 4.2, 95% CI: 1.8 to 9.8,
P
=0.001) both predicted cardiovascular events while adjusting for other risk factors.

Conclusions—

Thus, lower reactive hyperemia is associated with increased cardiovascular risk in patients with peripheral arterial disease. Furthermore, flow-mediated dilation and reactive hyperemia incrementally relate to cardiovascular risk, although impaired flow-mediated dilation was the stronger predictor in this population. These findings further support the clinical relevance of vascular function measured in the microvasculature and conduit arteries in the upper extremity.
The PI3K/Akt Pathway Mediates the Neuroprotective Effect of Atorvastatin in Extending Thrombolytic Therapy After Embolic Stroke in the Rat
Authors: Zhang Li , Zhang Zheng Gang , Liu Xian Shuang , Hozeska-Solgot Ann , Chopp Michael
Published: August 2007

Objective—

We tested the hypothesis that the phosphatidylinositol-3 kinase (PI3K)/Akt pathway mediates the neuroprotective effect of combination therapy of atorvastatin and tissue-type plasminogen activator (tPA) in rats after stroke.

Methods and Results—

Combination of atorvastatin (20 mg/kg) and tPA (10 mg/kg) significantly reduced ischemic lesion volume, whereas monotherapy with atorvastatin and tPA did not reduce the lesion volume, when the treatments were initiated 4 hours after embolic middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAo). Western blot analysis revealed that treatment with atorvastatin alone and in combination treatment with tPA significantly increased Akt phosphorylation compared with treatment with saline and tPA alone. Inhibition of the PI3K/Akt pathway with wortmannin completely abolished the reduction of lesion volume afforded by combination of atorvastatin and tPA. Real-time RT-PCR analysis of cerebral endothelial cells isolated by laser-capture microdissection from the ischemic boundary region showed that MCAo upregulated early growth response 1 (Egr-1) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) mRNA levels and tPA monotherapy further increased Egr-1 and VEGF mRNA levels. However, combination of atorvastatin and tPA significantly suppressed Egr-1 and VEGF mRNA levels in cerebral endothelial cells.

Conclusions—

Activation of Akt and downregulation of cerebral endothelial Egr-1 and VEGF gene expression by atorvastatin contribute to the neuroprotective effect of combination treatment with atorvastatin and tPA.
Both Protein Kinase A and Exchange Protein Activated by cAMP Coordinate Adhesion of Human Vascular Endothelial Cells
Authors: Netherton Stuart J. , Sutton Jayda A. , Wilson Lindsay S. , Carter Rhonda L. , Maurice Donald H.
Published: August 2007

cAMP regulates integrin-dependent adhesions of vascular endothelial cells (VECs) to extracellular matrix proteins, their vascular endothelial cadherin–dependent intercellular adhesions, and their proliferation and migration in response to growth and chemotactic factors. Previously, we reported that cAMP-elevating agents differentially inhibited migration of human VECs isolated from large vascular structures (macro-VECs, human aortic endothelial cells [HAECs]) or small vascular structures (micro-VECs, human microvascular endothelial cells [HMVECs]) and that cAMP hydrolysis by phosphodiesterase (PDE)3 and PDE4 enzymes was important in coordinating this difference. Here we report that 2 cAMP-effector enzymes, namely protein kinase (PK)A and exchange protein activated by cAMP (EPAC), each regulate extracellular matrix protein–based adhesions of both macro- and micro-VECs. Of interest and potential therapeutic importance, we report that although specific pharmacological activation of EPAC markedly stimulated adhesion of micro-VECs to extracellular matrix proteins when PKA was inhibited, this treatment only modestly promoted adhesion of macro-VECs. Consistent with an important role for cAMP PDEs in this difference, PDE3 or PDE4 inhibitors promoted EPAC-dependent adhesions in micro-VECs when PKA was inhibited but not in macro-VECs. At a molecular level, we identify multiple, nonoverlapping, PKA- or EPAC-based signaling protein complexes in both macro- and micro-VECs and demonstrate that each of these complexes contains either PDE3B or PDE4D but not both of these PDEs. Taken together, our data support the concept that adhesion of macro- and micro-VECs is differentially regulated by cAMP and that these differences are coordinated through selective actions of cAMP at multiple nonoverlapping signaling complexes that contain PKA or EPAC and distinct PDE variants.
Intact β-Adrenergic Response and Unmodified Progression Toward Heart Failure in Mice With Genetic Ablation of a Major Protein Kinase A Phosphorylation Site in the Cardiac Ryanodine Receptor
Authors: Benkusky Nancy A. , Weber Craig S. , Scherman Joseph A. , Farrell Emily F. , Hacker Timothy A. , John Manorama C. , Powers Patricia A. , Valdivia Héctor H.
Published: August 2007

Increased phosphorylation of the cardiac ryanodine receptor (RyR)2 by protein kinase A (PKA) at the phosphoepitope encompassing Ser2808 has been advanced as a central mechanism in the pathogenesis of cardiac arrhythmias and heart failure. In this scheme, persistent activation of the sympathetic system during chronic stress leads to PKA “hyperphosphorylation” of RyR2-S2808, which increases Ca
2+
release by augmenting the sensitivity of the RyR2 channel to diastolic Ca
2+
. This gain-of-function is postulated to occur with the unique participation of RyR2-S2808, and other potential PKA phosphorylation sites have been discarded. Although it is clear that RyR2 is among the first proteins in the heart to be phosphorylated by β-adrenergic stimulation, the functional impact of phosphorylation in excitation–contraction coupling and cardiac performance remains unclear. We used gene targeting to produce a mouse model with complete ablation of the RyR2-S2808 phosphorylation site (RyR2-S2808A). Whole-heart and isolated cardiomyocyte experiments were performed to test the role of β-adrenergic stimulation and PKA phosphorylation of Ser2808 in heart failure progression and cellular Ca
2+
handling. We found that the RyR2-S2808A mutation does not alter the β-adrenergic response, leaves cellular function almost unchanged, and offers no significant protection in the maladaptive cardiac remodeling induced by chronic stress. Moreover, the RyR2-S2808A mutation appears to modify single-channel activity, although modestly and only at activating [Ca
2+
]. Taken together, these results reveal some of the most important effects of PKA phosphorylation of RyR2 but do not support a major role for RyR2-S2808 phosphorylation in the pathogenesis of cardiac dysfunction and failure.
Association of the Glutathione S-transferase Omega-1 Ala140Asp Polymorphism With Cerebrovascular Atherosclerosis and Plaque-Associated Interleukin-1α Expression
Authors: Kölsch Heike , Larionov Sergey , Dedeck Oliver , Orantes Mario , Birkenmeier Gerd , Griffin W. Sue T. , Thal Dietmar Rudolf
Published: August 2007

Background and Purpose—

Glutathione S-transferase omega-1 is a multifunctional enzyme. The Asp/Asp genotype of the Ala140Asp polymorphism of the
GSTO1
gene has been alleged to increase the risk of vascular dementia. The objective of this study is to address the question of whether common vessel disorders known to cause vascular dementia are modified in their severity by this polymorphism.

Methods—

The severity and expansion of atherosclerosis in the circle of Willis vessels, cerebral small vessel disease, and cerebral amyloid angiopathy were studied in a sample of 79 autopsy cases. Genotyping of the
GSTO1
Ala140Asp polymorphism as well as immunohistochemistry for glutathione S-transferase omega-1 was performed.

Results—

Carriers of the
GSTO1
Asp/Asp genotype presented with more severe and widespread atherosclerosis than noncarriers. However, there was no effect on small vessel disease expansion and cerebral amyloid angiopathy severity. Immunohistochemically, we detected interleukin-1α expressing macrophages in the lipid core of atherosclerosis plaques exhibiting glutathione S-transferase omega-1-positive material.
GSTO1
Asp/Asp carriers showed larger areas of atherosclerosis plaques containing interleukin-1α-positive material than carriers of the
GSTO1
Ala-allele.

Conclusions—

The
GSTO1
Asp/Asp genotype presumably modulates the severity and expansion of atherosclerosis in the circle of Willis. The cellular colocalization of glutathione S-transferase omega-1 and interleukin-1α suggests a functional interaction between both proteins which in part might explain the function of glutathione S-transferase omega-1 in the pathogenesis of cerebral atherosclerosis.
Effects of Skilled Forelimb Training on Hippocampal Neurogenesis and Spatial Learning After Focal Cortical Infarcts in the Adult Rat Brain
Authors: Wurm Fanny , Keiner Silke , Kunze Albrecht , Witte Otto W. , Redecker Christoph
Published: August 2007

Background and Purpose—

Environmental stimulation consistently increases dentate neurogenesis in the adult brain and improves spatial learning. We tested the hypothesis whether specific rehabilitative training of an impaired forelimb influences these processes after focal cortical infarcts.

Methods—

Focal cortical infarcts were induced in the forelimb sensorimotor cortex using the photothrombosis model. One group of infarcted animals and sham-operated controls housed in standard cages received one daily session of skilled reaching training of the impaired or dominant forelimb, respectively. A second group was transferred to an enriched environment, whereas a third group remained in the standard cages without further treatment. Bromodeoxyuridine was administered from day 2 until day 6 postinfarct. Proliferation and differentiation of newborn cells was analyzed at day 10 and 42 using immunocytochemistry with neuronal and glial markers and confocal laser scanning microscopy. Spatial learning was tested in the Morris water maze between days 35 and 41.

Results—

After cortical infarcts in the forelimb sensorimotor cortex, environmental enrichment as well as daily reaching training of the impaired paw both increase dentate neurogenesis and improve functional performance in the Morris water maze. Nevertheless, the reaching training-induced neurogenic response was significantly greater in nonlesioned controls associated with the best spatial learning performance in the water maze.

Conclusions—

Skilled forelimb training effectively stimulates dentate neurogenesis and spatial learning in the infarcted and healthy brain. However, this reaching training-induced increase in neurogenesis was reduced after cortical infarcts.
Molecular Indices of Apoptosis Activation in Elastase-Induced Aneurysms After Embolization With Platinum Coils
Authors: Kadirvel Ramanathan , Ding Yong-Hong , Dai Daying , Lewis Debra A. , Cloft Harry J. , Kallmes David F.
Published: August 2007

Background and Purpose—

Even though endovascular coils have been widely used for the treatment of intracranial aneurysms, the cellular and molecular responses of aneurysms to the coils after embolization remain poorly understood. The aim of the present study was to understand the mechanism of apoptosis in aneurysms embolized with platinum coils in the rabbit model of elastase-induced aneurysms.

Methods—

Elastase-induced saccular aneurysms were created at the origin of the right common carotid artery in 30 rabbits. Aneurysms were allowed to mature for 8 weeks, after which 20 aneurysms were embolized with platinum coils by endovascular means. After 2 (n=10) and 4 (n=10) weeks of implantation, aneurysm samples harboring coils were harvested for apoptotic studies. The remaining 10 uncoiled aneurysms were used as controls; additional controls included the left common carotid artery, which had not undergone any surgical procedure. Control samples were harvested at 12 weeks after aneurysm creation.

Results—

Expression of procaspases-3, -8, and -9 was elevated in coiled aneurysms embolized with platinum coils at both time points when compared with uncoiled aneurysms and the left common carotid artery. Cleaved caspases-3, -8, and -9 were found to be expressed only at 4 weeks after embolization. Cells within the aneurysm cavity were terminal dUTP nick end-labeling–positive at 4 weeks only. These apoptotic cells were identified as smooth muscle actin–positive cells. Expression of tumor necrosis-α was high in coiled aneurysms when compared with controls. There was no significant difference in the expression of Fas ligand among groups. Decreased expression of antiapoptotic proteins Bcl-2 and phospho-Bad, as well as increased expression of proapoptotic proteins Bax and Bid, was observed in coiled aneurysms at both time points.

Conclusions—

Activation of apoptosis in aneurysms after embolization with platinum coils is induced by both tumor necrosis factor-α–mediated extrinsic and Bcl-2-mediated intrinsic pathways.
Clinical Diagnosis of Lacunar Stroke in the First 6 Hours After Symptom Onset
Authors: Phillips Stephen J. , Dai Dingwei , Mitnitski Arnold , Gubitz Gordon J. , Johnston Karen C. , Koroshetz Walter J. , Furie Karen L. , Black Sandra , Heiselman Darell E.
Published: August 2007

Background and Purpose—

Although the pathophysiological heterogeneity of stroke may be highly relevant to the development of acute-phase therapies, discriminating between ischemic stroke subtypes soon after onset remains a challenge. We conducted a study of the accuracy of a clinical diagnosis of lacunar stroke in the first 6 hours after symptom onset.

Methods—

We analyzed data from 1367 patients in the Glycine Antagonist In Neuroprotection (GAIN) Americas trial. The Trial of ORG10172 in Acute Stroke Treatment (TOAST) category “small vessel (lacunar)” disease at day 7 or at hospital discharge was used as the reference standard to determine the accuracy of a diagnosis of a lacunar stroke made within 6 hours of symptom onset using the Oxfordshire Community Stroke Project (OCSP) classification “LACS.” Outcome was analyzed by comparing the proportions of patients classified as “LACS” at baseline or “small vessel (lacunar)” at 7 days who were dead or dependent at 3 months.

Results—

The positive predictive value of an OCSP diagnosis of a lacunar stroke was 76% (95% CI: 69% to 81%; sensitivity 64% [95% CI: 58% to 70%]; specificity 96% [95% CI: 95% to 97%]; negative predictive value 93% [95% CI: 92% to 94%]; accuracy 91% [95% CI: 89% to 92%]). The 3-month outcomes of patients classified as either OCSP “LACS” within 6 hours of onset or TOAST “small vessel (lacunar)” at 7 days were not significantly different.

Conclusions—

An OCSP LACS diagnosis made within 6 hours of stroke onset is reasonably predictive of a final diagnosis of “small vessel (lacunar)” disease made using TOAST criteria and has a similar relationship to outcome at 3 months.
Endovascular Occlusion of Aneurysms Using a New Bioactive Coil
Authors: Bendszus Martin , Bartsch Andreas J. , Solymosi Laszlo
Published: August 2007

Background and Purpose—

To assess safety and efficacy data of a new bioactive coil (Cerecyte) which is loaded with polyglycolic acid on the inside of the coil.

Methods—

Fifty-four patients harboring 55 aneurysms were treated with Cerecyte coils. These aneurysms were matched in localization and size with aneurysms treated with bare platinum coils.

Results—

Periprocedural complications and handling did not differ between both groups. Initial aneurysm occlusion was comparable in both treatment groups. At 6 months angiographic follow-up, the aneurysms occluded with Cerecyte coils had a higher chance for complete occlusion (
P
=0.045) and tended to a lower retreatment rate (
P
=0.056).

Conclusions—

Cerecyte coils are as safe as bare platinum coils in the endovascular occlusion of aneurysms. This matched pair analysis indicates a higher occlusion rate of aneurysms occluded with Cerecyte coils.
Ecclesial Opposition to Mining on Mindanao: Neoliberalism Encounters the Church of the Poor in the Land of Promise
Authors: Holden William , Jacobson Daniel
Published: August 2007

In the developing world, environmental issues are often livelihood issues as the poor try to protect resources necessary for their subsistence. This paper examines the opposition of the Roman Catholic Church, on the Island of Mindanao, to neoliberal policies designed by the Philippine government to encourage nonferrous metals mining by multinational corporations. Mining is an activity with substantial potential for environmental degradation that can deprive the poor of their livelihood. The Church, demonstrating the influence of liberation theology and its preferential option for the poor, has taken a stance opposing mining as an activity that may harm the poor by degrading the environment upon which they depend for their livelihood and further impoverish them. The paper examines the Church's efforts to provide alternative development programs for the poor and discusses the potential for more conflict between neoliberalism, and its "top down" methods of implementing policies, and liberation theology with its "bottom up" perspective on achieving development.
An Integrated Display and Analysis Methodology for Multivariable Radar Data
Authors: Dolan Brenda A. , Rutledge Steven A.
Published: August 2007

Polarimetric Doppler radars provide valuable information about the kinematic and microphysical structure of storms. However, in-depth analysis using radar products, such as Doppler-derived wind vectors and hydrometeor identification, has been difficult to achieve in (near) real time, mainly because of the large volumes of data generated by these radars, lack of quick access to these data, and the challenge of applying quality-control measures in real time. This study focuses on modifying and automating several radar-analysis and quality-control algorithms currently used in postprocessing and merging the resulting data from several radars into an integrated analysis and display in (near) real time. Although the method was developed for a specific network of four Doppler radars: two Weather Surveillance Radar-1988 Doppler (WSR-88D) radars (KFTG and KCYS) and two Colorado State University (CSU) research radars [Pawnee and CSU–University of Chicago–Illinois State Water Survey (CSU–CHILL)], the software is easily adaptable to any radar platform or network of radars. The software includes code to synthesize radial velocities to obtain three-dimensional wind vectors and includes algorithms for automatic quality control of the raw polarimetric data, hydrometeor identification, and rainfall rate. The software was successfully tested during the summers of 2004 and 2005 at the CSU–CHILL radar facility, ingesting data from the four-radar network. The display software allows users the ability to view mosaics of reflectivity, wind vectors, and rain rates, to zoom in and out of radar features easily, to create vertical cross sections, to contour data, and to archive data in real time. Despite the lag time of approximately 10 min, the software proved invaluable for diagnosing areas of intense rainfall, hail, strong updrafts, and other features such as mesocyclones and convergence lines. A case study is presented to demonstrate the utility of the software.
The Behavior of Number Concentration Tendencies for the Continuous Collection Growth Equation Using One- and Two-Moment Bulk Parameterization Schemes
Authors: Straka Jerry M. , Kanak Katharine M. , Gilmore Matthew S.
Published: August 2007

This paper presents a mathematical explanation for the nonconservation of total number concentration Nt of hydrometeors for the continuous collection growth process, for which Nt physically should be conserved for selected one- and two-moment bulk parameterization schemes. Where possible, physical explanations are proposed. The assumption of a constant no in scheme A is physically inconsistent with the continuous collection growth process, as is the assumption of a constant Dn for scheme B. Scheme E also is nonconservative, but it seems this result is not because of a physically inconsistent specification; rather the solution scheme’s equations simply do not satisfy Nt conservation and Nt does not come into the derivation. Even scheme F, which perfectly conserves Nt, does not preserve the distribution shape in comparison with a bin model.
A Comparison of Continuous Soil Moisture Simulations Using Different Soil Hydraulic Parameterizations for a Site in Germany
Authors: Schädler Gerd
Published: August 2007

Continuous time series of soil water content over a period of more than 9 months for a midlatitude sandy loam soil covered by grass are calculated with the Campbell and the van Genuchten soil hydraulic functions and the Clapp–Hornberger, Cosby et al., and Rawls–Brakensiek parameter sets. The results are compared with soil water content observed at several soil depths, and the water balance components are evaluated. The Campbell soil hydraulic functions are often used by meteorologists, whereas the van Genuchten functions are widespread among hydrologists. The simulations are performed with the “VEG3D” soil–vegetation model in stand-alone mode forced by on-site meteorological observations. The soil water content and meteorological observations were obtained within the Regional Climate Project (REKLIP) at a site in the Rhine valley in southern Germany with 10-min temporal resolution. Apart from the different soil hydraulic functions and parameter sets, the effects of different lower boundary conditions and initializations on the simulations are compared in terms of statistical quantities like mean error, bias, correlation coefficient, and least squares fit. Large differences between the various combinations are found. For the situation considered in this paper, the van Genuchten–Clapp–Hornberger, the Campbell–Cosby et al., and the van Genuchten–Rawls–Brakensiek combinations give the best overall agreement with the observations.
Different Conceptualizations of Optimum Development
Authors: Pfaffenberger Angela
Published: August 2007

This article discusses different conceptualizations of optimum development in adulthood. The existential perspective of Rollo May is compared to the self-actualization theory of Abraham Maslow and to transpersonal psychology. The paradigms and value assumptions underlying the different theories of personality are explicated, and social constructionism is used as an organizing frame of reference. The principal argument is that in addition to repeating viewpoints in a philosophical debate about values, we need to substantiate our claims with evidence from the existing research and explore how well-designed empirical studies can help us answer lingering questions of what is desirable and possible in regard to optimal development. The author examines the existing research literature in regard to how the disagreements of the above-named schools of thought could be clarified. Suggestions for future directions in humanistic research are presented.
Short-Term, Linear Approaches To Psychotherapy: What We Now Know
Authors: Elkins David N.
Published: August 2007

This article critiques short-term, linear approaches to psychotherapy and raises fundamental questions about the claims for their effectiveness. The article delineates the inherent weaknesses of short-term, linear approaches; summarizes a recent meta-analysis that challenges their effectiveness; and summarizes research showing they are less effective than longer-term, traditional psychotherapy. The author suggests that psychologists who are drawn to short-term, linear approaches embed these in a broader, more complex theoretical framework such as that which humanistic-existential psychology provides.
Predicting Condom Use Among Sexually Experienced Latino Adolescents
Authors: Villarruel Antonia M. , Jemmott John B. , Jemmott Loretta S. , Ronis David L.
Published: August 2007

There is limited research on how aspects of Latino culture affect condom use among Latino adolescents. In this study, the authors examined the effects of familialism, gender roles, and religiosity on condom use intentions and past condom use. Results showed only religiosity predicted past condom use; no other cultural variable had either a direct or an indirect effect on condom use intentions or past condom use. These findings represent an important effort in promoting safer sex behaviors among sexually active Latino adolescents.
Visual Methods in the Assessment of Diet Intake in Mexican American Women
Authors: Keller Colleen , Fleury Julie , Rivera Adriana
Published: August 2007

Assessment of dietary intake is based largely on self-report or use of biomarkers. However, neither self-report nor biomarkers inform nurses of patterns in dietary intake in the context of gender, culture, and ethnicity. This article describes the relevance of visual methods focusing on the context of dietary intake in Mexican American women, illustrated by a formative study. A qualitative, descriptive, methodological design incorporating photo elicitation was used. The sample consisted of 7 Mexican American women, who took photographs of their food intake, food preparation, and context of food consumption, such as family gatherings, which were then described by the women. Data included participant photographs, the descriptions of why each image was obtained, and stories about the photographs. Visual methods were found to be a relevant and important addition to traditional dietary assessment methods, to enhance gender, cultural, and contextually relevant assessment of dietary intake in Mexican American women.
Variations in Mental Health Problems, Substance Use, and Delinquency Between African American and Caucasian Juvenile Offenders
Authors: Vaughn Michael G. , Wallace John M. , Davis Larry E. , Fernandes Giselle T. , Howard Matthew O.
Published: August 2007

The incarceration of young people is a growing national problem. Key correlates of incarceration among American youth include mental health problems, substance use, and delinquency. The present study uses a statewide sample of incarcerated youth to examine racial differences in African American and Caucasian juvenile offenders' outcomes related to mental health, substance use, and delinquency. The data indicate that relative to Caucasian offenders, African American offenders report lower levels of mental health problems and substance use but higher levels of delinquent behavior such as violence, weapon carrying, and gang fighting. The data further reveal that African American offenders are more likely than Caucasian offenders to be victims of violence and to experience traumatic events such as witnessing injury and death. Recognition of these patterns may help to improve postrelease services by tailoring or adapting preexisting programs to patterns of risk factors and their relative magnitudes of effect.
Are the Mentally Retarded and Learning Disordered Overrepresented Among Sex Offenders and Paraphilics?
Authors: Langevin Ron , Curnoe Suzanne
Published: August 2007

A sample of 2,286 male sex offenders and paraphilics and 241 nonsex offenders was evaluated for the prevalence of mental retardation and learning disorders, using the full Wechsler IQ scales. The sex offenders were generally of average intelligence, and the mentally retarded were not overrepresented among them, but the learning disordered were. There were no differences among sex offenders and controls in overall IQ or in the percentage of mentally retarded or learning-disordered cases, suggesting that the learning difficulties are not peculiar to sex offenders. There was a bias in referral source, with more mentally retarded, borderline-retarded, and/or learning-disordered cases being referred by the Children's Aid Society, prisons, and the Crown, suggesting that referral source may play a significant role in evaluating intelligence and mental retardation among sex offenders; but the overrepresentation of learning disorders among criminals appears to be a significant phenomenon, regardless of referral source.
Szczepan Pieniążek, Edmund Malinowski, and Lysenkoism in Poland
Authors: deJong-Lambert William
Published: August 2007

This article's title describes the propagation of T. D. Lysenko's Michurinist doctrine, in terms of its impact on the careers of two members of the community of Polish biologists. Michurinism was introduced at a conference in Warsaw in 1949 and served as the official scientific theory of evolution in Polish biology until 1956. Szczepan Pieniążek was among the foremost supporters of Lysenko in Poland and directed an institute in Skierniewice that was the center of Michurinist research in Poland. Meanwhile, the career of Edmund Malinowski, one of the foremost figures in Polish biology, suffered for his refusal to adhere in his research to the Michurinist doctrine.
Leading the Way to Regionalization in Post-Communist Europe: An Examination of the Process and Outcomes of Regional Reform in Poland
Authors: Yoder Jennifer A.
Published: August 2007

This article examines Poland's process of regionalization since the late 1990s. It identifies several factors that led Poland to introduce self-government at the regional level both earlier and to a greater extent than its neighbors in East Central Europe. The analysis then turns to the competences and financing of the Polish regions, or voivodeships. Although Poland has taken steps to decentralize, it remains a unitary state.
Pravastatin-Induced Hepatotoxicity in a Patient With Fatty Liver Disease: A Case Presentation With Literature Review
Authors: Daugherty Kimberly K. , Subramanian Jeeva
Published: August 2007

Purpose. To report a case of biopsy-confirmed pravastatin-induced liver injury in a patient with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Second, to review the data regarding hydroxymethylglutaryl coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase inhibitors (statins) use in patients with NAFLD and monitoring that may be required for statin therapy. Literature Search. A PubMed search and review of the reference lists of the articles included in the case report was performed to find human studies from 1965 to the present on statin therapy in patients with NAFLD. To the authors' knowledge, there are no other case reports that parallel the one presented here. Case Report. A 71-year-old female with NAFLD, challenged multiple times on different lipid lowering agents, with a history of elevated liver enzymes post statin therapy, developed drug-induced hepatocellular damage following pravastatin therapy. Discussion. Symptomatic liver injury with statin therapy is rare even in patients with NAFLD. To the authors' knowledge, there are no case reports demonstrating statin-induced hepatocellular damage in a patient with NAFLD. Conclusion. Contrary to numerous pilot studies indicating the benefit and safety of statin therapy in patients with NAFLD, the authors report a patient case with underlying NAFLD that developed drug-induced liver injury post statin therapy. This case highlights the importance of identifying when symptoms associated with liver injury are occurring in patients with comorbid NAFLD, instead of solely relying on routine monitoring of transaminase levels. Health care providers need to closely examine and question NAFLD patients who develop liver enzyme elevations while on statin therapy to determine if they are showing signs of significant liver dysfunction and obtain more detailed laboratory assessments such as indirect bilirubin and prothrombin time. If hepatotoxicity occurs, the statin should be stopped immediately and treated with an alternative lipid-lowering agent per the National Lipid Association Statin Safety Assessment Task Force recommendations.
Statin Therapy for Secondary Stroke Prevention: Evidence Catches Up to Practice
Authors: Fagan Susan C. , Elewa Hazem F. , Rychly David J.
Published: August 2007

Current approaches for the secondary prevention of ischemic stroke include the aggressive use of antithrombotic therapy, particularly antiplatelet agents, and carotid endarterectomy for eligible patients. Blood pressure lowering with angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors and diuretics in hypertensives, glucose control to a hemoglobin A1C of less than 7% in diabetics, and statin therapy in patients with hyperlipidemia and/or cardiovascular disease are also important measures forsecondary prevention of stroke. Support for the routine use of statin therapy in all patients with ischemic stroke, regardless of lipid profile or a history of cardiovascular disease, has been, until recently, of debate. Clinical evidence found in studies such as the SPARCL trial and the Heart Protection Study now support the routine use of statin therapy in all ischemic stroke patients. This article focuses on the potential and proven benefits of statins in ischemic stroke.
A Practical Approach to Headache Treatment
Authors: Tucker Tarvez
Published: August 2007

The World Health Organization cites migraine headache as one of the 20 most disabling medical conditions. This article focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of the primary headache disorders, with special emphasis on migraine, the headache most likely to bring patients to physicians and pharmacists. This review begins with the warning signs of the ominous headache, which, although rare, can herald a life-threatening condition. Clinical characteristics of the primary headache types, migraine, tension-type headache, and cluster headache, are described. Although many individuals believe their headaches are “sinus,” or “stress or tension-induced,” most of the characteristics of these types of headaches actually meet International Headache Society criteria for migraine. Treatments of primary headaches, including acute therapies, abortive agents, and prophylactic medications, are uniquely specific for each headache syndrome. Chronic daily headache patients compose only 4% of the population yet make up the largest percentage of patients who seek treatment at specialty headache centers. Medication-overuse headache, the syndrome in which medications taken for the relief of headache actually foster future headaches, offers a particular challenge to health care providers, as does narcotic use in headache therapy. Complementary and alternative treatments proven efficacious in the treatment of primary headache are also described.
Comparative Efficacy and Safety of Antiepileptic Drugs for the Treatment of Status Epilepticus
Authors: Chung Steve S. , Wang Norman C. , Treiman David M.
Published: August 2007

Status epilepticus (SE) is a medical emergency with high mortality rate. Common causes of SE include noncompliance with antiepileptic medications, drug- and alcohol-related etiologies, and central nervous system (CNS) infections. Because prolonged seizures can cause neuronal damage, treatment should be initiated promptly to avoid potential complications. Previous studies support intravenous (IV) lorazepam as first-line therapy and IV phenytoin or fosphenytoin as a second-line medication. If first-and second-line medications fail to control SE, further treatment with propofol, pentobarbital, midazolam, or other medications should be considered. Many of the drugs currently used to control SE are associated with sedation, respiratory suppression, hypotension, cardiac dysrhythmia, and anaphylactic reactions. Therefore, IV valproate or other newer antiepileptic drugs may be considered as an alternative third-line therapy for those who cannot tolerate the hypotensive effects of other anticonvulsants. This paper reviews comparative effectiveness and safety concerns among frequently used medications for SE.
Salivary Monitoring of Antiepileptic Drugs
Authors: Baumann Robert J.
Published: August 2007

Therapeutic drug monitoring is widely used in the anticonvulsant treatment of persons with epilepsy. Most monitoring uses serum, but many anticonvulsant drugs can as easily be monitored using saliva, including phenobarbital, phenytoin, carbamazepine, lamotrigine, oxcarbazepine, topiramate, levetiracetam, and gabapentin. For highly protein-bound medications such as phenobarbital, phenytoin, and carbamazepine, saliva has the advantage of providing an approximation of the serum free level, the free level presumably being the active moiety. Salivary therapeutic drug monitoring offers a number of advantages over serum therapeutic drug monitoring, including lack of pain, lower cost, and wide potential acceptability by patients and physicians. It has the potential to open new approaches to treatment with strategic at-home monitoring at the time a seizure or adverse event occurs and to allow the collection of cohort-based, pharmacokinetic, and pharmcodynamic data for populations of persons of varying ages and with different medical conditions who require anticonvulsant medications.
Management of Brain Abscess
Authors: Schiess Nicoline , Nath Avindra
Published: August 2007

Despite recent advances in neuroimaging techniques, brain abscesses can be difficult to diagnose and may often require surgical intervention. The primary sources of infection are often difficult to locate; hence, even if an abscess is suspected, the organisms may remain unknown. In other patients, the location of the lesion may be in a site of the brain where surgical intervention may not be possible. The types of brain abscesses, their pathophysiology including predisposing conditions, and their characteristic radiologic features are discussed in this review, with particular emphasis on the indications and modes of medical management of brain abscesses. It discusses the use of antimicrobial agents that have the best central nervous system penetration and outlines a strategy for treatment of organisms likely to infect the brain with the different types of predisposing conditions. Also discussed are the indications for empirical therapy, and antimicrobial regimens for this purpose are suggested.
The Neuropharmacology of Sleep Disorders: Better Sleeping Through Chemistry?
Authors: Suhl Jeremiah
Published: August 2007

Sleep and wake states involve interaction among many brain centers via multiple neurotransmitters, including dopamine, norepinephrine, hypocretin, acetylcholine, histamine and serotonin (wake promoting), and γ amino butyric acid (GABA) and melatonin (sleep promoting). Most medications for insomnia or hypersomnia act on elements of these neural systems. Initial treatment of insomnia includes sleep hygiene measures. Cognitive-behavioral therapy for insomnia is useful. Medications approved by the Food and Drug Administration for insomnia act on GABA receptors or on melatonin receptors. A frequent cause of insomnia is restless legs syndrome, which is linked to reduced dopaminergic activity in brain structures; idiopathic restless legs syndrome is best treated with dopamine agonists such as ropinerole or pramipexole. Excessive daytime sleepiness is most often due to insufficient sleep hours or sleep apnea but is also caused by medications, illnesses, narcolepsy, or idiopathic hypersomnia. Stimulants generally act through enhanced dopamine action (amphetamines, methylphenidate) or acetylcholine action (caffeine). Modafinil may act through enhanced central histamine, hypocretin, and possibly dopamine action. A newer agent, γ -hydroxybutyrate (GHB), acts on GABA and GHB receptors to consolidate sleep, improving daytime sleepiness in narcolepsy. Improving knowledge of sleep/wake mechanisms should lead to more specific and rational treatments for sleep disorders.
Teaching Business Ethics Through Service Learning Metaprojects
Authors: Vega Gina
Published: August 2007

The urgent messages of good business include the importance of ethical management behaviors, focus on corporate citizenship, recognition of principled leadership, moral awareness, and participation in social change. This article describes the Service Learning Metaproject (a nested set of projects required of all students) and shows what students can accomplish to promote a better world. It addresses four measurable learning objectives: providing contact with divergent populations, making conscious moral decisions and committing to ethical action, deriving meaning from everyday activities, and developing adaptability and flexibility. It documents the achievement of these with undergraduate business students performing metaprojects that begin with service, lead to learning, and are followed by the development of a direct application. The conclusion is the implementation of that application. All the service learning projects this article describes required a Service Folio for student reflection on service experiences, relationships to readings, and concrete team project deliverables.
George Williams in Thailand: an Ethical Decision-Making Exercise
Authors: James Constance R. , Smith J. Goosby
Published: August 2007

This article presents a classroom ethical decision-making exercise designed to help students make reasoned ethical decisions while gaining insight into their own and others' ethical decision-making strategies. During the exercise, students individually analyze an original mini-case, then meet in small groups to reach consensus on the advice and ethical decision-making strategy to offer the entrepreneur in the case. The exercise satisfies three learning objectives for students: understanding ethical decision-making strategies, increasing awareness of one's own ethical decision-making criteria, and understanding the bases for diverse group members' (often different) ethical decision-making strategies. Evidence of student learning shows that these three learning objectives are exceeded in that the exercise also spurs students to integrate their learning of ethical decision making with their learning of the organizational behavior concepts of group dynamics, conflict management, and personality.