bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Manufacture of the Skullcap (Cervelliera) in the Florentine Countryside During the Age of Dante and the Problem of Identifying Michael Scot as Its Inventor
Authors: Muendel John
Published: December 2007

The activities of the rural blacksmiths of Cascia, operating beyond the environs of Dante's Florence, and their employers, an urban company of mercers, indicate that the relationship between the city and the countryside was not separated by any differences in cultural outlook. The ties were close rather than antagonistic not only because of an inherent sense of mobility shared by both parties, but also on account of the standard of craftsmanship demonstrated by the Cascian ironworkers. The skullcaps, or cervelliere, manufactured by these provincial artisans were of the highest quality and were prominent articles in the trade of the expanding European markets of the thirteenth and fourteenth centuries. Worn primarily by infantrymen, they were essentially the product of increased populations, capitalizing on the new opportunities created by urban growth. Whether or not Michael Scot, the close associate of the German emperor Frederick II, invented the cervelliera in 1233 poses a distinct quandary. If the Aristotelian astrologer, alchemist, and physician was a mediator between philosopher and artisan, much more qualified information would be needed to substantiate the connection. Only the possibility, not the certainty, that Michael was integrally involved in the metallurgy of iron can be introduced within a thirteenth-century milieu where philosophical emphasis was on the close observation of everyday experience.
Leprosy: Medical Views of Leviticus Rabba
Authors: Ostrer Boris S.
Published: December 2007

This article discusses chapters 15 and 16 of the ancient midrash (allegorical commentary) Leviticus Rabba (IV-V AD) and its view of leprosy. The phenomenon of Biblical leprosy is here not investigated from a paleopathological point of view. The focus lies on its physiological, actiological, pathological and therapeutic aspects as represented in Leviticus Rabba. It is argued that the medical views of Leviticus Rabba show a certain resemblance to some of the view of the Hippocratic School, notably with respect to humoral theory, the belief in the correspondence between the macrocosm and the individual microcosm, and the notion of paideia as a way of healing. Finally, it is shown that the ancient myth of the two floods (of water and of fire) is connected to the understanding of leprosy in Leviticus Rabba.
The Certitude of Astrology: the Scientific Methodology of Al-Qabīsī and Abu MaShar1
Authors: Burnett Charles
Published: December 2007

Abū Ma'shar (787-886) and al-Qābīsī (mid-10th century) were active astrologers and defenders of the scientific character of their discipline. They wrote works on criticisms brought forward against the discipline and challenged practitioners whom they considered as detrimental for the esteem and future fate of their science. Nevertheless, both writers can be seen as heirs to a single tradition of thought, which took its origins in Ptolemy's Tetrabiblios and developed largely independently of the religious or philosophical beliefs of a specific community. The arguments developed for proving the scientific value of astrology are interesting in their own right, and merit further study not only by historians of science but also by historians of philosophy.
Shifting Paradigms
Authors: MacLean Vicky M. , Williams Joyce E.
Published: December 2007

Paradigms allow people to understand the world from various viewpoints, target specific audiences, define problems of study and methodological directives, and imply solutions in the real world. This article provides a brief history of theories of race and race relations, noting that racial paradigms in mainstream sociology have rarely been displaced by radically different ones. Until the 1960s, “new” paradigms appeared as repackaged perspectives with the same background assumptions. In this work, the authors juxtapose the viewpoints of social theorists writing from within the accepted (White “malestream”) canon against the writings of some who until recently have been excluded from the traditional canon. Reading theories from margin to center allows one to rethink the important features of a Black race paradigm that challenges prevailing theories and their background assumptions. This paradigm is characterized by democratic rhetoric, systematic research, and a call for social reform.
`Exemplary Elders'
Authors: Lichtenstein Bronwen
Published: December 2007

The risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among older adults in the US has increased in recent years, especially in the southeast. Stigma is a known barrier to STI control, but is rarely addressed in relation to older adults because of assumptions about their lack of sexual activity or their low risk of STI. This study presents the results of a telephone survey on STI stigma among older adults in a southern US state using Bourdieu's concept of habitus and the `exemplary elder' construct as conceptual frameworks. The sample consisted of 81 black and 109 white residents aged over 50 years. Black elders gave more stigma-related responses than whites, especially if they lived in rural areas. The results indicated that, after controlling for income and education, habitus played a role in different reactions to being infected and seeking treatment for STIs. Habitus was also evident in rural and gender differences between the two groups concerning knowledge, fear of STIs and willingness to seek treatment. The construct of `exemplary elder' is a viable conceptual frame of reference in helping to explain why older African Americans in the south are more fearful of STIs than older whites.
Wilber's Integral Philosophy: A Summary and Critique
Authors: Paulson Daryl S.
Published: December 2007

An integral philosophy, such as that promoted by Ken Wilber, can be very useful in providing an individual with a wide-scope theory to serve as an orienting worldview and container enabling them to develop their spiritual practices. Wilber's view is particularly useful in that it covers objective, intersubjective, and subjective world spaces at once. Used too rigidly, it can become an overly mechanical process of merely downloading a canned integral program into one's internal operating system. Authentic spirituality, although using theory, argues for developing one's own spiritual practice. In developing one's own practice, the pragmatic writings of Dewey, Peirce, and James can serve as a guide, in that the practice is practiced, is pluralistic, requires participation with others, and is provisional.
The Thermal Insulation Properties of Spacer Fabrics with a Mechanically Integrated Wool Fiber Surface
Authors: Mao N. , Russell S.J.
Published: December 2007

In relation to the engineering of compression resistant thermal insulation materials, an unconventional application of hydroentangling technology is introduced in which, lightweight, wool webs are mechanically attached to one side of preformed knitted spacer fabrics to partially occlude the underlying apertures. In contrast to conventional homogeneous fabrics, the resulting hydroentangled wool fiber web-spacer fabric constructs have markedly reduced thermal conductivity while there is little change in the overall fabric density; this is attributed to increased air entrapment within the cross-section of the spacer fabric due to the occlusion of the large apertures in the surface. Basic underlying theoretical principles are reviewed in relation to heat transfer in fibrous materials.
Comparison of Same-Sex Couples Who Were Married in Massachusetts, Had Domestic Partnerships in California, or Had Civil Unions in Vermont
Authors: Rothblum Esther D. , Balsam Kimberly F. , Solomon Sondra E.
Published: December 2007

This study compared 55 men and 78 women who had same-sex marriages in Massachusetts, 101 men and 120 women who had domestic partnerships in California, and 35 men and 86 women who had civil unions in Vermont, all in 2004. Couples were surveyed on demographic and relationship information, conflict, contact with family of origin, social support, politics, and leisure activities. There were few interstate differences, although couples in Massachusetts were more politically liberal and more sympathetic toward feminism than were couples in other states. There were, however, a number of gender differences. As compared to women, men were older and had waited longer to legalize their relationships; they were also more exclusively gay and less likely to have children. More than 90% of all couples were registered to vote and had voted in the last national election.
How do I sound to me? Perceived changes in communication in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Miller Nick , Noble Emma , Jones Diana , Allcock Liesl , Burn David J.
Published: December 2007

Objective: To examine self and carer perceived changes in communication associated with Parkinson's disease and relate these to speech intelligibility, gender, age and other disease measures.

Design: Cross-sectional survey of a hospital- and community-based sample of 176 people with Parkinson's disease and their carers using a questionnaire based on semantic differential techniques.

Participants: One hundred and four people with Parkinson's disease with no history of communication difficulties prior to onset of their Parkinson's disease and 45 primary carers who returned completed questionnaires.

Main outcome measures: Differences in ratings for `before' the onset of Parkinson's disease versus present status.

Results: There was a strong perception of negative impact on communication between `before' and `now', irrespective of age and gender and largely independent of disease severity and duration, intelligibility and cognitive status. Activities of daily living (assessed by Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) II) and depression rating scale scores had the strongest association with change (adjusted R 2 0.27). There was a significant correlation between the rank order of perceived change in features examined in people with Parkinson's disease versus their carers, though in general carers rated change as having less impact.

Conclusions: Parkinson's disease exercises a strong influence on communication even before apparent alterations to intelligibility or motor status (UPDRS).
Preparation and Evaluation of Porous Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyhexanoate)— Hydroxyapatite Composite Scaffolds
Authors: Jing Xi  , Ling Zhang  , Zhenhu An Zheng  , Guoqiang Chen  , Yandao Gong  , Nanming Zhao  , Xiufang Zhang
Published: December 2007

Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyhexanoate) (PHBHHx) and PHBHHx—hydroxyapatite (HAP) composite scaffolds have been prepared by phase separation and subsequent sublimation of the solvent for bone tissue engineering. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), porosity measurement, mechanical tests, and thermogravimertric analysis (TGA) are used to analyze the physical properties of the scaffolds. The biocompatibility and osteoconductivity are assessed by examining the morphology, proliferation, and differentiation of MC3T3-E1 osteoprogenitor cells seeded on the scaffolds. The PHBHHx—HAP composite scaffolds show better mechanical properties, biocompatibility, and osteoconductivity than the PHBHHx scaffolds. The results suggest that PHBHHx—HAP composite scaffolds can be employed as a promising candidate for bone reconstruction.
Nonprofit and Philanthropic Studies: Education for What?
Authors: Yzaguirre Raul
Published: December 2007

In closing remarks to conference participants, Raul Yzaguirre offers observations about nonprofit management education and its future. He notes that the nonprofit sector is growing in importance and impact, so it is not surprising that higher education has taken notice by developing degrees and programs. He acknowledges the role universities play in educating and professionalizing nonprofit management and leadership. However, he o fers caution about such programs by posing a danger. The danger is the possibility of migrating from a sector characterized by passion, citizen involvement, creativity, cause-oriented activism, and compassion with all its faults and all its messiness to one that is known for good management but sterile in ideas, lukewarm in passion, professionally detached from human suffering, and sheepishly obedient to whomever is ruling the state. Yzaguirre closes by extending a challenge to the sector to ensure inclusion and a welcoming environment by embracing others and reflecting American society.
Working With Child Prostitutes in Thailand
Authors: Montgomery Heather
Published: December 2007

Conducting anthropological fieldwork on the emotive issue of child prostitution raises difficult issues for anthropologists and other researchers. This article examines the ethical dilemmas of working with these extremely vulnerable children, focusing on the difference between the researcher's own interpretations and those given by the children themselves and the implications this has for child-centred anthropology and the implementation of children's rights.
`Over the River'
Authors: Helleiner Jane
Published: December 2007

Drawing on interviews with Canadian borderlanders, this article examines childhood experiences with the Canada—US border in the mid-1980s to early 1990s. The retrospective accounts of childhood border experiences demonstrate how childhood was produced and experienced in border crossings and how the production of childhood intersected with a stratified border to reinforce forms of privilege and exclusion associated with class, citizenship, gender and racial/ethnic positionings.
New Polyesterimides Containing Bulky, Cyclic Phosphorus Groups
Authors: Petreus Oana , Vlad-Bubulac Tachita , Hamciuc Corneliu
Published: December 2007

A new phosphorus-containing monomer, bis( N-hydroxyethyl-phthalimidyl)-bis(9,10-dihydro-9-oxa-10-oxide-10-phosphaphenanthrene-10-yl)methane, that contains preformed imide rings and flexible linking groups was synthesized. This compound was used to synthesize new phosphorus-containing polyesterimides by solution polycondensation with various aromatic diacide chlorides such as terephthaloyl chloride, terephthaloyl-bis-(4-oxybenzoylchloride), 4-chloroformyl- N( p-chloroformylphenyl)-phthalimide and 2,2-bis(4-chloroformyl- N-phthalimidyl)-diphenylmethane. The rates of the polycondensation reactions were calculated from kinetic investigations. The polymers were readily soluble in polar organic solvents, such as N-methylpyrrolidone, N, N-dimethylacetamide and N, N-dimethylformamide. The polymers were analytically, spectrally and thermally characterized.
Properties of Segmented Block Copolymers in PEEK/PSU Blends
Authors: Hoffmann Thorsten , Pospiech Doris , Häussler Liane , Pötschke Petra , Reuter Uta , Werner Philipp , Sandler Jan K.W. , Döring Manfred , Altstädt Volker
Published: December 2007

As a method of compatibilization of immiscible polyether ether ketone (PEEK)/polysulfone (PSU) blends, the addition of segmented PEEK/PSU block copolymers based on amorphous bisphenol A-containing PEEK was studied. This approach was evaluated for blends consisting of PEEK and PSU homopolymers with different molecular weights and different amounts of compatibilizers (segmented PEEK/PSU block copolymers and reactive end-functionalized PEEK and PSU oligomers). The compatibilizers were added under varying melt-processing conditions and effectively allowed the homopolymers to interact with the segmented block copolymers in the blend. The influence of the compatibilizers on the phase behavior was examined in both binary and ternary blends. Interactions in the amorphous phase, which effectively induce an enhancement of the toughness properties of the final product, could be detected.
Enhancement of the Compressive Strength of Kevlar-29/Epoxy Resin Unidirectional Composites
Authors: D'Aloia James , Newell James A. , Del Vecchio Christopher , Hill Christopher , Santino David , Russell Krystal
Published: December 2007

This paper examines the compressive and tensile strength of Kevlar-29/Derakane composites using as-received Kevlar-29 and a thermally enhanced version of the fiber. Previous studies have shown that thermal enhancement results in a form of Kevlar-29 with significantly better compressive strength at a cost of 10—20% of its tensile strength. This study compared the mechanical properties of unidirectional composites made using as-received and thermally enhanced forms of Kevlar-29 fibers. The composites made with the thermally treated fiber showed a decrease in tensile strength roughly proportional to the difference in tensile strength of the fibers. Although the improvement in the compressive strength of the composites made with the thermally treated fibers was statistically significant, it was less than anticipated. A change in predominant failure mechanism also occurred with most as-received fiber-based composites failing from a debonding/pull-out mechanism, while composites made with the thermally enhanced fiber failed primarily from microbuckling with attendant splitting.
Truth and nothing like the truth
Authors: Davis Rowenna
Published: December 2007

The term “Hawthorne Effect” is now widely accepted by social scientists, and is defined by the Oxford Dictionary of Sociology as “The behaviour modifying effect of being the subject of social investigation”, and the writer suggests that this is something journalists need to be aware of, because it threatens to undermine one of our primary tools: the interview. Is the process of interviewing itself altering the answers we receive in interviews? If the Hawthorne Effect is distorting the information we relay to the public in some way, it is our business to know about it. “We must acknowledge the existence of the Hawthorne Effect and integrate the term into our journalistic discourses, debates and training programmes,” she writes. “We must realise that part of what it means to be a good journalist is to be able to understand the Hawthorne Effect, to learn how to employ it when it enriches our journalism and safeguard against it when it threatens to undermine our work.”
Proteomic analysis of autoantibodies in neuropsychiatric systemic lupus erythematosus patient with white matter hyperintensities on brain MRI
Authors: Kimura A. , Sakurai T. , Tanaka Y. , Hozumi I. , Takahashi K. , Takemura M. , Saito K. , Seishima M. , Inuzuka T.
Published: December 2007

The pathogenesis of neuropsychiatric systemic lupus erythematosus (NPSLE) may be related to autoantibody-mediated neural dysfunction, vasculopathy and coagulopathy. We encountered an NPSLE patient whose brain showed characteristic diffuse symmetrical hyperintensity lesions in the cerebral white matter, cerebellum and middle cerebellar peduncles on T2-weighted magnetic resonance (MR) images. In this study, we investigated all the antigens that reacted strongly with autoantibodies in this patient's serum by two-dimensional electrophoresis (2DE), followed by western blotting (WB) and liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) using rat brain proteins as the antigen source. As a result, we identified four antigens as beta-actin, alpha-internexin, 60kDa heat-shock protein (Hsp60) and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP). There are several reports on the detection of anti-endothelial cell antibodies (AECAs) in an SLE patients. Recently, one of the antigens reacting with AECAs in SLE patient's sera has been identified as human Hsp60. We speculated that the abnormal findings on brain MR images of our patient may be due to impairment of microcirculation associated with vascular endothelial cell injury mediated by the antibody against Hsp60. This proteomic analysis is a useful tool for identifying autoantigens in autoimmune diseases involving autoantibodies.
Decreased CD4+CD25+bright T cells in peripheral blood of patients with primary Sjögren's syndrome
Authors: Liu M.-F. , Lin L.-H. , Weng C.-T. , Weng M.-Y.
Published: December 2007

CD4+CD25 +bright T cells played a crucial role in the suppression of immune response. Recently, decreased levels of CD4+CD25+bright T cells in the peripheral blood of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus were reported, suggesting the potential role of CD4+CD25+bright T cells in human autoimmune diseases. Primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS) is another common human systemic autoimmune disease. The present study aimed to investigate the levels of CD4+CD25+bright T cells in pSS and to correlate their levels with some biomarkers of inflammation and immune activation. Thirty-three patients with pSS and 35 age- and sex-matched normal individuals were enrolled in the study. The flowcytometric method was applied in the measurement of CD4+CD25+bright T cells. The results showed that patients with pSS had statistically lower levels of CD4+CD25+bright T cells than normal controls, expressed either as absolute cell numbers (mean ± SD: 47.07 ± 25.53 cells/mm 3 versus 79.55 ± 34.56 cells/mm3, P < 0.001) or as percentages of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (mean ± SD: 2.79 ± 1.06% versus 3.84 ± 1.42%, P < 0.001) or as percentages of CD4+ T cells (mean ± SD: 7.85 ± 2.62% versus 11.68 ± 3.78%, P < 0.005). Moreover, there were statistically significant inverse correlations between the levels of CD4+CD25+bright T cells and some parameters of inflammation or immune activation including erythrocyte sedimentation rate, C-reactive protein, IgG and rheumatoid factors. The result suggested that CD4+CD25+bright T cells were likely to play anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive roles in the pathogenesis of pSS. However, the exact functions of decreased circulating CD4+CD25+bright T cells in pSS need further elucidated. Lupus (2008) 17, 34—39.
Hereditary Nonpolyposis Colorectal Cancer (Lynch Syndrome): Molecular Pathogenesis and Clinical Approaches to Diagnosis and Management for Nurses
Authors: Kurnat-Thoma Emma L.
Published: December 2007

Hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC), also referred to as Lynch syndrome, is the most common form of hereditary colorectal cancer and is responsible for 2% to 4% of all colorectal cancers in the Western hemisphere. Generally characterized by early-onset colorectal carcinoma with a mean age of presentation of 40 to 45 years, it can also manifest with extracolonic adenocarcinomas and cancers of the endometrium, ovaries, stomach, pancreas, small intestine, hepatobiliary tract, upper uroepithelial tract, brain, and skin. HNPCC is autosomal dominant and carries an 80% lifetime risk of cancer development. This review addresses the molecular underpinnings of HNPCC while providing a concise approach to clinical detection, diagnosis, and management of patients who may or may not test positive for an HNPCC-causing mutation. Although applicable to any patient-care setting in which cancer may be observed, this review specifically addresses the role of nurses in detecting, diagnosing, and clinically managing HNPCC.
Characterization of T Wave Alternans With Ambulatory Electrocardiography
Authors: Harvey Margaret B. , Buchanan Jack W.
Published: December 2007

T wave alternans (TWA) is a marker of ventricular electrical instability considered to be predictive for ventricular tachyarrhythmias. Techniques have been developed to detect TWA at the µv level as a method for arrhythmia risk stratification of persons at high risk for sudden cardiac death. Currently, TWA is typically calculated using spectral analysis, whereby TWA is presumed to assume characteristics of stationarity. In contrast, a nonspectral method known as modified moving average analysis is purported to detect transient TWA that would not be observed using a spectral approach. The purpose of this pilot study work was to establish the basic TWA signal properties obtained with a device developed by GE Medical Systems using a descriptive, correlational study design. Ambulatory electrocardiography (AECG) recordings ( N = 24) were digitized and processed, and TWA was calculated via the modified moving average technique. Findings showed that noise was positively correlated with TWA in AECG channel 1 ( r = .899, p < .01) and AECG channel 2 ( r = .758, p < .01). However, no significant difference ( p = .237) was observed in TWA values between the AECG channels. A weak positive correlation was found between TWA and heart rate, expressed as beats per min ( r = .262). Heart rate mildly predicted TWA ( R = 0.34). Nonstationarity was evaluated by testing for trend and randomness. TWA values measured from AECG recordings were found to be influenced moderately by noise and minimally by heart rate and lead placement.
Enmeshed in Games with the Government
Authors: Ernkvist Mirko , Ström Patrik
Published: December 2007

The policies and regulations of governments affect the online game industry in a variety of ways, especially in countries with extensive state involvement and a low degree of transparency in the economy. This article examines the influence of governmental policies on the development and operation of online games in China. The stance of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) toward online games has been influenced by three aspects of state policy: (a) information control, (b) technonationalism, and (c) social fears/pragmatic nationalism. CCP's specific policies toward the online game industry were put forward by CCP ministries and the Communist Youth League of China (CYLC) as a response to the economic potential and increasing influence of the rapidly growing online game industry in China. The interaction of these different policy fields has had complementary and contradictory elements shaping their implementation.
Identifying the attributes of threshold and higher level nursing practice for children's cancer and palliative care nurses: the views of children, their parents and other stakeholders
Authors: Hale Claire , Long Tony , Sanderson Linda , Carr Kristina
Published: December 2007

This paper presents the findings of the third stage of a research study, the overall aim of which was to evaluate the educational preparation for cancer and palliative care nursing for children and adolescents in England. The specific aim of this stage was to define the attributes of `threshold' and `higher level' practice in nursing in order to inform the outcomes of future educational programmes.

The research design involved children, their parents and their nurses at two different stages in the study. The first stage was the construction of the research instruments, in this case video and audio recordings of episodes of care in which the children participated. The second stage was the review of the recordings by the children, their parents and other stakeholders involved in their care. Service users were also involved in the management of the project.

The study findings suggested that although there was considerable agreement between service users and other stakeholders about the characteristics of adequate or threshold practice, for both cancer and palliative care, there was less agreement about what constituted higher level or expert practice — other than `more of the same but better'. The key areas of importance for future professional development courses were agreed as partnership working, clinical skills, multidisciplinary working and the personal attributes of the nurse.
Alternative mRNA is favored by the A3 haplotype of the EPCR gene PROCR and generates a novel soluble form of EPCR in plasma
Authors: Saposnik Beatrice , Lesteven Elodie , Lokajczyk Anna , Esmon Charles T. , Aiach Martine , Gandrille Sophie
Published: December 2007

The endothelial cell protein C receptor also exists in soluble form in plasma (sEPCR), resulting from ADAM17 cleavage. Elevated sEPCR levels are observed in subjects carrying the A3 haplotype, which is characterized by a Ser219Gly substitution in the transmembrane domain, rendering the receptor more sensitive to cleavage. Because sEPCR production is not completely blocked by metalloprotease inhibition, we looked for another mechanism. Comparing mRNA expression patterns and levels in A3 and non-A3 cells from 32 human umbilical cord veins, we detected a truncated mRNA in addition to the full-length mRNA. This truncated mRNA was 16 times more abundant in A3 human umbilical vein endothelial cells than in non-A3 human umbilical vein endothelial cells and encoded a protein lacking the transmembrane domain. We stably expressed a recombinant form of this protein (rEPCRisoform) and a protein mimicking the plasma sEPCR (rEPCRsol). Functional studies of the purified recombinant proteins revealed that the rEPCRisoform bound to recombinant protein C with similar affinity than rEPCRsol and that it also inhibited the anticoagulant activity of APC. Trace amounts of the EPCR isoform were found in the plasma of A3 subjects. These results suggest that the sEPCRisoform could contribute to the regulatory effect of sEPCR in plasma.
Complete molecular response of e6a2 BCR-ABL–positive acute myeloid leukemia to imatinib then dasatinib
Authors: Ritchie David S. , McBean Michelle , Westerman David A , Kovalenko Sergey , Seymour John F. , Dobrovic Alexander
Published: December 2007

De novo presentation of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) expressing the Philadelphia (Ph) chromosomal abnormality is rare and is associated with a dismal prognosis. To date, reported cases of Ph+ AML have expressed either the e13a2 or e14a2 BCR-ABL fusion transcripts. We report a unique case of de novo AML expressing the e6a2 fusion transcript and describe disease sensitivity to both imatinib before allogeneic stem-cell transplantation and dasatinib for AML relapse after allogeneic stem-cell transplantation. Furthermore, we report that sustained molecular remission has been achieved despite withdrawal of tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) therapy.
PI5KI-dependent signals are critical regulators of the cytolytic secretory pathway
Authors: Micucci Federica , Capuano Cristina , Marchetti Enzo , Piccoli Mario , Frati Luigi , Santoni Angela , Galandrini Ricciarda
Published: December 2007

Although membrane phospholipid phosphatidylinositol-4,5bisphosphate (PIP2) plays a key role as signaling intermediate and coordinator of actin dynamics and vesicle trafficking, it remains completely unknown its involvement in the activation of cytolytic machinery. By live confocal imaging of primary human natural killer (NK) cells expressing the chimeric protein GFP-PH, we observed, during effector-target cell interaction, the consumption of a preexisting PIP2 pool, which is critically required for the activation of cytolytic machinery. We identified type I phosphatidylinositol-4-phosphate-5-kinase (PI5KI) α and γ isoforms as the enzymes responsible for PIP2 synthesis in NK cells. By hRNA-driven gene silencing, we observed that both enzymes are required for the proper activation of NK cytotoxicity and for inositol-1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3) generation on receptor stimulation. In an attempt to elucidate the specific step controlled by PI5KIs, we found that lytic granule secretion but not polarization resulted in impaired PI5KIα- and PI5KIγ-silenced cells. Our findings delineate a novel mechanism implicating PI5KIα and PI5KIγ isoforms in the synthesis of PIP2 pools critically required for IP3-dependent Ca2+ response and lytic granule release.
Strongyloides stercoralis infection in a Finnish kennel
Authors: Dillard Kati J , Saari Seppo AM , Anttila Marjukka
Published: December 2007

Background

Intestinal threadwormStrongyloides stercoralisis a parasite of dog, cat and primates that occurs worldwide being most prevalent in tropical and subtropical countries. The adult parasitic worm is about 2 mm long and slender. It possesses both parasitic and free-living lifecycles. The parasitic worms are females.Strongyloides stercoralisinfects the host via percutaneous, peroral or transmammary transmission in addition to autoinfection. Clinical disease varies from inapparent to severe enteritis and pneumonia. The diagnosis is based on demonstration of larvae in fresh faeces, which is best made by Baermann technique.

Case presentation

Strongyloides stercoralisinfection was diagnosed in autopsy in a 10-week-old puppy born and raised in a Finnish kennel. Prior to its sudden death, the puppy had suffered from gastrointestinal disturbance for three weeks. Subsequent sampling of the dogs in the kennel revealed that three adult dogs in the kennel were also infected.

Conclusion

The present case shows thatS. stercoraliscan complete its life cycle and cause disease in dogs also in Northern Europe. Infection can be maintained also in a temperate climate and may become a chronic problem in a kennel environment. Infection may be underdiagnosed as Baermann technique is not routinely performed in small animal practice.
Traumatic avulsion of kidney and spleen into the chest through a ruptured diaphragm in a young worker: a case report
Authors: Stamatiou Konstantinos , Ilias Georgios , Chlopsios Christos , Karanasiou Vasilissa , Kavouras Nikolaos , Lebrun Fred , Heretis John , Sofras Frank
Published: December 2007

Introduction

Rupture of the diaphragm is almost always due to major trauma. Diaphragmatic injuries are rare (5–7%), usually secondary to blunt, or more rarely to penetrating, thoracic or abdominal trauma. No single investigation provides a reliable diagnosis of diaphragmatic rupture when a patient first arrives at hospital. Almost 33% are suspected on initial chest x-ray, but the percentage is lower in patients who are immediately intubated. Mortality in patients with diaphragmatic rupture following blunt abdominal trauma is generally associated with coexistent vascular and visceral injuries that could be rapidly fatal. It's mandatory that the right diagnosis is reached as soon as possible given that mortality is influenced by the time elapsing between trauma and diagnosis.

Case presentation

A 35-year-old worker was hit by a heavy object while working in the factory. He was transferred immediately to our emergency room. Chest x-ray showed massive left hemothorax without any additional signs to suggest diaphragmatic injury. It was decided to perform immediate surgical exploration before further radiological examination. During surgery, the right kidney and liver appeared normal, but the left kidney and spleen were not found in their anatomical position. The left hemidiaphragm had a10-cm oblique posterior tear. The left kidney was found lacerated in the left side of the chest, separated completely from its vascular pedicle and ureter, along with the entire spleen which was also separated from its vascular tree.

Conclusion

The avulsion of both kidney and spleen following abdominal trauma is uncommon and survival depends on prompt diagnosis and treatment.
Repetitive posterior iliac crest autograft harvest resulting in an unstable pelvic fracture and infected non-union: case report and review of the literature
Authors: Oakley Matthew J , Smith Wade R , Morgan Steven J , Ziran Navid M , Ziran Bruce H
Published: December 2007

Fractures of the pelvic ring have been well studied, and the biomechanical relationship between the anterior and posterior elements is an important concept to understand these complex injuries. The vast majority of these injuries are due to trauma. However, in rare circumstances, autogenous bone graft harvesting may lead to an unstable pelvic ring. In this case report, we describe a rare complication in a 70-year old female patient who developed an unstable pelvis and an infected non-union secondary to repeated posterior iliac graft harvest. The orthopaedic surgeon should be aware of this detrimental complication associated with extensive or repeated posterior iliac crest graft harvest.
Targeted deletion of cannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2 produced enhanced inflammatory responses to influenza A/PR/8/34 in the absence and presence of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol
Authors: Buchweitz John P , Karmaus Peer W F , Williams Kurt J , Harkema Jack R , Kaminski Norbert E
Published: December 2007

We have previously reported that Δ-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC)-treated mice challenged with influenza virus A/PR/8/34 (PR8) developed increased viral hemagglutinin 1 (H1) mRNA levels and decreased monocyte and lymphocyte recruitment to the pulmonary airways when compared with mice challenged with PR8 alone. The objective of the present study was to examine the role of cannabinoid (CB1/CB2) receptors in mediating the effects of Δ9-THC on immune and epithelial cell responses to PR8. In the current study, Δ9-THC-treated CB1/CB2 receptor null (CB1−/−/CB2−/−) and wild-type mice infected with PR8 had marked increases in viral H1 mRNA when compared with CB1−/−/CB2−/− and wild-type mice challenged with PR8 alone. However, the magnitude of the H1 mRNA levels was greatly reduced in CB1−/−/CB2−/− mice as compared with wild-type mice. In addition, Δ9-THC-treated CB1−/−/CB2−/− mice infected with PR8 had increased CD4+ T cells and IFN-γ in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid with greater pulmonary inflammation when compared with Δ9-THC-treated wild-type mice infected with PR8. Δ9-THC treatment of CB1−/−/CB2−/− mice in the presence or absence of PR8 challenge also developed greater amounts of mucous cell metaplasia in the affected bronchiolar epithelium. Collectively, the immune and airway epithelial cell responses to PR8 challenge in Δ9-THC-treated CB1−/−/CB2−/− and wild-type mice indicated the involvement of CB1/CB2 receptor-dependent and -independent mechanisms.
Chronic Hypertension Aggravates Heat Stress–Induced Cognitive Dysfunction and Brain Pathology
Authors: MURESANU DAFIN F. , SHARMA HARI S.
Published: December 2007

Hyperthermia following heat stress results in profound brain edema formation and damage to the central nervous system (CNS). However, whether acute or chronic diseases such as cardiovascular, endocrine, or metabolic ailments further influence the vulnerability of human populations to heat‐related deaths is still unclear. In this investigation, we examined the effect of hyperthermia on chronic hypertensive rats. The influence of growth hormone (GH) as a therapy to attenuate brain dysfunction was also evaluated. Subjecting rats to 4 h of heat stress at 38°C in a biological oxygen demand (BOD) incubator resulted in profound impairment of motor and cognitive functions, breakdown of the blood–brain barrier (BBB), reduction in regional cerebral blood flow (CBF), edema formation, and brain damage. These effects were further aggravated when chronic hypertensive rats (two‐kidney, one‐clip model for 4 weeks) were subjected to similar hyperthermic conditions (38°C for 4 h). Interestingly, the behavioral alterations and impairment of motor and cognitive functions in hypertensive rats were much worse than those in the normotensive animals subjected to heat stress. Pretreatment with GH (50 μg/kg/min i.v. for 60 min, before heat stress) significantly attenuated behavioral and cognitive deficits in normotensive rats and reduced the BBB dysfunction and brain pathology. On the other hand, similar treatment with GH in hypertensive animals only mildly reduced brain damage or cognitive dysfunction after heat stress. These novel observations indicate that patients suffering from various chronic diseases respond differently to various health hazards such as hyperthermia and to other neuroprotective agents.
Genetic and Hormonal Regulation of Tryptophan–Kynurenine Metabolism
Authors: OXENKRUG GREGORY F.
Published: December 2007

Impairment of cognition that is caused by (or associated with) vascular factors has been termed vascular cognitiveimpairment (VCI). The hallmark of VCI is an impairment of brain executive, or planning, functions caused by inflammatory changes of brain microvessels. VCI is characterized by impairment of the executive function and is distinct from Alzheimer's‐type and multi‐infarct dementias, although VCI might overlap with Alzheimer's disease. This review focuses on the possible contribution of the kynurenine pathway of tryptophan (Try) catabolism to the inflammatory changes in brain microvessels. One mechanism of brain microvessel inflammation is activation of the inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) by the proinflammatory cytokine interferon gamma (IFN‐γ). The effect of IFN‐γ on iNOS might be mediated by kynurenine derivatives of tryptophan because (1) IFN‐γ stimulates the rate‐determining enzyme of the Try–kynurenine pathway, indoleamine‐2,3‐dioxygenase (IDO) and (2) some kynurenines (e.g., quinolinic and picolinic acids) can stimulate iNOS. IFN‐γ production is controlled by (IFN‐γ) + 874(T/A) genotypes, suggesting the association of a high promoter T allele with the high rate of IFN‐γ production and, consequently, with activated IDO and enhanced production of kynurenines. Although IDO is strictly an IFN‐γ–induced gene product, tumor necrosis factor α (TNF‐α) can synergistically increase the transcriptional activation of the IDO gene in response to IFN‐γ. The combination of high promoter T of (IFN‐γ) + 874(T/A) with high promoter A of (TNF‐α) – 308(G/A) might “superinduce” IDO and cause (or contribute to) inflammation of brain microvessels detected as white matter hyperintensities and leading to VCI development. Hormonal induction of tryptophan dioxygenase and the ability of hormones to potentiate IFN‐γ–induced activation of IDO might contribute to the development of inflammatory changes in major depressive disorder and in aging. The IFN‐γ–IDO–iNOS hypothesis of VCI suggests new ways of preventing (identifying population at risk by analysis of IFN‐γ and TNF‐α genetic polymorphism) and treating VCI (using IDO inhibitors and melatonin and bupropion [Wellbutrin] as agents suppressing IFN‐γ and TNF‐α production).
Metabolic Syndrome in Drug Abuse
Authors: VIRMANI ASHRAF , BINIENDA ZBIGNIEW K. , ALI SYED F. , GAETANI FRANCO
Published: December 2007

Drug abuse is associated with significant health risk. Whether drug abusers are at a higher risk of suffering the metabolic syndrome is not widely known. The metabolic syndrome is a cluster of metabolic abnormalities, including hyperinsulinemia, hypertension, dyslipidemia, and abdominal obesity, and is probably triggered by initial imbalances at the cellular level in various critical metabolic pathways. These initially small metabolic imbalances are believed to cascade with time and lead to larger problems. Some indications that drug abuse may increase the risk of the metabolic syndrome include the following:

Drug‐abusing patients have higher rates of diabetes complications.

Substance abuse is a significant contributing factor for treatment noncompliance in diabetes.

Nutrition education can enhance substance abuse treatment outcomes.

Each type of drug/substance abuse has a unique profile of toxicity. For example, the amphetamines generally affect the cardiovascular and neurological systems, worsening the risk factors for the metabolic syndrome. Methamphetamine (meth) abusers suffer cognitive deficits and abnormal metabolic activity, which affect nutritional status. This condition is further worsened by a drastic reduction in oral health in meth abusers, resulting in improper chewing and, therefore, digestion. Nutritional deficiency in combination with drug abuse would increase the risk of developing the metabolic syndrome by increasing cell damage, augmenting excitotoxicity, reducing energy production, and lowering the antioxidant potential of the cells. Another potential risk factor in the development of the metabolic syndrome is genetic vulnerability, especially in combination with drug abuse and nutritional deficiencies. The strategies available to treat this problem include pharmacological agents as well as dietary antioxidants. Such measures may be useful in reducing drug abuse–related toxicity that may lead to the metabolic syndrome.
A Select Combination of Neurotrophins Enhances Neuroprotection and Functional Recovery following Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: SHARMA HARI SHANKER
Published: December 2007

Previously, we have shown that topical application of brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) or insulin‐like growth factor 1 (IGF‐1) given within 5 to 30 min after a focal trauma to the rat spinal cord attenuates spinal cord injury (SCI)–induced breakdown of the blood–spinal cord barrier (BSCB), edema formation, motor dysfunction, and cell injury. This investigation was undertaken to find out whether a combination of select neurotrophins (BDNF, glial cell line–derived neurotrophic factor [GDNF], neurotrophin 3 [NT‐3], or nerve growth factor [NGF]) will further enhance the neuroprotective efficacy of growth factors in SCI. The neurotrophins (0.1–1 μg/10 μL in phosphate‐buffered saline) were applied 30, 60, or 90 min after injury topically over the traumatized spinal cord either alone or in combination. The SCI was performed by making a unilateral incision into the right dorsal horn of the T10–T11 segment under Equithesin anesthesia. The rats were allowed to survive 5 h after trauma. Topical application of BDNF, GDNF, or NGF 30 min after SCI in high concentration (0.5 μg and 1 μg) significantly improved the motor functions and reduced the BSCB breakdown, edema formation, and cell injury seen at 5 h. These beneficial effects of neurotropins were absent when administered separately either 60 or 90 min after SCI. However, a combination of BDNF and GDNF (but not with NT‐3 or NGF) given either 60 or 90 min after SCI significantly reduced the motor dysfunction and spinal cord pathology at 5 h. These novel observations suggest that a select group of neurotrophins in combination have potential therapeutic value for the treatment of SCI in clinical situations.
Intracerebroventricularly Administered Neurotrophins Attenuate Blood–Cerebrospinal Fluid Barrier Breakdown and Brain Pathology following Whole‐Body Hyperthermia
Authors: SHARMA HARI SHANKER , JOHANSON CONRAD E.
Published: December 2007

Previous studies from our laboratory show that apart from blood–brain barrier (BBB) disruption, the blood–cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) barrier (BCSFB) for proteins is also broken down following whole‐body hyperthermia (WBH) in a rat model. Breakdown of the BCSFB alters brain homeostasis and adversely affects the structure and function of the central nervous system (CNS). Since neurotrophins and growth factors (e.g., brain‐derived growth factor [BDNF], glial cell line–derived neurotrophic factor [GDNF], and insulin‐like growth factor 1 [IGF‐1]) are known neuroprotective agents in traumatic and ischemic brain injuries, a possibility exists that these neurotrophins will also attenuate neuronal and choroidal injury in WBH. Subjection of adult rats to 4 h of WBH at 38°C in a biological oxygen demand (BOD) incubator exhibited a profound increase in BCSFB permeability to Evans blue and radioiodine. Degeneration of choroidal epithelial cells and underlying ependyma, dilatation of the lateral ventricular space, and degenerative changes in the adjacent neuropil were frequent. The hippocampus, caudate nucleus, thalamus, and hypothalamus showed profound BBB disruption and brain edema formation. Intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) administration of BDNF, GDNF, and IGF‐1 into the right lateral cerebral ventricle (1, 2, or 5 μg in 30 μL, 24 h before WBH) significantly reduced the BCSFB and BBB breakdown, brain edema formation, and cellular/tissue injuries. These beneficial effects were most pronounced in GDNF‐ or IGF‐1–pretreated animals. These novel observations suggest that neurotrophins administered into ventricular CSF can attenuate BCSFB and BBB damage following WBH and thereby confer neuroprotection. Stabilization of BCSFB function is thus one of the crucial factors in achieving neuroprotection in WBH.