bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intracellular energetics and critical Po2in resting ischemic human skeletal muscle in vivo
Authors: Lanza Ian R. , Tevald Michael A. , Befroy Douglas E. , Kent-Braun Jane A.
Published: September 2010

During ischemia and some types of muscular contractions, oxygen tension (Po2) declines to the point that mitochondrial ATP synthesis becomes limited by oxygen availability. Although this critical Po2has been determined in animal tissue in vitro and in situ, there remains controversy concerning potential disparities between values measured in vivo and ex vivo. To address this issue, we used concurrent heteronuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) to determine the critical intracellular Po2in resting human skeletal muscle in vivo. We interleaved measurements of deoxymyoglobin using1H-MRS with measures of high-energy phosphates and pH using31P-MRS, during 15 min of ischemia in the tibialis anterior muscles of 6 young men. ATP production and intramyocellular Po2were quantified throughout ischemia. Critical Po2, determined as the Po2corresponding to the point where PCr begins to decline (PCrip) in resting muscle during ischemia, was 0.35 ± 0.20 Torr, means ± SD. This in vivo value is consistent with reported values ex vivo and does not support the notion that critical Po2in resting muscle is higher when measured in vivo. Furthermore, we observed a 4.5-fold range of critical Po2values among the individuals studied. Regression analyses revealed that time to PCripwas associated with critical Po2and the rate of myoglobin desaturation ( r = 0.83, P = 0.04) but not the rate of ATP consumption during ischemia. The apparent dissociation between ATP demand and myoglobin deoxygenation during ischemia suggests that some degree of uncoupling between intracellular energetics and oxygenation is a potentially important factor that influences critical Po2in vivo.
FVB mouse genotype confers susceptibility to OVE26 diabetic albuminuria
Authors: Xu Jianxiang , Huang Yun , Li Fenge , Zheng Shirong , Epstein Paul N.
Published: September 2010

OVE26 (OVE) diabetic mice on the inbred strain FVB are a valuable model of diabetic nephropathy that excretes the highest amount of urine albumin of all diabetic mouse models. Crossing of OVE mice to C57BL6 or DBA2 mice reduced albuminuria 17-fold in F1 diabetic offspring without reducing diabetes. When comparing renal histology of OVE mice on the FVB background to F1 C57BL6 crosses, we found that the F1 kidneys had significantly smaller glomeruli, much less albumin accumulation in tubules, reduced mesangial matrix expansion, and less interstitial fibrosis. A genome scan of 108 OVE-positive N2 offspring for albuminuria revealed one significant peak on chromosome 11 and nearly significant peaks on chromosomes 9, 13, and 19. Homozygosity for the FVB genotype for peaks on chromosomes 11, 13, or 19 increased albuminuria. Homozygosity for the chromosome 9 peak reduced albuminuria. Combined homozyogosity for the peaks on chromosomes 11, 13, and 19 increased albuminuria over 12-fold and accounted for >70% of the difference between OVE mice on the FVB vs. the F1 background. These loci contain sequences important to susceptibility to diabetic albuminuria.
Glomerular tubular balance is suppressed in adenosine type 1 receptor-deficient mice
Authors: Bell Tracy D. , Luo Zaiming , Welch William J.
Published: September 2010

Glomerular tubular balance maintains a stable fractional solute and fluid reabsorption in the proximal tubule over a range of glomerular filtration rates. The mediators of this process are unknown. We tested the hypothesis that adenosine, produced in proximal tubule cells acting on adenosine type 1 receptors (A1-AR) promotes Na+and fluid uptake and mediates glomerular tubular balance. Absolute proximal fluid reabsorption ( Jv) was measured by in vivo microperfusion in A1-AR knockout and wild-type mice during perfusion of the closed proximal tubule at 2–10 nl/min. Jvincreased with perfusate flow from 2–4 nl/min in both strains, but the fractional increase was lower in A1-AR−/−mice (A1-AR+/+: 114% vs. A1-AR−/−: 38%; P < 0.001), suggesting reduced glomerular tubular balance (GTB). At higher perfusion rates, Jvincreased modestly in both strains, indicating less GTB at higher flow. The physiological effects of reduced GTB in A1-AR−/−mice were assessed from the response to an acute volume load (1 ml/2 min). Na+excretion and urine flow increased 76 and 73% more in A1-AR−/−mice than A1-AR+/+over the following 30 min, accompanied by a higher proximal tubule flow (A1-AR−/−: 6.9 ± 0.9 vs. A1-AR+/+: 5.2 ± 0.6 nl/min; P < 0.05). The expression of the sodium-hydrogen exchanger 3 and sodium phosphate cotransporter-2 were similar between strains. In conclusion, GTB is dependent on adenosine acting on type 1 receptors in the proximal tubule. This may contribute to acute changes in Na+and fluid reabsorption.
Nuclear angiotensin-(1–7) receptor is functionally coupled to the formation of nitric oxide
Authors: Gwathmey TanYa M. , Westwood Brian M. , Pirro Nancy T. , Tang Lijun , Rose James C. , Diz Debra I. , Chappell Mark C.
Published: September 2010

The kidney is an important target for the actions of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) and this tissue contains a complete local RAS that expresses the bioactive peptides angiotensin II (ANG II) and Ang-(1–7). We find both angiotensin type 1 (AT1R) and type 2 (AT2R) receptors expressed on renal nuclei that stimulate reactive oxygen species and nitric oxide (NO), respectively. Since Ang-(1–7) also exhibits actions within the kidney and the Ang-(1–7)/Mas receptor protein contains a nuclear localization sequence, we determined the expression of Ang-(1–7) receptors in nuclei isolated from the kidneys of young adult sheep. Binding studies with 125I-[Sar1Thr8]-ANG II revealed sites sensitive to the Ang-(1–7) antagonist [d-Ala7]-Ang-(1–7) (DALA, A779), as well as to AT2 and AT1 antagonists. Incubation of Ang-(1–7) [10−15 to 10−9 M] with isolated cortical nuclei elicited a dose-dependent increase in the fluorescence of the NO indicator [4-amino-5-methylamino-2′,7′]-difluorofluorescein diacetate. The NO response to Ang-(1–7) was abolished by the NO inhibitor N-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester and DALA, but not the AT1 antagonist losartan or the AT2 blocker PD123319. Immunofluorescent studies utilizing the Ang-(1–7)/Mas receptor antibody revealed immunolabeling of the proximal tubules but not staining within the glomerulus in cortical sections of the sheep kidney. In the nuclear fraction of isolated proximal tubules, immunoblots revealed the precursor angiotensinogen and renin, as well as functional activity for ACE, ACE2, and neprilysin. We conclude that renal nuclei express Ang-(1–7)/Mas receptors that are functionally linked to NO formation. The marked sensitivity of the intracellular NO response to Ang-(1–7) implicates a functional role of the Ang-(1–7) axis within the nucleus. Moreover, evidence for the precursor and enzymatic components of the RAS within the nuclear compartment of the proximal tubules provides a potential pathway for the intracellular generation of Ang-(1–7).
Mechanotransduction in the renal tubule
Authors: Weinbaum Sheldon , Duan Yi , Satlin Lisa M. , Wang Tong , Weinstein Alan M.
Published: September 2010

The role of mechanical forces in the regulation of glomerulotubular balance in the proximal tubule (PT) and Ca2+signaling in the distal nephron was first recognized a decade ago, when it was proposed that the microvilli in the PT and the primary cilium in the cortical collecting duct (CCD) acted as sensors of local tubular flow. In this review, we present a summary of the theoretical models and experiments that have been conducted to elucidate the structure and function of these unique apical structures in the modulation of Na+, HCO3−, and water reabsorption in the PT and Ca2+signaling in the CCD. We also contrast the mechanotransduction mechanisms in renal epithelium with those in other cells in which fluid shear stresses have been recognized to play a key role in initiating intracellular signaling, most notably endothelial cells, hair cells in the inner ear, and bone cells. In each case, small hydrodynamic forces need to be greatly amplified before they can be sensed by the cell's intracellular cytoskeleton to enable the cell to regulate its membrane transporters or stretch-activated ion channels in maintaining homeostasis in response to changing flow conditions.
RhoA/Rho kinase (ROCK) alters fetuin-A uptake and regulates calcification in bovine vascular smooth muscle cells (BVSMC)
Authors: Chen Neal X. , Chen Xianming , O'Neill Kalisha D. , Atkinson Simon J. , Moe Sharon M.
Published: September 2010

RhoA/Rho kinases (ROCK) play a critical role in vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) actin cytoskeleton organization, differentiation, and function and are implicated in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular disease. We have previously determined that an important step in the regulation of calcification is fetuin-A endocytosis, a process that is dependent on changes in the cytoskeleton, which, in turn, is known to be affected by the RhoA/ROCK signaling pathway. In the present study, bovine VSMC (BVSMC) were treated with the ROCK inhibitor Y-27632 or transfected with ROCK small interfering (si) RNA to knock down ROCK expression. Both conditions resulted in reduced actin stress fibers and increased Cy5-labeled fetuin-A uptake. Inhibition of ROCK by Y-27632 or siRNA also significantly increased BVSMC alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity and calcification of BVSMC and rat aorta organ cultures. Cells were then incubated in calcification media in the presence or absence of Y-27632 and matrix vesicles (MV) isolated by collagenase digestion. These MV, isolated from BVSMC incubated with Y-27632, had increased ALP activity and increased ability of MV to subsequently calcify collagen by 66%. In contrast, activation of RhoA, which is upstream of ROCK, by transfecting plasmids encoding the dominant active Rho GTPase mutant (Rho-L63) led to decreased fetuin-A uptake and reduced calcification in BVSMC. These results demonstrate that the RhoA/ROCK signaling pathway is an important negative regulator of vascular calcification.
Changes in Membrane Potential and the Intracellular Calcium Concentration During CSD and OGD in Layer V and Layer II/III Mouse Cortical Neurons
Authors: Gniel Helen M. , Martin Rosemary L.
Published: September 2010

Cortical spreading depression (CSD) is an episode of electrical silence following intense neuronal activity that propagates across the cortex at ∼3–6 mm/min and is associated with transient neuronal depolarization. CSD is benign in normally perfused brain tissue, but there is evidence suggesting that repetitive CSD contributes to infarct growth following focal ischemia. Studies to date have assumed that the cellular responses to CSD are uniform across neuronal types because there are no data to the contrary. In this study, we investigated the effect of CSD on membrane potential and the intracellular calcium concentration ([Ca2+]i) of mouse layer V and layer II/III pyramidal neurons in brain slices. To place the data in context, we made similar measurements during anoxic depolarization induced by oxygen and glucose deprivation (OGD). The [Ca2+]iwas quantified using the low-affinity ratiometric indicator Fura-4F. During both CSD- and OGD-induced depolarization, the membrane potential approached 0 mV in all neurons. In layer V pyramids OGD resulted in an increase in [Ca2+]ito a maximum of 3.69 ± 0.73 (SD) μM ( n = 12), significantly greater than the increase to 1.81 ± 0.70 μM in CSD ( n = 34; P < 0.0001). Membrane potential and [Ca2+]ireturned to nearly basal levels following CSD but not OGD. Layer II/III neurons responded to CSD with a greater peak increase in [Ca2+]ithan layer V neurons (2.88 ± 0.6 μM; n = 9; P < 0.01). We conclude there is a laminar difference in the response of pyramidal neurons to CSD; possible explanations are discussed.
Unsupervised Classification of High-Frequency Oscillations in Human Neocortical Epilepsy and Control Patients
Authors: Blanco Justin A. , Stead Matt , Krieger Abba , Viventi Jonathan , Marsh W. Richard , Lee Kendall H. , Worrell Gregory A. , Litt Brian
Published: September 2010

High-frequency oscillations (HFOs) have been observed in animal and human intracranial recordings during both normal and aberrant brain states. It has been proposed that the relationship between subclasses of these oscillations can be used to identify epileptic brain. Studies of HFOs in epilepsy have been hampered by selection bias arising primarily out of the need to reduce the volume of data so that clinicians can manually review it. In this study, we introduce an algorithm for detecting and classifying these signals automatically and demonstrate the tractability of analyzing a data set of unprecedented size, over 31,000 channel-hours of intracranial electroencephalographic (iEEG) recordings from micro- and macroelectrodes in humans. Using an unsupervised approach that does not presuppose a specific number of clusters in the data, we show direct evidence for the existence of distinct classes of transient oscillations within the 100- to 500-Hz frequency range in a population of nine neocortical epilepsy patients and two controls. The number of classes we find, four (three plus one putative artifact class), is consistent with prior studies that identify “ripple” and “fast ripple” oscillations using human-intensive methods and, additionally, identifies a less examined class of mixed-frequency events.
Challenges Faced by People Living with HIV/AIDS in Cape Town, South Africa: Issues for Group Risk Reduction Interventions
Authors: Cloete Allanise , Strebel Anna , Simbayi Leickness , van Wyk Brian , Henda Nomvo , Nqeketo Ayanda
Published: September 2010

This paper presents the findings of an exploratory study to investigate the challenges faced by people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) in communities in Cape Town, South Africa. The primary goal of the study was to gather data to inform the adaptation of a group risk reduction intervention to the South African context. Qualitative methods were used to examine the experiences of PLWHA. Eight focus group discussions (FGDs) were conducted with 83 HIV-positive participants and 14 key informants (KIs) involved in work with PLWHA were interviewed. Findings revealed that AIDS-related stigma was still pervasive in local communities. This was associated with the difficulty of disclosure of their status for fear of rejection. Also notable was the role of risky behaviours such as lack of condom use and that PLWHA considered their HIV/AIDS status as secondary to daily life stressors like poverty, unemployment, and gender-based violence. These findings have implications for the adaptation or development of behavioural risk reduction interventions for PLWHA.
SOCS1, a Negative Regulator of Cytokine Signals and TLR Responses, in Human Liver Diseases
Authors: Fujimoto Minoru , Naka Tetsuji
Published: September 2010

Toll-like receptor (TLR) signaling pathways are strictly coordinated by several mechanisms to regulate adequate innate immune responses. Recent lines of evidence indicate that the suppressor of cytokine signaling (SOCS) family proteins, originally identified as negative-feedback regulators in cytokine signaling, are involved in the regulation of TLR-mediated immune responses. SOCS1, a member of SOCS family, is strongly induced upon TLR stimulation. Cells lacking SOCS1 are hyperresponsive to TLR stimulation. Thus, SOCS1 is an important regulator for both cytokine and TLR-induced responses. As an immune organ, the liver contains various types of immune cells such as T cells, NK cells, NKT cells, and Kupffer cells and is continuously challenged with gut-derived bacterial and dietary antigens. SOCS1 may be implicated in pathophysiology of the liver. The studies using SOCS1-deficient mice revealed that endogenous SOCS1 is critical for the prevention of liver diseases such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, and cancers. Recent studies on humans suggest that SOCS1 is involved in the development of various liver disorders in humans. Thus, SOCS1 and other SOCS proteins are potential targets for the therapy of human liver diseases.
Apparent Diffusion Coefficient in Invasive Ductal Breast Carcinoma: Correlation with Detailed Histologic Features and the Enhancement Ratio on Dynamic Contrast-Enhanced MR Images
Authors: Matsubayashi Roka Namoto , Fujii Teruhiko , Yasumori Kotaro , Muranaka Toru , Momosaki Seiya
Published: September 2010

Purpose. To investigate the correlation of Apperent Diffusion Coefficient (ADC) values in invasive ductal breast carcinomas with detailed histologic features and enhancement ratios on dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI.Methods and Materials. Dynamic MR images and diffusion-weighted images (DWIs) of invasive ductal breast carcinomas were reviewed in 25 (26 lesions) women. In each patient, DWI, T2WI, T1WI, and dynamic images were obtained. The ADC values of the 26 carcinomas were calculated with b-factors of 0 and 1000 s/ using echoplanar DWI. Correlations of the ADC values were examined on dynamic MRI with enhancement ratios (early to delayed phase: E/D ratio) and detailed histologic findings for each lesion, including cellular density, the size of cancer nests, and architectural features of the stroma (broad, narrow, and delicate) between cancer nests.Results. The mean ADC was  /sec. Cellular density was significantly correlated with ADC values () and E/D ratios (). The ADC values were also significantly correlated to features of the stroma (broad to narrow, ).Conclusion. The findings suggest that DWIs reflect the growth patterns of carcinomas, including cellular density and architectural features of the stroma, and E/D ratios may also be closely correlated to cellular density.
Effects of Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis on Kinematics and Kinetics of the Lower Extremities Call for Consequences in Physical Activities Recommendations
Authors: Hartmann M. , Kreuzpointner F. , Haefner R. , Michels H. , Schwirtz A. , Haas J. P.
Published: September 2010

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) patients (n=36) with symmetrical polyarticular joint involvement of the lower extremities and healthy controls (n=20) were compared concerning differences in kinematic, kinetic, and spatio-temporal parameters with 3D gait analysis. The aims of this study were to quantify the differences in gait between JIA patients and healthy controls and to provide data for more detailed sport activities recommendations. JIA-patients showed reduced walking speed and step length, strongly anterior tilted pelvis, reduced maximum hip extension, reduced knee extension during single support phase and reduced plantar flexion in push off. Additionally the roll-off procedure of the foot was slightly decelerated. The reduced push off motion in the ankle was confirmed by lower peaks in ankle moment and power. The gait of JIA-patients can be explained as a crouch-like gait with hyperflexion in hip and knee joints and less plantar flexion in the ankle. A preventive mobility workout would be recommendable to reduce these restrictions in the future. Advisable are sports with emphasis on extension in hip, knee, and ankle plantar flexion.
Outcome of Combined Hepatocellular and Cholangiocarcinoma of the Liver
Authors: Wang Jue , Wang Fenwei , Kessinger Anne
Published: September 2010

Background. The objective of this study was to examine the epidemiology, natural history, and prognostic factors of combined hepatocellular and cholangiocarcinoma (cHCC-CC) using population-based registry.Methods. The Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Program database (1973–2004) was used to identify cases of cHCC-CC. Multivariable logistic regression was used to evaluate factors associated with cancer-directed surgery (CDS). The influence of CDS on cancer specific survival was evaluated using Kaplan-Meier curves and Cox proportional hazards modeling.Results. A total of 380 cases of cHCC-CC were identified, which account for approximately 0.87% of primary liver tumors. Of all patients, 69.8% of patients had regional or distant stage; 65.6% of patients had poorly or undifferentiated histology. Only 44.9% of patients with localized disease, received CDS. By logistic regression analysis, being widowed, advanced stage, and earlier diagnosis year were associated with lower rate of utilization of CDS. In multivariate analysis, tumor stage, receipt of CDS, and recent year of diagnosis were found to be significant predictors for cancer-specific survival.Conclusions. Patients with localized cHCC-CC who are selected for CDS were strongly associated with improved survival. However, many patients with localized tumors did not receive potentially curative cancer-directed surgery. Further study is warranted to address the barriers to the delivery of appropriate care to these patients.
Vibration Detection Using Optical Fiber Sensors
Authors: García Yoany Rodríguez , Corres Jesús M. , Goicoechea Javier
Published: September 2010

Condition monitoring of heavy electromechanical equipment is commonly accomplished in the industry using vibration analysis. Several techniques, mainly based on capacitive and piezoelectric accelerometers, have been applied for predictive maintenance. However, the negative influence of the electromagnetic interference (EMI) can be a real problem when electrical signals are used to detect and transmit physical parameters in noisy environments such as electric power generator plants with high levels of EMI. Optical fiber sensors are increasingly used because of the nonelectrical nature of signals. In this paper, the most frequently used vibration optical fiber sensors will be reviewed, classifying them by the sensing techniques and measurement principles. The main techniques, intensity modulation, fiber bragg gratings and Fabry-Pérot Interferometry, will be reviewed here.
Immune Response of Mormon Crickets That Survived Infection byBeauveria bassiana
Authors: Srygley Robert B. , Jaronski Stefan T.
Published: September 2010

Beauveria bassiana(Fungi: Ascomycota) is an entomopathogenic fungus that serves as a biological control agent of Mormon cricketsAnabrus simplexHaldeman (Orthoptera: Tettigoniidae) and other grasshopper pests. To measure the dose-dependent response of Mormon crickets to fungal attack, we appliedB. bassianastrain GHA topically to adults using doses of 5.13 ×  to 1.75 ×  conidia in sunflower oil, with oil only as a control. After three weeks, we assessed the survivors' hemolymph for fungal cells, active phenoloxidase (PO), and lysozyme. Mortality increased and body mass of survivors decreased with conidial dose. survivors' PO activity was elevated to the same level independent of dose. Those with fungal cells visible in their hemolymph did not differ in PO activity from those with clear hemolymph. We conclude that circulating PO may be an important enzymatic defense againstBeauveriainfection and that it is associated with attempted clearing ofBeauveriablastospores and hyphae from Mormon cricket hemolymph.
Metformin and Other Biguanides in Oncology: Advancing the Research Agenda
Authors: Pollak Michael
Published: September 2010

Retrospective studies that may be impractical to confirm prospectively suggest that diabetics treated with metformin have a substantially reduced cancer burden compared with other diabetics. It is unclear if this reflects a chemopreventive effect, an effect on transformed cells, or both. It also remains to be established if these data have relevance to people without diabetes. Laboratory models, however, provide independent impressive evidence for the activity of metformin and other biguanides in both cancer treatment and chemoprevention. Investigations of mechanisms of action of biguanides have revealed considerable complexity and have identified important gaps in knowledge that should be addressed to ensure the optimal design of clinical trials of these agents. Such trials may define important new indications for biguanides in the prevention and/or treatment of many common cancers. Cancer Prev Res; 3(9); 1060–5. ©2010 AACR.
Coping on Women’s Backs
Authors: Thieme Susan , Siegmann Karin Astrid
Published: September 2010

This article aims to conceptualize the gendered interface between social capital and vulnerability. It emphasizes Pierre Bourdieu’s notion of social capital embedded in his Theory of Practice as a fruitful analytical device for this intersection. The authors’ conceptual thoughts are based on a review of the literature on the role of migration-related social networks from mainly diverse Asian contexts and empirical fieldwork in South and Central Asia.
Evaluation of Parallel Analysis Methods for Determining the Number of Factors
Authors: Crawford Aaron V. , Green Samuel B. , Levy Roy , Lo Wen-Juo , Scott Lietta , Svetina Dubravka , Thompson Marilyn S.
Published: September 2010

Population and sample simulation approaches were used to compare the performance of parallel analysis using principal component analysis (PA-PCA) and parallel analysis using principal axis factoring (PA-PAF) to identify the number of underlying factors. Additionally, the accuracies of the mean eigenvalue and the 95th percentile eigenvalue criteria were examined. The 95th percentile criterion was preferable for assessing the first eigenvalue using either extraction method. In assessing subsequent eigenvalues, PA-PCA tended to perform as well as or better than PA-PAF for models with one factor or multiple minimally correlated factors; the relative performance of the mean eigenvalue and the 95th percentile eigenvalue criteria depended on the number of variables per factor. PA-PAF using the mean eigenvalue criterion generally performed best if factors were more than minimally correlated or if one or more strong general factors as well as group factors were present.
Confidence Intervals for Squared Semipartial Correlation Coefficients: The Effect of Nonnormality
Authors: Algina James , Keselman H.J. , Penfield Randall D.
Published: September 2010

The increase in the squared multiple correlation coefficient (ΔR2) associated with a variable in a regression equation is a commonly used measure of importance in regression analysis. Algina, Keselman, and Penfield found that intervals based on asymptotic principles were typically very inaccurate, even though the sample size was quite large (i.e., larger than 200). However, they also reported that probability coverage for the confidence intervals based on a bootstrap method was typically quite accurate, and moreover, this accuracy was obtained with relatively small sample sizes with six or fewer predictors. They further speculated that nonnormality would likely affect the accuracy of interval coverage. In the present study, the authors investigated the accuracy of coverage probability for confidence intervals obtained by using asymptotic and percentile bootstrap methodology when either predictors, residuals, or both are nonnormal. Coverage probability for asymptotic confidence intervals is poor, but adequate coverage probability can be obtained with reasonable sample sizes by using percentile bootstrap methodology. As well, the authors found that the width of these intervals was relatively precise (i.e., narrow) for the larger cases of sample size investigated.
College students’ use of compliance-gaining strategies to obtain prescription stimulant medications for illicit use
Authors: Checton Maria G , Greene Kathryn
Published: September 2010

Objective: To examine college students’ illicit use of prescription stimulant medications and compliance-gaining strategies that they would use to obtain a stimulant medication.

Design: A questionnaire-based study.

Setting: Seven hundred and twenty undergraduate college students at a large, northeastern university in the United States were surveyed.

Method: The study received approval from the university’s Institutional Review Board (IRB). Students completed anonymous questionnaires outside of class time.

Results: Respondents were more likely to use rationality and promise strategies to gain others’ compliance. No differences in strategy selection for close friends and acquaintances were reported. Illicit prescription stimulant users scored higher in sensation seeking than those who reported no prior illicit stimulant use.

Conclusions: A compliance-gaining perspective provided a better understanding of the strategies college students are likely to use to obtain prescription stimulants from those with a legitimate prescription.
User-Preferred Position of Computer Displays: Effects of Display Size
Authors: Shin Gwanseob , Hegde Sudeep
Published: September 2010

Objective: Effects of display size and dual display setting on preferred display and keyboard positions were evaluated.

Background: User-preferred display position may vary as its size changes or when multiple displays are used. It is also not known whether the use of larger displays or multiple displays would influence positioning of the keyboard.

Method: Participants ( N = 19) who had normal visual acuity (20/30 or better) determined preferred positions of the display and the keyboard during a data entry task in four display setups (19, 24, 27.5, and dual 19 in.). The size of capital characters (3.2 mm high) was kept consistent between setups.

Results: Preferred viewing distance ranged from 0.68 m (19-in. display) to 0.76 m (27.5-in. display). No significant differences in viewing distance and display height were found between the single 19-in. display and dual 19-in. displays setups. The preferred position of the keyboard was consistent between display setups.

Conclusion: Participants placed larger displays farther and lower while maintaining the display top at or near eye height. Preferred position of the dual displays in landscape setting did not differ from that of a single display. It appears that the preferred display position varies with the vertical dimension of the overall viewable area of the display.

Application: The results of this study can be used to determine the dimensions or adjustability of computer workstations for larger displays or multiple displays settings.
An Integrated Approach to Analyze Long-term Moisture Transport in Honeycomb-core Sandwich Panels
Authors: Larobina D. , Mensitieri G. , Aldi A. , Calvi E. , Iannone M. , Manzi F. , Nicolais L.
Published: September 2010

A predictive model for the time evolution of moisture uptake within a honeycomb-core sandwich has been developed. The model takes into account the water diffusion into the skins as well as into the honeycomb part of the sandwich. Experimental evidence has been found of hydrolysis of the aramidic pulp of the honeycomb, which has been consequently accounted for in the model through an irreversible reaction term. The relevant parameters of the model (diffusivities, solubilities, and aramidic hydrolysis kinetic constants), for each single component making up the sandwich, have been experimentally evaluated at several temperatures and relative humidities. Predictions of the model successfully compare with experimentally determined water uptake kinetics into the whole sandwich.
Osteogenic Potential of Mandibular vs. Long-bone Marrow Stromal Cells
Authors: Aghaloo T.L. , Chaichanasakul T. , Bezouglaia O. , Kang B. , Franco R. , Dry S.M. , Atti E. , Tetradis S.
Published: September 2010

Although fundamentally similar to other bones, the jaws demonstrate discrete responses to developmental, mechanical, and homeostatic regulatory signals. Here, we hypothesized that rat mandible vs. long-bone marrow-derived cells possess different osteogenic potential. We established a protocol for rat mandible and long-bone marrow stromal cell (BMSC) isolation and culture. Mandible BMSC cultures formed more colonies, suggesting an increased CFU-F population. Both mandible and long-bone BMSCs differentiated into osteoblasts. However, mandible BMSCs demonstrated augmented alkaline phosphatase activity, mineralization, and osteoblast gene expression. Importantly, upon implantation into nude mice, mandible BMSCs formed 70% larger bone nodules containing three-fold more mineralized bone compared with long-bone BMSCs. Analysis of these data demonstrates an increased osteogenic potential and augmented capacity of mandible BMSCs to induce bone formation in vitro and in vivo. Our findings support differences in the mechanisms underlying mandible homeostasis and the pathophysiology of diseases unique to the jaws.
HEMA Enhances IgG1 Production by Human B-cells in vitro
Authors: Andersson J. , Dahlgren U.
Published: September 2010

We have previously shown that the resin monomer 2-hydroxyethylmethacrylate (HEMA) affects mouse B-lymphocyte activity, leading to increased IgG1 antibody production in vivo. In the present study, we tested, in vitro, the hypothesis that HEMA also affects human B-lymphocyte activity. The in vitro production of IgG1, IgM, and IgA in supernatants from purified human CD19+ B-lymphocyte cultures, containing different concentrations of HEMA, was assayed with ELISA. Proliferation was measured by [methyl-3H] thymidine incorporation. Of the different HEMA concentrations used, the lower concentrations caused a significant increase in IgG1 production, but not in IgM or IgA production, in vitro. The lower HEMA concentrations did not significantly change B-cell proliferation. At the highest concentration, HEMA significantly suppressed IgG1 and IgM production, as well as B-cell proliferation, in vitro. In conclusion, HEMA can, at certain concentrations, selectively enhance human B-lymphocyte IgG1 production. Abbreviations: 2-hydroxyethylmethacrylate (HEMA), Dulbecco’s Modified Eagle’s Medium supplemented with heat-inactivated fetal bovine serum, gentamycin, penicillin, and streptomycin (D-MEM++++), Enzyme-linked Immuno-sorbent Assay (ELISA), phosphate-buffered saline (PBS), ovalbumin (OVA), pokeweed mitogen (PWM), counts per minute (CPM).
Racial Disparities in Preschool Special Education Eligibility for Five Southern States
Authors: Morrier Michael J. , Gallagher Peggy A.
Published: September 2010

More than 67,000 preschoolers with disabilities across five states were examined for disproportionate special education eligibilities using risk ratios (RRs). Results indicated children classified as American Indian (RR = 2.25) and Black (RR = 1.64) were disproportionate in one state, whereas children classified as Asian, Hispanic, and White showed no disproportionality. Significant differences were found for preschoolers under orthopedic impairment ( F = 43.99, p = .002, η2 = .971). Child ethnicity was significant for speech or language impairments ( F = 3.313, p = .034, η2 = .424), mental retardation ( F = 65.215, p = .001, η2 = .963), multiple disabilities ( F = 5.244, p = .048, η2 = .636), hearing impairments ( F = 4.181, p = .047, η2 = .611), other health impairments ( F = 24.148, p = .003, η2 = .906), autism ( F = 48.570, p = .001, η2 = .930), and developmental delay ( F = 6.407, p = .003, η2 = .631).
The Wildcat Corpus of Native-and Foreign-accented English: Communicative Efficiency across Conversational Dyads with Varying Language Alignment Profiles
Authors: Van Engen Kristin J. , Baese-Berk Melissa , Baker Rachel E. , Choi Arim , Kim Midam , Bradlow Ann R.
Published: September 2010

This paper describes the development of the Wildcat Corpus of native- and foreign-accented English, a corpus containing scripted and spontaneous speech recordings from 24 native speakers of American English and 52 non-native speakers of English. The core element of this corpus is a set of spontaneous speech recordings, for which a new method of eliciting dialogue-based, laboratory-quality speech recordings was developed (the Diapix task). Dialogues between two native speakers of English, between two non-native speakers of English (with either shared or different L1s), and between one native and one non-native speaker of English are included and analyzed in terms of general measures of communicative efficiency. The overall finding was that pairs of native talkers were most efficient, followed by mixed native/non-native pairs and non-native pairs with shared L1. Non-native pairs with different L1s were least efficient. These results support the hypothesis that successful speech communication depends both on the alignment of talkers to the target language and on the alignment of talkers to one another in terms of native language background.
A new method for preparing alumina nanofibers by electrospinning technology
Authors: Weimin Kang  , Bowen Cheng  , Quanxiang Li  , Xupin Zhuang  , Yuanlin Ren
Published: September 2010

A new method for synthesizing alumina (Al2O3) nanofibers through the electrospinning method was reported. The spinning solutions of anhydrous aluminium chloride/polyvinylpyrrolidone (AlCl3/PVP), which were prepared by the sol-gel process of the mixture of AlCl3, PVP, ethanol and redistilled water, were electrospun to form AlCl3/PVP organic-inorganic hybrid fibers. Alumina nanofibers with average diameters of 100—800 nm were obtained by calcinations of the as-prepared fibers. The fibers were characterized by SEM, TG-DTA, FTIR, XPS and XRD. The results showed that with the increase of the concentration of spinning solution, the diameter of fibers also increased, and that the diameter of fibers decreased with the increase of the applied voltage and calcination temperature. The uncrystalline Al2O3, γ-Al 2O3 and α-Al2O3 were obtained after calcinations of about 5 h at 450, 900 and 1100°C, respectively.
The evaluation of ozonation as an environmentally friendly alternative for cotton preparation
Authors: Eren Huseyin Aksel , Ozturk Dilek
Published: September 2010

Ozone is a strongly oxidative gas that is generally used in medical sterilization and decolorization of the effluent of textile spent dyebaths. Recent studies have reported the use of ozone to bleach textile fabrics. In this study, ozone was utilized in cotton preparation for greige, desized and scoured 100% cotton fabrics. Hydrogen peroxide bleaching was performed as the control treatment. The degree of whiteness of cotton increased after prolonged ozonation times. The scoured samples reached the whiteness level of the control (hydrogen peroxide bleached) samples. The whiteness of the hydrogen peroxide bleached, 60-min ozonated and 90-min ozonated samples all had a Stensby degree of whiteness of 81 for the scoured fabric samples. The strength loss after prolonged ozonation times was negligible. Ozonation increased the starch-size removal of the greige cotton samples and the water absorbency of the greige and desized cotton samples.
Impact of Stress Reduction Interventions on Hostility and Ambulatory Systolic Blood Pressure in African American Adolescents
Authors: Brown Wright Lynda , Gregoski Mathew J. , Tingen Martha S. , Barnes Vernon A. , Treiber Frank A.
Published: September 2010

This study examined the impact of breathing awareness meditation (BAM), life skills (LS) training, and health education (HE) interventions on self-reported hostility and 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure (ABP) in 121 African American (AA) ninth graders at increased risk for development of essential hypertension. They were randomly assigned to BAM, LS, or HE and engaged in intervention sessions during health class for 3 months. Before, after, and 3 months following intervention cessation, self-reported hostility and 24-hour ABP were measured. Results indicated that between pre- and postintervention, BAM participants displayed significant reductions in self-reported hostility and 24-hour systolic ABP. Reductions in hostility were significantly related to reductions in 24-hour systolic ABP. Between postintervention and follow-up, participants receiving LS showed a significant reduction in hostility but not in 24-hour ABP. Significant changes were not found for the HE group in 24-hour ABP or self-reported hostility, but these change scores were significantly correlated. The implications of the findings are discussed with regard to behavioral stress reduction programs for the physical and emotional health of AAs.
“City Air Makes Free”: A Multi-Level, Cross-national Analysis Of Self-efficacy
Authors: Debies-Carl Jeffrey S. , Huggins Christopher M.
Published: September 2010

The effects of cities on the subjective states of individuals have been the subject of continuous inquiry. Recent research has demonstrated potential links between immediate environments and individual outcomes such as perceived powerlessness. However, the results of such studies are inconsistent and fail to account for the greater societal environment in which observations occur. Using a more comparative, cross-national sample and multi-level modeling, we retest the expectation that the immediate physical and social environment influences feelings of powerlessness, and extend the test to consider urbanism operating at societal levels beyond the local. Controlling for demographic composition, we find that urban factors operating at both societal and local levels are important predictors of self-efficacy and powerlessness. While one factor was found to correspond with decreased self-efficacy, two aspects of urban environments—one local and one societal—are found to be consistent with Simmel's assertion that urban settings increase individual feelings of efficacy and freedom. The implications of these findings for urban theory are discussed.
Beyond the United States and Japan: Testing Yamagishi's Emancipation Theory of Trust across 31 Nations
Authors: Gheorghiu Mirona A. , Vignoles Vivian L. , Smith Peter B.
Published: September 2010

We examined the relationship between Individualism/Collectivism and generalized social trust across 31 European nations participating in the European Social Survey. Using multilevel regression analyses, the current study provides the first empirical investigation of the effects of cultural norms of Individualism/Collectivism on generalized social trust while accounting for individuals' own cultural orientations within the same analysis. The results provide clear support for Yamagishi and Yamagishi's (1994) emancipation theory of trust, showing a significant and positive relationship between Individualism/Collectivism and generalized social trust, over and above the effect of a country's political history of communism and ethnic heterogeneity. Having controlled for individual effects of Individualism/Collectivism it is clear that the results of the current analysis cannot be reduced to an individual-level explanation, but must be interpreted within the context of macrosocial processes. We conclude by discussing potential mechanisms that could explain why national individualism is more likely to foster trust among people than collectivism.
Songs at twilight
Authors: Dale Susan
Published: September 2010

This article reflects on a doctoral research project undertaken by the author, which used co-constructed audio narratives to explore the experience of living with a visual impairment and the effect this had on claims to identity. The research project was attempting to respond to Duckett and Pratt’s review of visual impairment research which called for research where there was empowerment and ‘greater inclusion of visually impaired people’ (2007: 7).

Themes emerging from the research that were thought to have an influence on identity were related to negative societal attitudes towards visual impairment, including living in a world dominated by sighted perspectives, relationships with sighted people, attitudes towards education, schooling and employment and not having a voice within the agencies set up to support people who are visually impaired.

Within this article the author specifically explores the use of collaborative narrative methodology, using excerpts from the narrative text to reflect on both the process of the research and whether this could be considered emancipatory, and also to demonstrate how societal attitudes affected the four research participants, and the author’s experience of living with a visual impairment, and the effect this had on claims to identity.
Emotional well-being in people with sight loss
Authors: Nyman Samuel R. , Gosney Margot A. , Victor Christina R.
Published: September 2010

Literature that is not peer-reviewed and distributed through a publisher is known as ‘grey’. As it is used to inform policy and practice we reviewed the grey literature concerning emotional well-being in people with sight loss. We consulted and searched the websites of UK voluntary organizations, and scanned reference lists of previous reviews for reports available from 2001 to 2008. We summarized 24 studies in two sections: observations that assessed psychosocial well-being or demand for support services ( n = 15); and evaluations of interventions that aimed to improve emotional well-being ( n = 9). Observations showed that people with sight loss can report low emotional well-being, but their statistical and clinical significance requires testing. Interventions showed promise for counselling but also require further evaluation. We encourage service providers and researchers to collaborate and produce high quality research to more persuasively inform policy and practice.
A note on some problems in the testing of personality characteristics in children with visual impairment
Authors: Tobin Michael , Hill Eileen
Published: September 2010

An examination is made of the value of using published personality tests with young blind and partially sighted children. Based on data gathered during a longitudinal investigation into the educational and psychological development of a group of 120 visually impaired learners, the authors conclude that their own selection of a test instrument cannot be deemed to have been successful. A more up-to-date assessment procedure and one based on a better theoretical understanding of the personality structure of congenitally visually impaired children is considered necessary.
Using aspects of the TEACCH structured teaching approach with students with multiple disabilities and visual impairment
Authors: Taylor Kim , Preece David
Published: September 2010

This article reflects on how the first author has adapted aspects of the TEACCH structured teaching approach — developed for use with students with autism — in her work with students with multiple disabilities and visual impairment (MDVI) in a special secondary school for students with severe learning difficulties in England. A brief overview of the TEACCH approach and its distinctive components (physical structure, schedules, work systems and visual structure) is presented; and the reasons why and the ways in which aspects of structured teaching have been adapted and used with regard to three students (at different points on the MDVI ‘spectrum’) are described. The article identifies the impact on the students and on the first author’s teaching of using this approach during the past three years, together with the limitations and problems encountered. The article is written from the first author’s perspective throughout.