bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rotational states of a benzenelike ring and Bloch’s theorem
Authors: Lee Y. C. , Lee Wei Z.
Published: November 2009

The rotational states and their energies for a model of a ringlike molecule are studied. It is found that the discrete cylindrical symmetry of the molecule gives rise to a new quantum number in addition to that for the usual quantized angular momentum m. This new quantum number is formally analogous to but differs physically from the Bloch wave number for a one-dimensional crystal. The rotational states and energies of this model are discussed.
Equilibrium Yields and Yield Isopleths from a General Age-Structured Model of Harvested Populations
Authors: Lawson Timothy A. , Hilborn Ray
Published: November 2009

The equilibrium properties of an age-structured model that includes any arbitrary age-specific weights, vulnerabilities, fecundities, and natural mortality rates, combined with stock–recruitment relationships, are derived. The numbers, biomass, and catch at each age can be calculated quite simply. These relationships can be used to construct yield-isopleth diagrams, or to plot equilibrium yield and biomass against harvest intensity. We used the results to compute yield isopleths for the Pacific halibut (Hippoglossus stenolepis) fishery. The analysis can also include a fishing season of any specified length. Relationships are given to translate the aggregate properties of the age-structured models into several alternative surplus production models.
Distinguishing Between One-Day-Old Cod (Gadus morhua) and Haddock (Melanogrammus aeglefinus) Eggs by Gas Chromatography and SIMCA Pattern Recognition
Authors: Knutsen H. , Moksnes E. , Vogt N. B.
Published: November 2009

Single cod (Gadus morhua) and haddock (Melanogrammus aeglefinus) eggs were acid hydrolized. All the fatty acids were liberated and converted to methyl ester in a one-step reaction. The nonpolar hexane extract was analyzed by high resolution gas chromatography (HRGC). Selected peaks, occurring in both types of samples and in all chromatograms, were used to create a matrix for multivariate analysis. We conclude that cod and haddock eggs can be distinguished using this method.
A Prospective Comparison of EUS-Guided FNA Using 25-Gauge and 22-Gauge Needles
Authors: Imazu Hiroo , Uchiyama Yujiro , Kakutani Hiroshi , Ikeda kei-ichi , Sumiyama Kazuki , Kaise Mitsuru , Omar Salem , Ang Tiing Leong , Tajiri Hisao
Published: November 2009

Background and Aims. There are limited data on the differences in diagnostic yield between 25-gauge and 22-gauge EUS-FNA needles. This prospective study compared the difference in diagnostic yield between a 22-gauge and a 25-gauge needle when performing EUS-FNA.Methods. Forty-three patients with intraluminal or extraluminal mass lesions and/or lymphadenopathy were enrolled prospectively. EUS-FNA was performed for each mass lesion using both 25- and 22-gauge needles. The differences in accuracy rate, scoring of needle visibility, ease of puncture and quantity of obtained specimen were evaluated.Results. The overall accuracy of 22- and 25-gauge needle was similar at 81% and 76% respectively (N.S). Likewise the visibility scores of both needles were also similar. Overall the quantity of specimen obtained higher with the 22-gauge needle (score: 1.64 vs.P<.001). However the 25-gauge needle was significantly superior to the 22-gauge needle in terms of ease of puncture (score: 1.9 vs. 1.29,P<.001) and in the quantity of specimen in the context of pancreatic mass EUS-FNA (score: 1.8 vs. 1.58,P<.05).Conclusion. The 22-gauge and 25-gauge needles have similar overall diagnostic yield. The 25-gauge needle appeared superior in the subset of patients with hard lesions and pancreatic masses.
Postirradiation Sarcoma: Clinicopathologic Features and Role of Chemotherapy in the Treatment Strategy
Authors: des Guetz Gaetan , Chapelier Alain , Mosseri Véronique , Dorval Thierry , Asselain Bernard , Pouillart Pierre
Published: November 2009

Purpose. An analysis of the clinicopathologic features and treatment of patients was performed to guide evaluation and management of postirradiation sarcoma.Patients and Methods. Between 1994 and 2001, 25 patients with postirradiation sarcoma were treated in one center with different chemotherapy, mainly in neoadjuvant setting (19). Tumors for which these patients received radiotherapy initially were mainly breast carcinoma (for 15 patients). The postirradiation sarcomas were of different histopathologic forms, most frequently osteosarcoma, leiomyosarcoma, and angiosarcoma.Results. Of the 25 patients, 19 were initially treated with chemotherapy. Nine of 19 pretreated patients achieved clinical partial response (RP 47%). Leiomyosarcomas were good responders (3/4) and undifferentiated sarcoma (3/5). Responders were more often treated with MAID (6/8). Eight of the 9 responders underwent surgery. Two patients achieved complete histological response. Seven of the 9 good responders are alive with a median follow up of 24 months. For all treated patients, median follow up 24 months (6–84 months), overall survival and disease free survival were, respectively, 17/25 (68%), and 14/25 (56%).Conclusion. From our data, postirradiation sarcoma should not be managed differently from primary sarcoma. Chemotherapy has to be included in the treatment plan of postirradiation sarcoma, in future studies.
𝒩‐Fuzzy Ideals in Ordered Semigroups
Authors: Khan Asghar , Jun Young Bae , Shabir Muhammad
Published: November 2009

We introduce the concept of 𝒩‐fuzzy left (right) ideals in ordered semigroups and characterize ordered semigroups in terms of 𝒩‐fuzzy left (right) ideals. We characterize left regular (right regular) and left simple (right simple) ordered semigroups in terms of 𝒩‐fuzzy left (𝒩‐fuzzy right) ideals. The semilattice of left (right) simple semigroups in terms of 𝒩‐fuzzy left (right) ideals is discussed.
Spectral Theory for a Mathematical Model of the Weak Interaction—Part I: The Decay of the Intermediate Vector Bosons W±
Authors: Barbaroux J.-M. , Guillot J.-C.
Published: November 2009

We consider a Hamiltonian with cutoffs describing the weak decay
of spin 1 massive bosons into the full family of leptons. The Hamiltonian is
a self‐adjoint operator in an appropriate Fock space with a unique ground
state. We prove a Mourre estimate and a limiting absorption principle above
the ground state energy and below the first threshold for a sufficiently small
coupling constant. As a corollary, we prove the absence of eigenvalues and absolute
continuity of the energy spectrum in the same spectral interval.
Dwarf Galaxies, MOND, and Relativistic Gravitation
Authors: Kosowsky Arthur
Published: November 2009

MOND is a phenomenological modification of Newton′s law of gravitation which reproduces the
dynamics of galaxies, without the need for additional dark matter. This paper reviews the basics of
MOND and its application to dwarf galaxies. MOND is generally successful at reproducing stellar
velocity dispersions in the Milky Way′s classical dwarf ellipticals, for reasonable values of the stellar
mass‐to‐light ratio of the galaxies; two discrepantly high mass‐to‐light ratios may be explained by
tidal effects. Recent observations also show MOND describes tidal dwarf galaxies, which form in
complex dynamical environments. The application of MOND to galaxy clusters, where it fails to
reproduce observed gas temperatures, is also reviewed. Relativistic theories containing MOND in
the non‐relativistic limit have now been formulated; they all contain new dynamical fields, which
may serve as additional sources of gravitation that could reconcile cluster observations with MOND.
Certain limits of these theories can also give the accelerating expansion of the Universe. The standard
dark matter cosmology boasts numerous manifest triumphs; however, alternatives should also be
pursued as long as outstanding observational issues remain unresolved, including the empirical
successes of MOND on galaxy scales and the phenomenology of dark energy.
Siah Proteins: Novel Drug Targets in the Ras and Hypoxia Pathways
Authors: House Colin M. , Möller Andreas , Bowtell David D.L.
Published: November 2009

The Siah (seven in absentia homolog) family of RING-domain proteins are components of ubiquitin ligase complexes, targeting proteins for proteasomal degradation. Siah family members have been reported to function in Ras, estrogen, DNA-damage, and hypoxia response pathways. Although earlier reports implicated Siah proteins as tumor suppressors, recent studies in mouse models have shown that Siah inhibition impairs tumor growth and metastasis. Given their central role in oncogenic and angiogenic pathways, Siah proteins are attractive novel therapeutic targets in cancer. [Cancer Res 2009;69(23):8835–8]
Extracellular Signal–Regulated Kinase Signaling Pathway Regulates Breast Cancer Cell Migration by Maintaining slug Expression
Authors: Chen Haoming , Zhu Genfeng , Li Yong , Padia Ravi N. , Dong Zheng , Pan Zhixing K. , Liu Kebin , Huang Shuang
Published: November 2009

Cell migration is a critical step in cancer cell invasion. Recent studies have implicated the importance of the extracellular signal–regulated kinase (ERK) signaling pathway in cancer cell migration. However, the mechanism associated with ERK-regulated cell migration is poorly understood. Using a panel of breast cancer cell lines, we detected an excellent correlation between ERK activity and cell migration. Interestingly, we noticed that a 48-hour treatment with U0126 [specific mitogen-activated protein/ERK kinase (MEK)-1/2 inhibitor] was needed to significantly inhibit breast cancer cell migration, whereas this inhibitor blocked ERK activity within 1 hour. This observation suggests that ERK-dependent gene expression, rather than direct ERK signaling, is essential for cell migration. With further study, we found that ERK activity promoted the expression of the activator protein-1 (AP1) components Fra-1 and c-Jun, both of which were necessary for cell migration. Combination of U0126 treatment and Fra-1/c-Jun knockdown did not yield further reduction in cell migration than either alone, indicating that ERKs and Fra-1/c-Jun act by the same mechanism to facilitate cell migration. In an attempt to investigate the role of Fra-1/c-Jun in cell migration, we found that the ERK-Fra-1/c-Jun axis regulated slug expression in an AP1-dependent manner. Moreover, the occurrence of U0126-induced migratory inhibition coincided with slug reduction, and silencing slug expression abrogated breast cancer cell migration. These results suggest an association between ERK-regulated cell migration and slug expression. Indeed, cell migration was not significantly inhibited by U0126 treatment or Fra-1/c-Jun silencing in cells expressing slug transgene. Our study suggests that the ERK pathway regulates breast cancer cell migration by maintaining slug expression. [Cancer Res 2009;69(24):9228–35]
Intrinsic Gene Expression Profiles of Gliomas Are a Better Predictor of Survival than Histology
Authors: Gravendeel Lonneke A.M. , Kouwenhoven Mathilde C.M. , Gevaert Olivier , de Rooi Johan J. , Stubbs Andrew P. , Duijm J. Elza , Daemen Anneleen , Bleeker Fonnet E. , Bralten Linda B.C. , Kloosterhof Nanne K. , De Moor Bart , Eilers Paul H.C. , van der Spek Peter J. , Kros Johan M. , Sillevis Smitt Peter A.E. , van den Bent Martin J. , French Pim J.
Published: November 2009

Gliomas are the most common primary brain tumors with heterogeneous morphology and variable prognosis. Treatment decisions in patients rely mainly on histologic classification and clinical parameters. However, differences between histologic subclasses and grades are subtle, and classifying gliomas is subject to a large interobserver variability. To improve current classification standards, we have performed gene expression profiling on a large cohort of glioma samples of all histologic subtypes and grades. We identified seven distinct molecular subgroups that correlate with survival. These include two favorable prognostic subgroups (median survival, >4.7 years), two with intermediate prognosis (median survival, 1–4 years), two with poor prognosis (median survival, <1 year), and one control group. The intrinsic molecular subtypes of glioma are different from histologic subgroups and correlate better to patient survival. The prognostic value of molecular subgroups was validated on five independent sample cohorts (The Cancer Genome Atlas, Repository for Molecular Brain Neoplasia Data, GSE12907, GSE4271, and Li and colleagues). The power of intrinsic subtyping is shown by its ability to identify a subset of prognostically favorable tumors within an external data set that contains only histologically confirmed glioblastomas (GBM). Specific genetic changes (epidermal growth factor receptor amplification, IDH1 mutation, and 1p/19q loss of heterozygosity) segregate in distinct molecular subgroups. We identified a subgroup with molecular features associated with secondary GBM, suggesting that different genetic changes drive gene expression profiles. Finally, we assessed response to treatment in molecular subgroups. Our data provide compelling evidence that expression profiling is a more accurate and objective method to classify gliomas than histologic classification. Molecular classification therefore may aid diagnosis and can guide clinical decision making. [Cancer Res 2009;69(23):9065–72]
The Human Ortholog of Granulocyte Macrophage Colony-Stimulating Factor and Interleukin-2 Fusion Protein Induces Potent Ex vivo Natural Killer Cell Activation and Maturation
Authors: Penafuerte Claudia , Bautista-Lopez Norma , Mohamed-Rachid Boulassel , Routy Jean-Pierre , Galipeau Jacques
Published: November 2009

Natural killer (NK) cells are appealing cellular pharmaceuticals for cancer therapy because of their innate ability to recognize and kill tumor cells. Therefore, the development of methods that can enhance the potency in their anticancer effect would be desirable. We have previously shown that a murine granulocyte macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF)/interleukin 2 (IL-2) fusion protein displays novel antitumor properties in vivo compared with both cytokines in combination due to recruitment of NK cells. In the present work, we have found that human ortholog of the GM-CSF/IL-2 fusion protein (a.k.a. hGIFT2) induces robust NK cell activation ex vivo with significant secretion of RANTES and a 37-fold increase in IFNγ production when compared with either IL-2 or GM-CSF single cytokine treatment or their combination. Moreover, hGIFT2 upregulates the expression of NK cell activating receptors NKp44, NKp46, and DNAM-1 (CD226), as well as CD69, CD107a, and IL-2Rβ expression. In addition, hGIFT2 promotes NK cell maturation, based on the downregulation of CD117 expression and upregulation of CD11b. This phenotype correlates with significantly greater cytotoxicity against tumor cells. At the molecular level, hGIFT2 leads to a potent activation of Janus-activated kinases (JAK) downstream of both IL-2 and GM-CSF receptors (JAK1 and JAK2, respectively) and consequently leads to a hyperphosphorylation of signal transducers and activators of transcription (STAT)1, STAT3, and STAT5. In conclusion, hGIFT2 fusokine possesses unique biochemical properties distinct from IL-2 and GM-CSF, constitutes a novel and potent tool for ex vivo NK cell activation and maturation, and may be of use for cancer cell immunotherapy. [Cancer Res 2009;69(23):9020–8]
In Benign Barrett's Epithelial Cells, Acid Exposure Generates Reactive Oxygen Species That Cause DNA Double-Strand Breaks
Authors: Zhang Hui Ying , Hormi-Carver Kathy , Zhang Xi , Spechler Stuart J. , Souza Rhonda F.
Published: November 2009

Cells that sustain double-strand breaks (DSB) can develop genomic instability, which contributes to carcinogenesis, and agents that cause DSBs are considered potential carcinogens. We looked for evidence of acid-induced DNA damage, including DSBs, in benign Barrett's epithelial (BAR-T) cell lines in vitro and in patients with Barrett's esophagus in vivo. In BAR-T cells, we also explored the mechanisms underlying acid-induced DNA damage. We exposed BAR-T cells to acid in the presence of a fluorescent probe for reactive oxygen species (ROS) and in the presence or absence of disodium 4,4′-diisothiocyanatostilbene-2,2′-disulfonate (which prevents intracellular acidification) and N-acety-l-cysteine (a scavenger of ROS). DSBs were detected by Western blotting and immunofluorescence for histone H2AX phosphorylation and by CometAssay. During endoscopy in patients with Barrett's esophagus, we took biopsy specimens from the metaplastic mucosa before and after esophageal perfusion with 0.1 N HCl for 3 min and sought DSBs by Western blotting for histone H2AX phosphorylation. In BAR-T cells, acid exposure resulted in ROS production and caused a time-dependent increase in levels of phospho-H2AX that continued for at least 48 h. Pretreatment with disodium 4,4′-diisothiocyanatostilbene-2,2′-disulfonate or N-acety-l-cysteine prevented the acid-induced increase in phospho-H2AX levels. DSBs also were detected in biopsy specimens of Barrett's metaplasia following esophageal acid perfusion in all of 6 patients with Barrett's esophagus. Acid exposure causes DSBs in Barrett's epithelial cells through ROS produced as a consequence of intracellular acidification. These findings suggest that acid can be considered a carcinogen in Barrett's esophagus. [Cancer Res 2009;69(23):9083–9]
Phase II Study of Dasatinib in Patients with Metastatic Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer
Authors: Yu Evan Y. , Wilding George , Posadas Edwin , Gross Mitchell , Culine Stephane , Massard Christophe , Morris Michael J. , Hudes Gary , Calabrò Fabio , Cheng Shinta , Trudel Géralyn C. , Paliwal Prashni , Sternberg Cora N.
Published: November 2009

Purpose: Antiproliferative and antiosteoclastic activity from preclinical models show potential for dasatinib, an oral SRC and SRC family kinase inhibitor, as a targeted therapy for patients with prostate cancer. This phase II study investigated the activity of dasatinib in patients with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC).

Experimental Design: Chemotherapy-naive men with CRPC and increasing prostate-specific antigen were treated with dasatinib 100 or 70 mg twice daily. Endpoints included changes in prostate-specific antigen, bone scans, measurable disease (Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumor), and markers of bone metabolism. Following Prostate Cancer Working Group 2 guidelines, lack of progression according to Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumor and bone scan was determined and reported at 12 and 24 weeks.

Results: Forty-seven patients were enrolled and received dasatinib (initial dose 100 mg twice daily, n = 25; 70 mg twice daily, n = 22), of whom 41 (87%) had bone disease. Lack of progression was achieved in 20 (43%) patients at week 12 and in 9 (19%) patients at week 24. Of 41 evaluable patients, 21 (51%) patients achieved ≥40% reduction in urinary N-telopeptide by week 12, with 33 (80%) achieving some level of reduction anytime on study. Of 15 patients with elevated urinary N-telopeptide at baseline, 8 (53%) normalized on study. Of 40 evaluable patients, 24 (60%) had reduction in bone alkaline phosphatase at week 12 and 25 (63%) achieved some reduction on study. Dasatinib was generally well tolerated and treatment-related adverse events were moderate.

Conclusions: This study provides encouraging evidence of dasatinib activity in bone and reasonable tolerability in chemotherapy-naive patients with metastatic CRPC. (Clin Cancer Res 2009;15(23):7421–8)
High-Throughput Screening Identifies Two Classes of Antibiotics as Radioprotectors: Tetracyclines and Fluoroquinolones
Authors: Kim Kwanghee , Pollard Julianne M. , Norris Andrew J. , McDonald J. Tyson , Sun Yingli , Micewicz Ewa , Pettijohn Kelly , Damoiseaux Robert , Iwamoto Keisuke S. , Sayre James W. , Price Brendan D. , Gatti Richard A. , McBride William H.
Published: November 2009

Purpose: Discovery of agents that protect or mitigate normal tissue from radiation injury during radiotherapy, accidents, or terrorist attacks is of importance. Specifically, bone marrow insufficiency, with possible infection due to immunosuppression, can occur after total body irradiation (TBI) or regional irradiation and is a major component of the acute radiation syndrome. The purpose of this study was to identify novel radioprotectors and mitigators of the hematopoietic system.

Experimental Design: High-throughput screening of small-molecule libraries was done using viability of a murine lymphocyte line as a readout with further validation in human lymphoblastoid cells. The selected compounds were then tested for their ability to counter TBI lethality in mice.

Results: All of two major classes of antibiotics, tetracyclines and fluoroquinolones, which share a common planar ring moiety, were radioprotective. Furthermore, tetracycline protected murine hematopoietic stem/progenitor cell populations from radiation damage and allowed 87.5% of mice to survive when given before and 35% when given 24 h after lethal TBI. Interestingly, tetracycline did not alter the radiosensitivity of Lewis lung cancer cells. Tetracycline and ciprofloxacine also protected human lymphoblastoid cells, reducing radiation-induced DNA double-strand breaks by 33% and 21%, respectively. The effects of these agents on radiation lethality are not due to the classic mechanism of free radical scavenging but potentially through activation of the Tip60 histone acetyltransferase and altered chromatin structure.

Conclusions: Tetracyclines and fluoroquinolones can be robust radioprotectors and mitigators of the hematopoietic system with potential utility in anticancer radiotherapy and radiation emergencies. (Clin Cancer Res 2009;15(23):7238–45)
Troponin Levels Help Predict New-Onset Atrial Fibrillation in Ischaemic Stroke Patients: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Bugnicourt Jean-Marc , Rogez Vincent , Guillaumont Marie-Pierre , Rogez Jean-Claude , Canaple Sandrine , Godefroy Olivier
Published: November 2009

Background: Elevated levels of cardiac troponin I (cTnI) have been reported in acute stroke and atrial fibrillation (AF). We tested a hypothesis in which the result of an initial cTnI assay helps predict new-onset AF (NAF) early in the course of ischaemic stroke in patients with sinus rhythm on admission. Methods: This retrospective study included all patients admitted to our unit for acute ischaemic stroke between January 2006 and December 2007 (n = 402). NAF was defined as AF discovered during cardiac monitoring in patients with sinus rhythm on admission. Elevated cTnI was defined as a value ≧0.03 µg/l. Results: 27 (6.7%) patients had NAF. In a univariate analysis, age (70.8 in patients with NAF vs. 64.6 years in patients without NAF, respectively; p = 0.024), smoking status (3.5 vs. 25.3%; p = 0.009), total anterior circulation infarcts (18.5 vs. 5.9%; p = 0.03) and elevated cTnI levels (63.0 vs. 29.9%; p = 0.001) were associated with NAF. Stepwise logistic regression identified elevated cTnI levels (OR 4.1; 95% CI 1.81–9.33; p = 0.001)and active smoking (OR 0.11; 95% CI 0.01–0.82; p = 0.03) as independent factors for NAF. Conclusion: Moderately elevated troponin levels in acute ischaemic stroke are independently associated with NAF.
Efficacy of Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone Agonist and an Extended-Interval Dosing Regimen in the Treatment of Patients with Adenomyosis and Endometriosis
Authors: Kang Jia-li , Wang Xiao-xia , Nie Miao-ling , Huang Xiao-hui
Published: November 2009

Aims: To determine the effects of gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist (GnRH-a) and an extended-interval dosing regimen in the treatment of patients with adenomyosis and endometriosis. Methods: This was a prospective observational study in the setting of a hospital outpatient clinic. Seventy women suffering from adenomyosis and endometriosis were randomly divided into 2 groups: extended-interval dosing (experimental group) and conventional dosing (control group). Methods: Patients in the experimental group received a 4-dose regimen (triptorelin 3.75 mg by intramuscular injection every 6 weeks for a total of 4 doses). The patients in the control group received a conventional regimen (1 injection every 4 weeks for a total of 6 doses). The main outcome measures were relief and recurrence of dysmenorrhea and related climacteric symptoms, reduction of uterine volume, and serum levels of 17-β-oestradiol (E2), luteinizing hormone (LH), and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). Results: The reliving rate of dysmenorrhea was 100% in patients treated with both the new regimen and the convention regimen after 6 months. The uterine volume was reduced 37.6% and 39.2%, respectively. And the levels of LH, FSH and E2 were decreased significantly (p < 0.001). The E2 levels were reduced to the postmenopausal level. The hormone profile of the experimental group was similar to that of the control group (p > 0.05). Conclusion: The use of the extended-interval dosing regimen of triptorelin depot in patients with adenomyosis or endometriosis results in a consistent hypo-oestrogenised state, which is similar to that achieved by the conventional regimen. The new regimen reduces the cost of treatment.
Involvement of Nuclear Factor-ĸB and Nurr-1 in Cytokine-Induced Transcription of Proopiomelanocortin Gene in AtT20 Corticotroph Cells
Authors: Takayasu Shinobu , Iwasaki Yasumasa , Nigawara Takeshi , Asai Masato , Yoshida Masanori , Kageyama Kazunori , Suda Toshihiro
Published: November 2009

Objective: The precise mechanism whereby proinflammatory cytokines activate the hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal axis is still unclear. We examined whether transcription factors nuclear factor (NF)-ĸB and Nurr-1 are involved in the cytokine-induced proopiomelanocortin (POMC) gene expression. Methods: The mouse corticotropinoma cell line AtT20 was treated with tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) or interleukin-1β (IL-1β). Real-time PCR, luciferase assay and Western blotting were conducted to assess the gene expression, promoter activity and protein expression in various conditions. Results: Intrinsic expression of NF-ĸB was confirmed by RT-PCR. An active component of NF-ĸB (p65) was upregulated in the nuclear fraction by both TNF-α and IL-1β treatment in a dose- and time-related manner. These cytokines potently stimulated the promoter activity of NF-ĸB and Nurr-1. We also found rapid upregulation of the Nurr-1 gene and protein after treatment with these cytokines. Cotreatment of the cells with either of the cytokines and corticotropin-releasing hormone resulted in additive effects. Cytokine-induced Nurr-1 transcription and Nurr-1 transcription induced by overexpression of NF-ĸB were both blunted by mutagenesis within the NF-ĸB responsive element, which implies that Nurr-1 upregulation specifically requires NF-ĸB binding to its own DNA-binding site. Proinflammatory cytokines exert positive effects on POMC gene expression, which were inhibited by pretreatment with a specific NF-ĸB inhibitor. Conclusion: These results together imply that Nurr-1 expression is a connecting point between neuroendocrine and immune systems in mediating cytokine-induced POMC gene expression.
Restraint Stress Fails to Render C57BL/6 Mice Susceptible to Theiler’s Virus-Induced Demyelination
Authors: Steelman Andrew J. , Alford Eric , Young Colin R. , Welsh Thomas H. , Meagher Mary W. , Welsh C. Jane R.
Published: November 2009

Objectives: Multiple sclerosis is a degenerative disease of the CNS with a pathology consistent with immunological mediation. Although its cause is unknown, multiple factors are thought to influence both the onset and exacerbation of the disease, including both genetic background as well as environmental factors. Methods: We are interested in the effect of psychological stress on the onset and exacerbation of Theiler’s virus-induced demyelinating disease (TVID), a murine model of MS in which viral persistence facilitates demyelination. In the current study, we determined whether chronic restraint stress (RS)-induced immunosuppression could result in the establishment of a persistent CNS infection in the normally TVID-resistant C57BL/6 mouse strain, resulting in demyelination. Results: Our data indicated that RS repeated over the course of 7 days was not sufficient to cause decreases in virus-specific adaptive immunity, and did not significantly alter CNS viral levels. Furthermore, chronic repeated RS lasting until 4 weeks after infection altered neither the development of virus-specific IgG nor motor function determined by Rotarod analysis. In addition, histological analysis of the CNS of stressed mice indicated no inflammation or demyelination on day 193 after infection. Conclusion: These results suggest that stress alone is not sufficient to overcome genetic resistance to TVID in the C57BL/6 mouse strain.
Inhaled Ammonium Persulphate Inhibits Non-Adrenergic, Non-Cholinergic Relaxations in the Guinea Pig Isolated Trachea
Authors: Dellabianca A. , Faniglione M. , De Angelis S. , Colucci M. , Cervio M. , Balestra B. , Tonini S. , Candura S.M.
Published: November 2009

Background: Persulphates can act both as irritants and sensitizers in inducing occupational asthma. A dysfunction of nervous control regulating the airway tone has been hypothesized as a mechanism underlying bronchoconstriction in asthma. Objectives: It was the aim of this study to investigate whether inhaled ammonium persulphate affects the non-adrenergic, non-cholinergic (NANC) inhibitory innervation, the cholinergic nerve-mediated contraction or the muscular response to the spasmogens, carbachol or histamine, in the guinea pig epithelium-free, isolated trachea. Methods: Male guinea pigs inhaled aerosols containing ammonium persulphate (10 mg/m3 for 30 min for 5 days during 3 weeks). Control animals inhaled saline aerosol. NANC relaxations to electrical field stimulation at 3 Hz were evaluated in whole tracheal segments as intraluminal pressure changes. Drugs inactivating peptide transmission, nitric oxide synthase, carbon monoxide production by haem oxygenase-2 and soluble guanylyl cyclase were used to assess the involvement of various inhibitory neurotransmitters. Carbachol and histamine cumulative concentration-response curves were obtained. Results: In both groups, nitric oxide and carbon monoxide participated to the same extent as inhibitory neurotransmitters. In exposed animals, the tracheal NANC relaxations were reduced to 45.9 ± 12.1% (p < 0.01). The cholinergic nerve-mediated contractions to electrical field stimulation and the muscular response to histamine were not modified by ammonium persulphate exposure. The muscular response to carbachol was unaffected up to 1 µM. Conversely, the response to the maximal concentration of carbachol (3 µM) was increased (p < 0.01). Conclusion: Ammonium persulphate inhalation at high concentrations impairs the nervous NANC inhibitory control in the guinea pig airways. This may represent a novel mechanism contributing to persulphate-induced asthma.
Role of Cellular Cholesterol in Pharmacologic Preconditioning with Cyclosporine in Experimental Kidney Transplantation
Authors: Shihab Fuad S. , Bennett William M. , Andoh Takeshi F.
Published: November 2009

Background/Aims: Ischemia reperfusion injury in the early posttransplant period affects immediate graft function and late allograft dysfunction. Recently, we showed that pharmacologic preconditioning with a calcineurin inhibitor improved transplant outcomes in rat syngeneic kidney transplantation. There is also evidence that cellular cholesterol content increases after many types of renal injury. Methods: In this study, we looked at the effect of cyclosporine (CsA) on the donor kidney free cholesterol (FC) content in this model. Donor rats were pretreated with one dose of CsA 10 mg/kg administered 24 h or 7 days before being subjected to 2 h cold ischemia and then transplanted. Results: Pharmacologic preconditioning with CsA significantly improved renal function and histology and increased donor kidney FC content. On the other hand, fluvastatin co-administration with CsA abrogated that beneficial effect in association with a decrease in donor kidney FC content. Conclusion: CsA preconditioning leads to better outcomes in kidney transplantation and is associated with up-regulation of renal FC content. The latter may then contribute to acquired cytoresistance, possibly by stabilizing the plasma membrane. Thus, use of statins around the time of transplantation may need to be evaluated until further studies are conducted to determine the clinical relevance of this observation.
Hindi Stop Consonants: an Acoustic and Fiberscopic Study
Authors: Benguerel André-Pierre , Bhatia Tej K.
Published: November 2009

Fiberscopic films and audio recordings were made of two native speakers of Hindi, producing # Ci, iCi, iC# utterances where C was one of the four types of stops and affricates. The voiced unaspirated type showed voicing through the whole consonant and no ab-/adduction gesture. The other three types, in the intervocalic case, all showed an ab-/adduction gesture, but the timing and the amplitude of this gesture differed for the three types. For the voiceless unaspirated type, the gesture started at the beginning of the consonant and ended at the release, whereas for the voiced aspirated type, it started at the release and ended at the end of the consonant. For the voiceless aspirated type, it started and ended with the consonant, reaching a glottal width approximately double of the latter two types. Similar results were obtained in initial and final position. Voice onset time values and durations of oral closure are examined. Pros and cons of the terms ‘voiced aspirated’, ‘murmured aspirated’, and ‘voiced phonoaspirated’ are discussed. Finally a mechanism underlying stop production is suggested.
Variability of Vowel Formant Frequencies and the Quantal Theory of Speech: A First Report
Authors: Pisoni David B.
Published: November 2009

This paper reports the results of a study in which variability of formant frequencies for different vowels was examined with regard to several predictions derived from the quantal theory of speech. Two subjects were required to reproduce eight different steady-state synthetic vowels which were presented repeatedly in a randomized order. Spectral analysis was carried out on the vocal responses in order to obtain means and standard deviations of the vowel formant frequencies. In the spirit of the quantal theory, it was predicted that the points vowel. /i/, /a/ and /u/ would show lower standard deviations than the nonpoint vowels because these vowels are assumed to be produced at places in the vocal tract where small perturbations in articulation produce only minimal changes in the resulting formant frequencies. That is, these vowels are assumed to be quantal vowels. The results of this study provided little support for the hypothesis under consideration. A discussion of the outcome of the results as well as some speculation as to its failure to find support for the quantal theory is provided in the report. Several final comments are also offered about computer simulation studies of speech production and the need for additional empirical studies on vowel production with real talkers.
Dichotic and Monotic Masking of CV Syllables by CV Second Formants with Different Steady-State Durations
Authors: Porter Robert J. , Cullen John K. , Whittaker Ronald G. , Castellanos Xavier
Published: November 2009

Listeners were asked to identify 295-ms synthetic CVs (45-ms transitions + 250-ms steady states) in the presence of monotically or dichotically competing isolated second-formant ‘bleats’ from CVs. Bleat duration was varied, by cutting back the steady-state portions, from 295-ms total to a transition alone (45 ms). This temporal variation in the bleats was chosen to focus on the extent to which ‘nonphonetic’ structural characteristics of signals determine the presence and amount of interference. Dichotic identification varied as a continuous, monotonic function of bleat duration, with greatest interference observed with the largest steady-state value and least interference for no steady state (i.e., transition alone). In contrast, monotic identification was relatively poor and constant across duration values. These results, together with an analysis of errors, lead to the conclusion that monotic interference does not depend on signals’ steady-state durations; consistent with other peripheral masking studies, monotic results seem, instead, dependent upon which segments of two signals are simultaneous and whether these temporally overlapping parts have energy in similar frequency ranges. In contrast, dichotic interference does depend on steady-state duration. This suggests dichotic interference is a form of ‘central masking’ which occurs because of the disruption of processes concerned with specifying the overall time-by-frequency characteristics of signals, independent of their interpretation as phonetic events.
Prosodic Functions Revisited Again!
Authors: Barry William J.
Published: November 2009

The problems of prosodic analysis are discussed within a three-tier framework of phonetic substance, descriptive categories and communicative function. The relationship between the levels is seen as essentially unidirectional, the informational structuring of speech communication being the ultimate determinant. Five communicative functions are specified.
Timing of Bone Marrow Cell Delivery Has Minimal Effects on Cell Viability and Cardiac Recovery After Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Swijnenburg Rutger-Jan , Govaert Johannes A. , van der Bogt Koen E.A. , Pearl Jeremy I. , Huang Mei , Stein William , Hoyt Grant , Vogel Hannes , Contag Christopher H. , Robbins Robert C. , Wu Joseph C.
Published: November 2009

Background—

Despite ongoing clinical trials, the optimal time for delivery of bone marrow mononuclear cells (BMCs) after myocardial infarction is unclear. We compared the viability and effects of transplanted BMCs on cardiac function in the acute and subacute inflammatory phases of myocardial infarction.

Methods and Results—

The time course of acute inflammatory cell infiltration was quantified by FACS analysis of enzymatically digested hearts of FVB mice (n=12) after left anterior descending artery ligation. Mac-1
+
Gr-1
high
neutrophil infiltration peaked at day 4. BMCs were harvested from transgenic FVB mice expressing firefly luciferase (Fluc) and green fluorescent protein (GFP). Afterward, 2.5�10
6
BMCs were injected into the left ventricle of wild-type FVB mice either immediately (acute BMC) or 7 days (subacute BMC) after myocardial infarction, or after a sham procedure (n=8 per group). In vivo bioluminescence imaging showed an early signal increase in both BMC groups at day 7, followed by a nonsignificant trend (
P
=0.203) toward improved BMC survival in the subacute BMC group that persisted until the bioluminescence imaging signal reached background levels after 42 days. Compared with controls (myocardial infarction+saline injection), echocardiography showed a significant preservation of fractional shortening at 4 weeks (acute BMC versus saline;
P
<0.01) and 6 weeks (both BMC groups versus saline;
P
<0.05) but no significant differences between the 2 BMC groups. FACS analysis of BMC-injected hearts at day 7 revealed that GFP
+
BMCs expressed hematopoietic (CD45, Mac-1, Gr-1), minimal progenitor (Sca-1, c-kit), and no endothelial (CD133, Flk-1) or cardiac (Trop-T) cell markers.

Conclusion—

Timing of BMC delivery has minimal effects on intramyocardial retention and preservation of cardiac function. In general, there is poor long-term engraftment and BMCs tend to adopt inflammatory cell phenotypes.
Effect of Increased Exercise in School Children on Physical Fitness and Endothelial Progenitor Cells
Authors: Walther Claudia , Gaede Luise , Adams Volker , Gelbrich Götz , Leichtle Alexander , Erbs Sandra , Sonnabend Melanie , Fikenzer Kati , Körner Antje , Kiess Wieland , Bruegel Mathias , Thiery Joachim , Schuler Gerhard
Published: November 2009

Background—

The aim of this prospective, randomized study was to examine whether additional school exercise lessons would result in improved peak oxygen uptake (primary end point) and body mass index–standard deviation score, motor and coordinative abilities, circulating progenitor cells, and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (major secondary end points).

Methods and Results—

Seven sixth-grade classes (182 children, aged 11.1±0.7 years) were randomized to an intervention group (4 classes with 109 students) with daily school exercise lessons for 1 year and a control group (3 classes with 73 students) with regular school sports twice weekly. The significant effects of intervention estimated from ANCOVA adjusted for intraclass correlation were the following: increase of peak V̇
o
2
(3.7 mL/kg per minute; 95% confidence interval, 0.3 to 7.2) and increase of circulating progenitor cells evaluated by flow cytometry (97 cells per 1×10
6
leukocytes; 95% confidence interval, 13 to 181). No significant difference was seen for body mass index–standard deviation score (−0.08; 95% confidence interval, −0.28 to 0.13); however, there was a trend to reduction of the prevalence of overweight and obese children in the intervention group (from 12.8% to 7.3%). No treatment effect was seen for motor and coordinative abilities (4; 95% confidence interval, −1 to 8) and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (0.03 mmol/L; 95% confidence interval, −0.08 to 0.14).

Conclusions—

Regular physical activity by means of daily school exercise lessons has a significant positive effect on physical fitness (V̇
o
2
max). Furthermore, the number of circulating progenitor cells can be increased, and there is a positive trend in body mass index–standard deviation score reduction and motor ability improvement. Therefore, we conclude that primary prevention by means of increasing physical activity should start in childhood.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL: http://www.clinicaltrials.gov. Identifier: NCT00176371.
The Attempt to Reform Family Law in Mali
Authors: Soares Benjamin F.
Published: November 2009

In this paper, I am concerned with understanding the recent efforts to reform the laws governing marriage and inheritance, the code de la famille or the Family Code in Mali. Since the advent of multiparty elections in the 1990s, prominent members of the Malian government and civil servants, Malian women's rights activists, secular NGOs, and international and bilateral donors have made efforts to promote various social reforms, including the advancement of women's rights and the promotion of gender equality, particularly through changes in the Family Code. While some observers have attributed the lack of reform to the increased influence of “Islamists” and/or to religiously conservative Muslims, I draw on historical research and ethnography to propose an alternative reading of the lack of institutional law reform. As I argue, the gap between Malian civil law relating to the family and the lived experiences and social practices of many Malians, who are overwhelmingly Muslim, has become even more apparent in this era of political liberalization and promotion of global human rights discourses. This has helped to make such proposed social reforms as the promotion of women's rights and family law reform more contentious and the ultimate outcome even more uncertain.
Sacred Embodiment: Fertility Ritual, Mother Goddess, and Cultures of Belly Dance
Authors: Karayanni Stavros Stavrou
Published: November 2009

This essay examines belly dance movement as a mimetic ritual of universal significance in its representations of the birthing of the human race and the worship of the Mother Goddess. In this examination, the contested politics of female fertility and birthing rituals will be discussed. The essay's scope expands to include discussions of the popular tropes of “body memory” and “in the blood,” fascinating instances of identity definition and ideological location before originary questions of human embodiment, descent, and gender tensions. Movement is directly connected to identity. Movement and choreography may function as story telling—a narrative of the body's history, a fluid and kinaesthetic record of the individual body, and, by extension, the community and in some ways humanity itself.
Assidui or proletarii? Property in Roman Citizen Colonies and the vacatio militiae
Authors: Roselaar Saskia
Published: November 2009

This article argues that colonists in fourth- and third-century BC colonies with Roman citizen status remained proletarii, because allotments of two iugera of land were not sufficient to raise them to the fifth census class. The vacatio militiae recorded by Livy as a privilege enjoyed by these colonies does not mean that the colonists had become assidui. The article argues that instead the vacatio served to ensure that all colonists in such colonies remained exempt from military service, even if their possessions would rise sufficiently to allow them to become assidui. This ensured that such colonies maintained an adequate manpower supply and thus continued to fulfil their role in the defensive strategy of the Roman Republic.
The ECJ and the ECtHR: The Future Relationship between the Two European Courts
Authors: Lock Tobias
Published: November 2009

The current relationship between the two European courts has been discussed in some great detail while the future of that relationship has been widely neglected. This is somewhat surprising as the entry into force of the Lisbon Treaty and with it of the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights as well as the EU's succession to the ECHR are probably going to take place before too long. The article first examines Article 52(3) of the Charter, which prescribes that the ECHR be the minimum standard of human rights in the EU. It is argued that Article 52 (3) does not entail a reference to the ECtHR's case law so that the ECJ will not be bound by that case law. After an accession of the EU to the ECHR, it is likely that both courts will assert that they have exclusive jurisdiction over the ECHR in inter-state cases, which creates a jurisdictional conflict for which a solution must be found. In addition, the article explores whether after an accession, the Bosphorus case law will have a future and whether the dictum found in Opinion 1/91 will be applicable, according to which the ECJ is bound by the decisions of courts created by an international agreement to which the EC is a party.
Coping With Racism: What Works and Doesn’t Work for Black Women?
Authors: West Lindsey M. , Donovan Roxanne A. , Roemer Lizabeth
Published: November 2009

Perceived racial discrimination (PRD) has deleterious effects on Black Americans. However, there is minimal empirical research on the influence of gender and coping on the relationship between PRD and mental health. This study posited that coping style (i.e., problem-focused coping and avoidant coping) would moderate the relationship between PRD and depressive symptoms in Black women. The sample included 91 Black women (mean age of 23.32 years) from an urban New England university. The Schedule of Racist Events, the Coping Orientations to Problems Experienced scale, and the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale were used to measure PRD, coping style, and depressive symptoms, respectively. Multiple regressions showed that problem-focused and avoidant coping significantly moderated the relationship between lifetime PRD and depressive symptoms. In addition, avoidant coping significantly moderated the relationship between recent PRD and depressive symptoms. The directions of these findings indicate that higher levels of problem-focused coping may buffer the effects of PRD on depressive symptoms, and higher levels of avoidant coping may exacerbate the effects. Implications for Black women’s resiliency and susceptibility to mental health distress are discussed.