bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
LazyBase
Authors: Keeton Kimberly , Morrey Charles B. , Soules Craig A.N. , Veitch Alistair
Published: March 2010

Information management applications exhibit a wide range of query performance and result freshness goals. Some applications, such as web search, require interactive performance, but may safely operate on stale data. Others, such as policy violation detection, require up-to-date results, but can tolerate relaxed performance goals. Furthermore, information processing applications must be able to ingest updates at the scale of an entire organization. In this paper, we present LazyBase, a system that allows users to trade off query performance and result freshness in order to satisfy the full range of users' goals. LazyBase breaks up data ingestion into a pipeline of operations to minimize ingest time and uses models of processing and query performance to execute user queries. Initial results with LazyBase illustrate the feasibility of the pipelined model, highlight a rich space of trade-offs between result freshness and query performance, and often outperform existing solutions in the space.
Empirical evaluation of NAND flash memory performance
Authors: Desnoyers Peter
Published: March 2010

Reports of NAND ash device testing in the literature have for the most part been limited to examination of circuit-level parameters on raw ash chips or prototypes, and system-level parameters on entire storage subsystems. However, there has been little examination of system-level parameters of raw devices, such as mean latency and endurance values. We report the results of such tests on a variety of devices. Read, program, and erase latency were found to align closely with manufacturer's specified \typical" values in almost all cases. Program/erase endurance, however, was found to exceed specified minimum values, often by as much as a factor of 100. In addition significant performance changes were found with wear. These changes may be used to track wear, and in addition have significant implications for system performance over the lifespan of a device. Finally, random write patterns which incur performance penalties on current ash-based memory systems were found to incur no overhead on the devices themselves.
Optimization of procedures for discovery and information of idle resources in distributed systems
Authors: de Gois Lourival A. , da Borelli Walter C.
Published: March 2010

This paper proposes strategies for identification and information of idle resources in a distributed environment with centralized management. The presented approaches make it possible to obtain load indexes free from transient variations on the allocation of resources. This is possible through the use of exponential moving averages to process temporal series of data. The knowledge of trends of resource utilization was fundamental for the elaboration of an information algorithm, used by the owners of the resources to inform about their availability to the environment manager. Experimental results confirm the efficiency of the proposed model to reduce the number of load indexes transmitted and consequently, to obtain a significant decrease of network traffic and of the amount of transactions processed by the manager.
Information-sharing protocol architectures for sensor networks
Authors: Merlin Christophe J. , Feng Chen-Hsiang , Heinzelman Wendi B.
Published: March 2010

Protocols for wireless sensor networks (WSNs) are very diverse. Reflecting this diversity, no single protocol architecture for WSNs dominates: programmers often modify the legacy-architecture to fit their set of protocols in the stack. However, there exists desirable goals for a sensor network architecture: modularity, flexibility and universality. At the same time, a WSN architecture should enable the protocols to achieve long network lifetimes for various applications. These are, in general, conflicting goals, with the former achieved using layered architectures and the latter obtained through cross-layer interactions. A good balance can be provided by architectures that enable layers to share common information, as these architectures allow for cross-layer protocol improvements, while preventing some of the short-comings of cross-layer designs. Confirming this observation, some architectures that enable information-sharing have been proposed in recent years. We survey these state-of-the-art information-sharing architectures for WSNs, and we introduce X-Lisa, a novel Cross-Layer Information-Sharing Architecture that provides many desirable properties such as flexibility and simplicity, and offers programmers a modular framework, simplifying cross-layer interactions.
A proxy based authentication localisation scheme for handover between non trust-associated domains
Authors: Li Mo , Sandrasegaran Kumbesan
Published: March 2010

In heterogeneous wireless networks, a mobile user may have to perform handover across different network domains to maintain its data connection and quality of service. During a handover, an authentication to the mobile's home network is normally required. This may incur significant handover delay. Several fast authentication solutions based on pre-distributing security contexts between access domains have been proposed to improve handover performance. However, none of them work for a handover between two access domains without a trust relation, which can be common in a multi-operator environment. This paper presents a Proxy-Based Authentication Localisation (PBAL) scheme for handover between non trust-associated domains. The proposed PBAL scheme provides a secure and flexible means of localising authentication at a third-party entity close to visited network. This effectively avoids resorting to a mobile's home network for identity verification in a handover. Consequently, it fundamentally reduces authentication latency incurred in a inter-domain handover. The PBAL scheme does not need any changes to be made to access routers, and can be easily deployed and implemented in a cost-effective manner.
Extracellular signal-regulated kinase and GEF-H1 mediate depolarization-induced Rho activation and paracellular permeability increase
Authors: Waheed Faiza , Speight Pam , Kawai Glenn , Dan Qinghong , Kapus András , Szászi Katalin
Published: March 2010

Plasma membrane depolarization activates the Rho/Rho kinase (ROK) pathway and thereby enhances myosin light chain (MLC) phosphorylation, which in turn is thought to be a key regulator of paracellular permeability. However, the upstream mechanisms that couple depolarization to Rho activation and permeability changes are unknown. Here we show that three different depolarizing stimuli (high extracellular K+ concentration, the lipophilic cation tetraphenylphosphonium, or l-alanine, which is taken up by electrogenic Na+ cotransport) all provoke robust phosphorylation of ERK in LLC-PK1 and Madin-Darby canine kidney (MDCK) cells. Importantly, inhibition of ERK prevented the depolarization-induced activation of Rho. Searching for the underlying mechanism, we have identified the GTP/GDP exchange factor GEF-H1 as the ERK-regulated critical exchange factor responsible for the depolarization-induced Rho activation. This conclusion is based on our findings that 1) depolarization activated GEF-H1 but not p115RhoGEF, 2) short interfering RNA-mediated GEF-H1 silencing eliminated the activation of the Rho pathway, and 3) ERK inhibition prevented the activation of GEF-H1. Moreover, we found that the Na+-K+ pump inhibitor ouabain also caused ERK, GEF-H1, and Rho activation, partially due to its depolarizing effect. Regarding the functional consequences of this newly identified pathway, we found that depolarization increased paracellular permeability in LLC-PK1 and MDCK cells and that this effect was mitigated by inhibiting myosin using blebbistatin or a dominant negative (phosphorylation incompetent) MLC. Taken together, we propose that the ERK/GEF-H1/Rho/ROK/pMLC pathway could be a central mechanism whereby electrogenic transmembrane transport processes control myosin phosphorylation and regulate paracellular transport in the tubular epithelium.
Novel anti-inflammatory functions for endothelial and myeloid cyclooxygenase-2 in a new mouse model of Crohn's disease
Authors: Watanabe Junji , Lin James A. , Narasimha Ajay J. , Shahbazian Ani , Ishikawa Tomo-o , Martin Martin G. , Herschman Harvey R. , Reddy Srinivasa T.
Published: March 2010

Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) is an important regulator of inflammation implicated in the development of a variety of diseases, including inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). However, the regulation of intestinal inflammation by COX-2 is poorly understood. We previously reported that COX-2−/−mice fed a cholate-containing high-fat (CCHF) diet had high mortality of unknown mechanisms attributable to severe intestinal inflammation in the ileo-ceco-colic junction that presented characteristics similar to Crohn's disease (CD). To further characterize the role of COX-2 in intestinal inflammation, we established cell-specific conditional COX-2−/−mice. Endothelial cell-specific (COX-2−E/−E) and myeloid cell-specific (COX-2−M/−M) COX-2−/−mice, but not wild-type mice, on the CCHF diet developed localized CD-like pathology at the ileo-ceco-colic junction that was associated with cellular infiltration, increased expression of myeloperoxidase and IL-5, and decreased IL-10 expression. The CD-like pathology in COX-2−E/−Emice was also accompanied by increased expression of cytokines (IL-6, TNF-α, and INF-γ), compared with wild-type mice and COX-2−M/−Mmice. In contrast, the ileo-ceco-colic inflammation in COX-2−M/−Mmice was associated with more pronounced infiltration of granulocytes and macrophages than COX-2−E/−Emice. COX-2−ME/−ME(COX-2−M/−M× COX-2−E/−E) mice on the CCHF diet developed CD-like pathology in the ileo-ceco-colic junction reminiscent of total COX-2−/−mice on CCHF diet and wild-type mice on CCHF diet treated with COX-2 inhibitor, celecoxib. The pathology of diet-mediated ileo-ceco-colic inflammation in COX-2−/−mice offers an excellent model system to elucidate the protective roles of endothelial and myeloid COX-2 and the molecular pathogenesis of CD.
Carnitine palmitoyltransferase I control of acetogenesis, the major pathway of fatty acid β-oxidation in liver of neonatal swine
Authors: Lin Xi , Shim Kwanseob , Odle Jack
Published: March 2010

To examine the regulation of hepatic acetogenesis in neonatal swine, carnitine palmitoyltransferase I (CPT I) activity was measured in the presence of varying palmitoyl-CoA (substrate) and malonyl-CoA (inhibitor) concentrations, and [1-14C]-palmitate oxidation was simultaneously measured. Accumulation rates of14C-labeled acetate, ketone bodies, and citric acid cycle intermediates within the acid-soluble products were determined using radio-HPLC. Measurements were conducted in mitochondria isolated from newborn, 24-h (fed or fasted), and 5-mo-old pigs. Acetate rather than ketone bodies was the predominant radiolabeled product, and its production increased twofold with increasing fatty acid oxidation during the first 24-h suckling period. The rate of acetogenesis was directly proportional to CPT I activity. The high activity of CPT I in 24-h-suckling piglets was not attributable to an increase in CPT I gene expression, but rather to a large decrease in the sensitivity of CPT I to malonyl-CoA inhibition, which offset a developmental decrease in affinity of CPT I for palmitoyl-CoA. Specifically, the IC50for malonyl-CoA inhibition and Kmvalue for palmitoyl-CoA measured in 24-h-suckling pigs were 1.8- and 2.7-fold higher than measured in newborn pigs. The addition of anaplerotic carbon from malate (10 mM) significantly reduced14C accumulation in acetate ( P < 0.003); moreover, the reduction was much greater in newborn (80%) than in 24-h-fed (72%) and 5-mo-old pigs (55%). The results demonstrate that acetate is the primary product of hepatic mitochondrial β-oxidation in Sus scrofa and that regulation during early development is mediated primarily via kinetic modulation of CPT I.
Intradermal administration of ATP does not mitigate tyramine-stimulated vasoconstriction in human skin
Authors: Wingo Jonathan E. , Brothers R. Matthew , Coso Juan Del , Crandall Craig G.
Published: March 2010

Cutaneous vasodilation associated with whole-body heat stress occurs via withdrawal of adrenergic vasoconstriction and engagement of cholinergic “active” vasodilation, the latter of which attenuates cutaneous vasoconstrictor responsiveness. However, the precise neurotransmitter(s) responsible for this sympatholytic-like effect remain unknown. In skeletal muscle, ATP inhibits adrenergically mediated vasoconstriction. ATP also may be responsible for attenuating cutaneous vasoconstriction since it is coreleased from cholinergic neurons. The effect of ATP on cutaneous vasoconstrictor responsiveness, however, has not been investigated. Accordingly, this study tested the hypothesis that ATP inhibits adrenergically mediated cutaneous vasoconstriction. To accomplish this objective, four microdialysis probes were inserted in dorsal forearm skin of 11 healthy individuals (mean ± SD; 35 ± 11 years). Local temperature at each site was clamped at 34°C throughout the protocol. Skin blood flow was indexed by laser-Doppler flowmetry and was used to calculate cutaneous vascular conductance (CVC; laser-Doppler-derived flux/mean arterial pressure), which was normalized to peak CVC achieved with sodium nitroprusside infusion combined with local skin heating to ∼42°C. Two membranes were perfused with 30 mM ATP, while the other two membranes were flow matched via administration of 2.8 mM adenosine to serve as control sites. After achieving stable baselines, 1×10−4 M tyramine was administered at all sites, while ATP and adenosine continued to be infused at their respective sites. ATP and adenosine infusion increased CVC from baseline by 35 ± 26% CVCpeak units and by 36 ± 15% CVCpeak units, respectively ( P = 0.75). Tyramine decreased CVC similarly (by about one-third) at all sites ( P < 0.001 for main effect and P = 0.32 for interaction). These findings indicate that unlike in skeletal muscle, ATP does not attenuate tyramine-stimulated vasoconstriction in human skin.
Missing links in pressure ulcer research—An interdisciplinary overview
Authors: Olesen Christian Gammelgaard , de Zee Mark , Rasmussen John
Published: March 2010

This paper surveys the literature on the etiology of sitting-acquired deep tissue pressure ulcers from three different viewpoints. The first viewpoint is identification of risk factors related to seated posture. The second viewpoint focuses on the external factors that can cause necrosis to human cells, such as ischemia and compression. The third viewpoint focuses on computational models of the human buttocks to calculate where stress concentrations occur. Each viewpoint contributes to the understanding of pressure ulcer etiology, but in combination they cover the multiple scales from cell to organism, and the combined insight can provide important information toward a full understanding of the phenomenon. It is concluded that the following three questions must be answered by future research. 1) Does compressive stress alone explain cell death, or is it necessary to consider the full three-dimensional strain tensor in the tissues? 2) How does the change in posture-induced load applied on the human buttocks change the stress distribution in the deep muscle tissue? 3) Is it possible to optimize the seated posture in a computational model to reduce the deeper tissue loads?
Short-term exercise training prevents micro- and macrovascular disease following coronary stenting
Authors: Long Xin , Bratz Ian N. , Alloosh Mouhamad , Edwards Jason M. , Sturek Michael
Published: March 2010

The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of exercise on coronary blood flow and macrovascular atherosclerosis in response to stent deployment. Male Yucatan swine were placed on a control diet (C); on a high-fat/cholesterol diet (hypercholesterolemic; H); or on a high-fat/cholesterol diet and aerobically exercise trained (HX) starting after 36 wk on the diet. All pigs underwent coronary angiography and intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) guided placement of a bare metal stent in the circumflex coronary artery after 40 wk on diets and 3 wk later pigs underwent repeat angiography and IVUS and coronary blood flow (CBF) measurement. Average peak velocity (APV) was measured under basal conditions and in response to intracoronary application of the endothelium-independent vasodilator adenosine and the endothelium-dependent vasodilator bradykinin. There was a similar ∼8-fold increase in total cholesterol in H and HX compared with control. Baseline CBF was increased above control and H in HX ( P < 0.05). At all doses adenosine-induced CBF was impaired in H, but preserved in HX. Similarly, bradykinin-induced CBF was impaired in H vs. control, yet was potentiated in HX. Microvessel density was decreased in H and preserved in HX vs. control. Native atheroma in HX was lower relative to H and control, while in-stent stenosis in HX was not different from H. Hyperlipidemia-induced microvascular dysfunction after stent deployment may be a result of reduction in microvessel density. This is the first report that short-term exercise training near the time of stenting prevents stent-induced microvascular dysfunction and attenuates native atheroma independent of changes in plasma cholesterol in this porcine model.
Telepathology and Optical Biopsy
Authors: Ferrer-Roca Olga
Published: March 2010

The ability to obtain information about the structure of tissue without taking a sample for pathology has opened the way for new diagnostic techniques. The present paper reviews all currently available techniques capable of producing an optical biopsy, with or without morphological images. Most of these techniques are carried out by physicians who are not specialized in pathology and therefore not trained to interpret the results as a pathologist would. In these cases, the use of telepathology or distant consultation techniques is essential.
Aerosol Infection Model of Tuberculosis in Wistar Rats
Authors: Gaonkar Sheshagiri , Bharath Sowmya , Kumar Naveen , Balasubramanian V. , Shandil Radha K.
Published: March 2010

We explored suitability of a rat tuberculosis aerosol infection model for investigating the pharmacodynamics of new antimycobacterial agents. Infection of rats via the aerosol route led to a reproducible course ofM. tuberculosisinfection in the lungs. The pulmonary bacterial load increased logarithmically during the first six weeks, thereafter, the infection stabilized for the next 12 weeks. We observed macroscopically visible granulomas in the lungs with demonstrable acid-fast bacilli and associated histopathology. Rifampicin (RIF) at a dose range of 30 to 270 mg/kg exhibited a sharp dose response while isoniazid (INH) at a dose range of 10 to 90 mg/kg and ethambutol (EMB) at 100 to 1000 mg/kg showed shallow dose responses. Pyrazinamide (PZA) had no dose response between 300 and 1000 mg/kg dose range. In a separate time kill study at fixed drug doses (RIF 90 mg/kg, INH 30 mg/kg, EMB 300 mg/kg, and PZA 300 mg/kg) the bactericidal effect of all the four drugs increased with longer duration of treatment from two weeks to four weeks. The observed infection profile and therapeutic outcomes in this rat model suggest that it can be used as an additional, pharmacologically relevant efficacy model to develop novel antitubercular compounds at the interface of discovery and development.
Conformal Radiotherapy for Squamous Cell Carcinoma of Gallbladder: A Case Report
Authors: Hou Jia-zhou , Zeng Zhao-chong , Sun Jing , Ji Yuan
Published: March 2010

Background. Squamous cell carcinoma of the gallbladder is a rare disease with symptoms developing late in its course, so that it often presents as an aggressive tumor with a poor prognosis.Case report. We describe a 58-year-old male with a 5-week history of hypodynamia. He was found to have squamous cell carcinoma of the gallbladder with liver invasion and lymph node metastases. He underwent treatment with 3-dimensional conformal radiation therapy (CRT). A follow-up computer tomography (CT) scan showed complete tumor remission 2 months after the completion of CRT. The patient survived for 14 months after the end of treatment and died of multiple liver metastases.Conclusion. The efficacy of radiotherapy in this case is encouraging and suggests a potential role for such therapy in similar cases. The benefit in terms of survival warrants further study.
Suppressor of Cytokine Signaling-1 Ameliorates Expression of MCP-1 in Diabetic Nephropathy
Authors: Shi Yonghong , Du Chunyang , Zhang Yanling , Ren Yunzhuo , Hao Jun , Zhao Song , Yao Fang , Duan Huijun
Published: March 2010

Background: Janus kinase (JAK)/signal transducers and activators of transcription (STAT) contribute to diabetic nephropathy. Suppressor of cytokine signaling-1 (SOCS-1) is one of the negative feedback regulators of JAK/STAT signaling. This study investigated the effect of SOCS-1 on the JAK/STAT pathway and MCP-1 expression in diabetic nephropathy. Methods: Streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice received pEF-FLAG-I/mSOCS-1 plasmid or pEF-FLAG-I vector for 4 weeks and were compared with age-matched nondiabetic mice. Functional and pathologic markers, expression of monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) and TGF-β1 and phosphorylation of STAT1 and STAT3 were assessed. The effect of SOCS-1 on the expression of MCP-1 in mesangial cells under high glucose conditions was also examined.Results: Urine albumin excretion and renal hypertrophy were alleviated in diabetic mice by overexpression of SOCS-1. The expression of TGF-β1 and MCP-1 and the activation of STAT1 and STAT3 were significantly inhibited in diabetic kidney by gene delivery of SOCS-1. In cultured mesangial cells, overexpression of SOCS-1 markedly suppressed high glucose-induced MCP-1 expression. Conclusions: This study suggests that SOCS-1 may attenuate renal damage by ameliorating MCP-1 expression and regulation of the phosphorylation of JAK/STAT in diabetic mice.
Cryptic Regulation of Vasotocin Neuronal Activity but Not Anatomy by Sex Steroids and Social Stimuli in Opportunistic Desert Finches
Authors: Kabelik David , Morrison Jenilee A. , Goodson James L.
Published: March 2010

In most vertebrate species, the production of vasotocin (VT; non-mammals) and vasopressin (VP; mammals) in the medial bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BSTm) waxes and wanes with seasonal reproductive state; however, opportunistically breeding species might need to maintain high levels of this behaviorally relevant neuropeptide year-round in anticipation of unpredictable breeding opportunities. We here provide support for this hypothesis and demonstrate that these neurons are instead regulated ‘cryptically’ via hormonal regulation of their activity levels, which may be rapidly modified to adjust VT signaling. First, we show that combined treatment of male and female zebra finches (Estrildidae: Taeniopygia guttata) with the androgen receptor antagonist flutamide and the aromatase inhibitor 1,4,6-androstatriene-3,17-dione does not alter the expression of VT immunoreactivity within the BSTm; however, both hormonal treatment and social housing environment (same-sex versus mixed-sex) alter VT colocalization with the immediate early gene product Fos (a proxy marker of neural activation) in the BSTm. In a second experiment, manipulations of estradiol (E2) levels with the aromatase inhibitor letrozole (LET) or subcutaneous E2 implants failed to alter colocalization, suggesting that the colocalization effects in experiment 1 were solely androgenic. LET treatment also did not affect VT immunoreactivity in a manner reversible by E2 treatment. Finally, comparisons of VT immunoreactivity in breeding and nonbreeding individuals of several estrildid species demonstrate that year-round stability of VT immunoreactivity is found only in highly opportunistic species, and is therefore not essential to the maintenance of long-term pair bonds, which are ubiquitous in the Estrildidae.
Time of Birth, Residential Solar Radiation and Age at Onset of Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: McDowell Tzu-Yun , Amr Sania , Langenberg Patricia , Royal Walter , Bever Christopher , Culpepper William J. , Bradham Douglas D.
Published: March 2010

Backgrounds/Aim: Gestational and early life events have been suggested to contribute to multiple sclerosis (MS) susceptibility. We assessed the effects of time and place of birth on the age at onset of MS symptoms. Methods: We selected a national cohort of 967 veterans from the Multiple Sclerosis Surveillance Registry for whom month and season (time) of birth, and birthplace (city and state) were available. Multiple linear regression analyses were used to examine the association between time of birth, birthplace latitude and solar radiation, and the age at onset of MS symptoms among the study sample. Results: Patients with a relapsing form of the disease (R-MS), who were born in winter and whose birthplace was in low solar radiation areas, had disease symptom onset on average 2.8 years earlier than those born in seasons other than winter and in medium- and high-solar radiation areas (p = 0.02). Conclusions: These results suggest that exposure early in life to geographical and seasonal factors, possibly related to the protective effect of sunlight, and thus vitamin D, is associated with a delay in MS symptom onset. Other larger studies are required to examine the period-specific (from conception to adulthood) environmental factors that are associated with MS susceptibility.
Preliminary Evidence of a High Risk of Bleeding on Aspirin plus Clopidogrel in Aspirin-Naïve Patients in the Acute Phase after TIA or Minor Ischaemic Stroke
Authors: Geraghty O.C. , Kennedy J. , Chandratheva A. , Marquardt L. , Buchan A.M. , Rothwell P.M.
Published: March 2010

Background: Aspirin plus clopidogrel (A+C) may be more effective than aspirin only (AO) acutely after TIA and minor stroke, but the risk of bleeding in the acute phase is uncertain. We determined this risk, focusing particularly on aspirin-naïve patients. Methods: We studied consecutive referrals to the EXPRESS study clinic from 1/4/02 to 31/3/08. A 30- to 90-day course of A+C was given to patients presenting acutely. Bleeding events were identified by face-to-face follow-up, diagnostic coding, and blood transfusion data. Unpublished data from the FASTER pilot trial were also studied. Results: Among 633 EXPRESS patients treated with aspirin (+/– clopidogrel), there were 12 spontaneous bleeds (6 minor, 6 major/life-threatening) within 90 days after assessment, with a higher risk for A+C vs. AO (8/247 vs. 4/386, p = 0.047 overall; 5/247 vs. 1/386, p = 0.03 for major/life-threatening bleeds). The excess of major/life-threatening bleeds on A+C vs. AO was seen in aspirin-naïve patients, (4/137 vs. 0/273, p = 0.01), but not in prior-aspirin patients (1/110 vs. 1/113, p = 0.98). All symptomatic bleeds in the FASTER pilot also occurred in aspirin-naïve patients randomized to A+C (6/104 vs. 0/94, p = 0.03). In a pooled analysis, major/life-threatening bleeding on A+C occurred in 9/241 aspirin-naïve patients (90-day risk = 4.8%, 1.6–8.0) versus 1/204 prior-aspirin patients (p = 0.009). Conclusion: Although based on relatively few outcomes, the high risk of major bleeding on A+C acutely after TIA or minor stroke in aspirin-naïve patients is a cause for concern. The potential risk to patients is sufficient to mandate detailed monitoring of bleeding risk in ongoing trials and stratify results by whether patients were aspirin-naïve.
Use of Ultrasound in the Prenatal Exclusion of Primary Microcephaly
Authors: Karp Laurence E. , Smith David W. , Omenn Gilbert S. , Johnson Steve L. , Jones Kenneth
Published: March 2010

There are no chromosomal or biochemical abnormalities that can be used for the prenatal diagnosis of primary microcephaly. However, since scalp hair directional patterning is determined between 10 and 16 weeks of fetal life, and since at least 85% of patients with primary microcephaly show aberrant scalp hair patterning, it may be concluded that a deficit of brain growth and consequently also of head size exists by the 17th week of pregnancy. Thus, ultrasonic determination of fetal head size may permit the diagnosis or exclusion of primary microcephaly in the early second trimester of pregnancy.
Aortic Regurgitation Dramatically Alters the Distribution of Atherosclerotic Lesions and Enhances Atherogenesis in Mice
Authors: Zhou Yu-Qing , Zhu Su-Ning , Foster F. Stuart , Cybulsky Myron I. , Henkelman R. Mark
Published: March 2010

Objective—

Hemodynamics plays a critical role in atherogenesis, but the association between flow pattern and preferential localization of lesion is not fully understood. We developed a mouse model of aortic valve regurgitation (AR) to change the aortic flow pattern and observed the effects on plaque formation.

Methods and Results—

High-frequency Doppler ultrasound imaging of 10 untreated C57BL/6J mice and 6 sham-treated low-density lipoprotein receptor–deficient (
Ldlr
−/−
) mice revealed consistent antegrade blood flow throughout the aorta and oscillatory flow only along the lesser curvature of the aortic arch. Catheter-induced AR in 7
Ldlr
−/−
mice produced various degrees of diastolic retrograde flow throughout the aorta. After the mice were fed a cholesterol-enriched diet for 6 weeks, the burden of atherosclerotic lesions was increased 6-fold, with the naturally plaque-resistant descending aorta becoming susceptible. The AR severity correlated positively with the lesion burden in the descending thoracic and abdominal aorta but negatively with the lesions in the ascending aorta and aortic arch.

Conclusion—

This AR model is valuable for elucidating the relationship between hemodynamics and predisposition of the artery wall to atherosclerosis, because of the significant alterations in local flow patterns and the conversion of large regions in the descending aorta from lesion resistant to lesion prone.
The RAGE Axis
Authors: Yan Shi Fang , Ramasamy Ravichandran , Schmidt Ann Marie
Published: March 2010

Abstract
:

The immunoglobulin superfamily molecule RAGE (receptor for advanced glycation end product) transduces the effects of multiple ligands, including AGEs (advanced glycation end products), advanced oxidation protein products, S100/calgranulins, high-mobility group box-1, amyloid-β peptide, and β-sheet fibrils. In diabetes, hyperglycemia likely stimulates the initial burst of production of ligands that interact with RAGE and activate signaling mechanisms. Consequently, increased generation of proinflammatory and prothrombotic molecules and reactive oxygen species trigger further cycles of oxidative stress via RAGE, thus setting the stage for augmented damage to diabetic tissues in the face of further insults. Many of the ligand families of RAGE have been identified in atherosclerotic plaques and in the infarcted heart. Together with increased expression of RAGE in diabetic settings, we propose that release and accumulation of RAGE ligands contribute to exaggerated cellular damage. Stopping the vicious cycle of AGE-RAGE and RAGE axis signaling in the vulnerable heart and great vessels may be essential in controlling and preventing the consequences of diabetes.
The Promise of Cell-Based Therapies for Diabetic Complications
Authors: Jarajapu Yagna P.R. , Grant Maria B.
Published: March 2010

Abstract
:

The discovery of endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) in human peripheral blood advanced the field of cell-based therapeutics for many pathological conditions. Despite the lack of agreement about the existence and characteristics of EPCs, autologous EPC populations represent a novel treatment option for complications requiring therapeutic revascularization and vascular repair. Patients with diabetic complications represent a population of patients that may benefit from cellular therapy yet their broadly dysfunctional cells may limit the feasibility of this approach. Diabetic EPCs have decreased migratory prowess and reduced proliferative capacity and an altered cytokine/growth factor secretory profile that can accelerate deleterious repair mechanisms rather than support proper vascular repair. Furthermore, the diabetic environment poses additional challenges for the autologous transplantation of cells. The present review is focused on correcting diabetic EPC dysfunction and the challenges involved in the application of cell-based therapies for treatment of diabetic vascular complications. In addition, ex vivo and in vivo functional manipulation(s) of EPCs to overcome these hurdles are discussed.
Specific Regulation of Noncanonical p38α Activation by Hsp90-Cdc37 Chaperone Complex in Cardiomyocyte
Authors: Ota Asuka , Zhang Jun , Ping Peipei , Han Jiahuai , Wang Yibin
Published: March 2010

Rationale
:

p38 is an important stress activated protein kinase involved in gene regulation, proliferation, differentiation, and cell death regulation in heart. p38 kinase activity can be induced through canonical pathway via upstream kinases or by noncanonical autophosphorylation. The intracellular p38 kinase activity is tightly regulated and maintained at low level under basal condition. The underlying regulatory mechanism for canonical p38 kinase activation is well-studied, but the regulation of noncanonical p38 autophosphorylation remains poorly understood.

Objective
:

We investigated the molecular basis for the regulation of noncanonical p38 autophosphorylation and its potential functional impact in cardiomyocytes.

Methods and Results
:

Using both proteomic and biochemical tools, we established that heat shock protein (Hsp)90-Cdc37 chaperones are part of the p38α signaling complex in mammalian cells both in vitro and in vivo. The Hsp90-Cdc37 chaperone complex interacts with p38 via direct binding between p38 and Cdc37. Cdc37 expression is both sufficient and necessary to suppress noncanonical p38 activation via autophosphorylation at either basal state or under TAB1 (TAK1 binding protein-1) induction. In contrast, Cdc37 expression has no impact on p38 activation by canonical upstream kinase MKK3 or oxidative stress. Furthermore, Hsp90 inhibition results in p38 activation via autophosphorylation, and p38 activity contribute to apoptotic cell death induced by Hsp90 inhibition.

Conclusion
:

Our study has revealed a so far uncharacterized function of Hsp90-Cdc37 as an endogenous regulator of noncanonical p38 activity.
Population-Based Study of ABCD
2
Score, Carotid Stenosis, and Atrial Fibrillation for Early Stroke Prediction After Transient Ischemic Attack
Authors: Sheehan Orla C. , Kyne Lorraine , Kelly Lisa A. , Hannon Niamh , Marnane Michael , Merwick Aine , McCormack Patricia M.E. , Duggan Joseph , Moore Alan , Moroney Joan , Daly Leslie , Harris Dawn , Horgan Gillian , Williams Emma B. , Kelly Peter J.
Published: March 2010

Background and Purpose—

Transient ischemic attack (TIA) etiologic data and the ABCD
2
score may improve early stroke risk prediction, but studies are required in population-based cohorts. We investigated the external validity of the ABCD
2
score, carotid stenosis, and atrial fibrillation for prediction of early recurrent stroke after TIA.

Methods—

Patients with TIA in the North Dublin city population (N=294 529) were ascertained by using overlapping hospital and community sources. The relations between individual ABCD
2
items, carotid stenosis, atrial fibrillation, and early stroke were examined.

Results—

In confirmed TIA cases (n=443), carotid stenosis predicted 90-day stroke (hazard ratio=2.56; 95% CI, 1.27 to 5.15,
P
=0.003). Stroke risk rose with increasing grade of carotid stenosis, ranging from 5.4% (95% CI, 3.3% to 8.7%) with <50% stenosis to 17.2% (95% CI, 9.7% to 29.7%) with severe stenosis/occlusion (hazard ratio=3.3; 95% CI, 1.5 to 7.4,
P
=0.002). In confirmed TIA cases (n=443), the ABCD
2
score performed no better than chance for prediction of 90-day stroke (
c
-statistic=0.55; 95% CI, 0.45 to 0.64), largely related to the 24.2% (8/33) of patients who experienced a recurrence and had low ABCD
2
scores (0–3). However, in nonspecialist-suspected TIA cases (n=700), the predictive utility improved for stroke at 28 (
c
-statistic=0.61; 95% CI, 0.50 to 0.72) and 90 (
c
-statistic=0.61; 95% CI, 0.52 to 0.71) days.

Conclusions—

In a population-based TIA cohort, significant predictive information was provided by carotid stenosis. The ABCD
2
score had predictive utility in patients with TIA suspected by nonspecialists. Low scores occurred in several patients with stroke recurrences, suggesting that caution is needed before using the score in isolation.
The “Sealed Nectar”: An Overview of a Sufi Treatise of 'Umar al-Suhrawardī (d. 632 AH/1234 AD)
Authors: Salamah-Qudsi Arin Shawkat
Published: March 2010

Besides the analysis of one impact of al-Suhrawardī's teachings—his division of the Sufi path—there are other bases for assuming a more varied system of thought, one that runs counter his reputation as a moderate Sufi thinker. Through study of an unknown text of the author, a conclusion was reached that 'moderation' as related to Sufi authors is an evaluation that should be reconsidered. The specific discourse in the above text demonstrates rhetorical differences between long Sufi manuals and short epistles and treatises, most prominently manifest in the way the author reviews the highest and ultimate ranks of the Sufi path in terms of unity, and of immortality in Deity. Rereading al-Suhrawardī's writings reveals the author's talents for reaching into the mentality of the ordinary man, and flexibility when relating to problematic issues. This paper is one attempt in the direction of a wide-ranging study of what had long been considered 'moderate', 'official', and 'high' with in Classical Sufism.
The Binds of the Anxious Mariner: Patriarchy, Paternalism, and the Maritime Culture of Eighteenth-Century Bermuda
Authors: Jarvis Michael J.
Published: March 2010

This essay examines the roles and social responsibilities of mariners (ship captains and mates) through a close study of eighteenth-century Bermuda’s merchant marine. Challenging studies focused on ordinary seamen which mainly portray ship captains in negative, oppositional ways, this article instead explores links between the crews of typical small intercolonial trading vessels. Bermudian mariners had complex, reciprocal relationships with both the free and enslaved men who worked under them and with the broader maritime community that they served. Because Bermuda’s merchant marine resembled that of many other Anglo-American seaports, the portrait of the mariner that emerges for this island helps us better understand American seafaring culture and communities generally.
Comparing Health Professional Work Orientation in French and Canadian Hospitals: Structural Influence of Patients in Open and Closed Units
Authors: Hirschkorn Kristine , Khokher Patricia , Sainsaulieu Ivan , Bourgeault Ivy Lynn
Published: March 2010

In this paper we present comparative qualitative data on the influence of patients on the relationship between health professionals and hospitals in France and Canada. We elaborate specifically on a typology that depicts the structural influence of patients in terms of open and closed communities. Our analysis reveals some key differences between the open and closed communities across the two countries. Health professionals in open communities in France were able to establish a stronger relationship with patients than those in Canada. Professionals in France described a weaker connection with their colleagues than in Canada, and this may be one of the triggers of stress, burnout and high turnover. There were more similarities among closed communities in Canada and France. Conceptualizing the structural influence of patients in terms of open and closed community ideal types is a useful heuristic device that moves the implicit and explicit influence of patients to the foreground of the analysis of the relations between health professions and organizations.
Rethinking the Nagorno-Karabakh Conflict: Identity, Politics, Scholarship
Authors: Gamaghelyan Phil
Published: March 2010

This article builds on the author’s research concerning the role of collective memory in identity-based conflicts, as well as his practical work as the co-director of the Imagine Center for Conflict Transformation and as a trainer and facilitator with various Azerbaijani-Armenian dialogue initiatives. It is not a comprehensive study of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, but presents a general overview of the Nagorno-Karabakh peace process, what has contributed to its failure, and which areas require major rethinking of conventional approaches. The discussion does not intend to present readers with a set of conclusions, but to provide suggestions for further critical research.
Nagorno-Karabakh Negotiations: Though the Prism of a Multi-Issue Bargaining Model
Authors: Ziyadov Taleh
Published: March 2010

This article examines various phases in the Nagorno-Karabakh (NK) negotiations between Armenia and Azerbaijan using a Multi-Issue Bargaining Model ‐ a modified version of the traditional bargaining model. It offers micro-level and phase-by-phase analysis of the negotiation process, mediation efforts and proposed mechanisms for the settlement of the NK conflict. Issues on the negotiation table and the evolution of the Azerbaijani and Armenian positions over time constitute a central focus of the article. The multi-issue model is applied to each negotiation phase in the NK conflict from 1994 until 2009.
Eight Articles, Eight Journals, 8 Years: Selected Disappointments and Celebrations From an Outstanding Major Contribution
Authors: Phillips Julia C.
Published: March 2010

This reaction paper highlights what the author views as remarkable and particularly laudable about this major contribution on lesbian, gay, and bisexual people of color; some disappointments that emerged, especially from the results of the content analysis; and a few thoughts extending those already offered in this outstanding set of major contribution articles. Particularly impressive is the quantity and quality of scholarship presented in this set of articles, how they build on one another, and the utility for future researchers, teachers, and scholars in the field of multicultural psychology. Selected disappointments include continued invisibility of various persons in subordinate groups within this area of scholarship and problematic sampling and recruitment strategies used in much of the past research. The authors who contributed to this major contribution identify and use many excellent strategies to overcome a number of the disappointments that are noted.
The Influence of Constructional Properties of Knitted Fabrics on Cationic Softener Pick Up and Deposition Uniformity
Authors: Agarwal Gaurav , Koehl Ludovic , Perwuelz Anne
Published: March 2010

In this study we tried to find the influence of fiber type, fiber fineness and knit construction on the amount of softener pick up by the fabric. Decision trees are developed to explain the cationic softener pick up depending upon the factors mentioned above. The influence of the type of load (mixed fiber load and individual fiber load) on the amount of softener deposited on the fabric was also studied. We have also quantified the non-uniformity of softener deposition. We used an image-processing tool to define non-uniformity of the softener deposition. It evaluates the spatial uniformity of softener deposition by evaluating the difference between observed patchy distribution and a random process which would lead to a uniform distribution.
Investigation of the Contribution of Garment Design to Thermal Protection. Part 2: Instrumented Female Mannequin Flash-fire Evaluation System
Authors: Mah Tannie , Guowen Song
Published: March 2010

The purpose of this research was to gain insight into how well women were protected from thermal hazards when wearing garments designed for women compared to garments designed for men. A three-dimensional body scanner was used to measure the size and distribution of air gaps between a female mannequin and thermal protective coveralls (Part 1). In Part 2, a flash-fire instrumented female mannequin evaluation system was used to investigate the effect of garment style and fit on thermal protection. The findings demonstrated that air gap size had a positive correlation with time to burn injury and a negative correlation with energy absorbed. Garment style and fit influenced protection, as the inappropriate fit of the women’s style compared to the men’s made some areas of the female mannequin more susceptible to burns than others.
Guardians, not Taskmasters: The Cultural Resonances of Paul’s Metaphor in Galatians 4.1-2
Authors: Goodrich John K.
Published: March 2010

Paul’s heir analogy in Gal. 4.1-2 has traditionally been interpreted against the backdrop of Graeco-Roman guardianship laws. However, because certain conceptual and terminological incongruities in the text have not been adequately explained, a relatively new typological reading, which identifies the analogy as an allusion to the Exodus, has begun to influence many interpreters. This study will defend the traditional interpretation, first by responding to the criticisms and exegetical insights introduced by those who interpret the text typologically, and second by demonstrating that Paul’s use of έπίτροποι and οἰκονόμοι as guardians of a minor—a widely acknowledged crux interpretum—corresponds accurately to Roman legal practice.
Do we know what Economic Justice is? Nuancing our Understanding by Engaging Biblical Perspectives
Authors: Hartropp Andrew
Published: March 2010

The issue of justice in economic life is vital today. Christians and churches who are committed to a gospel-centred and holistic process of human development — embracing spiritual, physical and socio-economic well-being — ought to be confident that such a process is entirely consistent with the justice that God desires. This article argues that, unlike ordinary secular human thought, the Bible gives a coherent and harmonious conception of justice in economic life.
Ding Guangxun’s Critique of Fundamentalist Theology in Contemporary China and his Theological Construction
Authors: Chen Lu
Published: March 2010

Ding Guangxun’s has written extensively about the changes in theology in contemporary China. His criticism of the fundamentalist position leads him to a theological reconstruction that seeks to integrate the Christian faith with humanitarian philosophy. In this article we explore the strength and weakness of Ding’s critique and analyse his reconstruction to enable us to catch a glimpse of some current trends in Chinese theology.
The Learning and Teaching of Theology in the UK: Problems and Prospects for Overseas Students
Authors: Balia Daryl
Published: March 2010

The discipline of theology is now more exposed comparatively because of its low ‘market value’ and diminishing student numbers. Better informed ways of understanding the religious world students inhabit and invariably bring into the average theology classroom in the UK will serve to enhance teaching and learning and potentially their student numbers. Change is required if theological institutions are going to remain competitive in attracting students from abroad, with the apparent emphasis on content of knowledge shifting to one of content of character which is formed in and through learning.
The Bible and Christian Zionism: Roadmap to Armageddon?
Authors: Sizer Stephen
Published: March 2010

Underneath the beautiful Sea of Galilee lies a hidden fault-line that runs down from Mount Hermon through the Jordan Valley to the Red Sea, the Arabian peninsula and on to the heart of East Africa. Over thousands of years, earthquakes along this fault-line have devastated countless civilizations.Today there is a human fault-line running through the same land — a fault-line that is largely hidden from view until it erupts in violence. The cause of these volcanic eruptions has to do with the pressure of two peoples, like two tectonic plates, trying to occupy the same land — one the military occupier, the other the occupied. The media present this as a clash between two cultures, Palestinian and Israeli or Oriental and Western. As I hope to show, the convictions of Christian Zionists have made a significant contribution to the Israeli—Palestinian conflict.