bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Homogeneous Precipitation Synthesis and Magnetic Properties of Cobalt Ferrite Nanoparticles
Authors: Liu Zhigang , Li Xiaodong , Leng Yonghua , Lian Jingbao , Liu Shaohong , Xiu Zhimeng , Huo Di , Li Ji-Guang , Sun Xudong
Published: February 2009

Magnetic nanoparticles (NPs) of cobalt ferrite have been synthesized via a homogeneous precipitation route using hexamethylenetetramine (HMT) as the precipitant. The particle size, crystal structure, and magnetic properties of the synthesized particles were investigated by X‐ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, and vibrating sample magnetometer. The NPs are of cubic inverse spinel structure and nearly spherical shape. With the increase of oxidation time from 30 to 180 minutes in the reaction solution at 90∘C, the average particle size increases from ~30 nm to ~45 nm. The as‐synthesized NPs ~30 nm in size show higher Ms (61.5 emu/g) and moderate Hc (945 Oe) and Mr/Ms (0.45) value compared with the materials synthesized by coprecipitation method using NaOH as precipitate at high pH value.
Existence of Periodic Solutions for Integrodifferential Impulsive Periodic System on Banach Space
Authors: Wang JinRong , Xiang X. , Wei W.
Published: February 2009

This paper deals with a class of integrodifferential impulsive periodic systems on Banach space.
Using impulsive periodic evolution operator given by us, the T0‐periodic PC‐mild solution is introduced and suitable
Poincaré operator is constructed. By virtue of the generalized new Gronwall lemma with impulse and B‐norm, the
estimate on the PC‐mild solutions is derived. Showing the continuity and compactness of the Poincaré operator, we utilize Horn′s fixed point theorem to prove the existence of T0‐periodic PC‐mild solutions when the PC‐mild solutions
are bounded and ultimate bounded. This extends the study of periodic solutions of integrodifferential periodic system
without impulse to integrodifferential periodic system with impulse on general Banach spaces. At last, an example is
given for demonstration.
Unusual Differential Diagnosis of Upper Abdominal Pain
Authors: Monika Lanthaler , Thomas Grissmann , Lukas Schwentner , Hermann Nehoda
Published: February 2009

We here present an interesting unusual case of upper abdominal pain. The patient was a 38-year-old man, who was admitted to our hospital complaining of right upper quadrant pain caused by a toothpick that perforated the anterior gastric wall and penetrated segment I of the liver. After endoscopic removal and an initially uneventful course, computed tomography revealed a perigastric abscess that was treated by repeated gastroscopic rinsing via an endoscopically placed catheter. After another three uneventful weeks, a liver abscess with minor tendency to constrict the portal vein was diagnosed, and a segment I liver resection together with abscess drainage was performed.
The peculiarity of this case is the rarity of toothpick ingestion and gastric perforation in a young and healthy white Caucasian followed by development of a liver abscess after primary uneventful endoscopic removal. In light of this case, gastric perforation due to ingested foreign bodies such as toothpicks can be considered a rare cause of upper abdominal pain.
Psychological Consequences of Longevity
Authors: Freund Alexandra M. , Nikitin Jana , Ritter Johannes O.
Published: February 2009

How do changes in life expectancy and longevity affect life-span development? This paper argues that historical increases in life expectancy primarily have an impact on the later and less on the earlier parts of the life span. Increased life expectancy is both a challenge and an opportunity for positive development. A perspective is outlined according to which self-regulation is a key factor for successful aging. Assuming a compensatory relationship of social norms/expectations and self-regulation for developmental regulation, processes such as setting, pursuing, and disengaging from personal goals should be particularly important in old age, a life phase that is characterized by being less normatively structured than younger phases. This argument is elaborated in the domains of social relations, leisure, and work.
Problematics of Time and Timing in the Longitudinal Study of Human Development: Theoretical and Methodological Issues
Authors: Lerner Richard M. , Schwartz Seth J. , Phelps Erin
Published: February 2009

Studying human development involves describing, explaining, and optimizing intraindividual change and interindividual differences in such change and, as such, requires longitudinal research. The selection of the appropriate type of longitudinal design requires selecting the option that best addresses the theoretical questions asked about developmental process and the use of appropriate statistical procedures to best exploit data derived from theory-predicated longitudinal research. This paper focuses on several interrelated problematics involving the treatment of time and the timing of observations that developmental scientists face in creating theory-design fit and in charting in change-sensitive ways developmental processes across life. We discuss ways in which these problematics may be addressed to advance theory-predicated understanding of the role of time in processes of individual development.
Long-Term (up to 18 Years) Clinical and Echocardiographic Results of Mitral Balloon Valvuloplasty in 531 Consecutive Patients and Predictors of Outcome
Authors: Fawzy Mohamed Eid , Shoukri Mohamed , Fadel Bahaa , Badr Amr , Al Ghamdi Abdulaziz , Canver Charles
Published: February 2009

Objectives: The study aim was to assess the long-term results (up to 18 years) of mitral balloon valvuloplasty (MBV) and to identify predictors of restenosis and event-free survival. Methods: The immediate and long-term results for 531 consecutive patients (mean age 31 ± 11 years) who underwent successful MBV and were followed up for a mean of 8.5 ± 4.8 years (range: 1.5–18 years) are reported. Results: The mitral valve area (MVA) increased from 0.92 ± 0.17 to 1.95 ± 0.29 cm2 (p < 0.0001). Restenosis was 31 and 19% in patients with mitral echocardiographic score (MES) ≤8. Actuarial freedom from restenosis at 10, 15 and 18 years was 77 ± 2, 46 ± 3 and 18 ± 4% and 86 ± 2, 62 ± 4 and 31 ± 7% for MES ≤8, respectively (p < 0.001). Event-free survival (death, redo MBV, mitral valve replacement, NYHA class III or IV) at 10, 15 and 18 years was 88 ± 1, 53 ± 4, and 21 ± 5% and 93 ± 2, 65 ± 5 and 38 ± 8% for MES ≤8, respectively (p < 0.001). Multivariable Cox regression analysis identified MES >8 (p < 0.0001) and previous surgery (p = 0.043) as predictors of restenosis, and MES >8 (p < 0.0001) and baseline atrial fibrillation (p = 0.03) as predictors of combined events. Conclusion: MBV provides excellent long-term results. The baseline clinical and MES characteristics are predictors of outcome.
How Does Higher Ultrafiltration within the Conventional Clinical Range Impact the Volume Status of Hemodialysis Patients?
Authors: Yashiro M. , Kamata T. , Segawa H. , Murakami T. , Kadoya Y. , Muso E.
Published: February 2009

Aims: The higher ultrafiltration (UF) induces poor outcomes. The impact of higher UF on the volume status was investigated. Methods: 60 hemodialysis (HD) patients were divided into three groups according to the ratio of total UF to post-dialysis body weight (TUF/PDW) (<3%, 3–5%, ≥5%). ANP, the ratio of extracellular water to total body water and excess fluid mass (ExF/PDW) by bioimpedance spectroscopy, inferior vena cava diameter by ultrasound were measured at the end of HD. The ratio of post-HD blood volume to pre-HD (BVpost/BVpre) and standardized filtration coefficients (Lpst) of the microvasculature in the vicinity of PDW were calculated. Results: Only Lpst and BVpost/BVpre showed significant differences among the three groups. A stepwise multiple linear regression model revealed that BVpost/BVpre was correlated with TUF/PDW, ExF/PDW and Lpst (R = 0.778, p < 0.001), independently. Conclusion: Higher UF causes decreases in BVpost/BVpre and Lpst. BVpost/BVpre was determined by TUF/PDW, ExF/PDW and Lpst.
Sex Difference in the Prevalence of Deep-Vein Thrombosis in Japanese Patients with Acute Intracerebral Hemorrhage
Authors: Kawase Kayoko , Okazaki Shuhei , Toyoda Kazunori , Toratani Naomi , Yoshimura Sohei , Kawano Hiroyuki , Nagatsuka Kazuyuki , Matsuo Hiroshi , Naritomi Hiroaki , Minematsu Kazuo
Published: February 2009

Background: Stroke patients often develop deep-vein thrombosis (DVT), a potential cause of pulmonary thromboembolism. Little information is available on DVT in Asian patients with intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). Methods: We prospectively enrolled consecutive acute ICH patients. The main exclusion criteria were neurosurgical treatment, early death and coagulation disorders. DVT was evaluated using venous duplex ultrasonography on the day of admission, as well as 7 and 14 days later. Underlying characteristics, stroke features and laboratory data on admission were compared between patients who developed DVT by 14 days and those who did not. Results: A total of 81 (50 men, mean age 65 years, median NIH Stroke Scale, NIHSS, score 12) of 117 Japanese ICH patients were enrolled. DVT was detected in 4 patients on admission and was newly detected in 9 at 7 days. By 14 days, 17 patients (21%) were diagnosed as having DVT without thromboembolic complications, although 1 patient developed pulmonary thromboembolism. DVT was detected in the soleal veins of all 17 patients, followed by the peroneal veins (7 patients). After adjustment for age and related confounders, female sex was the only independent predictor for DVT (odds ratio 6.89, 95% confidence interval, CI, 1.56–36.34, p = 0.014). Female patients with an initial NIHSS score ≥12 had 19 times the risk for DVT compared to men with an NIHSS score <12 (95% CI 2.61–213.77, p = 0.007). Conclusions: DVT formation was not rare in Japanese ICH patients. Contrary to previous findings reported from western countries, female sex was strongly associated with DVT formation.
A Comparison of Acute and Long-Term Management of Stroke Patients in Barbados and South London
Authors: Smeeton Nigel C. , Corbin David O.C. , Hennis Anselm J. , Hambleton Ian R. , Fraser Henry S. , Wolfe Charles D.A. , Heuschmann Peter U.
Published: February 2009

Background: To compare health care utilisation between stroke patients living in a middle-income country with similar patients in a high-income country in terms of the type and amount of health care received following a stroke. Methods: Data were collected from the population-based South London Stroke Register (SLSR) and the Barbados Register of Strokes (BROS) from January 2001 to December 2004. Differences in management and diagnostic procedures used in the acute phase were adjusted for age, sex, ethnic group, living conditions pre-stroke and socio-economic status by multivariable logistic regression. Comparison of subsequent management was made for 3 months and 1 year post-stroke. Results: Patients in BROS were less likely to be admitted to a hospital ward (OR 0.22; 95% CI 0.13–0.37), but the difference for the lower use of brain scans in BROS was smaller (OR 0.62; 95% CI 0.25–1.52). Additional adjustment for stroke severity (Glasgow Coma Score) showed that BROS patients were more likely to have a swallow test on admission (OR 2.95; 95% CI 1.17–7.45). BROS patients were less likely to be in nursing care at 3 months (OR 0.37; 95% CI 0.17–0.81), and less likely to be receiving speech and language therapy at 3 months (OR 0.10; 95% CI 0.03–0.33) and 1 year (OR 0.05; 95% CI 0.00–0.55). Conclusions: The lower use of hospital admission and nursing care at 3 months suggests that in Barbados, family and friends take greater responsibility for patient care around the time of the stroke and in the medium term thereafter.
MRI-Defined Subcortical Ischemic Vascular Disease: Baseline Clinical and Neuropsychological Findings
Authors: Jokinen Hanna , Kalska Hely , Ylikoski Raija , Madureira Sofia , Verdelho Ana , Gouw Alida , Scheltens Philip , Barkhof Frederik , Visser Marieke C. , Fazekas Franz , Schmidt Reinhold , O’Brien John , Hennerici Michael , Baezner Hansjorg , Waldemar Gunhild , Wallin Anders , Chabriat Hugues , Pantoni Leonardo , Inzitari Domenico , Erkinjuntti Timo
Published: February 2009

Background: Subcortical ischemic vascular disease (SIVD) is a common, but often overlooked cause of vascular cognitive impairment. Diagnostic research criteria for SIVD are based on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings including substantial white matter lesions (WML) and multiple lacunar infarcts. Empirical studies validating these imaging criteria are still few. The purpose of the study was to describe the clinical and cognitive characteristics of the MRI-defined SIVD in a mixed sample of functionally independent elderly subjects with WML. Methods: The subjects of the Leukoaraiosis and Disability (LADIS) study, aged 65–84 years, underwent comprehensive clinical and neuropsychological examinations, and brain MRI at the baseline assessment. The subjects meeting the SIVD imaging criteria (n = 89) were compared to the other subjects of the sample (n = 524). Results: SIVD was associated with lower education, hypertension and, independently, with obesity. The subjects with SIVD had more often motor impairment, a history of falls, and subtle impairment in activities of daily living, but they did not differ for depressive symptoms. SIVD subjects performed significantly inferiorly in tests of global cognitive function, psychomotor speed, attention and executive functions, verbal fluency, and working memory. Conclusion: In this population of nondisabled older adults with WML, SIVD was related to specific clinical and functional characteristics. Neuropsychological features included psychomotor slowing as well as deficits in attention and executive functions.
Country-Based Reference Values and Impact of Cardiovascular Risk Factors on Carotid Intima-Media Thickness in a French Population: The ‘Paroi Artérielle et Risque Cardio-Vasculaire’ (PARC) Study
Authors: Touboul Pierre-Jean , Labreuche Julien , Vicaut Eric , Belliard Jean-Pierre , Cohen Serge , Kownator Serge , Pithois-Merli Isabelle , Amarenco Pierre
Published: February 2009

Aim: To define reference values for mean common carotid artery intima-media thickness (CCAIMTmean) from subjects without conventional cardiovascular risk factors. Methods: This nationwide study involved cardiologists at 246 centres in France. A total of 5,433 subjects with and without conventional cardiovascular risk factors participated. Results: In subjects without risk factors, CCAIMTmean was 0.712 ± 0.122 mm in men and 0.682 ± 0.105 mm in women (p < 0.0001). Age explained 27.7% (men) and 33.9% (women) of the variance in CCAIMTmean. Each 10-year increment in age was associated with a sex-adjusted increase in CCAIMTmean of 0.049 mm. In subjects with 1 risk factor, CCAIMTmean was 0.765 ± 0.121 (p < 0.0001 vs. subjects without risk factors). CCAIMTmean increased continuously with increasing number of risk factors, irrespective of age group. In multivariable analysis, age, sex and number of cardiovascular risk factors appeared independently associated with CCAIMTmean. Conclusion: CCAIMTmean may help to identify the population at intermediate cardiovascular risk. As an integrator of both conventional and genetic cardiovascular risk factors at the individual level, its additive value versus other risk scores must be evaluated, particularly in patients in their fourth and sixth decades.
Pediatric Supratentorial Subdural Empyemas: A Retrospective Analysis of 65 Cases
Authors: Banerjee Anirban Deep , Pandey Paritosh , Devi B. Indira , Sampath S. , Chandramouli B.A.
Published: February 2009

Aim: Intracranial subdural empyemas (SDEs), the majority of which are supratentorial in location, are common neurosurgical emergencies in developing countries, especially in the pediatric age group. They result in significant morbidity and mortality despite improvements in neuroimaging, surgical techniques and antibiotic therapy. In the present study, we retrospectively analyze our experience with operated cases of intracranial supratentorial SDEs in the pediatric age group. Patients and Methods: 65 pediatric patients (age ≤18 years) with supratentorial SDEs were treated in our institute between January 1988 and May 2006, and the case records analyzed with respect to clinical, radiological, bacteriological and surgical complications and outcome data. Results: There was a slight male preponderance (55%), with mean age being 9.54 ± 6.43 years (range 3 months to 18 years). Otogenic source was the most common identifiable etiology, followed by postmeningitic and rhinogenic sources. The initial surgical intervention, burr holes (44 patients; 67.7%) and craniotomy (21 patients; 32.3%), varied with individual cases and surgeon preference. Initial craniotomy was associated with lesser repeat procedures, and slightly better clinical outcome. The majority (83.3%) of patients with significant residual requiring repeat surgery were found to have undergone burr hole evacuation initially. The mortality rate in the present series was 10.8%. Follow-up was available for 41 patients (70.7%) with an average follow-up of 10.4 months. 88% of patients showed good outcomes (Glasgow Outcome Scores of 4 or 5) at the latest follow-up. Conclusion: Pediatric supratentorial SDEs, although rapidly fatal if not identified promptly, can be effectively managed with early surgical drainage (preferably craniotomy), eradication of the source, and sensitive broad-spectrum antibiotics (i.v.) with good outcomes.
Chiari Malformation Type III and Results of Surgery: A Clinical Study
Authors: Işik N. , Elmaci I. , Silav G. , Çelik M. , Kalelioğlu M.
Published: February 2009

Background: The characteristics of Chiari malformation type III and its treatment are evaluated in this study. Radiological and surgical findings were correlated and the benefits of the therapy are discussed. Methods: Eight patients (6 males, 2 females) with Chiari malformation type III were studied. All patients underwent surgery to remove encephalocele along with neural tissue and to repair the dura and the skin. Associated pathologies such as hydrocephalus, tethered cord syndrome and syringomyelia were also surgically treated. Follow-up was based on the evaluation of postoperative motor and mental development, as well as on magnetic resonance imaging findings. Results: Ventriculoperitoneal shunt malfunction in 2 patients was the only surgical complication. One patient died 10 days after the operation, 7 patients survived, and the outcome of 2 patients was quite poor because of severe mental retardation and neurological deficits at the beginning. In the remaining patients, motor and mental development was normal, and the neurological outcome was satisfactory. Conclusion: Surgery in the newborn period, initial severity of neurological deficits, the presence of intermittent apnoea, delayed treatment of hydrocephalus and the amount of neuronal tissue within the excised encephalocele were determined as unfavourable prognostic factors for the outcome. If the appropriate surgical procedure is done at the right time, the outcome of the Chiari malformation type III patient can be satisfactory with a low mortality rate.
Severely Symptomatic Craniovertebral Junction Abnormalities in Children
Authors: Giussani Carlo , Roux Franck-Emmanuel , Guerra Paolo , Pirillo David , Grimaldi Marco , Citerio Giuseppe , Sganzerla Erik P.
Published: February 2009

Objectives: The treatment of symptomatic cranio-vertebral junction (CVJ) instability in children affected by CVJ abnormalities is a challenge. A series of severely symptomatic children has been reviewed to understand the controversial long-term effectiveness of the aggressive management of CVJ abnormalities, in terms of clinical improvement, spinal stability and growth. Methods: Three Down syndrome patients, 1 with mucopolysaccharidosis and 1 with os odontoideum (range 3–6 years old) with a CVJ instability determining spinal cord compression with severe neurological deficits (the patients presented at admission a Ranawat III A/III B neurological condition), were consecutively treated at our institution. Medical records, imaging studies, adopted surgical techniques and long-term results were reviewed. Details of the presenting symptoms, clinical and radiological signs were compared to the signs and symptoms at follow-up. Results: The perioperative use of an halo-orthosis, the operative techniques and the timing of rehabilitation were always tailored to the patient’s anatomical features. All the patients showed remarkable neurological improvements, along with construct stability and bone fusion without abnormalities of the developing spine. Conclusions: Considering the effective long-term results, we recommend, even in severely symptomatic children with CVJ abnormalities, a multidisciplinary aggressive tailored treatment of instability with rigid internal fixation.
Spontaneous Intracranial Hemorrhage in Children
Authors: Kumar Raj , Shukla Dinesh , Mahapatra A.K.
Published: February 2009

Aim: Spontaneous intracranial hemorrhage (SICH) in children is relatively less common as compared to adults, and there are limited studies addressing this issue in children. In this study, we analyze the etiology, clinical features, treatment options and outcome assessment in this population. Material and Methods: Fifty consecutive patients of spontaneous intracerebral bleed, aged 18 years and below, were retrospectively analyzed based on medical records and radiographic images. Status of the patient at the final follow-up after discharge was considered as the outcome. Results: Age of patients ranged from 2 months to 17 years with higher predilection in males (M:F = 3:2). Presenting features were symptoms of raised intracranial pressure (70.0%), deterioration in sensorium (50.0%), limb weakness (36.0%) and seizures (28%). Arteriovenous malformation (AVM) was the most common cause of hemorrhage, and was found in 22 patients (44%), followed by cerebral aneurysm in 17 cases (34%), moyamoya disease in 3 cases (6%), and intracranial tumor, hematological disorders and unknown cause (possible vasculitis) were each found in 2 patients (4%). Treatment modalities consisted of: excision of AVM, aneurysm clipping, embolization, superficial temporal artery to middle cerebral artery bypass, tumor excision, hematoma evacuation and conservative management. Thirty-five patients (74%) had good outcome and 13 patients had poor outcome (26%). Conclusions: Aneurysm is an important cause of SICH, alongside AVM, which is the leading cause. Thorough investigation is necessary to elucidate the cause of bleed, which may otherwise be missed. Cerebellar bleed and late presentation were found to be associated with poor outcome. Age was not found to be associated with outcome.
Bilateral Uveitis Secondary to Bisphosphonate Therapy
Authors: Tan Yar Li , Sims Joanne , Chee Soon Phaik
Published: February 2009

Background/Aims: To highlight the potential ocular side effects of bisphosphonate therapy and the importance of a proper drug history in patients who present with uveitis. Methods: We report 2 cases of bilateral uveitis secondary to bisphosphonate therapy. Both patients were on nitrogen-containing bisphosphonates when they developed symptoms of bilateral anterior uveitis. A uveitis screen done in both cases was normal. Results: The uveitis in both patients resolved after discontinuation of the bisphosphonates, and there has been no recurrence of symptoms during the duration of the follow-up of 6 and 5 months, respectively. Conclusion: All patients receiving bisphosphonates who develop ocular signs and symptoms should be referred promptly to an ophthalmologist. The offending drug should be discontinued once the diagnosis is made, in order to prevent involvement of the contralateral eye and recurrent or chronic ocular inflammation. Patients who are susceptible to the nitrogen-containing bisphosphonates should be switched to the non-nitrogen-containing bisphosphonates.
Oxidative/Nitrative Modifications of Plasma Proteins and Thiols from Patients with Schizophrenia
Authors: Dietrich-Muszalska Anna , Olas Beata , Głowacki Rafal , Bald Edward
Published: February 2009

Objective: The level of various specific biomarkers of oxidative stress in plasma from schizophrenic patients, as well as biomarkers (the level of isoprostanes) in urine in schizophrenic patients was described. The aim of our present study was to evaluate biomarkers of oxidative stress by oxidative/nitrative modifications of plasma proteins (by measuring the level of carbonyl groups and 3-nitrotyrosine in proteins) from patients with schizophrenic disorders and from control group. We also investigated the level of low-molecular-weight thiols [glutathione (GSH), cysteine (CSH), cysteinylglycine (CGSH) and homocysteine] in plasma obtained from schizophrenic patients and from healthy volunteers. Patients hospitalized in the 1st and 2nd Psychiatric Department of the Medical University in Lodz, Poland were interviewed with a special questionnaire (treatment, course of diseases, dyskinesis and other extrapyramidal syndromes). According to DSM-IV criteria, all patients had a diagnosis of paranoid type. They were treated with antipsychotic drugs (clozapine, risperidone, olanzapine). The mean duration of schizophrenia was about 5 years. Methods: Levels of carbonyl groups and 3-nitrotyrosine residues in plasma proteins were measured by ELISA and a competition ELISA, respectively. High-performance liquid chromatography was used to analyze free thiols in plasma. Results: We observed a statistically increased level of biomarkers of oxidative/nitrative stress such as carbonyl groups or 3-nitrotyrosine in plasma proteins from schizophrenic patients. In schizophrenic patients the amount of homocysteine in plasma was higher compared with the control group; the level of GSH, CSH and CGSH was decreased. This indicates that reactive oxygen species and reactive nitrogen species may stimulate oxidative/nitrative modifications of plasma proteins in schizophrenic patients. Conclusion: Considering the data presented in this study, we suggest that the amount of carbonyl groups and 3-nitrotyrosine in plasma proteins may be important indicators of protein damage in vivo in schizophrenia.
Potential Effect of Olanzapine on Total Antioxidant Status and Lipid Peroxidation in Schizophrenic Patients
Authors: Al-chalabi Basil M. , Thanoon Imad A.J. , Ahmed Faris A.
Published: February 2009

Olanzapine is an atypical antipsychotic drug used in the treatment of schizophrenia. Controversial results have been obtained measuring different serum antioxidant enzymes and serum malondialdehyde (MDA) in schizophrenic patients treated with olanzapine. The aim of this study is to find the effect of olanzapine on total antioxidant status (TAS) and lipid peroxidation in schizophrenic patients. Thirty schizophrenic patients were treated orally with olanzapine (10–20 mg/day) for 2 months. Thirty healthy subjects were also included as a control group. Blood samples were taken from patients before and after olanzapine therapy, and analyzed for serum TAS and MDA. In schizophrenic patients, mean values of pretreatment serum TAS were significantly less (difference = 37.4% of control) than the control value, whereas serum MDA levels were significantly higher (difference = 176% of control) than the control values . Olanzapine treatment for 2 months significantly increased serum TAS levels (37.8%) and reduced serum MDA levels (22.2%) in comparison to respective pretreatment values. In conclusion, the data suggest that olanzapine therapy for 2 months at least partially ameliorates adverse effects on the antioxidant defense mechanism in schizophrenia.
Antidepressant-Induced Mood Conversions in Bipolar Disorder: A Retrospective Study of Tricyclic versus Non-Tricyclic Antidepressant Drugs
Authors: Koszewska Iwona , Rybakowski Janusz K.
Published: February 2009

Objectives: The aim of this retrospective study was an analysis of antidepressant-induced mood conversions to mania/hypomania occurring in bipolar inpatients treated with antidepressants in the Affective Disorder Unit of the Institute of Psychiatry and Neurology, Warsaw, in the years 1972–1996. Methods: The data for analysis were obtained retrospectively from clinical records. In a subgroup of patients prone to mood conversions, a comparison was done of depressive episodes treated with antidepressants with and without a switch to mania/hypomania as well as the frequency of mood conversions induced by particular antidepressant drugs, especially tricyclic (TCA) versus non-TCA drugs. Results: Among 333 bipolar patients hospitalized in this period, mood conversions were observed in 118 subjects, significantly more frequently in female (44%) than in male patients (25%), and in patients with depressive episode at the onset of illness (80 vs. 40%). Among mood converters, it was found that the depressive episodes with a switch to mania were less severe, shorter, and with shorter duration of antidepressant treatment. The risk of switching was higher during treatment with TCA than with non-TCA drugs (36 vs. 17%), the highest with amitriptyline (42% of treated episodes), imipramine (40%) and clomipramine (35%). Conclusions: Our results suggest that bipolar patients prone to mood conversion constitute one third of the inpatient population with this illness. The switch from depression to mania occurred significantly more frequently during treatment with TCA than with non-TCA drugs. It is hypothesized that anticholinergic activity may contribute to the higher frequency of TCA-induced mood conversions.
Platelet Serotonin Concentration in Children with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Authors: Hercigonja Novkovic Vesna , Rudan Vlasta , Pivac Nela , Nedic Gordana , Muck-Seler Dorotea
Published: February 2009

Background: Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a psychiatric disorder highly prevalent in children. The neurobiology of ADHD is still not clear, but is assumed to be related to disturbances in catecholaminergic and serotonergic (5-hydroxytryptamine, 5-HT) systems. Peripheral indices of central 5-HT function were shown in recent studies to be lower, unaltered, or increased in ADHD. Methods: The study determined platelet 5-HT concentration in 84 medication-free 9-year-old (range 4–14 years) boys and girls with DSM-IV diagnosis of ADHD, subdivided according to the different symptoms (inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity) and clinical ADHD subtypes (predominantly hyperactive, predominantly inattentive, and combined subtype), and in 30 age- and sex-matched healthy controls. Results: Children with ADHD had similar platelet 5-HT concentrations to control children. Platelet 5-HT concentration did not differ between boys and girls, or between children with a hyperactive, inattentive, or combined subtype of ADHD. In children with ADHD there was a significant positive correlation between platelet 5-HT concentration and impulsive symptoms, but not with symptoms of inattention or hyperactivity.Platelet 5-HT concentration wassignificantly higher in impulsive compared to non-impulsive children with ADHD. Conclusion: The data provide preliminary evidence that increased platelet 5-HT concentration might be a trait marker predictive of impulsivity in ADHD.
Tyrosine Hydroxylase and DOPA Decarboxylase Gene Variants in Personality Traits
Authors: Giegling Ina , Moreno-De-Luca Daniel , Calati Raffaella , Hartmann Annette M. , Möller Hans-Jürgen , De Ronchi Diana , Rujescu Dan , Serretti Alessandro
Published: February 2009

Personality influences several characteristics of normal and pathologic behaviors and it is associated with neurotransmitter systems that are under genetic control. The dopaminergic system has been proposed to play a role in the modulation of personality traits. In the present study, variants of the tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) and DOPA decarboxylase (DDC) genes (for TH: rs3842727, rs6356; for DDC: rs1451371, rs1470750, rs998850) were investigated in 111 suicide attempters and 289 healthy subjects to assess the involvement of the dopaminergic synthesis pathway in personality traits. No strong evidence was found for the associations between personality and TH or DDC in overall tests. An interaction effect of genotype and diagnosis was present, with TH and DDC SNPs having a greater effect on the respective personality dimensions in the group of suicide attempters. Because of the risk of false positives, these findings should be interpreted with highest caution. Direct replication attempts within independent groups of suicide attempters will help to resolve this question.
An Association of GRIK3 Ser310Ala Functional Polymorphism with Personality Traits
Authors: Minelli Alessandra , Scassellati Catia , Bonvicini Cristian , Perez Jorge , Gennarelli Massimo
Published: February 2009

Personality traits are under genetic control, and have been associated with genes implicated in dopaminergic, serotoninergic and noradrenergic neurotransmission systems, often with conflicting results. There have been few studies assessing the involvement of the glutamatergic pathway instead upon personality traits. In the gene family of glutamate receptors, there is a T/G polymorphism at codon 928 in the ionotropic glutamate receptor kainite 3 gene (GRIK3) that causes a serine to alanine change at position 310 in the extracellular N terminus of the protein. This polymorphism has been recently associated with susceptibility to some major psychoses such as major depression (MD). In order to test whether the functional Ser310Ala polymorphism is involved in the development of specific personality traits, and thus to MD, we conducted the first association study on 195 selected healthy Italian individuals. The personality traits were measured by the self-rating Temperament and Character Inventory (TCI) scale. The results indicated that the Ala allele in homozygosity is associated with higher scores in harm avoidance and respective subscales: anticipatory worry HA1 and shyness HA3, as well as lower scores in exploratory excitability NS1, responsibility SD1, resourcefulness SD3, helpfulness C3 and compassion C4 subscales, in addition to lower self-directedness and cooperativeness scores. This pattern of TCI scores is akin to that observed in depressed patients. Because of the small size of the sample, this work represents a pilot study, and reports the first pieces of evidence for a specific involvement of the GRIK3 gene in these traits, suggesting a role of the glutamatergic system in the genetic background of human personality traits.
Anatomy of the Ligamentum Venosum Arantii and Its Contribution to the Left Hepatic Vein and Common Trunk Control
Authors: Dahmane Raja , Morjane Abdelwaheb , Ravnik Dean , Hribernik Marija
Published: February 2009

Background: The control of the left hepatic vein (LHV) and the common trunk of the middle hepatic vein (MHV) and LHV (CT) is considered difficult during liver resection and could be improved by detailed knowledge on the ligamentum venosum Arantii (LV). Aim: The aim of this study was to describe the LV and its connections to the LHV and the CT and to present surgical relevance of the obtained data. Material and Methods: During autopsy of 50 cadavers of both sexes, the LV was exposed, measured and then dissected, simulating a surgical maneuver to facilitate the approach to the LHV and CT. The extrahepatic parts of the LHV, MHV and CT were measured. Results: The LV was 52–70 mm long and 5–8 mm thick. It had a fibrotic structure and was not patent in 96% of the cases. The extrahepatic part of the LHV measured 3–19 mm, that of the MHV 3–18 mm and that of the CT 4–15 mm. Conclusion: LV dissection facilitated extraparenchymatous clamping of the hepatic veins: the extrahepatic parts of the LHV and CT measured >3 mm in 86 and 84% of the cases, respectively.
New Index for Analysis of Polysomnography, ‘Integrated Area of Desaturation’, Is Associated with High Cardiovascular Risk in Patients with Mild to Moderate Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Authors: Asano Kihiro , Takata Yoshifumi , Usui Yasuhiro , Shiina Kazuki , Hashimura Yuki , Kato Kota , Saruhara Hirokazu , Yamashina Akira
Published: February 2009

Background: Although obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) severity is evaluated by the apnea-hypopnea index (AHI), the value of AHI in evaluating cardiovascular risks, especially in mild to moderate OSA, is unclear. Objectives: The purpose of this study is to evaluate the validity of a new index, the integrated area of desaturation (IAD), to detect the incidence of cardiovascular events (CVEs) in such patients. Methods: We enrolled 230 consecutive patients with mild to moderate OSA and 354 with severe OSA diagnosed by polysomnography, of whom 53 and 112, respectively, had CVEs. The IAD was calculated by dividing the area of desaturation by total sleep time in polysomnography. C-reactive protein (CRP) was also measured for all patients. Results: In the mild to moderate OSA patients, the mean IAD of the CVEs group was significantly higher than that of the non-CVE group (94.4 ± 82.7 vs. 62.3 ± 50.8, p = 0.001), whereas mean AHI and 3% oxygen desaturation index were similar in both groups. Multivariate analysis demonstrated that the IAD was an independent variable for CVEs (OR 1.006, 95% confidence interval 1.001–1.012, p = 0.031). Moreover, the IAD level of the high CRP group was significantly higher than that of the low CRP group (92.9 ± 84.8 vs. 63.9 ± 54.5, p = 0.009). There was no significant difference in AHI, IAD or other polysomnographic parameters in the severe OSA patients. Conclusions: IAD might be superior to AHI alone in the evaluation of the history of CVEs in mild to moderate OSA patients, and it deserves attention as a possible predictor of future CVEs.
New Findings in PiZZ α1-Antitrypsin Deficiency-Related Panniculitis
Authors: Gross B. , Grebe M. , Wencker M. , Stoller J.K. , Bjursten L.M. , Janciauskiene S.
Published: February 2009

Panniculitis is a recognized but unusual complication of a severe deficiency of α1-antitrypsin (AAT), with fewer than 100 cases described to date. Like the pathogenesis of emphysema in severe PiZZ deficiency of AAT, panniculitis has been hypothesized to be an inflammatory process, possibly related to Z AAT polymer formation and to an unopposed anti-inflammatory screen in the context of deficient serum levels of AAT. The current report presents a 31-year-old woman with PiZZ AAT deficiency-associated panniculitis. Our case extends current knowledge of AAT-associated panniculitis in 2 ways: (1) we demonstrate Z-type AAT polymers in the skin, which supports the inflammatory pathogenesis of panniculitis and the potential pro-inflammatory role of polymers; (2) we show that a high dose and long-term use of intravenous augmentation therapy (90 mg/kg body weight once weekly during 3 years) can ameliorate the frequency and severity of panniculitis associated with AAT deficiency.
Relationship between the CAG Repeat Polymorphism in the Androgen Receptor Gene and Acne in the Han Ethnic Group
Authors: Yang Zhi , Yu Haijing , Cheng Baowen , Tang Wenru , Dong Yongli , Xiao Chunjie , He Li
Published: February 2009

Background: The modulatory domain of the human androgen receptor (AR) gene contains a polymorphic CAG repeat coding for a polyglutamine tract which is inversely correlated with transcriptional activity of the AR. Androgens acting through the AR play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of acne vulgaris. We therefore investigated the relationship between CAG repeat polymorphism in the AR gene and acne susceptibility. Methods: 206 acne patients and 200 controls participated in the study. Genomic DNA was extracted from peripheral blood lymphocytes of individual patients, and the CAG repeat region was amplified by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) using fluorescence-labeled primers. Samples were then run on an ABI 377 gene scan analysis gel with an internal molecular-weight marker. Ten male samples were chosen randomly for sequencing to confirm the number of CAG repeats. The 2-sample independent t test was used to analyze the data. Results: The mean number of the CAG repeat in the AR was 22.07 (14–28) in the controls and 20.61 (13–26) in the male acne group. There was a significant correlation between the CAG repeat length and male acne. No significant difference was observed between female patients and their controls. Conclusion: The results suggest that the AR gene CAG repeat polymorphism may be one of the candidate genetic markers for male acne susceptibility in the Han population.
Association Study between Candidate Genes and Obesity-Related Phenotypes Using a Sample of Lumberjacks
Authors: Chamberland Annie , Tremblay Nancy , Audet Marc , Gilbert Bernard , Pérusse Louis , Vohl Marie-Claude , Laprise Catherine
Published: February 2009

Introduction: Complex traits such as obesity are modulated by genetic and environmental factors and lead to varied clinical presentations.The aim of this study was to investigate associations between candidate genes and obesity-related phenotypes using a sample of 252 lumberjacks issued from a founder population and sharing a common and circumscribed environment. Methods: Thirty-seven variants in 18 genes were genotyped. The restriction fragment length polymorphism method and the template-directed dye-terminator incorporation assay with fluorescence polarization detection were employed for the genotyping assays. Multivariate logistic regression models were built in order to calculate the relative odds of exhibiting obesity-related phenotypes associated with the presence of the studied polymorphism. Among them, 21 single nucleotide polymorphisms were tested for associations with obesity phenotypes. Results: Significant associations were found between carriers of the minor alleles of APOE-ε2, FABP2-A54T, UCP1-L229M, LPL-HindIII, LPL-S447X and LPL-T1973C, patients bearing a combination of LPL-D9N, LPL-N291S and LPL-P207L and obesity-related phenotypes. Conclusion: The present results suggest that a particular population such as lumberjacks, sharing the same environment, could help target genes involved in complex traits.
Perspectives in Applied Nematology
Authors: Hague Nigel
Published: February 2009

This article reflects the author's experience of research and changes in priorities over the last 50 years in four main areas: i) fumigants as nematicides; ii) non-volatile nematicides; iii) biological control of insects; and iv) training in nematology. The developments in each of these topics are discussed from a personal perspective and speculation is made on the future direction of these areas of applied research.
Short-term nematode population dynamics as influenced by the quality of exogenous organic matter
Authors: Leroy Ben , Reheul Dirk , Moens Maurice , Ferris Howard , De Sutter Nancy
Published: February 2009

The food specificity of nematodes, their high number of species and high abundance in every habitat where decomposition takes place, indicate that the structure of the nematode assemblage has a high information content. Since nematodes respond quickly to changes in soil management and since the nematode fauna can be efficiently analysed, the structure of the nematode assemblage offers an interesting instrument to assess changes in soil conditions. We studied the effect of five organic amendments on the short-term nematode population dynamics and compared them to minerally fertilised and unfertilised plots. The experiment was started in 2005, and samples were taken in spring and autumn 2006 and spring 2007. In spring 2006, no clear differences among treatments in the diversity of free-living nematodes were observed, probably since the organic amendments were applied only twice, of which the last application was carried out 7 months before the sampling. At the second and third sampling, the enrichment index in the organically amended plots was higher than in the unamended plots, owing to the organic matter application. However, in plots amended with farmyard manure and cattle slurry the number of bacterivores increased significantly, while in the compost plots the fungivorous nematodes tended to be higher. This resulted in a low channel index for the manure and slurry plots, indicating a predominant bacterial decomposition pathway, and a higher channel index in the compost plots, suggesting a greater proportion of fungal decomposition. These assumptions on the decomposition of the applied organic matter were strongly supported by the composition of the soil microbial community, determined through PLFA analysis: in the compost plots the bacteria to fungi ratio was lower than in the manure and slurry plots. At all sampling occasions there was a remarkably lower abundance of plant-parasitic nematodes in plots amended with slurry and manure, indicating a negative impact of both amendments on plant-parasitic nematodes. We can conclude from this study that the fertiliser regimes affected the nematode assemblage, but that more samplings in the future are certainly necessary to assess adequately the impact of the different organic amendments.
Malvinia crassa gen. n., sp. n. (Nematoda: Drilonematoidea) – a parasite of the acanthodrilid earthworm, Notiodrilus bovei, from the Falkland Islands
Authors: Ivanova Elena , Neuhaus Birger
Published: February 2009

A new species and genus of nematodes (Ungellidae, Drilonematoidea) parasitic in the coelomic cavity of Notiodrilus bovei deposited in the collection of the Museum für Naturkunde in Berlin, is described and illustrated. Malvinia crassa gen. n., sp. n. is characterised by its short, bloated, curved body tapering to both ends, paired, superficially attached cephalic hooks, short infundibular stoma, a pharynx comprising a pre-corpal bulb-like swelling, procorpus, isthmus and basal bulb, nerve ring encircling isthmus, excretory pore located posterior to the nerve ring, weakly cuticularised excretory duct, vulva, slightly post-median, short precloacal process in males, large grain-like spermatids, sperm in spermatheca ball-shaped, ca 20 μm diam., composed of smaller particles resembling spermatids; symmetrically placed, large, fimbriate caudal organs lacking a cavity, and absence of amphids, cephalic and male cloacal sensilla and post-uterine sac. Malvinia gen. n. is differentiated from all genera of the Ungellinae on the basis of its small size, vesiculate vs vermiform body shape, very long reflexed portion of testis and highly modified sperm. From the closest species of the genus Ungella, the new species differs by the presence vs absence of a stoma and pre-corpal swelling of the pharynx, structure of fimbriate caudal organs, larger spermatids in male and sperm in female spermatheca, and absence of lateral differentiation of the cuticle. A key to the genera of Ungellinae is proposed.