bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High‐resolution copy number and gene expression microarray analyses of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma cell lines of tongue and larynx
Authors: Järvinen Anna‐Kaarina , Autio Reija , Kilpinen Sami , Saarela Matti , Leivo Ilmo , Grénman Reidar , Mäkitie Antti A. , Monni Outi
Published: March 2008

Gene amplifications and deletions are frequent in head and neck
squamous cell carcinomas (SCC) but the association of these alterations with gene expression is mostly unknown. Here, we characterized genome‐wide copy number and gene expression changes on microarrays for 18 oral tongue SCC (OTSCC) cell lines. We identified a number of altered regions including nine high‐level amplifications such as 6q12‐q14 (CD109, MYO6), 9p24 (JAK2, CD274, SLC1A1, RLN1), 11p12‐p13 (TRAF6, COMMD9, TRIM44, FJX1, CD44, PDHX, APIP), 11q13 (FADD, PPFIA1, CTTN), and 14q24 (ABCD4, HBLD1, LTBP2, ZNF410, COQ6, ACYP1, JDP2) where 9% to 64% of genes showed overexpression. Across the whole genome, 26% of the amplified genes had associated overexpression in OTSCC. Furthermore, our data implicated that OTSCC cell lines harbored similar genomic alterations as laryngeal SCC cell lines we have previously analyzed, suggesting that despite differences in clinicopathological features there are no marked differences in molecular genetic alterations of these two HNSCC sites. To identify genes whose expression was associated with copy number increase in head and neck SCC, a statistical analysis for oral tongue and laryngeal SCC cell line data were performed. We pinpointed 1,192 genes that had a statistically significant association between copy number and gene expression. These results suggest that genomic alterations with associated gene expression changes play an important role in the malignant behavior of head and neck SCC. The identified genes provide a basis for further functional validation and may lead to the identification of novel candidates for targeted therapies. This article contains Supplementary Material available at http://www.interscience.wiley.com/jpages/1045‐2257/suppmat. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A randomised controlled trial of cognitive behaviour therapy vs treatment as usual in the treatment of mild to moderate late life depression
Authors: Laidlaw Ken , Davidson Kate , Toner Hugh , Jackson Graham , Clark Stella , Law Jim , Howley Mary , Bowie Gillian , Connery Hazel , Cross Susan
Published: March 2008

Objectives

This study provides an empirical evaluation of Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) alone vs Treatment as usual (TAU) alone (generally pharmacotherapy) for late life depression in a UK primary care setting.

Method

General Practitioners in Fife and Glasgow referred 114 Participants to the study with 44 meeting inclusion criteria and 40 participants providing data that permitted analysis. All participants had a diagnosis of mild to moderate Major Depressive Episode. Participants were randomly allocated to receive either TAU alone or CBT alone.

Results

Participants in both treatment conditions benefited from treatment with reduced scores on primary measures of mood at end of treatment and at 6 months follow‐up from the end of treatment. When adjusting for differences in baseline scores, gender and living arrangements, CBT may be beneficial in levels of hopelessness at 6 months follow‐up. When evaluating outcome in terms of numbers of participants meeting Research Diagnostic Criteria for depression, there were significant differences favouring the CBT condition at the end of treatment and at 3 months follow‐up after treatment.

Conclusions

CBT alone and TAU alone produced significant reductions in depressive symptoms at the end of treatment and at 6 months follow‐up. CBT on its own is shown to be an effective treatment procedure for mild to moderate late life depression and has utility as a treatment alternative for older people who cannot or will not tolerate physical treatment approaches for depression. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Immobilized recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein‐2 enhances the phosphorylation of receptor‐activated Smads
Authors: Yamachika Eiki , Tsujigiwa Hidetsugu , Shirasu Nobuaki , Ueno Takaaki , Sakata Yoshirou , Fukunaga Joji , Mizukawa Nobuyoshi , Yamada Masao , Sugahara Toshio
Published: March 2008

Bone morphogenetic protein (BMP)‐2 plays an important role in bone growth and regeneration; however, BMP‐2 is easily lost by diffusion through body fluid and has some inhibitory pathways. To address this problem, we previously immobilized recombinant human BMP‐2 (rhBMP‐2) on succinylated type I atelocollagen. Here, we examined the effect of immobilized rhBMP‐2 in vitro and vivo. In ST2, MC3T3‐E1, and C2C12 cells, alkaline phosphatase activity, which is a marker of osteoblast differentiation, was enhanced more by immobilized than nonimmobilized rhBMP‐2. In addition, the phosphorylation of receptor‐activated Smads, part of the signaling pathway activated by BMP‐2, was prolonged by immobilized rhBMP‐2 in these cells. Furthermore, implantation of immobilized rhBMP‐2 into the backs of rats promoted the formation of mature bone‐like structure. These results demonstrate that immobilized rhBMP‐2 has higher bioactivity than nonimmobilized rhBMP‐2, and, therefore, immobilization of rhBMP‐2 can prolong BMP signaling. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2009
Ordered tournaments and ordered triplewhist tournaments with the three person property
Authors: Abel R. J. R. , Ge Gennian
Published: March 2008

It is well known that an ordered tournament OWh(v) exists if and only ifv≡ 1 (mod 4),v≥ 5. An ordered triplewhist tournament onvplayers is said to have the three person property if no two games in the tournament have three common players. We briefly denote such a design as a 3POTWh(v). In this article, we show that a 3POTWh(v) exists whenever v>17 andv≡ 1 (mod 4) with few possible exceptions. We also show that an ordered whist tournament onvplayers with the three person property, denoted 3POWh(v), exists if and only ifv≡ 1 (mod 4),v≥ 9. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Combin Designs 17: 39–52, 2009
Rho plays a key role in TGF‐β1‐induced cytoskeletal rearrangement in human retinal pigment epithelium
Authors: Lee Jungeun , Ko Meekyung , Joo Choun‐Ki
Published: March 2008

Proliferative vitroretinopathy (PVR) is caused by retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cell proliferation and transformation into fibrotic cells that produce extracellular matrix (ECM) components. Transforming growth factor β1 (TGF‐β1) is known to play an important role in PVR pathogenesis. To determine how TGF‐β1 mediates the pathogenic changes in RPE cells, we characterized the effects of TGF‐β1 on the morphology, ECM accumulation, and stress fiber formation of ARPE‐19 cells, a human RPE cell line. We then elucidated the signaling pathways that mediate these effects. Serum‐starved ARPE‐19 cells were incubated with 10 ng/ml TGF‐β1 and their morphological changes were examined by phase‐contrast microscopy. Actin reorganization was examined by immunochemistry and confocal microscopy. Protein phosphorylation was analyzed by Western blot analysis. TGF‐β1 treatment induced cytoskeleton reorganization, α‐SMA expression, increased the phosphorylation of ERK, Smad2/3, and AKT, and activated RhoA and Rac1. Cytoskeletal rearrangement was prevented by pretreatment with a Rho inhibitor and by expression of a dominant negative form of Rho. TGF‐β1 also increased LIM kinase and cofilin phosphorylation and the Rho inhibitor blocked this effect. We propose that TGF‐β1 induces human RPE cells to undergo cytoskeletal actin rearrangement via Rho GTPase‐dependent pathways that modulate LIM kinase and cofilin activity. This inhibits actin depolymerization and induces the cytoskeletal rearrangements in RPE cells that result in the characteristic features of PVR. J. Cell. Physiol. 216: 520–526, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Characterization of microscope objective lenses from 1,400 to 1,650 nm to evaluate performance for long‐wavelength nonlinear microscopy applications
Authors: Keatings Stefanie Renaud , Zhang Wei , McConnell Gail
Published: March 2008

We have demonstrated a simple method for characterization of objective lens performance at longer wavelengths for 3PLSM and THG imaging. We investigated a range of air and oil‐immersion objective lenses across a wavelength range of 1,400–1,650 nm using a synchronously pumped optical parametric oscillator laser source. In the first instance, we investigated the percentage light transmission across this spectral range. Second, we used a simple second harmonic autocorrelation pulse measurement technique to study the dispersion properties of these lenses at the range of input wavelengths. For the objective lenses investigated, we observed pulse broadening on the order of around 4%–7% for air immersion lenses and 9%–12% for oil immersion lenses. Even for the greater dispersion incurred by the application of the oil immersion lenses, these objectives are suitable for longer wavelength application in conjunction with a suitable light source. The same techniques could easily be applied for a larger range of objective lenses and adapted for alternative spectral windows and pulse durations. Microsc. Res. Tech., 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Magnetic core model for circuit simulations including losses and hysteresis
Authors: Gruosso Giambattista , Brambilla Angelo
Published: March 2008

This paper presents a magnetic core model that accounts the effects due to nonlinearity, hysteresis and eddy currents. The model is suited to circuit simulation and can be implemented as a subcircuit. To test the proposed implementation the results obtained by simulating a power square wave generator (Royer oscillator) have been compared with measurements on a laboratory prototype. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Hepatectomy of segment 4a and 5 combined with extra‐hepatic bile duct resection for T2 and T3 gallbladder carcinoma
Authors: Kohya Naohiko , Miyazaki Kohji
Published: March 2008

Background

The prognosis of advanced gallbladder carcinoma (GBCa) remains unfortunate. However, the prognostic factors and the efficacy of extended resection remain unclear. The adequacy for extended resection for T2 and T3 GB Ca, according to the characteristics of either the clinicopathological factors or the prognostic factors, was evaluated.

Methods

A series of 73 patients with GBCa were treated after 1989. Tumor staging from the AJCC revealed 23 patients with T2 tumors, and 29 patients with T3 tumors, respectively.

Results

For T2 GB Ca, the patient group of extra‐hepatic bile duct resection (BDR) and the patient group of S4a + 5 hepatectomy S4a + 5 had significantly better survival rates. For T3 GB Ca, the patient group of BDR and S4a + 5 tend to have better survival rates. For both T2 and T3 GB Ca, either pancreatoduodenectomy (PD) or pylorus‐preserving pancreatoduodenectomy (PpPD) showed no significant difference in survival.

Conclusion

S4a + 5 combined with BDR and D2 lymph node dissection is a highly recommended operation for the treatment of T2 and T3 GB Ca. Further extension of the operation, such as the addition of PD (PpPD) or an extended hepatectomy, should be carefully modified for each individual according to the cancer spread mode. J. Surg. Oncol. 2008;97:498–502. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
What determines the profitability of foreign direct investment? A subsidiary‐level analysis of Japanese multinationals
Authors: Sakakibara Mariko , Yamawaki Hideki
Published: March 2008

This article identifies key factors that determine the profitability of Japanese firms abroad by using panel‐data regression models on new, large‐scale, subsidiary‐level data over the 1990–1996 period. The results show that the determinants of subsidiary profits differ across host regions, suggesting that the economic and institutional factors specific to host regions influence significantly the profit performances of overseas subsidiaries. While the size effect on the subsidiary profitability is present in all the regions, other effects, such as experience, local supplier networks, local sales and macroeconomic conditions affect the performance of subsidiaries in a different manner by region. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Playing football in a soccer field: value chain structures, institutional modularity and success in foreign expansion
Authors: Jacobides Michael G.
Published: March 2008

This paper suggests that an unrecognized determinant of global expansion is thestructure of the value chain, which is both country‐ and sector‐specific. Value chain structure evolves in a path‐dependent,country‐specificway. Differences in vertical structures between countries predict the extent to which firms in any segment can export their competitive advantage. For globalization to occur, firms must have an ‘institutionally modular’ product, which is not easy to achieve. Evidence from the mortgage banking industry suggests that increasing modularization and global convergence of value chain structures may be opening up new venues for globalization, especially in the service sector. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Regulatory reform and managerial choice: an analysis of the cost savings from airline deregulation
Authors: Peteraf Margaret , Reed Randal
Published: March 2008

This paper explores the question of how the differential exercise of managerial choice can facilitate organizational adaptation and improve efficiency over periods of regulatory change. We address this question in the context of the US airline industry, with a detailed decomposition of an airline cost function. Our findings suggest that managers employ choice in unconstrained domains to counteract the effects of constrained or pre‐determined choices. This is an adaptive mechanism that helps firms adjust to environmental change or maneuver over a rugged landscape. We view this as a type of dynamic managerial capability for achieving dynamic fit under changing conditions. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
FGF2 secreting human fibroblast feeder cells: A novel culture system for human embryonic stem cells
Authors: Saxena Shobhit , Hanwate Madhuri , Deb Kaushik , Sharma Vijay , Totey Satish
Published: March 2008

Human embryonic stem cell (hESC) lines are traditionally derived and maintained on mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEF) which are xenogeneic and enter senescence rapidly. In view of the clinical implications of hESCs, the use of human fibroblast as feeders has been suggested as a plausible alternative. However, use of fibroblast cells from varying sources leads to culture variations along with the need to add FGF2 in cultures to sustain ES cell pluripotency. In this study we report the derivation of FGF2 expressing germ layer derived fibroblast cells (GLDF) from hESC lines. These feeders could support the pluripotency, karyotypes and proliferation of hESCs with or without FGF2 in prolonged cultures as efficiently as that on MEF. GLDF cells were derived from embryoid bodies and characterized for expression of fibroblast markers by RT‐PCR, Immunofluorescence and by flow cytometry for CD marker expression. The expression and secretion of FGF2 was confirmed by RT‐PCR, Western blot, and ELISA. The hESC lines cultured on MEF and GLDF were analyzed for various stemness markers. These feeder cells with fibroblast cells like properties maintained the properties of hESCs in prolonged culture over 30 passages. Proliferation and pluripotency of hESCs on GLDF was comparable to that on mouse feeders. Further we discovered that these GLDF cells could secrete FGF2 and maintained pluripotency of hESC cultures even in the absence of supplemental FGF2. To our knowledge, this is the first study reporting a novel hESC culture system which does not warrant FGF2 supplementation, thereby reducing the cost of hESC cultures. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 75: 1523–1532 © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Evaluating uses of data mining techniques in propensity score estimation: a simulation study
Authors: Setoguchi Soko , Schneeweiss Sebastian , Brookhart M. Alan , Glynn Robert J. , Cook E. Francis
Published: March 2008

Background

In propensity score modeling, it is a standard practice to optimize the prediction of exposure status based on the covariate information. In a simulation study, we examined in what situations analyses based on various types of exposure propensity score (EPS) models using data mining techniques such as recursive partitioning (RP) and neural networks (NN) produce unbiased and/or efficient results.

Method

We simulated data for a hypothetical cohort study (n = 2000) with a binary exposure/outcome and 10 binary/continuous covariates with seven scenarios differing by non‐linear and/or non‐additive associations between exposure and covariates. EPS models used logistic regression (LR) (all possible main effects), RP1 (without pruning), RP2 (with pruning), and NN. We calculated c‐statistics (C), standard errors (SE), and bias of exposure‐effect estimates from outcome models for the PS‐matched dataset.

Results

Data mining techniques yielded higher C than LR (mean: NN, 0.86; RPI, 0.79; RP2, 0.72; and LR, 0.76). SE tended to be greater in models with higher C. Overall bias was small for each strategy, although NN estimates tended to be the least biased. C was not correlated with the magnitude of bias (correlation coefficient [COR] = −0.3, p = 0.1) but increased SE (COR = 0.7, p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Effect estimates from EPS models by simple LR were generally robust. NN models generally provided the least numerically biased estimates. C was not associated with the magnitude of bias but was with the increased SE. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Proteomics and genomics: A hypothesis‐free approach to the study of the role of visceral adiposity in the pathogenesis of the polycystic ovary syndrome
Authors: Escobar‐Morreale Héctor F. , Insenser María , Cortón Marta , Millán José L. San , Peral Belén
Published: March 2008

The polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is possibly the most common endocrine disorder in premenopausal women. The primary defect in PCOS consists of an exaggerated androgen secretion by the ovaries and the adrenal glands of affected women, which is amplified by several mechanisms including abdominal adiposity and insulin resistance. Abdominal adiposity contributes to hyperandrogenism by favoring insulin resistance and compensatory hyperinsulinism, because insulin facilitates ovarian and adrenal androgen synthesis, among other mechanisms. Furthermore, mounting evidence suggest that androgen excess may also contribute to a predominantly abdominal disposition of body fat in women, suggesting that women with PCOS suffer from a vicious circle whereby androgen excess favoring the abdominal deposition of fat further facilitates androgen secretion by the ovaries and adrenals. Familial aggregation of PCOS cases suggests an inherited component in PCOS, yet the genetic mechanisms underlying this inheritance remain elusive. The present manuscript reviews the hypothesis‐free approaches – such as genomics and proteomics – that have been used recently to study PCOS, focusing on studies from our group addressing the gene expression profiles and the proteome of visceral adipose tissue of morbidly obese women presenting with or without PCOS.
Human pathogenic streptococcal proteomics and vaccine development
Authors: Cole Jason N. , Henningham Anna , Gillen Christine M. , Ramachandran Vidiya , Walker Mark J.
Published: March 2008

Gram‐positive streptococci are non‐motile, chain‐forming bacteria commonly found in the normal oral and bowel flora of warm‐blooded animals. Over the past decade, a proteomic approach combining 2‐DE and MS has been used to systematically map the cellular, surface‐associated and secreted proteins of human pathogenic streptococcal species. The public availability of complete streptococcal genomic sequences and the amalgamation of proteomic, genomic and bioinformatic technologies have recently facilitated the identification of novel streptococcal vaccine candidate antigens and therapeutic agents. The objective of this review is to examine the constituents of the streptococcal cell wall and secreted proteome, the mechanisms of transport of surface and secreted proteins, and describe the current methodologies employed for the identification of novel surface‐displayed proteins and potential vaccine antigens.
XPS and TOF‐SIMS study of the distribution of Li ions in thin films of vanadium pentoxide after electrochemical intercalation
Authors: Castle James E , Decker Franco , Salvi Anna Maria , Martin Frantz A , Donsanti Frederique , Ibris Neluta , Alamarguy David
Published: March 2008

The intercalation of vanadium pentoxide by lithium ions leads to a change in optical properties, a process that is of value in thin‐film electrochromic devices. The extent of intercalation can be measured, electrochemically, from the charge capacity of the film and, is in good agreement with that determined in the outermost layers by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), when intercalation occurs homogeneously through the film thickness. SIMS profiles of V2O5‐deposited on ITO‐glass coupons have allowed examination of the interface between these layers and in prior work showed a marked build up of Li in this interphase. Investigation of the distribution of lithium within the interphase showed it to be present in parts of the testpiece that were not immersed in the electrolyte used for Li insertion. In this work we have tested the suggestion that the lithium found in the interface can be introduced, during intercalation, via the exposed edge of the V2O5/ITO interface at the periphery of the sample. A series of intercalation cycles using modified cells to expose either: a) the periphery; or b) the centre; of the thin film have been carried out. The distribution of lithium after intercalation has been examined using a combination of ToF‐SIMS and XPS. XPS showed lithium in the film to be related only to the immersed regions of the testpiece whilst SIMS profiles confirmed the widespread distribution of Li through the interface, only when an edge was exposed. We work confirms an important influence of an unsealed edge when samples are produced by cutting from larger glass plates. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Encapsulating targeted component abstractions using software Reflexion Modelling
Authors: Buckley Jim , LeGear Andrew P. , Exton Chris , Cadogan Ross , Johnston Trevor , Looby Bill , Koschke Rainer
Published: March 2008

Design abstractions such as components, modules, subsystems or packages are often not made explicit in the implementation of legacy systems. Indeed, often the abstractions that are made explicit turn out to be inappropriate for future evolution agendas. This can make the maintenance, evolution and refactoring of these systems difficult. In this publication, we carry out a fine‐grained evaluation of Reflexion Modelling as a technique for encapsulating user‐targeted components. This process is a prelude to component recovery, reuse and refactoring. The evaluation takes the form of twoin vivocase studies, where two professional software developers encapsulate components in a large, commercial software system. The studies demonstrate the validity of this approach and offer several best‐use guidelines. Specifically, they argue that users benefit from having a strong mental model of the system in advance of Reflexion Modelling, even if that model is flawed, and that users should expend effort exploring the expected relationships present in Reflexion Models. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Performing operational release planning, replanning and risk analysis using a system dynamics simulation model
Authors: Al‐Emran Ahmed , Pfahl Dietmar
Published: March 2008

Software release planning takes place on strategic and operational levels. Strategic release planning aims at assigning features to subsequent releases such that technical, resource, risk and budget constraints are met. Operational release planning focuses on the development of a single software release. Its purpose is to assign resources to feature development tasks such that total release duration is minimized under given process and project constraints. Replanning becomes necessary on the operational level because of addition or deletion of features during release development, due to changes in the workforce, or due to changes in process and project constraints. The allocation of resources to feature development tasks depends on the accurate estimation of planning parameters like task size, developer productivity or dependencies between task types. Risk analysis can help assess the reliability of a chosen release plan due to variation in these dependencies. In this article, we present elements of a simulation‐based methodology to planning, replanning and risk analysis of software releases on an operational level. Even though there exist approaches addressing these three aspects individually, our proposed approach combines all of them into one single package and, hence, offers stronger support to decision makers. The core element of the methodology is the process simulation model REPSIM‐2 (Release Plan Simulator, Version 2). We describe the functionality of REPSIM‐2 and illustrate its usefulness for planning, replanning and risk analysis through application scenarios. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Evidence‐Based Assessment of the Role of Ultrasonography in the Management of Benign Thyroid Nodules
Authors: Morris Lilah F. , Ragavendra Nagesh , Yeh Michael W.
Published: March 2008

Background

Although ultrasonographic (US) evaluation is currently recommended for the workup of all palpable thyroid nodules, little guidance exists regarding the manner in which US data are to be used. Herein, we examine the available evidence and recommend how US can be used most effectively to predict malignancy. We discuss the role of US‐guided fine needle aspiration (FNA) and other special topics regarding US evaluation and management of benign nodules.

Methods

We also present a systematic review of the literature using evidence‐based criteria.

Results

US features alone cannot predict malignancy or benignity, but techniques that combine US features and FNA cytology are most effective and most accurate for predicting malignancy (Level III and IV evidence). US features suggesting malignancy include a blurred or ill‐defined margin, irregular shape, solid echo structure, hypoechogenicity, absent halo, fine calcifications, and intranodular vascular pattern. Most patients with malignancies have more than two US features characteristic of malignancy. US‐guided FNA has nonsignificantly higher sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy than the palpation‐guided technique (Level III and IV evidence). US guidance is particularly beneficial in patients with nonpalpable, multiple, or heterogeneous nodules for preferentially aspirating a specific segment of the nodule (large or partially cystic nodule) or when nodule palpation is difficult (patients with diffuse glandular disease or obesity).

Conclusions

US is an essential component of thyroid nodule evaluation and management. Techniques that combine US features and FNA cytology for thyroid nodule workup are more accurate than either technique alone. US‐guided FNA can decrease the rate of nondiagnostic aspirates.
Increase in Bone Mineral Density after Successful Parathyroidectomy for Tertiary Hyperparathyroidism after Renal Transplantation
Authors: Collaud Stéphane , Staub‐Zähner Tania , Trombetti Andrea , Clerici Thomas , Marangon Nicola , Binet Isabelle , Myers Patrick O. , Rizzoli René , Martin Pierre‐Yves , Robert John H. , Triponez Frederic
Published: March 2008

Background

Few studies have reported changes of bone mineral density (BMD) after parathyroidectomy in patients with persistent hyperparathyroidism after renal transplantation (3 HPT).

Patients and Methods

We retrospectively analyzed 14 patients who underwent successful parathyroidectomy for 3 HPT and who had available BMD data before and after parathyroidectomy.

Results

Median follow‐up time was 26 months (IQR: 16.8–40.2). Serum calcium levels decreased significantly after parathyroidectomy (2.32 ± 0.09 versus 2.66 ± 0.16 mmol/l; p < 0.01), as did PTH levels (5.1 ± 3.0 versus 27.8 ± 23.7 pmol/l; p < 0.01). Nine patients (64%) had a steroid‐free immunosuppression at follow‐up. Mean increase in BMD was 9.5 ± 8.0% for the spine and 9.5 ± 7.9% for the hip (p < 0.01 for both sites). Patients with osteoporosis (T‐score ≤ 2.5) or osteopenia (T‐score ≤ 1) before parathyroidectomy had the biggest increase in BMD (10.7 ± 7.7% in hip BMD and of 12.3 ± 8.1% in spine BMD).

Conclusions

Parathyroidectomy is an efficient treatment of osteoporosis and osteopenia in patients with 3 HPT.
Functional Outcome After Redo Below‐Knee Amputation
Authors: Stasik Chad N. , Berceli Scott A. , Nelson Peter R. , Lee W. Anthony , Ozaki C. Keith
Published: March 2008

Background

Nonhealing below‐knee amputation (BKA) necessitates redo BKA or conversion to above‐knee amputation (AKA). Outcomes after redo BKA remain poorly defined. We hypothesized that in selected patients redo BKA results in favorable functional outcomes.

Methods

Patients undergoing redo BKA at a single institution during 4 years were reviewed. A concurrent cohort proceeding directly to ipsilateral AKA served as comparative controls.

Results

Of 138 BKAs, 23 (17%) failed to heal primarily. Baseline demographics and medical comorbidities were similar between groups. Clinicians selected 14 for redo BKA and 9 for ipsilateral AKA. Eight (57%) of those undergoing redo BKA had a history of minor stump trauma and 13 (93%) had a palpable popliteal pulse, compared with no trauma (P = 0.007) and 4 (44%, P = 0.018) palpable popliteal pulses in the AKA group. Functionally, 86% of redo‐BKA patients returned home, all eventually healed, and 86% walked, whereas none in the AKA group walked.

Conclusions

In selected patients, redo BKA yields excellent functional outcomes. A history of minor stump trauma and a palpable popliteal pulse favor redo BKA compared with conversion to AKA.
Fortschritt in der Pathogenese des Marfan-Syndroms und verwandter Krankheiten
Authors: Callewaert B.L. , De Paepe A.M.
Published: March 2008

Hereditäre Erkrankungen des Bindegewebes bilden eine heterogene Gruppe von Krankheiten, die auf einer gestörten extrazellulären Matrix beruhen. Ein ausgeprägtes kardiovaskuläres Risiko begleitet viele dieser Krankheiten und führt zu erhöhter Morbidität und Mortalität im Kindes- und im Erwachsenenalter. Marfan-Syndrom und verwandte Erkrankungen gehören zu den wichtigsten Beispielen von Bindegewebskrankheiten mit kardiovaskulären Manifestationen. Insbesondere die fortschreitende Dilatation der Aortenwurzel resultiert in Aortenaneurysma und -dissektion, die oft einen vorzeitigen Tod zur Folge haben. Fortschritte in der klinischen molekularen Forschung während der letzten 10 Jahre haben das vorherrschende Konzept dieser Syndrome als Strukturdefekte des Bindegewebes in Krankheiten mit gestörten Zytokinsignalwegen mit einem breiten Spektrum von Entwicklungsanomalien erweitert. Neue Einsichten haben neue unerwartete Ziele für Ansätze von kausalen Therapien aller Aneurysmasyndrome geschaffen, auch für die häufigen, nicht syndromalen Aneurysmaformen.
Cardiac resynchronisation as a rescue therapy in patients with catecholamine‐dependent overt heart failure: Results from a short and mid‐term study
Authors: Milliez Paul , Thomas Olivier , Haggui Abdeddayem , Schurando Patrick , Squara Pierre , Cohen‐Solal Alain , Mebazaa Alexandre , Leenhardt Antoine
Published: March 2008

Background:

Cardiac resynchronisation therapy (CRT) is a validated treatment for heart failure (HF) patients in NYHA class III–IV despite optimal medical therapy. We aimed to assess the beneficial effects of CRT in patients with catecholamine‐dependent overt HF (CDOHF).

Methods:

We studied 20 CDOHF patients who had undergone CRT implantation. Patients had a mean baseline QRS duration of 174–25 ms and/or echocardiographic asynchrony, and LVEF of 18–3%. Mean follow‐up was 18–12 months. Dependence on catecholamine agents was defined as the inability to stop or reduce drug infusion without re‐occurrence of hypotension, low urine output and hypoxaemia.

Results:

After CRT implantation, catecholamine agents were mostly withdrawn within 2days and blood pressure, urine output and BNP rapidly improved within 24h. During follow‐up, survival rates were 85% at 3months, 80% at 6months and 55% at 18 months. Among the 9 deaths, 5 were related to overt HF, 3 to sudden cardiac death and 1 to non‐cardiac death. LVEF improved from 18±3% to 21±4% three months after CRT implantation.

Conclusion:

“Rescue” CRT implantation in CDOHF patients allowed a rapid and successful catecholamine weaning in all studied patients. Furthermore, this immediate beneficial effect is sustained for more than one year in surviving patients.
The transmembrane topology of Batten disease protein CLN3 determined by consensus computational prediction constrained by experimental data
Authors: Nugent Timothy , Mole Sara E. , Jones David T.
Published: March 2008

The CLN3 gene encodes an integral membrane protein of unknown function. Mutations in CLN3 can cause juvenile neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis, or Batten disease, an inherited neurodegenerative lysosomal storage disease affecting children. Here, we report a topological study of the CLN3 protein using bioinformatic approaches constrained by experimental data. Our results suggest that CLN3 has a six transmembrane helix topology with cytoplasmic N and C‐termini, three large lumenal loops, one of which may contain an amphipathic helix, and one large cytoplasmic loop. Surprisingly, varied topological predictions were made using different subsets of orthologous sequences, highlighting the challenges still remaining for bioinformatics.
Anticipated and perceived pain from midtrimester amniocentesis
Authors: Karasahin Emre , Gungor Sadettin , Goktolga Umit , Keskin Ugur , Gezginc Kazim , Baser Iskender
Published: March 2008

Objective

To evaluate the anticipated and perceived pain and determine the factors contributing to pain perception in women undergoing midtrimester amniocentesis.

Methods

A visual analog scale was used to quantify pain in this prospective study of 64 women undergoing amniocentesis in the same clinical setting. The analysis was done using the paired‐samples t test, analysis of variance, the Kruskal–Wallis test, the Mann–Whitney U test, and Pearson correlation analysis.

Results

The postprocedural pain scores were significantly less than the preprocedural pain scores (P < 0.01). Parity, a previous amniocentesis, the indication for amniocentesis, and the previous loss of a child were factors contributing to pain scores. No correlations were found between pain score and maternal age, week of pregnancy at the time of the procedure, parity, or having lost a child.

Conclusion

The perceived pain was less than the anticipated pain, and the factors contributing to pain should be kept in mind when counseling patients undergoing midtrimester amniocentesis.
Early oral hydration after cesarean delivery performed under regional anesthesia
Authors: Mulayim Baris , Celik Nilufer Y. , Kaya Serdar , Yanik Filiz F.
Published: March 2008

Objective

To establish an early, safe, and well‐tolerated time to start oral hydration after cesarean delivery.

Methods

A prospective randomized trial of women delivered by cesarean under regional anesthesia at Alanya Research and Medical Center, Turkey, between 2005 and 2006. A clear liquid drink was given to 100 women in the early oral intake (EOI) group 2 hours after surgery, and to 100 women in the delayed oral intake (DOI) group 8 hours after surgery. If the drink was tolerated, solid foods were then given gradually.

Result

In the EOI and DOI groups, respectively, the mean time for the return of bowel movements was 4.4 ± 1.9 h vs 6.3 ± 2.4 h; mean time elapsed until initial passage of flatus was 12.1 ± 5.5 h vs 24.1 ± 6.0 h; and mean duration of hospitalization was 29.6 ± 5.5 h vs 44.6 ± 6.8 h (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Following cesarean delivery under regional anesthesia, oral hydration given as early as 2 hours after the operation is safe and well tolerated.
Traces of dammed paleolake activity in the main valley relief and fill in the south of the Irkutsk amphitheater
Authors: Arzhannikova A.V. , Arzhannikov S.G. , Akulova V.V.
Published: March 2008

Thick sand-argillaceous deposits filling the paleorelief roughness are widespread in the south of the Irkutsk amphitheater. The origin of these deposits is still debatable: Some researchers relate them to eolian processes, and others consider them sediments of a dammed paleolake. A series of sand-argillaceous sections was studied in order to refine the genesis of deposits in the area of possible flooding. Results of these studies and laboratory analyses of the deposits argue for their lacustrine genesis and a drastic change in sedimentation conditions during the early formation of the paleolake. The tectonically induced instantaneous Badarma landsliding to the Angara River valley is assumed to have caused the damming of the main rivers in the study area.
Geochemical distinctions between “crustal” and mantle-derived peridotites/pyroxenites in high/ultrahigh pressure metamorphic complexes
Authors: Reverdatto V.V. , Selyatitskiy A.Yu. , Carswell D.A.
Published: March 2008

Basic and ultrabasic rocks in high- and ultrahigh-pressure collision belts can provide important petrological information. Mantle-derived and “crustal” peridotites and pyroxenites are recognized among these rocks in Phanerozoic orogenic zones. The former were emplaced as mantle magma intrusions or tectonically transferred solid fragments of mantle material in the deeply subsided lithosphere, while the latter are shallow complexes of dikes and sills, which were altered and metamorphosed during subduction process. Both rock types were later exhumed at the Earth’s surface. For geochemical comparison of these types, four groups of rocks were chosen: two sample sets of mantle-derived rocks and two sets of crustal rocks. The mantle-derived rocks include a set of spinel and garnet peridotites of alpine-type bodies from the Eastern and Western Alps and the Ronda massif in Spain as well as a set of pyroxenites from the Eastern Alps. The “crustal” rocks include a set of garnet and spinel peridotites from the Kokchetav massif, northern Kazakhstan, and garnet peridotites from the Western Gneiss Region, western Norway, together with a set of pyroxenites from the Kokchetav massif. Geochemical investigation has revealed that mantle-derived peridotites are characterized, as a rule, by high contents of MgO (35–46 wt.%), Cr (1750–12,770 ppm), and Ni (900–2500 ppm), low contents of FeO (5–10 wt.%), TiO2 (0.01–0.3 wt.%), Zr (0.002–1.2 ppm), Nb (0.001–0.3 ppm), Sm (0.003–0.5 ppm), La (0.005–1 ppm), and Yb (0.006–0.54 ppm), and the total content of REE equal to 0.06–5.2 ppm. Mantle-derived pyroxenites contain 27–35 wt.% MgO, 2300–3300 ppm Cr, 5.5–9 wt.% FeO, 0.02–0.08 wt.% TiO2, 0.2–1.4 ppm Zr, 0.007–0.06 ppm Nb, 0–0.13 ppm Sm, 0.007–0.23 ppm La, 0.02–0.2 ppm Yb, and 0.05–1.6 ppm total REE. “Crustal” peridotites are characterized by high contents of FeO (12–25 wt.%), TiO2 (0.64–2.6 wt.%), Zr (33–179 ppm), Nb (3.4–13.8 ppm), Sm (0.7–4 ppm), La (1–8 ppm), Yb (0.8–3.3 ppm), and total REE (11.5–48 ppm) as well as by comparatively low contents of MgO (15–26 wt.%), Cr (79–244 ppm), and Ni (450–730 ppm). “Crustal” pyroxenites contain 6–21.5 wt.% MgO, 90–230 ppm Cr, 11–21 wt.% FeO, 0.7–1.3 wt.% TiO2, 45–493 ppm Zr, 1–8 Nb, 1.6–4.3 ppm Sm, 4.7–14 ppm La, 1.3–7.4 ppm Yb, and 27–80 ppm total REE. These data permit us to develop D. Carswell’s idea of distinctions between the mantle-derived and “crustal” peridotites and suggest some promising geochemical criteria. The criteria are based on distinctions between the contents of MgO, FeO, TiO2, Cr, Ni, Zr, Nb, REE, etc. in peridotites and pyroxenites. Binary MgO–Cr, FeO–TiO2, La–Yb, Lu–Nd, Eu–Gd, and Sm–ΣREE diagrams give an opportunity to discriminate the compositions in detail and are the most appropriate for practical use. The obtained information may be helpful in understanding the nature of protoliths when studying mafic/ultramafic granulites in high-grade metamorphic rocks.
Radioactive pollution of the Baikal area as a result of nuclear ground tests
Authors: Chernyago B.P. , Nepomnyashchikh A.I.
Published: March 2008

Results of analyses for 137Cs in soils sampled in more than 800 localities have shown that the Baikal area pollution is much contributed by local radioactive fallout from the Semipalatinsk nuclear ground tests. We studied the effect of the amount of atmospheric precipitation and the types of landscapes and soils on the content of 137Cs in regional soils. Local radioactive fallout is confirmed by the total beta activity of daily atmospheric precipitation measured at regional weather stations.
Cartilage tympanoplasty: literature review
Authors: Yung M
Published: March 2008

There has been renewed interest in the use of cartilage for middle-ear reconstructions. The aim of the present review is to examine the indications, techniques and surgical outcomes of cartilage tympanoplasties reported in the literature. There have been concerns regarding weakening of cartilage struts, from histological studies involving explants; as a result, cartilage struts for ossiculoplasty have not gained popularity. On the other hand, cartilage tympanoplasty is now an established procedure for tympanic membrane and attic reconstruction. The commonest techniques involve cartilage palisades and composite cartilage–perichondrial island grafts. There are many variations on the shape, size and thickness of the cartilage grafts. The perceived benefit of cartilage tympanoplasty is to prevent retraction pockets at the grafted site, even though many otologists accept that this technique may not deal with the causal factors involved in the retraction process. Concerns that the stiffness and mass of cartilage grafts may adversely affect hearing have not been substantiated in clinical reports thus far.
Consequences of a severe drought associated with an El Niño-Southern Oscillation on a light-attracted leaf-beetle (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae) assemblage in Borneo
Authors: Kishimoto-Yamada Keiko , Itioka Takao
Published: March 2008

The El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) phenomenon occurs irregularly and supra-annually at intervals of 2–7 y (Hughen et al. 1999, McPhaden et al. 2006), and is the strongest source of supra-annual climate fluctuation (Hughen et al. 1999, Philander 1990). During ENSO, the interior of the South-East Asian tropics, which is characterized by constant high temperature and no distinct dry season, experiences severe drought (Walsh 1996).
Local and continental correlates of the abundance of a neotropical cat, the ocelot (Leopardus pardalis)
Authors: Di Bitetti Mario S. , Paviolo Agustín , De Angelo Carlos D. , Di Blanco Yamil E.
Published: March 2008

As top predators, wild cats play a key ecological role in tropical forests, but little is known about the factors that regulate their abundance. This study looked for correlates of ocelot (Leopardus pardalis) abundance at two spatial scales. First, camera-trap surveys conducted in the Atlantic Forest of Misiones, Argentina, were used to test the hypothesis that selective logging and poaching affect the local abundance of this cat. Second, published density estimates (N = 21) were used to test the hypothesis that rainfall and latitude are correlated with the abundance of ocelots across their continental range. In Misiones, ocelot densities ranged from 4.96 ± 1.33 individuals per 100 km2in the intensely logged and hunted areas to 17.6 ± 2.25 individuals per 100 km2in areas with low human impact. The frequency of records, number of individuals recorded per station, and density estimates were 2–3 times higher in areas with relatively low levels of logging and poaching. At a continental scale, ocelot densities decrease with latitude and increase with rainfall. Primary productivity seems to determine the abundance of wild cats across their range, but at a local scale their abundance may be affected by logging and poaching or by competition with other species.
Water management reform and the choice of contractual form in China
Authors: HUANG QIUQIONG , ROZELLE SCOTT , MSANGI SIWA , WANG JINXIA , HUANG JIKUN
Published: March 2008

This paper explains the puzzling fact that in organizing the management of surface water, village leaders have provided incentives to canal managers in some areas, but not in all. Our study indicates that the optimal contractual choice depends on the relative abilities of the leader and the manager, the design of the cultivated land, the characteristics of the canal system and the opportunity costs of the leader and the pool of managerial candidates. The unifying mechanism is the relative change in the ability of the leader and manager to perform the unmarketable activities that are needed to provide irrigation services.
On the Experimental Use of Light Metal Salts for Negative Staining
Authors: Massover William H.
Published: March 2008

All common negative stains are salts of heavy metals. To remedy several technical defects inherent in the use of heavy metal compounds, this study investigates whether salts of the light metals sodium, magnesium, and aluminum can function as negative stains. Screening criteria require aqueous solubility at pH 7.0, formation of a smooth amorphous layer upon drying, and transmission electron microscope imaging of the 87-Å (8.7-nm) lattice periodicity in thin catalase crystals. Six of 23 salts evaluated pass all three screens; detection of the protein shell in ferritin macromolecules indicates that light metal salts also provide negative staining of single particle specimens. Appositional contrast is less than that given by heavy metal negative stains; image density can be raised by increasing electron phase contrast and by selecting salts with phosphate or sulfate anions, thereby adding strong scattering from P or S atoms. Low-dose electron diffraction of catalase crystals negatively stained with 200 mM magnesium sulfate shows Bragg spots extending out to 4.4 Å. Future experimental use of sodium phosphate buffer and magnesium sulfate for negative staining is anticipated, particularly in designing new cocktail (multicomponent) negative stains able to support and protect protein structure to higher resolution levels than are currently achieved.
T Lymphocyte Migration to Lymph Nodes Is Maintained during Homeostatic Proliferation
Authors: Kodera Masanari , Grailer Jamison J. , Karalewitz Andrew P-A. , Subramanian Hariharan , Steeber Douglas A.
Published: March 2008

The immune system maintains appropriate cell numbers through regulation of cell proliferation and death. Normal tissue distribution of lymphocytes is maintained through expression of specific adhesion molecules and chemokine receptors such as L-selectin and CCR7, respectively. Lymphocyte insufficiency or lymphopenia induces homeostatic proliferation of existing lymphocytes to increase cell numbers. Interestingly, homeostatic proliferation of T lymphocytes induces a phenotypic change from naïve- to memory-type cell. Naïve T cells recirculate between blood and lymphoid tissues whereas memory T cells migrate to nonlymphoid sites such as skin and gut. To assess effects of homeostatic proliferation on migratory ability of T cells, a murine model of lymphopenia-induced homeostatic proliferation was used. Carboxyfluorescein diacetate, succinimidyl ester-labeled wild-type splenocytes were adoptively transferred into recombination activation gene-1-deficient mice and analyzed by flow cytometry,in vitrochemotactic andin vivomigration assays, and immunofluorescence microscopy. Homeostatically proliferated T cells acquired a mixed memory-type CD44highL-selectinhighCCR7lowphenotype. Consistent with this, chemotaxis to secondary lymphoid tissue chemokinein vitrowas reduced by 22%–34%. By contrast, no differences were found for migration or entry into lymph nodes duringin vivomigration assays. Therefore, T lymphocytes that have undergone homeostatic proliferation recirculate using mechanisms similar to naïve T cells.