bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Correlation between the Parameters of Signal‐Averaged ECG and Two‐Dimensional Echocardiography in Patients with Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Park Yongwhi , Cho Yongkeun , Lee Dong‐Yeub , Jang Gui‐Lyen , Lee Hyunsang , Yang Dong Heon , Park Hun‐Sik , Chae Shung‐Chull , Jun Jae‐Eun , Park Wee‐Hyun
Published: January 2009

Background: The correlation between parameters of two‐dimensional echocardiography and signal‐averaged ECG (SAECG) in patients with arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC) is not known well.

Methods: Thirty‐three patients (13 females, 40.3 ± 14.4 years old) were included in this study. Both the right and left ventricular dimensions and systolic function were assessed with two‐dimensional echocardiography. The SAECG was performed with high‐gain amplification and filtered using bidirectional Butterworth filters between 40 and 250 Hz. We evaluated the correlation between the parameters of the SAECG and two‐dimensional echocardiography.

Results: The right ventricular (RV) outflow tract was the most frequently (n = 18, 54%) involved segment. Six (18%) patients had only mildly decreased RV systolic function. All the other patients had normal RV systolic function. Although localized left ventricular wall motion abnormalities were observed in 14 (42%) patients, the left ventricular ejection fraction was normal in most (n = 32, 97%). Late potentials were positive in 22 (63%) patients. There was no significant correlation between parameters of the SAECG and two‐dimensional echocardiography for the entire patient population.

Conclusions: The SAECG parameters exhibited no correlation to any of two‐dimensional echocardiography parameters in the patients with ARVC. Fragmented electrical activity may develop with no significant relation to the anatomical changes in the patients with ARVC.
Not Another Formula for Heart Rate Correction of QT Interval
Authors: Bourdillon Peter J.
Published: January 2009

Background: Normal limits for QT and heart rate were developed in a Japanese population undergoing 24 hour recordings of the electrocardiogram (ECG). The purpose of this study is to validate these normal limits in a West London population having 12‐lead ECGs.

Methods: A retrospective observational cohort of 10,099 patients aged 20–79 attending a hospital ECG department was studied. From the Japanese data z‐scores were calculated for men under 50, for men over 50, for women under 50 and for women over 50. z‐scores were used to compare the West London and Japanese populations.

Results: Cardiac infarction injury scores (CIIS) for all four groups were less than zero indicating a population at low risk of cardiovascular disease. From the Japanese data a z‐score of 1 is roughly 20 ms. West London mean (SD) z‐scores for men under 50, for men over 50, for women under 50 and for women over 50 were 0.20 (0.85), –0.02 (0.86), 0.14 (0.93), and –0.45 (0.88), respectively.

Conclusions: The distributions of the QT and heart rate data of a West London population at low risk of cardiovascular disease are comparable to the Japanese data. The Japanese QT normal limits for women over the age of 50 are about 9 ms higher regardless of heart rate. The QT normal limits for Afro‐Caribbeans are about 5 ms lower than other ethnic groups. The Japanese normal limits are applicable elsewhere, albeit adjusting for women over the age of 50 and for Afro‐Caribbeans.
Contrôle des normes internationales du travail et complémentarité des systèmes nationaux et internationaux: récentes évolutions
Authors: Gravel Eric , Delpech Quentin
Published: January 2009

Les systèmes nationaux et internationaux de régulation du travail, loin de s'opposer, sont largement imbriqués. De hautes juridictions nationales ont utilisé les normes de l'OIT dans de récentes décisions. Les auteurs décryptent les conditions et les conséquences de cet usage en examinant deux décisions de la Cour suprême du Canada (liberté syndicale) et une de la Cour d'appel de Paris (contrat de travail). Outre que ces affaires ont fait l'objet de procédures tant nationales qu'internationales, le choix de pays aux cultures juridiques différentes permet de discuter l'appropriation du droit international du travail par les juridictions nationales.
L'indicateur «Embauche des travailleurs» de la Banque mondiale: bilan des travaux et critiques
Authors: Lee Sangheon , McCann Deirdre , Torm Nina
Published: January 2009

Cette note fait le point sur le débat suscité par le projet Doing Business de la Banque mondiale, et notamment par son indicateur «Embauche des travailleurs», censé mesurer la difficulté d'embaucher, la rigidité de la durée du travail et la difficulté de licencier. Les auteurs présentent les résultats des études qui l'ont utilisé, l'ont inspiré ou ont été influencées par cet indicateur. Ils se penchent ensuite sur les critiques de cet instrument qui pose des problèmes conceptuels et empiriques. Ils concluent par la formulation de suggestions pour les recherches à venir.
The role of pathophysiological explanations in clinical case representations of dental students and experts
Authors: Klomp H. J. , Eberhard J. , Hren S. , Hedderich J. , Schmidt H. G.
Published: January 2009

Introduction:  Teaching of biomedical knowledge lays the foundations for the understanding and treatment of diseases. However, the representation of pathophysiological explanations in the management of clinical cases differs for various levels of medical expertise and different theories have been proposed to explain this phenomenon. The present study investigated for the first time how biomedical knowledge is used in clinical reasoning in dental medicine.

Materials and methods:  In an experimental study 20 experts in the field of Periodontology and 61 students of different levels of training produced written pathophysiological explanations after having studied three different clinical cases. By comparing the written protocols to a visualised expert‐made ‘canonical’ explanation the concepts used in the pathophysiological explanation were counted and classified as well as the links between concepts.

Results:  The statistical analysis by MANOVA showed significant differences between third‐ and fourth‐year students, students of intermediate expertise level (fifth‐year) and experts for various parameters qualifying concepts or links of the written pathophysiological explanations. The participants of intermediate expertise level produced a high rate of concepts and links; however, characteristic findings for knowledge encapsulation in the different levels of expertise were not evident. The analysis showed that the design of the clinical cases and of the canonical explanations significantly influenced the outcomes.

Conclusion:  The present study demonstrated the pathophysiological representations of clinical cases in dental students and experts to be different from other medical disciplines. It could be assumed that this observation is based on different contents for teaching of practical skills and diagnostic procedures in dental compared with medical education.
In situ fluoride retention and remineralization of incipient carious lesions after the application of different concentrations of fluoride
Authors: Altenburger Markus J. , Schirrmeister Jörg F. , Lussi Adrian , Klasser Manfred , Hellwig Elmar
Published: January 2009

Limited information is available on the time‐dependent or dosage‐dependent cariostatic efficacy of highly concentrated fluoride compounds. This good clinical practice‐conforming, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, crossover in situ study tested the hypothesis that a 1.0% amine fluoride fluid is superior to a 0.5% amine fluoride fluid regarding fluoride retention and mineral change in initial caries enamel lesions over a period of 28 d. Fluoride retention was significantly higher after application of the two fluoride fluids compared with placebo but had decreased in both groups to similar levels after only 1 wk. Mineral gain was significantly higher for both verum groups compared with placebo. The use of 1% fluoride fluid resulted in significantly higher remineralization compared with the use of 0.5% fluoride fluid. For both fluoride fluids mineral gain followed a linear relationship with time during the experimental period, indicating a possible further uptake of mineral, even after 4 wk.
A 15‐yr longitudinal study of xerostomia in a Swedish population of 50‐yr‐old subjects
Authors: Johansson Ann‐Katrin , Johansson Anders , Unell Lennart , Ekbäck Gunnar , Ordell Sven , Carlsson Gunnar E.
Published: January 2009

The aim of this study was to determine the changes in prevalence of xerostomia in subjects from 50 to 65 yr of age. Questionnaires were sent to all subjects who were born in 1942 and were living in two Swedish counties in 1992, 1997, 2002, and 2007. The analyses focused on those who answered the questionnaires both in 1992 and in 2007. The response rate was 71.4% (n = 6,346) in 1992 and 73.1% (n = 6,078) in 2007. Of those who answered the questionnaire in 1992, 74.3% (n = 4,714) also responded in 2007. There was an almost linear increase in the prevalence of xerostomia at the four study time‐points (i.e. when the subjects were 50, 55, 60, and 65 yr of age). Xerostomia was more prevalent at night than during the day. The pooled prevalence of night‐time and daytime xerostomia was 6% at 50 yr of age and 15% at 65 yr of age, and it was higher in women than in men on both occasions. Logistic regression analyses showed that impaired health and smoking were significantly associated with daytime xerostomia but not with night‐time xerostomia. Despite the increase in prevalence of xerostomia from 50 to 65 yr of age, there was considerable variation during the observation period. The incidence rate was 13% (507/4,015) and the disappearance rate was 42% (104/250) (dichotomized answers).
Rilke’s Readers. On the Theory and Critique of Interpretive Conflicts in Rilke’s Cycle The Sonnets to Orpheus
Authors: König Christoph
Published: January 2009

This article gives a thorough interpretation of the first and the (corresponding) last sonnet of the first cycle of Rilke’s Sonnets to Orpheus (I.1 and I.26). I argue that Rilke thinks in words instead of arguing philosophically: this is his major poetic decision; it structures the field of the poems’ readings and misreadings and provokes interpretive conflicts (e.g. between Walther Rehm, Martin Heidegger, and Paul de Man). Since the conflicts are linked to the poems, their analysis (within a history of philology) improves understanding profoundly.
Relation of bone turnover markers to periodontal disease and jaw bone morphology in elderly Japanese subjects
Authors: Yoshihara A , Deguchi T , Hanada N , Miyazaki H
Published: January 2009

Objective:  The purpose of this study was to evaluate the relation of bone turnover markers such as bone formation and resorption to periodontal disease and jaw bone morphology in elderly Japanese subjects.

Subjects and methods:  We selected 148 subjects for participation in this study. All subjects were aged 77 years. The periodontal examination included the assessment of clinical attachment level (CAL). Biochemical parameters of bone turnover measured included urinary deoxypyridinoline, serum osteocalcin (S‐OC), and serum bone‐specific alkaline phosphatase. In addition, to evaluate the jawbone, we used the mandibular inferior cortex classification (MIC).

Results:  Serum osteocalcin had significantly higher (males: P = 0.038, females: P = 0.041) tendency for MIC Class (ANOVA). Multiple linear regression results showed that the number of remaining teeth and S‐OC were negatively associated with the percentage of sites with ≥6 mm CAL (R2 = 0.322, P < 0.001). Coefficients and betas were −0.71, −0.46 (P < 0.001) and −1.11, −0.28 (P = 0.002), respectively.

Conclusion:  In conclusion, this study suggests that there is a significant relation of bone turnover markers to periodontal disease and jaw bone morphology in elderly Japanese subjects.
Identification of the N‐termini of NADPH : protochlorophyllide oxidoreductase A and B from barley etioplasts (Hordeum vulgare L.)
Authors: Plöscher Matthias , Granvogl Bernhard , Reisinger Veronika , Eichacker Lutz A.
Published: January 2009

The N‐termini of the NADPH : protochlorophyllide oxidoreductase (POR) proteins A and B from barley and POR from pea were determined by acetylation of the proteins and selective isolation of the N‐terminal peptides for mass spectrometry de novo sequence analysis. We show that the cleavage sites between the transit peptides and the three mature POR proteins are homologous. The N‐terminus in PORA is V48, that in PORB is A61, and that in POR from pea is E64. For the PORB protein, two additional N‐termini were identified as A62 and A63, with decreased signal intensity of the corresponding N‐terminal peptides. The results show that the transit peptide of PORA is considerably shorter than previously reported and predicted by ChloroP. A pentapeptide motif that has been characterized as responsible for binding of protochlorophyllide to the transit peptide of PORA [Reinbothe C, Pollmann S, Phetsarath‐Faure P, Quigley F, Weisbeek P & Reinbothe S (2008) Plant Physiol148, 694–703] is shown here to be part of the mature PORA protein.
What determines the degree of compactness of a calcium‐binding protein?
Authors: Mouawad Liliane , Isvoran Adriana , Quiniou Eric , Craescu Constantin T.
Published: January 2009

The EF‐hand calcium‐binding proteins may exist either in an extended or a compact conformation. This conformation is sometimes correlated with the function of the calcium‐binding protein. For those proteins whose structure and function are known, calcium sensors are usually extended and calcium buffers compact; hence, there is interest in predicting the form of the protein starting from its sequence. In the present study, we used two different procedures: one that already exists in the literature, the sosuidumbbell algorithm, mainly based on the charges of the two EF‐hand domains, and the other comprising a novel procedure that is based on linker average hydrophilicity. The linker consists of the residues that connect the domains. The two procedures were tested on 17 known‐structure calcium‐binding proteins and then applied to 59 unknown‐structure centrins. The sosuidumbbell algorithm yielded the correct conformations for only 15 of the known‐structure proteins and predicted that all centrins should be in a closed form. The linker average hydrophilicity procedure discriminated well between all the extended and non‐extended forms of the known‐structure calcium‐binding proteins, and its prediction concerning centrins reflected well their phylogenetic classification. The linker average hydrophilicity criterion is a simple and powerful means to discriminate between extended and non‐extended forms of calcium‐binding proteins. What is remarkable is that only a few residues that constitute the linker (between 2 and 20 in our tested sample of proteins) are responsible for the form of the calcium‐binding protein, showing that this form is mainly governed by short‐range interactions.
Changing Inequalities in the Distribution of Caries Associated with Improving Child Oral Health in Australia
Authors: Armfield Jason M. , Spencer A. John , Slade Gary D.
Published: January 2009

Objectives: This study aimed to document the changing distribution of and inequalities in dental caries in Australian children across the 25‐year period from 1977 to 2002. Methods: Oral health data were obtained from Australia's national Child Dental Health Survey. Measures of caries distribution included the Significant Caries Index and the proportions of children with high caries experience [decayed, missing and filled teeth (DMFT) ≥4], while inequality was assessed by using Gini coefficients calculated from Lorenz curves. Changes in caries distribution were compared with changes in child dmft/DMFT. Results: While appreciable reductions occurred in child caries experience, in terms of both mean dmft/DMFT and for those children with the poorest oral health, inequalities in the distribution of caries experience increased across the 25‐year period. Inequalities in the distribution of decayed and filled teeth differed for the deciduous and permanent dentition and, in the permanent dentition, became increasingly similar in the 1990s. Conclusions: Increasing inequalities in child dental caries in Australia must be interpreted in the context of declines in both mean caries experience and in the caries experience of those children with the poorest oral health. The Gini coefficient documents that the majority of the caries experience is increasingly being confined to a smaller percentage of the child population; however, this is a consequence of population‐wide child oral health improvements.
Isolation and characterization of microsatellite markers from three species of swallows in the genus Tachycineta: T. albilinea, T. bicolor and T. leucorrhoa
Authors: MAKAREWICH C. A. , STENZLER L. M. , FERRETTI V. , WINKLER D. W. , LOVETTE I. J.
Published: January 2009

We describe 30 microsatellite loci developed from three species of swallows in the genus Tachycineta: T. bicolor (tree swallow), T. albilinea (mangrove swallow), and T. leucorrhoa (white‐rumped swallow). These commonly studied birds nest in secondary cavities and are distributed from Alaska to Argentina. Primer pairs were designed for each species individually and tested for cross‐amplification in 40–48 individuals of all three species. Polymorphism ranged from 5 to 65 alleles per locus (mean = 19.1). These markers will allow comparative studies of extra‐pair paternity rates among members of the genus as well as the assessment of population structure.
Eight microsatellite loci for the Irukandji syndrome‐causing carybdeid jellyfish, Carukia barnesi (Cubozoa, Cnidaria)
Authors: PEPLOW L. M. , KINGSFORD M. J. , SEYMOUR J. E. , VAN OPPEN M. J. H.
Published: January 2009

Microsatellites are high‐resolution genetic markers that may be applied to examine parentage, population structure and the direction and extent of dispersal. Here we present eight polymorphic microsatellite loci developed for the carybdeid jellyfish, Carukia barnesi. The loci were developed from a microsatellite‐enriched, partial genomic DNA library and tested for polymorphism on animals from each of two geographically distinct populations, Lizard Island and Double Island, from the Great Barrier Reef. The number of alleles observed for each locus ranged from 7 to 19.
Thermal Effect at the Incipient Stage of Cavitation Erosion on a Stainless Steel in Ultrasonic Vibration Cavitation
Authors: Haosheng Chen , Jiang Li , Shihan Liu
Published: January 2009

An ultrasonic vibration cavitation erosion experiment was performed to study the thermal effect during the erosion process. The ring affected zone was observed on the sample surface around the erosion pit at the incipient stage of the cavitation erosion. The results of the surface testing on roughness, hardness, and chemical composition proved that the zone was caused by thermal effect, and that the zone surface experienced a tempering process with the temperature higher than 300°C. Numerical simulation results show that the high temperature domain in the bubble directly contacting the solid wall is a necessary condition for the occurrence of the tempering process on the zone surface, or the heat in the bubble can hardly be transferred to the solid wall under the effects of the great temperature gradient in the bubble and the quick cooling process in the water.
Quasi-1D Unsteady Conjugate Module for Rocket Engine and Propulsion System Simulations
Authors: Campbell Bryan T. , Davis Roger L.
Published: January 2009

A new quasi-one-dimensional procedure (one-dimensional with area change) is presented for the transient solution of real-fluid flows in lines and volumes including heat transfer effects. The solver will be integrated into a larger suite of software modules developed for simulating rocket engines and propulsion systems. The solution procedure is coupled with a state-of-the-art real-fluid property database so that both compressible and incompressible fluids may be considered using the same procedure. The numerical techniques used in this procedure are described. Test cases modeling transient flow of nitrogen, water, and hydrogen are presented to demonstrate the capability of the current technique.
The neurology of HTLV-1 infection
Authors: Cooper S A , van der Loeff M Schim , Taylor G P
Published: January 2009

HTLV-1 is a significant global health problem but remains largely confined to endemic areas and risk groups. However, increasing migration may mean that the virus will be encountered more frequently in areas traditionally thought of as virtually free of HTLV-1. In this review we discuss the epidemiology, transmission, clinical features, diagnosis and treatment of HTLV-1, focussing specifically on the neurological manifestations. We highlight the circumstances in which HTLV-1 should be suspected and outline the current understanding of HTLV-1-associated myelopathy and other neurological presentations.
Correlated trait response: comparing amphibian defense strategies across a stress gradient
Authors: Garcia T. S. , Paoletti D. J. , Blaustein A. R.
Published: January 2009

Animals inhabiting complex environments often contend with multiple stressors that can select for conflicting responses. Individuals can mediate these conflicts by utilizing correlated responses across multiple traits. In aquatic habitats, larval amphibians often face conflicting, simultaneous pressures, such as ultraviolet-B (UV-B) radiation and predators. UV-B radiation and predation risk influence behavior and body color in many amphibian species, altering activity rates, refuge use, and coloration. When both UV-B and predators are present, individuals can avoid conflicts by coupling behavior with body color to form a correlated response. UV-B exposure rates vary along an elevation gradient, thus trait combinations may also vary. We quantified changes in activity rates and body color in two anuran species, the red-legged frog ( Rana aurora Baird and Girard, 1852) (low elevations) and the cascades frog ( Rana cascadae Slater, 1939) (high elevations), during exposure to predator chemical cues (rough-skinned newt, Taricha granulosa (Skilton, 1849)) and UV-B radiation. Rana aurora decreased activity in response to UV-B and became more cryptic over time, while R. cascadae coupled decreased activity rates in response to predators with dark body coloration to screen out UV-B. Both species responded with a correlated trait response, yet employed opposite strategies. This observed species difference may be reflective of differences in stress across habitats and availability of alternative defenses.
Origin-related differences in plumage coloration within an island population of great tits (Parus major)
Authors: Postma E. , Gienapp P.
Published: January 2009

Several studies have described geographic variation in plumage coloration, providing important insights into the processes of local adaptation and speciation. Given that such variation appears to be common, individuals of different origin within a single population may vary accordingly. However, as yet no study has been able to test for such origin-related differences. The population of great tits ( Parus major L., 1758) on the small Dutch island of Vlieland is especially suitable for such a study, as we know of every breeding adult whether it has been born on the island or not, and if it is, where on the island it was born. Furthermore, we have previously found large differences in clutch size and survival among birds of different origin in the same population. Here, we measured the spectral reflectance of the yellow breast feathers, and found that yearling, but not older, birds born in the eastern part of the island had feathers that were of a less bright yellow and UV than birds born elsewhere, irrespective of where they were breeding. Interestingly, this difference in coloration among yearlings of different origin shows a remarkable similarity with the genetic differences found earlier in this population with respect to clutch size and local survival. We thus show that systematic differences in color signals may exist within populations, among individuals of different origin, and we argue that it is crucial that such variation and its potential implications be accounted for irrespective of whether these differences have a genetic or an environmental basis.
Parental allocation of additional food to own health and offspring growth in a variable environment
Authors: Karell Patrik , Pietiäinen Hannu , Siitari Heli , Pihlaja Tuomo , Kontiainen Pekka , Brommer Jon E.
Published: January 2009

Life-history theory predicts increased investment in current reproduction when future reproduction is uncertain and a more balanced investment in current and future reproduction when prospects for both are good. The outcome of the balance in parental allocation depends on which life-history component maximizes the fitness benefits. In our study system, a 3-year vole cycle generates good prospects of current and future reproduction for Ural owls ( Strix uralensis Pallas, 1771) in increase vole phases and uncertain prospects in decrease vole phases. We supplementary-fed Ural owls during the nestling period in 2002 (an increase phase) and 2003 (a decrease phase), and measured offspring growth, parental effort, and physiological health by monitoring haematocrit, leucocyte profiles, intra- and inter-celluar blood parasites, and (in 2003) humoral antibody responsiveness. Food supplementation reduced parental feeding rate in both years, but improved a female parent’s health only in 2002 (an increase phase) and had no effects on males in either year. Nevertheless, supplementary-fed offspring reached higher asymptotic mass and fledged earlier in both years. Furthermore, early fledging reduced offspring exposure to blood-sucking black flies (Diptera, Simuliidae) in the nest. We discuss how parental allocation of resources to current and future reproduction may vary under variable food conditions.
Incubation temperature effects on hatchling growth and metabolic rate in the African spurred tortoise,Geochelone sulcata
Authors: Ligon Day B. , Bidwell Joseph R. , Lovern Matthew B.
Published: January 2009

We tested competing hypotheses regarding the persistence of temperature-dependent sex determination (TSD) in the African spurred tortoise (Geochelone sulcata (Miller, 1779)), by measuring the effects of incubation temperature (Tinc) on a suite of physiological and behavioral endpoints, including resting metabolic rate, yolk-to-tissue conversion efficiency, posthatching growth, and temperature preference. Correlations of these variables with Tinccould lend support to the hypothesis that TSD persists owing to sex-specific benefits of development at specific temperatures, whereas absence of Tinceffects support the null hypothesis that TSD persists simply because selection favoring alternate sex determining mechanisms is weak or absent. The metabolic rate Q10value exhibited temporal variation and was higher immediately after hatching compared with 40 or 100 days posthatching, and mass conversion efficiency varied among clutches. Incubation temperature correlated inversely with duration of embryonic development, but did not influence yolk conversion efficiency, growth, or resting metabolic rate. Thus, our results provide little evidence indicating contemporary benefits of TSD, suggesting that TSD in G. sulcata is no longer evolutionarily adaptive but persists because selection against it and in favor of other sex-determining mechanisms is weak, or that TSD is an adaptive trait but for reasons not elucidated by this study.
Exercise in space: human skeletal muscle after 6 months aboard the International Space Station
Authors: Trappe Scott , Costill David , Gallagher Philip , Creer Andrew , Peters Jim R. , Evans Harlan , Riley Danny A. , Fitts Robert H.
Published: January 2009

The aim of this investigation was to document the exercise program used by crewmembers ( n = 9; 45 ± 2 yr) while aboard the International Space Station (ISS) for 6 mo and examine its effectiveness for preserving calf muscle characteristics. Before and after spaceflight, we assessed calf muscle volume (MRI), static and dynamic calf muscle performance, and muscle fiber types (gastrocnemius and soleus). While on the ISS, crewmembers had access to a running treadmill, cycle ergometer, and resistance exercise device. The exercise regimen varied among the crewmembers with aerobic exercise performed ∼5 h/wk at a moderate intensity and resistance exercise performed 3–6 days/wk incorporating multiple lower leg exercises. Calf muscle volume decreased ( P < 0.05) 13 ± 2% with greater ( P < 0.05) atrophy of the soleus (−15 ± 2%) compared with the gastrocnemius (−10 ± 2%). Peak power was 32% lower ( P < 0.05) after spaceflight. Force-velocity characteristics were reduced ( P < 0.05) −20 to −29% across the velocity spectrum. There was a 12–17% shift in myosin heavy chain (MHC) phenotype of the gastrocnemius and soleus with a decrease ( P < 0.05) in MHC I fibers and a redistribution among the faster phenotypes. These data show a reduction in calf muscle mass and performance along with a slow-to-fast fiber type transition in the gastrocnemius and soleus muscles, which are all qualities associated with unloading in humans. Future long-duration space missions should modify the current ISS exercise prescription and/or hardware to better preserve human skeletal muscle mass and function, thereby reducing the risk imposed to crewmembers.
Cerebral Blood Flow Measurement in Children With Sickle Cell Disease Using Continuous Arterial Spin Labeling at 3.0-Tesla MRI
Authors: van den Tweel Xandra W. , Nederveen Aart J. , Majoie Charles B. L. M. , van der Lee Johanna H. , Wagener-Schimmel Laetitia , van Walderveen Marianne A. A. , The Bwee Tien Poll , Nederkoorn Paul J. , Heijboer Harriët , Fijnvandraat Karin
Published: January 2009

Background and Purpose—

Cerebral infarction is an important complication of sickle cell disease (SCD) and occurs in one third of the patients with SCD. The risk of infarction is commonly attributed to the hyperemia that is associated with anemia and reduces the cerebral vascular reserve. We measured regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) by continuous arterial spin labeling MRI, which is a noninvasive method that does not require ionizing radiation. The purpose of this study was to examine rCBF in children with SCD and compare it with rCBF in healthy children.

Methods—

rCBF was measured at 3-T continuous arterial spin labeling MRI in 24 neurological normal patients with SCD and in 12 healthy children matched for ethnicity and age (mean age in both groups 13 years). rCBF was calculated for 6 vascular territories (left and right anterior, middle and posterior cerebral artery). Asymmetry in rCBF was evaluated by measuring differences in flow between left and right hemispheres. The definition of asymmetry (>11.7 mL/100 g/min) was based on a repeatability study performed in 6 healthy adults.

Results—

The rCBF was of similar magnitude in patients with SCD and control subjects in the frontal, middle, and posterior territories. The majority of patients with SCD (58%) demonstrated a left–right asymmetry of rCBF in one or more vascular territories, whereas none of the control subjects did.

Conclusion—

In contrast to previous studies, we found no difference in cerebral blood flow between patients and control subjects. We did observe an asymmetry in rCBF in the majority of patients with SCD that was not present in healthy control subjects.
An Original Flow Diversion Device for the Treatment of Intracranial Aneurysms
Authors: Sadasivan Chander , Cesar Liliana , Seong Jaehoon , Rakian Audrey , Hao Qing , Tio Fermin O. , Wakhloo Ajay K. , Lieber Baruch B.
Published: January 2009

Background and Purpose—

The potential for successful treatment of intracranial aneurysms by flow diversion is gradually being recognized in the clinical setting; however, the devices currently available (stents) are not designed for flow diversion. We evaluate the long-term response of an appropriately designed flow diversion device in producing thrombotic occlusion of experimental aneurysms.

Methods—

Three different configurations of an original flow diversion device were implanted across thirty elastase-induced aneurysm models in rabbits. Ten animals per device configuration were followed-up for 3 weeks (n=3), 3 months (n=3), or 6 months (n=4), and tissue explanted postsacrifice was sent for histology. The temporal variation in angiographic contrast intensity within each aneurysm was fitted with a mathematical model to quantify the alteration in local hemodynamics caused by the implanted device. A predictive index, called the washout coefficient, was constructed to estimate long-term aneurysm occlusion probabilities immediately after treatment with any flow diversion device.

Results—

The device with a porosity of 70% and pore density of 18 pores/mm
2
performed better at occluding aneurysms than devices with 70% porosity, 12 pores/mm
2
and 65% porosity, 14 pores/mm
2
. A value of the washout coefficient less than 30 predicted greater than 97% angiographic aneurysm occlusion over a period of 6 months with a sensitivity of 73% and specificity of 82%.

Conclusions—

The flow diversion devices effected successful and stable aneurysm occlusion. Pore density, rather than porosity, may be the critical factor modulating efficacy of such devices.
Racism
Authors: Faucher Luc , Machery Edouard
Published: January 2009

In this article, we argue that it can be fruitful for philosophers interested in the nature and moral significance of racism to pay more attention to psychology. We do this by showing that psychology provides new arguments against Garcia's views about the nature and moral significance of racism. We contend that some scientific studies of racial cognition undermine Garcia's moral and psychological monism about racism: Garcia disregards (1) the rich affective texture of racism and (2) the diversity of what makes racial ills morally wrong.
Habermas and the Political Sciences
Authors: Pedersen Jørgen
Published: January 2009

Jürgen Habermas’s theories have received enormous attention in the public sphere as well as in political science. It is therefore surprising that his method, rational reconstruction, is not more debated. In political science the method is of particular interest because of its ambition to bridge the gap between empirical and normative approaches. In this article the author traces Habermas’s interest in rational reconstruction by going back to his writings on theory and practice and subsequently shows what the method’s main principles are. He then specifies how this methodological conception is used in Habermas’s political theory. Finally, the introduction of an empirical design allows the author to discuss one of the fundamental tensions in Habermas’s approach: the hypotheses arrived at through rational reconstruction are empirical hypotheses but cannot be tested by empirical means.
Is the development of drug-related lupus a contraindication for switching from one TNF alpha inhibitor to another?
Authors: Kocharla L , Mongey AB
Published: January 2009

The use of TNF alpha (TNFα) inhibitors has made a strong impact on the management of rheumatoid and psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis and Crohn disease. Side effects of these agents include the development of autoantibodies and a lupus-like syndrome (drug-related lupus, DRL). Here, a case of a patient who developed DRL while receiving infliximab therapy which resolved spontaneously upon discontinuation of the agent and did not recur with subsequent institution of adalimumab is described. A discussion on the possible pathogenic mechanisms involved in the development of drug-related autoimmunity and differences between the agents is also included.
Influences on bone mineral density in Malaysian premenopausal systemic lupus erythematosus patients on corticosteroids
Authors: Yeap SS , Fauzi AR , Kong NCT , Halim AG , Soehardy Z , Rahimah S , Chow SK , Goh EML
Published: January 2009

The aim of this study was to assess the bone mineral density (BMD) of premenopausal patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) on corticosteroids (CS) and to determine the influence of CS and other risk factors on BMD. A total of 98 premenopausal patients with SLE were recruited from outpatient clinics in two teaching hospitals. Risk factors for osteoporosis were determined, and BMD was measured using dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry. The mean age of the patients was 30.05 ± 7.54 years. The mean dose of prednisolone at time of BMD measurement was 18.38 ± 10.85 mg daily. Median duration of CS use was 2.5 years (range 0–20). Median cumulative dose of CS was 9.04 g (range 0.28–890.0). Six patients (6.1%) had osteoporosis, 41 (41.9%) had osteopenia and 51 (52.0%) had normal BMD. Lumbar spine T score correlated with cumulative CS dose ( P = 0.019). Duration of CS intake correlated with femoral neck T score ( P = 0.04) and trochanter T score ( P = 0.008). There was no correlation between BMD and race, SLE Disease Activity Index score, smoking and self-reported calcium intake or exercise. Only 52% of these patients had normal BMD. The duration and cumulative dose of CS intake was significantly correlated to BMD, but not the other commonly assessed risk factors. These findings suggest that premenopausal patients with SLE on CS should have their BMD measured at regular intervals to fully assess their osteoporosis risk.
Haplotype Analysis of the CYP8A1 Gene Associated With Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Xiang Xie  , Ma Yi-Tong , Fu Zhen-yan , Yang Yi-Ning , Xiang Ma  , Chen Bang-Dang , Wang Ying-Hong , Fen Liu
Published: January 2009

Objective: The aim of this study was to assess the association between the human CYP8A1 gene and myocardial infarction (MI) in Chinese people. Methods: 210 MI patients and 206 age-matched controls were genotyped and constructed haplotypes for 3 SNPs [3982C>T (rs5602), C1117A (rs5629), C251T (rs454-98106)] of the human CYP8A1 gene. Results: The CC genotype of rs5629 was more frequently in MI patients than in control subjects (P = .030). The frequency of the A-C-T haplotype was significantly higher in MI patients than in control subjects (P =.001). The frequency of the C-T-T haplotype was significantly lower in MI patients than in control subjects (P= .011). Conclusions: The present results indicate that MI is associated with the CC genotype of rs5629 in the human CYP8A1 gene. The A-C-T haplotype appears to be a useful genetic marker and the C-T-T haplotype might be a protective factor of MI in Chinese people.
US Governmental Interagency Programs, Opportunities, and Collaboration
Authors: Chen H. , Perchonok M.
Published: January 2009

Improving the quality, value, and safety of national food supplies is the common mission of several Federal agencies. Under different authorities, these agencies conduct basic and applied research, develop curriculum at higher educational institutions, and disseminate new scientific knowledge about food processing, formulation, and preservation to a broad range of stakeholders. Emerging food processing technologies, including various thermal and nonthermal processes, as well as chemical processes, have received increased attention and investment in recent years. Some agencies dealing with Emerging Technologies include the Cooperative State Research, Education, and Extension Service (CSREES), Agricultural Research Service (ARS), and Food Safety Inspection Service (FSIS), and all of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). The U.S. Army Natick Research Center of Department of Defense (DOD), National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), and Food and Drug Administration (FDA) of Department of Human Health Service (DHHS) also are involved in this research area. These agencies have their vision, mission, strategic goals, and current programs and activities related to emerging food processing technologies. The synergy of effective collaboration and cooperation among all stakeholders is the key to generating an impact greater than the simple sum of all.
From the organization to the division of cognitive labor
Authors: D'Agostino Fred
Published: January 2009

Discussion of the cognitive division of labor has usually made very little contact with relevant materials from other disciplines, including theoretical biology, management science, and design theory. This article draws on these materials to consider some unavoidable conundrums faced by any attempt to present a particular way of dividing tasks among a labor team as the uniquely rational way of doing this, given the interdependence of the underlying evaluative standards by which the products of a system of division of labor will be judged. Divisions of labor will typically cut across these interdependencies in ways which leave the outcomes of a process of labor hostage to path dependencies and suboptimalities. Some attempts to avoid these results are shown to be unsuccessful. All these difficulties are compounded by the fact that, in many cases, the division of labor has to be constructed over a ground of values that is itself being constructed simultaneously with the products which they are invoked to assess.
Mitochondrial genome sequence and gene order of Sipunculus nudus give additional support for an inclusion of Sipuncula into Annelida
Authors: Mwinyi Adina , Meyer Achim , Bleidorn Christoph , Lieb Bernhard , Bartolomaeus Thomas , Podsiadlowski Lars
Published: January 2009

Background

Mitochondrial genomes are a valuable source of data for analysing phylogenetic relationships. Besides sequence information, mitochondrial gene order may add phylogenetically useful information, too. Sipuncula are unsegmented marine worms, traditionally placed in their own phylum. Recent molecular and morphological findings suggest a close affinity to the segmented Annelida.

Results

The first complete mitochondrial genome of a member of Sipuncula, Sipunculus nudus, is presented. All 37 genes characteristic for metazoan mtDNA were detected and are encoded on the same strand. The mitochondrial gene order (protein-coding and ribosomal RNA genes) resembles that of annelids, but shows several derivations so far found only in Sipuncula. Sequence based phylogenetic analysis of mitochondrial protein-coding genes results in significant bootstrap support for Annelida sensu lato, combining Annelida together with Sipuncula, Echiura, Pogonophora and Myzostomida.

Conclusion

The mitochondrial sequence data support a close relationship of Annelida and Sipuncula. Also the most parsimonious explanation of changes in gene order favours a derivation from the annelid gene order. These results complement findings from recent phylogenetic analyses of nuclear encoded genes as well as a report of a segmental neural patterning in Sipuncula.
Developmental Profiles of Neuroendocrine Gene Expression in the Preoptic Area of Male Rats
Authors: Walker Deena M. , Juenger Thomas E. , Gore Andrea C.
Published: January 2009

Reproductive function is controlled by GnRH cells and their steroid-sensitive regulatory inputs. The proper maturation of this system is critical to sexual development and maintenance of adult function. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying these developmental changes, and the potential roles of gonadal hormones in sculpting these processes, have not been fully explored. We performed a developmental profile from postnatal day (P) 1 through P60 of a network of five genes in the preoptic area (POA) that are critical to reproduction in male Sprague Dawley rats. GnRH, estrogen receptors-α, and -β, androgen receptor (AR), and progesterone receptor (PR) mRNAs in the POA were assayed, and serum hormones were measured, in developing male rats. We also used a Taqman low-density array to identify candidate genes that may be important in development. Of the five targeted genes, only AR and PR changed robustly (7- and 3- to 4-fold increases, respectively) during development. All of the gonadal serum hormones changed markedly and with very different patterns from their receptor mRNAs: testosterone decreased from P1 to P30 and then increased to P60; progesterone peaked on P30; and estradiol decreased from P1 to P30. Using the Taqman low-density array, we identified several genes that changed dramatically in the POA with development, particularly G protein-coupled receptor 30, IGF-I, vitamin D receptor, estrogen-related receptor-α, and thyroid receptor-α. Our data demonstrate developmental stage-specific changes in neuroendocrine genes, particularly AR and PR. Moreover, the relationships between hormones and their corresponding receptors undergo dynamic changes across development in male rats.
Bexarotene Induces Dyslipidemia by Increased Very Low-Density Lipoprotein Production and Cholesteryl Ester Transfer Protein-Mediated Reduction of High-Density Lipoprotein
Authors: de Vries-van der Weij Jitske , de Haan Willeke , Hu Lihui , Kuif Maarten , Oei H. Ling D. W. , van der Hoorn José W. A. , Havekes Louis M. , Princen Hans M. G. , Romijn Johannes A. , Smit Johannes W. A. , Rensen Patrick C. N.
Published: January 2009

A common dose-limiting side effect of treatment with the retinoid X receptor agonist bexarotene is dyslipidemia. We evaluated the effects of bexarotene on plasma lipid metabolism in patients with metastatic differentiated thyroid carcinoma and investigated the underlying mechanism(s) in apolipoprotein (APO) E*3-Leiden mice without (E3L) and with human cholesteryl ester transfer protein (CETP; E3L.CETP). To this end, 10 patients with metastatic differentiated thyroid carcinoma were treated with bexarotene (300 mg/d) for 6 wk. Bexarotene increased plasma triglyceride (TG; +150%), primarily associated with very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL), and raised plasma total cholesterol (+50%). However, whereas bexarotene increased VLDL-cholesterol (C) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL)-C (+63%), it decreased high-density lipoprotein (HDL)-C (−30%) and tended to decrease apoAI (−18%) concomitant with an increase in endogenous CETP activity (+44%). To evaluate the cause of the bexarotene-induced hypertriglyceridemia and the role of CETP in the bexarotene-induced shift in cholesterol distribution, E3L and E3L.CETP mice were treated with bexarotene through dietary supplementation [0.03% (wt/wt)]. Bexarotene increased VLDL-associated TG in both E3L (+47%) and E3L.CETP (+29%) mice by increasing VLDL-TG production (+68%). Bexarotene did not affect the total cholesterol levels or distribution in E3L mice but increased VLDL-C (+11%) and decreased HDL-C (−56%) as well as apoAI (−31%) in E3L.CETP mice, concomitant with increased endogenous CETP activity (+41%). This increased CETP activity by bexarotene-treatment is likely due to the increase in VLDL-TG, a CETP substrate that drives CETP activity. In conclusion, bexarotene causes combined dyslipidemia as reflected by increased TG, VLDL-C, and LDL-C and decreased HDL-C, which is the result of an increased VLDL-TG production that causes an increase of the endogenous CETP activity.