bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Some observations on field trials as a means for assessing the impact of new technology systems
Authors: Gurstein Michael , Faulkner Fernande
Published: June 2007

We have, over the last several years, had the opportunity to participate as observers/impact assessors/evaluators of field trials or pilot studies of a number of new computer and telecommunications technology systems. We thought it might be useful to reflect on our work and on field trials/pilots as a process to see whether some lessons might be drawn over and above the details of the specific trials.
Cooperation in the office-office communication systems as a management tool
Authors: Reichwald Ralf
Published: June 2007

Traditional methods for the analysis of office work have focussed on the quantitative rather than on the qualitative and social aspects, while neglecting cooperation and the social context of managerial work. Based on an empirical study, a framework for office work analysis is presented. It shows the kind of support required for different components of managerial work and the dependence of management on contributions of secretaries. Finally, possibilities for increasing the effectiveness of managerial work through new technology are presented.
Traits
Authors: Curry Gael , Baer Larry , Lipkie Daniel , Lee Bruce
Published: June 2007

This paper describes a new technique for organizing software which has been used successfully by the Xerox Star 8010 workstation. The workstation (WS) software is written in an “object-oriented” style: it can be viewed as a system of inter-communicating objects of different
object types
. Most of the WS software considers object types to be constructed by assembling more primitive abstractions called
traits
. A trait is a characteristic of an object, and is expressed as a set of operations which may be applied to objects carrying that trait. The
traits model of subclassing
generalizes the SIMULA-67 model by permitting multiple inheritance paths. This paper describes the relationship of WS software to the traits model and then describes the model itself.
Office information models and the representation of 'office objects'
Authors: Gibbs Simon J.
Published: June 2007

Office information models are used to represent the operations and information structure of Office Information Systems. This paper determines requirements for these models by examining the functionality of Office Information Systems. The paper then discusses the representation of 'office objects' and their associated operations of filing, mailing and formatting. This representation is based upon concepts from the field of semantic data modelling.
Virtual Editing
Authors: Wilder H. A. , Maxemchuk N. F.
Published: June 2007

This is the second half of a two-part report on Virtual Editing. In the first paper, virtual editing was defined and its implementation described. In this paper, a user interface to the editor is described and some of the problems of introducing a new form of communication which conceptually merges various media are discussed. The aim is acceptance by the office worker, or eventual end user. Possible applications for this technology are suggested. In addition, the use of a mouse in the system as a way of entering the user commands is explained.
Extending the power of programming by examples
Authors: Attardi Giuseppe , Simi Maria
Published: June 2007

Programming by Examples is one of the methodologies that has been proposed for supporting the development of office applications by non computer specialists. Programs are built by performing direct manipulations on objects visually represented on a display, simulating the execution of the program on exemplary data items. We distinguish two major approaches: a declarative approach (SBA by DeJong and Zloof) and a procedural approach (Tinker by Lieberman and Hewitt). We examine the computational power and the expressive convenience of the two systems. The procedural approach achieves full generality by allowing the user to explicitly introduce iterative or recursive control structures. The SBA system has built in control mechanisms, which avoids explicit use of such constructs, but it is correspondingly less powerful. We present an algebraic model of SBA programs which allows us to determine the expressive power of the SBA language. We discuss a more general control mechanism then the one embedded in SBA, based on homomorphic transformations, which allows to compute all primitive recursive functions. Further flexibility is obtained by coupling the PBE methodology with the knowledge representation language Omega.
A case study of office workstation use
Authors: Bullen Christine V. , Bennett John L. , Carlson Eric D.
Published: June 2007

This paper describes the use of the Office Analysis Methodology to study a specific office environment in order to determine requirements for an advanced office workstation. The research site environment was unique in providing an opportunity to observe a natural growth pattern in the use of advanced technology. Specific workstation requirements were identified and are being implemented. Interesting observations are reported in the following areas: categories of secretarial work, use of existing workstations, influence of a community of users, access to shared services, and impacts on productivity and organizational behavior.
A voice response system for an office information system
Authors: Lee Dik Lun
Published: June 2007

One of the major activities in offices is communication. Communication involves information exchange in different kinds of media such as text, voice, pictures, and most likely, a mix of these. As such, a successful office information system must provide adequate facilities for handling these kinds of communication media. This paper discusses the design and implementation of a voice response system for OFS (Office Form System), a prototype office information system.
SEDL—A language for specifying integrity constraints on office forms
Authors: Ferrans James C.
Published: June 2007

ODIN is a system developed by Western Electric to automate the construction of electronic form entry, processing, and retrieval systems. An important component of ODIN is SEDL, the language used to define the logical structure of forms and the integrity constraints that each form must pass as it is entered.

SEDL is a powerful, concise end-user language. Its integrity constraints are sophisticated assertions which are combined by using standard programming language constructs. Lists on forms are considered to be relations in a miniature relational database, and data manipulation language constructs are used to specify constraints involving them. SEDL's expressive power has been more than adequate for the complex office applications that have used it.
The role of CXCR2in systemic neovascularization of the mouse lung
Authors: Sánchez Jesús , Moldobaeva Aigul , McClintock Jessica , Jenkins John , Wagner Elizabeth
Published: June 2007

We previously showed increased expression of the ELR+, CXC chemokines in the lung after left pulmonary artery obstruction. These chemokines have been shown in other systems to bind their G protein-coupled receptor, CXCR2, and promote systemic endothelial cell proliferation, migration, and capillary tube formation. In the present study, we blocked CXCR2in vivo using a neutralizing antibody and also studied mice that were homozygous null for CXCR2. To estimate the extent of neovascularization in this model, we measured systemic blood flow to the left lung 14 days after left pulmonary artery ligation (LPAL). We found blood flow significantly reduced (67% decrease) with neutralizing antibody treatment compared with controls. However, blood flow was not altered in the CXCR2-deficient mice compared with wild-type controls after LPAL. To test for ligand availability, we measured macrophage inflammatory protein (MIP)-2 in lung homogenates after LPAL, because this is the predominant CXC chemokine previously shown to be increased after LPAL ( 22 ). MIP-2 protein was two- to fourfold higher in the left lung relative to the right lung in all treatment groups 4 h after LPAL and this increase did not differ among groups. We speculate that the CXCR2-deficient mice have compensatory mechanisms that mitigate their lack of gene expression and conclude that CXCR2contributes to chemokine-induced systemic angiogenesis after pulmonary artery obstruction.
Enhanced endothelin-1-mediated leg vascular tone in healthy older subjects
Authors: Thijssen Dick H. J. , Rongen Gerard A. , van Dijk Arie , Smits Paul , Hopman Maria T. E.
Published: June 2007

Advanced age is associated with a decreased leg blood flow and reduced physical activity. Endothelin (ET-1), a powerful vasoconstrictor, may play a role in the increased leg vascular tone in older men. objectives: to assess the ET-1-mediated vascular tone in the legs of healthy sedentary older men, both before and after 8 wk of exercise training. methods: in 8 younger subjects (19–50 yr) and 8 older men (67–76 yr), bilateral leg blood flow was measured using venous occlusion plethysmography before and after antagonizing ET-1 (using selective ETA/B-receptor antagonists). In older men, reversibility of the observations was assessed after 8 wk of cycling. results: ET-receptor inhibition increased leg blood flow significantly more in older men compared with younger individuals (29 ± 9% and 10 ± 4%, respectively, P < 0.05). Eight-week cycling training increased baseline blood flow in older men. The blood flow response to ET-receptor inhibition in older men was not affected by the training program (25 ± 8%, P > 0.05 for comparison with pretraining). The flow ratio (blood flows infused leg/noninfused leg) decreased significantly by training from 26 ± 8% to 7+3% ( P < 0.05). conclusion: the increased baseline vascular tone in aging is at least in part mediated by the endothelin. Eight-weeks cycling training in older sedentary men decreased leg vascular tone and seems to partly decrease the ET-1-mediated vascular tone.
Severe hemodilutional anemia increases cerebral tissue injury following acute neurotrauma
Authors: Hare Gregory M. T. , Mazer C. David , Hutchison James S. , McLaren Anya T. , Liu Elaine , Rassouli Alipasha , Ai Jinglu , Shaye Rachel E. , Lockwood Julia A. , Hawkins Cynthia E. , Sikich Nancy , To Kevin , Baker Andrew J.
Published: June 2007

Anemia may worsen neurological outcomes following traumatic brain injury (TBI) by undefined mechanisms. We hypothesized that hemodilutional anemia accentuates hypoxic cerebral injury following TBI. Anesthetized rats underwent unilateral TBI or sham injury ( n ≥ 7). Target hemoglobin concentrations between 50 and 70 g/l were achieved by exchanging 40–50% of the blood volume (1:1) with pentastarch. The effect of TBI, anemia, and TBI-anemia was assessed by measuring brain tissue oxygen tension (PbrO2), regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF), jugular venous oxygen saturation (SjvO2), cerebral contusion area, and nuclear staining for programmed cell death. Baseline postinjury PbrO2 values in the TBI and TBI-anemia groups (9.3 ± 1.3 and 11.3 ± 4.1 Torr, respectively) were lower than the uninjured controls (18.2 ± 5.2 Torr, P < 0.05 for both). Hemodilution caused a further reduction in PbrO2 in the TBI-anemia group relative to the TBI group without anemia (7.8 ± 2.7 vs. 14.8 ± 3.9 Torr, P < 0.05). The rCBF remained stable after TBI and increased comparably after hemodilution in both anemia and TBI-anemia groups. The SjvO2 was elevated after TBI (87.4 ± 8.9%, P < 0.05) and increased further following hemodilution (95.0 ± 1.6%, P < 0.05). Cerebral contusion area and nuclear counts for programmed cell death were increased following TBI-anemia (4.1 ± 3.0 mm2 and 686 ± 192, respectively) relative to TBI alone (1.3 ± 0.3 mm2 and 404 ± 133, respectively, P < 0.05 for both). Hemodilutional anemia reduced cerebral PbrO2 and oxygen extraction and increased cell death following TBI. These results support our hypothesis that acute anemia accentuated hypoxic cerebral injury after neurotrauma.
The Dynamic Systems Approach as Metatheory for Developmental Psychology
Authors: Witherington David C.
Published: June 2007

The dynamic systems perspective has been touted as an integrative metatheoretical framework for the study of stability and change in development. However, two dynamic systems camps exist with respect to the role higher-order form, once emergent, plays in the process of development. This paper evaluates these two camps in terms of the overarching world views they embody. Some dynamic systems proponents ground their conceptualization of development in pure contextualist terms by privileging the here-and-now in the explanation of development, whereas other proponents adopt an integration of organismic and contextualist world views by considering both local context and higher-order form in their explanatory accounts. These different ontological premises affect how each camp views the process of self-organization, the principle of circular causality and the very nature of explanation in developmental science.
The Degenerative Dysarthrias: A Window into Critical Clinical and Research Issues
Authors: Yorkston Kathryn M.
Published: June 2007

Although diversity of symptoms and urgency of needs pose many challenges, management of the degenerative dysarthrias is a crucial aspect of clinical practice. The purpose of this article is to review current research literature on selected degenerative dysarthrias including those associated with Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. These dysarthrias are prevalent yet represent distinct patterns of underlying neuropathology, symptoms, age of onset, and rate of progression. Literature searches including the period 1997–2006 yielded 148 different studies reporting data on communication issues related to dysarthria. By far the largest category of studies was that which provided a basic description of speech production including the neurophysiologic, acoustic, or perceptual properties of dysarthria. Other categories included management (assessment and treatment) and the psychosocial consequences of dysarthria. While the topic of management of degenerative dysarthria is a focused one, it provides a window into many issues critical to the field of communication disorders including fundamental properties of speech production, development of evidence-based treatment techniques, the staging of these techniques into an effective management sequence, and the psychosocial consequences of communication disorders along with techniques to maintain communicative participation in the face of degenerative conditions.
Evidence-Based Practice and Speech-Language Pathology: Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats
Authors: Dodd Barbara
Published: June 2007

Speech-language pathologists are increasingly required to demonstrate that their practice is based on evidence. While the concept of evidence-based practice has strengths, there have been some weaknesses in its application in speech-language pathology. Nevertheless, since current health care demands compliance, the profession must consider the opportunities and threats that evidence-based practice poses. This paper reviews the literature to provide an understanding of the relevance of evidence-based practice for speech-language pathology. It considers the assumptions on which definitions of evidenced-based practice rely and reviews the ways in which clinicians might base their practice on evidence. While the medical model of evidence-based practice research is controversial even in the medical field, the concept provides opportunities for the profession of speech-language pathology. Evidence-based practice has the potential to improve intervention for people with commu-nication disorders, increase resources for services and enhance perception of the profession.
Present-Day Importance of the Velocardiofacial Syndrome
Authors: Vrtička Karel
Published: June 2007

In the year 1955, Sedláčková described a syndrome of congenitally shortened velum accompanied by hypernasal speech, facial dysmorphisms and further anomalies, as well as mental retardation. In the following years, she also reported on cardiac malformations and submucous clefts. In 1978, Shprintzen’s group published a very similar pattern apart from overt clefts, coined it as velocardiofacial syndrome (VCFS) and explained it in 1992 by microdeletion 22q11.2. Between 1996 and 2001, Vrtička and colleagues demonstrated del 22q11.2 in 16 of 20 cases classified as Sedláčková syndrome. Thus, the common etiology and the identity of Sedláčková syndrome with Shprintzen syndrome were proven. Our findings of frequent cardiovascular malformations, of prevailing mental retardation and of several late-onset psychoses emphasize the necessity of genetic testing in all individuals suspected of VCFS. In del 22q11.2-proven cases, we recommend genetic counseling because of the risk of more severe expression of the VCFS symptoms in subsequent generations. Recently, several authors repeatedly stressed the importance of VCFS by pointing out the associated cardiac and laryngeal malformations and by warning against the risk of innate carotid medialization in velopharyngeal surgery, by evoking linked otological problems, by elucidating the accompanying immune and hormonal dysfunctions, by summarizing the voice and resonance disorders as well as by discussing the difficulties in rehabilitation due to mental, language and speech retardation in VCFS subjects. Because of its multiple impact, the clinical pattern of VCFS due to del 22q11.2 remains a persistent and important present-day diagnostic and therapeutic challenge.
Assessment of Bleeding after Concomitant Administration of Antiplatelet and Anticoagulant Agents in Lower Limb Arthroplasty
Authors: Dahl Ola E. , Ögren Mats , Agnelli Giancarlo , Eriksson Bengt I. , Cohen Alexander T. , Mouret Patrick , Rosencher Nadia , Bylock Anders , Panfilov Seva , Andersson Magnus
Published: June 2007

In an analysis of the Melagatran Thrombosis Prophylaxis in Orthopedic Surgery (METHRO) III study, we evaluated whether concomitant administration of aspirin (ASA) and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) with the direct thrombin inhibitor melagatran/ximelagatran or the low-molecular-weight heparin enoxaparin increased bleeding in patients undergoing major joint surgery. Further objectives were to compare the influence of the timing of initial postoperative administration of melagatran/ximelagatran on bleeding in orthopedic patients receiving ASA/NSAIDs and in comparison with the preoperative administration of enoxaparin. ASA or NSAIDs in conjunction with melagatran/ximelagatran or enoxaparin did not increase bleeding. Bleeding rates were not significantly different, irrespective of the timing of the initial postoperative dose of melagatran/ximelagatran (4–8 vs. 4–12 h) when compared with preoperative (12 h) administration of enoxaparin. Transfusion rates were significantly lower with administration of melagatran/ximelagatran compared with enoxaparin.
Olanzapine Increases Grey and White Matter Volumes in the Caudate Nucleus of Patients with Schizophrenia
Authors: Okugawa Gaku , Nobuhara Kenji , Takase Katsunori , Saito Yukiko , Yoshimura Masafumi , Kinoshita Toshihiko
Published: June 2007

There are inconsistent reports regarding the caudate nucleus volume in patients with schizophrenia compared with healthy subjects. The reason for this is that neuroleptic medication may affect the volume of the caudate nucleus in schizophrenic patients. To clarify which antipsychotic medication changes the volume of the caudate nucleus in patients with schizophrenia, we measured the volumes of grey and white matter in the caudate nucleus of schizophrenic patients. Ten patients with schizophrenia were examined twice by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to measure the grey and white matter volumes in the caudate nucleus. After the first MRI examination, all the patients were treated with olanzapine. The clinical responses were evaluated by the positive and negative rating scale. When the symptoms improved, the patients were examined by a second MRI scan. Ten healthy control subjects also underwent MRI. The schizophrenic patients had reduced volumes of grey and white matter in the caudate nucleus compared to the healthy control subjects. The volumes of grey and white matter in the caudate nucleus of the schizophrenic patients increased after treatment with olanzapine. These findings suggest that treatment with olanzapine may increase the grey and white matter volumes in the caudate nucleus in patients with schizophrenia.
No Association between Dopamine D4 Receptor Gene –521 C/T Polymorphism and Tardive Dyskinesia in Schizophrenia
Authors: Lee Heon-Jeong , Kang Seung-Gul , Choi Jung-Eun , Paik Jong-Woo , Kim Yong-Ku , Kim Seung-Hyun , Lee Min-Soo , Joe Sook-Haeng , Jung In-Kwa , Kim Leen
Published: June 2007

Tardive dyskinesia (TD) is a long-term adverse effect of antipsychotics. We evaluated whether a candidate functional polymorphism of the dopamine D4 receptor (DRD4) gene is associated with drug-induced TD in 209 Korean schizophrenic patients with TD (n = 83) and without TD (n = 126) who were matched for antipsychotic drug exposure and other relevant variables. There was no significant association of the genotype and allele frequencies determined by the –521 C/T SNP of DRD4 between TD and non-TD patients. In addition, there was no significant difference in terms of total Abnormal Involuntary Movement Scale scores among the 3 genotype groups. Within the limitations imposed by the size of the clinical sample, these findings suggest that the DRD4 –521 C/T SNP does not contribute significantly to the risk for TD.
Revisiting the Trabecular Meshwork in the Eyes of the Developing Human
Authors: Chan C.Y. , Li Winnie Wai-Ying , Pang Calvin C.P. , Lam Dennis S.C. , Yew David T.
Published: June 2007

Background:  The trabecular meshwork (TM) is a specialized tissue which is crucial to maintain ocular health (e.g. intraocular pressure) and to sustain optical clarity. Since collagen and elastic fibers are the primary structural components of the tissue, the characterization of these fibers in the fetal eye would advance our understanding of the basic morphology and further congenital studies related to the TM. Aims: To reveal the early development of the human fetal TM. Results: The results showed the presence of circular (radial) and longitudinal collagen fibers as well as trabecular cells in the TM by 12 weeks of gestation. By 26 weeks, the venous system connected with Schlemm’s canal and thin elastic fibers began to form. At birth, longitudinal collagen fibers linked with each other to form long strands. There was also evidence of an increase in circular (or radial) collagen fibers in the TM. Conclusion: The present study characterized the developmental and morphological changes in the genesis of the fetal TM in terms of growth in collagen and elastic fibers. The elastic fibers were found to exist in small quantity at birth, and, thus, any increase in these fibers to maturity is likely to occur after birth.
Hypoxic-Ischemic Injury in the Immature Brain – Key Vascular and Cellular Players
Authors: Alvarez-Díaz A. , Hilario E. , Goñi de Cerio F. , Valls-i-Soler A. , Alvarez-Díaz F.J.
Published: June 2007

Over the past decade, much has been learned about the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying hypoxic-ischemic (H-I) injury in the preterm human brain. The pathogenesis of H-I brain injury is now understood to be multifactorial and quite complex, depending on (i) the severity, intensity and timing of asphyxia, (ii) selective ischemic vulnerability, (iii) the degree of maturity of the brain, and (iv) the characteristics of the ensuing reoxygenation/reperfusion phase. Each of these factors has differential effects on the distinct cell populations in the brain, with certain specific cell types being particularly vulnerable in the developing brain. In this review, we discuss the role of the blood vessels and the distinct cell populations, which are the mayor constitutive elements of the immature brain, in the pathophysiology of H-I lesion. The presence of fragile and poorly anastomosed blood vessels and the existence of disturbances in the blood-brain barrier alter blood flow, vascular tone and nutrient delivery. Brain cells are sensitive to the overstimulation of neurotransmitter receptors, particularly glutamate receptors, which can provoke excitotoxicity leading to the death of neurons and other cells such as astrocytes and oligodendrocyte progenitors. Microglial activation by means of excitatory amino acids and by leukocyte migration initiates the inflammatory response giving rise to an increase in regional cerebral blood flow and promoting astrocyte and oligodendrocyte injuries. A better understanding of these aspects of H-I injury will contribute to more efficient strategies for the management of the associated damage.
The Effect of Maternal Ketanserin Treatment on Foetal 5-HT Receptor Function in Umbilical Cord Artery of Pre-Eclamptic Patients
Authors: Hanff L.M. , Gupta S. , MaassenVanDenBrink A. , Steegers E.A.P. , Saxena P.R. , Vulto A.G. , Visser W.
Published: June 2007

Background: Maternal treatment with the 5-HT2A receptor antagonist ketanserin (KT) in pre-eclamptic patients is associated with a high placental transmission of KT, resulting in pharmacologically active levels of KT in the umbilical cord artery (UCA) and the neonate. Prolonged exposure to a 5-HT receptor antagonist may influence the functionality of foetal 5-HT receptors and compromise foetal development. Objective: To study whether exposure to KT influences the characteristics of foetal 5-HT receptors, functional studies were performed on 5-HT2A and 5-HT1B/1D receptors in UCA from pre-eclamptic patients treated with KT. Methods: UCAs were obtained, immediately after delivery, from pre-eclamptic patients (n = 7), treated antenatally with intravenous KT. Pre-eclamptic patients (n = 13), not treated with KT (non-KT), were included as a control group. Segments of UCA were prepared and mounted in tissue baths and isometric force changes were determined. Cumulative concentration response curves to 5-HT and to the 5-HT1B/1D receptor agonist sumatriptan were constructed in the absence or presence of the 5-HT2A receptor antagonist KT or the 5-HT1B/1D receptor antagonist GR125743, respectively. Results: All UCA segments showed contractile responses to both 5-HT and sumatriptan, and the concentration response curves showed a rightward shift with increasing concentrations of KT and GR125743, respectively, indicating the presence of functional 5-HT2A and 5-HT1B/1D receptors in the foetal tissue. No significant differences were found in maximum response (Emax)(expressed in percent of response on 100 mM KCl) or potency (pEC50) of 5-HT in both groups (Emax = 141 ± 7.7%, pEC50 = 7.67 ± 0.26 in KT-treated group and Emax = 162 ± 12.6%, pEC50 = 7.69 ± 0.14 in non-KT treated group, respectively). No significant differences were found in the potency of the antagonist KT in both study groups (pKb = 7.65 ± 0.31 in KT group and 7.46 ± 0.17 in non-KT group, respectively). Similarly, with sumatriptan, no significant differences were found between KT-treated patients and non-KT treated patients (Emax = 142 ± 16.2 and 140 ± 14.7%, respectively, pEC50 = 6.17 ± 0.37 and 6.41 ± 0.28 respectively, pKb of GR125743 = 7.83 ± 0.48 and 8.43 ± 0.29, respectively). Conclusion: Foetal exposure to KT in pre-eclamptic patients does not seem to influence the functional characteristics of 5-HT2A and 5-HT1B/1D receptors in the UCA.
NMDA Channel Antagonist MK-801 Does Not Protect against Bilirubin Neurotoxicity
Authors: Shapiro Steven M. , Sombati Sompong , Geiger Angela , Rice Ann C.
Published: June 2007

Background: Bilirubin encephalopathy or kernicterus is a potentially serious complication of neonatal hyperbilirubinemia. The mechanism of bilirubin-induced neurotoxicity is not known. Many neurological insults are mediated through NMDA receptor activation. Objective: We assessed the effect of the NMDA channel antagonist, MK-801 on bilirubin neurotoxicity in vivo and in vitro. Methods: Bilirubin toxic ity in vitro was assessed using trypan blue staining. Sulfadimethoxine injected (i.p.) jaundiced Gunn rat pups ex hibit many neurological sequelae observed in human hyperbilirubinemia. Brainstem auditory-evoked potentials (BAEPs), a noninvasive sensitive tool to assess auditory dysfunction due to bilirubin neurotoxicity, were used to assess neuroprotection with MK-801 (i.p.) in vivo. Results: In primary cultures of hippocampal neurons, 20 min exposure to 64:32 µM bilirubin:human serum albumin reduced the cell viability by approximately 50% ten hours later. MK-801 treatment did not protect the cells. MK-801 pretreatment doses ranging from 0.1–4.0 mg/kg did not protect against BAEP abnormalities in Gunn rat pups 6 h after sulfadimethoxine injection. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that bilirubin neurotoxicity is not mediated through NMDA receptor activation.
Bruising at Birth: Antenatal Associations and Neonatal Outcome of Extremely Low Birth Weight Infants
Authors: Arad Ilan , Braunstein Rony , Ergaz Zivanit , Peleg Ofra
Published: June 2007

Background:Early studies have identified severe cranial bruising as a risk factor for intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) in premature infants but the nature of this association has not been evaluated. Objective: To identify antenatal predictors and associations with neonatal outcome of bruised extremely low birth weight infants. Methods:A cohort study comparing 34 bruised and 116 non-bruised infants (birth weight ≤1,000 g), delivered in two ‘Hadassah’ university hospitals in Jerusalem between 2000 and 2004. Bruised patients were divided according to the severity of bruising. A univariate model was first applied to examine the associations of the individual independent variables with the outcome variable, followed with a logistic stepwise regression model, performed for each of the outcome variables. Results: In a stepwise logistic regression on ‘Any bruising’ and ‘Severe bruising’, only increasing gestational age and exposure to antenatal steroids prior to delivery maintained a protective association with bruising (OR = 0.74; 95% CI: 0.58–0.94; p = 0.015, OR = 0.38; 95% CI: 0.16–0.90; p = 0.028, respectively, for ‘Any bruising’, and OR = 0.77; 95% CI: 0.59–1.01; p = 0.055, OR = 0.29; 95% CI: 0.12–0.73; p = 0.008, respectively, for ‘Severe bruising’). In a stepwise logistic regression analysis, with ‘Any bruising’ and ‘Severe bruising’ as forced-in variables and controlling for gestational age, small for gestational age, Apgar scores, respiratory distress syndrome and pneumothorax, ‘Severe bruising’, but not ‘Any bruising’, was found to be associated significantly with severe IVH (OR = 5.60; 95% CI: 1.86–16.82; p = 0.002), whereas both ‘Any bruising’ and ‘Severe bruising’ were significantly associated with mortality (OR = 6.31; 95% CI: 2.37–16.83; p = 0.000, OR = 3.33; 95% CI: 1.16–9.52; p = 0.025 respectively). Conclusion: Antenatal exposure to steroids and increasing gestational age are associated with a lower incidence of bruising at birth in extremely low birth weight infants. Severe bruising at birth is associated with increased incidence of severe intraventricular hemorrhage and mortality.
Effect of Aging, MnSOD Deficiency, and Genetic Background on Endothelial Function
Authors: Brown Kathryn A. , Didion Sean P. , Andresen Jon J. , Faraci Frank M.
Published: June 2007

Objective—

The goal of this study was to compare vascular function, superoxide levels, and MnSOD protein expression in young (4 to 7 months) and old (22 to 24 months) MnSOD
+/+
and MnSOD-deficient (MnSOD
+/−
) mice.

Methods and Results—

Relaxation of aorta in vitro to the endothelium-dependent dilator acetylcholine (ACh) was similar in young MnSOD
+/+
(n=9) and young MnSOD
+/−
(n=6) mice. This response was impaired in old MnSOD
+/+
(n=8) mice and old MnSOD
+/−
mice (n=14), with dysfunction being greater in old MnSOD-deficient mice (eg, 100 μmol/L ACh produced 77±3% [mean±SE], 77±3%, 70±4%, and 57±4% relaxation in young MnSOD
+/+
, young MnSOD
+/−
, old MnSOD
+/+
, and old MnSOD
+/−
mice, respectively). The endothelial dysfunction was similar in mice on both C57BL/6 and CD-1 genetic backgrounds. In contrast to ACh, responses to the endothelium-independent dilator sodium nitroprusside were enhanced in old MnSOD
+/+
and MnSOD
+/−
mice compared with both groups of young mice (
P
<0.05). Superoxide levels, as measured using lucigenin-enhanced chemiluminescence, were increased more than 2-fold in old MnSOD
+/−
mice compared with old MnSOD
+/+
and young mice (
P
<0.05).

Conclusions—

These data provide the first direct evidence that MnSOD halpoinsufficiency results in increased vascular oxidative stress and endothelial dysfunction with aging.
Dilated Cardiomyopathy Mutant Tropomyosin Mice Develop Cardiac Dysfunction With Significantly Decreased Fractional Shortening and Myofilament Calcium Sensitivity
Authors: Rajan Sudarsan , Ahmed Rafeeq P.H. , Jagatheesan Ganapathy , Petrashevskaya Natalia , Boivin Greg P. , Urboniene Dalia , Arteaga Grace M. , Wolska Beata M. , Solaro R. John , Liggett Stephen B. , Wieczorek David F.
Published: June 2007

Mutations in striated muscle α-tropomyosin (α-TM), an essential thin filament protein, cause both dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) and familial hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Two distinct point mutations within α-tropomyosin are associated with the development of DCM in humans: Glu40Lys and Glu54Lys. To investigate the functional consequences of α-TM mutations associated with DCM, we generated transgenic mice that express mutant α-TM (Glu54Lys) in the adult heart. Results showed that an increase in transgenic protein expression led to a reciprocal decrease in endogenous α-TM levels, with total myofilament TM protein levels remaining unaltered. Histological and morphological analyses revealed development of DCM with progression to heart failure and frequently death by 6 months. Echocardiographic analyses confirmed the dilated phenotype of the heart with a significant decrease in the left ventricular fractional shortening. Work-performing heart analyses showed significantly impaired systolic, and diastolic functions and the force measurements of cardiac myofibers revealed that the myofilaments had significantly decreased Ca
2+
sensitivity and tension generation. Real-time RT-PCR quantification demonstrated an increased expression of β-myosin heavy chain, brain natriuretic peptide, and skeletal actin and a decreased expression of the Ca
2+
handling proteins sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca
2+
-ATPase and ryanodine receptor. Furthermore, our study also indicates that the α-TM54 mutation decreases tropomyosin flexibility, which may influence actin binding and myofilament Ca
2+
sensitivity. The pathological and physiological phenotypes exhibited by these mice are consistent with those seen in human DCM and heart failure. As such, this is the first mouse model in which a mutation in a sarcomeric thin filament protein, specifically TM, leads to DCM.
Social Class, Psychological Wellbeing and Minority Status in Northern Ireland
Authors: Cairns E.D.
Published: June 2007

The present study sought to evaluate the completing claims of the social stress hypothesis and the social selection hypothesis which both claim to explain the relationship between social class and psychopathology. Scores on a self-report measure of psychological wellbeing, the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ) were obtained from a random sample of 581 respondents in Northern Ireland. An analysis of variance comparing majority (Protestant) and minority (Catholic) group males and females at three socioeconomic levels produced a Religion X Social Status interaction. This was due to a trend of increasing symptoms with decreasing social status among Protestants and the reverse phenomenon among Catholics. It was concluded that the results while similar to those reported earlier by Cochrane and Stopes-Roe, provided no clear support for either the social selection hypothesis or the social stress hypothesis but were possibly related to local factors connected with emigration or the ongoing political violence in Northern Ireland.
Behavioural Perspectives On a Sri Lankan Healing Ritual
Authors: Bartlett Annie
Published: June 2007

The paper briefly discusses the way different disciplines have approached the study of illness and healing crossculturally. The theoretical advantages and difficulties of using a behavioural perspective are then outlined. This is then applied to the Sanni Demon ritual of the Sinhalese Buddhists; this ceremony is used to end demonic possession. It is acknowledged that the anthropological and psychoanalytic analyses are useful but it is also shown that the ritual constitutes behavioural treatment. The implications of this in relation to universalistic ideas of normal and abnormal are discussed.
Psychological Distress Through Immigration: the Two-Phase Temporal Pattern?
Authors: Ritsner Michael , Ponizovsky Alexander
Published: June 2007

A large community sample, cross-sectional and in part longitudinal design, and comparison groups was used to determine the timing of psychological distress among immigrants. A total of 2,378 adult immigrants from the former Soviet Union to Israel completed the self-administered questionnaire Talbieh Brief Distress Inventory. The aggregate levels of distress and six psychological symptoms- obsessiveness, hostility, interpersonal sensitivity, depression, anxiety, and paranoid ideation - were compared at 20 intervals covering 1 to 60 months after resettlement. The level of psychological distress was significantly higher in the immigrants than that of Israeli natives but not in the potential immigrant controls. A two-phase temporal pattern of development of psychological distress was revealed consisting of escalation and reduction phases. The escalation phase was characterized by an increase in distress levels until the 27th month after arrival (a peak) and the reduction phase led to a decline returning to normal levels. The 1-month prevalence rate was 15.6% for the total sample, and for highly distressed subjects it reached 24% at the 27th month after arrival, and it declined to 4% at the 44th month. The time pattern of distress shared males and females, married and divorced/widowed (but not singles), as well as subjects of all age groups (except for immigrants in their forties). The two-phase pattern of distress obtained according to cross-sectional data was indirectly confirmed through a longitudinal way. Claims of early euphoric or distress-free period followed by mental health crisis frequently referred to in the literature on migration was not supported by this study.
Patients Who Miss Initial Appointments in Community Psychiatry? a Spanish Community Analysis
Authors: Livianos-Aldana L. , Vila-Gómez M. , Rojo-Moreno L. , Luengo-López M.A.
Published: June 2007

Objectives : To identify factors that predict which patients, when referred by their GP, make a first appointment at a Mental Health Centre and then fail to attend. Method: Sequential observational study in which data was collected for one year on all the people (1311) with an arranged date for an initial appointment at an urban Community Mental Health Centre. Results: Approximately 25% of patients who request an initial appointment fail to attend. The variables that predict non-attendance are: the lack of a telephone number for contact, the time lapse before the appointment, and when drug-addiction is the reason for requesting the appointment. One variable that results in a specific kind of behaviour is the timing of the initial appointment, since males and females tend to miss at different times. We also found that missing the appointment followed a seasonal pattern. Conclusions : In order to optimise the service, it is necessary to discover the proportion of probable misses, and aim to arrange the appointment with the shortest possible time lapse and to take into consideration the sex of the patient when fixing the time of the interview.
Predictors of Subjective Quality of Life in Schizophrenic Patients Living in the Community. a Nordic Multicentre Study
Authors: Hansson Lars , Middelboe Thomas , Merinder Lars , Bjarnason Olafur , Bengtsson-Tops Anita , Nilsson Liselott , Sandlund Mikael , Sourander Andre , Sørgaard Knut Wollo , Vinding Hanne
Published: June 2007

As part of a Nordic multi-centre study investigating the life and care situation of community samples of schizophrenic patients the aim of the present part of the study was to examine the relationship between global subjective quality of life and objective life conditions, clinical characteristics including psychopathology and number of needs for care, subjective factors such as satisfaction with different life domains, social network, and self-esteem. A sample of 418 persons with schizophrenia from 10 sites was used. The results of a final multiple regression analysis, explaining 52.3% of the variance, showed that five subjective factors were significantly associated with global subjective quality of life, together with one objective indicator, to have a close friend. No clinical characteristics were associated with global subjective quality of life. The largest part of the variance was explained by satisfaction with health, 36.3% of the variance, and self-esteem, 7.3% of the variance. It is concluded that the actual relationship between objective life conditions and subjectively experienced quality of life still remains unclear. Furthermore, it seems obvious that personality related factors such as self-esteem, mastery and sense of autonomy also play a role in the appraisal of subjective quality of life, which implies that factors like these are important to consider in clinical and social interventions for patients with schizophrenia in order to improve quality of life for these persons.
Rehabilitation Programmes and Quality of Life in Severe Mental Illness
Authors: Browne Stephen
Published: June 2007

Quality of life is increasingly identified as a key outcome measure for evaluating the efficacy of community mental health services and novel antipsychotics. However, there is a relative paucity of research on the impact of rehabilitation programmes on quality of life. This report outlines the results of two 'naturalistic' studies carried out in a catchment area psychiatric service to evaluate the benefits associated with a supported employment programme and a psychosocial/ educational intervention. The findings suggest that outpatient based programmes which provide opportunities for vocational or prevocational rehabilitation may have significant quality of life benefits for individuals with severe mental illness.
An Evaluation of the Impact of Clubhouse Membership On Quality of Life and Treatment Utilization
Authors: Warner Richard , Huxley Peter , Berg Terry
Published: June 2007

A group of clubhouse users matched with similar patients (not clubhouse users) in a neighbouring area were compared in terms of quality of life (Lancashire Quality of Life Profile), service utilization and treatment costs over a two year period.

The clubhouse group achieved a reasonable employment status and good social relationships, and advantages in subjective well-being favoured the clubhouse group. Over two years the pattern of service utilization and costs also favoured the clubhouse group. When the two groups were disaggregated for employment status the group with least treatment utilization and lowest costs was the employed clubhouse group.
Area-Based Strategy for Determining Web Uniformity
Authors: Pourdeyhimi Behnam , Kohel Ludovic
Published: June 2007

This paper reports on work that should lead to real-time characterization of nonwovens as they are being produced. Statistical techniques and image processing techniques are employed. The initial results indicate the possibility of better process understanding and control. The goal of this work is to develop affordable sensors for the needed process measures. The first part deals with methods for off-line characterization of mass uniformity.
Deodorizing Properties of Cotton Fabrics Dyed with Direct Dyes and a Copper Salt
Authors: Kobayashi Yasuko , Sekiguchi Ayaka , Nakanishi Tadashi , Komiyama Jiro
Published: June 2007

Cotton fabric with a deodorizing function is prepared by mordant dyeing with direct dyes containing copper ions and copper(II) nitrate. The effects of pre- and after-mordant ings and after-treatment with copper(II) nitrate are examined for C.I. Direct Violet 47 and C.I. Direct Black 112. The copper ion uptake of cotton dyed with pre- and after mordantings is about 1/10 the value for wool samples. The elimination of ethyl mercaptan from air by the mordant dyed fabrics is measured in a Teddler bag. Untreated cotton fabric shows no deodorizing ability, but each of the pre-mordanted, dyed, after-mordanted, and after-treated fabrics shows a considerable deodorizing ability. The effects of after mordanting and after-treatment are particularly notable, implying that they are caused by dye-copper ion complexes.
The SRRL Carding Cleaner
Authors: Kyame George J. , Mayer Mayer
Published: June 2007

A detailed description is given of an experimental machine somewhat similar to a downstroke buckley-type cleaner, but with the customary beater replaced with a licker-in type of carding cylinder. Also described is an improved feed system using a novel type of roll, called an "anti-pluck" roll. The new feed roll permits rapidly advancing a relatively thin layer of cotton to the carding cylinder, while simultaneously resisting the efforts of the carding cylinder to pull the cotton away. This results in opening the cotton to such a degree that cleaning efficiencies as high as 60-78% in a single machine are feasible at production rates of 400 lb per hr. Data are presented to show the per formance achieved in a quarter-size experimental machine.
A Theoretical Model for the Practice of Psychotherapy with Black Populations
Authors: Jackson Anna Mitchell
Published: June 2007

This article reviews selected psychotherapy and personality models advanced by Black theoreticians and proposes a scheme developed by the author for the incorporation of African and African-American frames of reference into clinical and consultative activities. Facilitative and non- facilitative variables in the implementation of the model are discussed briefly.
Thermal Properties of Microsilica and Nanosilica Filled Polypropylene Composite with Epoxy as Dispersing Aid
Authors: Leng P.B. , Md Akil Hazizan , Hui Lin Ong
Published: June 2007

Nanocomposite materials differ from the traditional composite materials in that they provide enhanced properties at comparatively low filler loading with respect to microsize filler. In this research work, silica filled polypropylene micro and nanocomposites were prepared and compared in terms of their thermal properties. Both composites were prepared by the melt blending method using a Thermo Haake internal mixer. Later, the epoxy resin was used as a dispersing aid to improve the adhesion between silica and polypropylene. For comparison purposes, 1% and 2% w/w of nanosilica filler is assumed to be comparable to 10% and 20% w/w of microsilica filler. Both composites at various compositions of fillers were subjected to thermal analysis including differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA). From DSC analysis, the melting point of micro and nanocomposites remain almost the same as neat polypropylene. By adding the nanosize filler into the composite system, an increase in the degree of crystallinity was observed. In general, the nanocomposites exhibited comparable or better properties over the microcomposites. The employment of epoxy resins as a dispersing aid has adversely affected the properties of the composites (i.e., nano and microcomposites). However, the results were encouraging at relatively low levels of filler loading.