bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pressure jump relaxation setup with IR detection and millisecond time resolution
Authors: Schiewek Martin , Krumova Marina , Hempel Günter , Blume Alfred
Published: April 2007

An instrument is described that allows the use of Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy as a detection system for kinetic processes after a pressure jump of up to 100bars. The pressure is generated using a high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) pump and water as a pressure transducing medium. A flexible membrane separates the liquid sample in the IR cell from the pressure transducing medium. Two electromagnetic switching valves in the setup enable pressure jumps with a decay time of 4ms. The FTIR spectrometer is configured to measure time resolved spectra in the millisecond time regime using the rapid scan mode. All components are computer controlled. For a demonstration of the capability of the method first results on the kinetics of a phase transition between two lamellar phases of an aqueous phospholipid dispersion are presented. This combination of FTIR spectroscopy with the pressure jump relaxation technique can also be used for other systems which display cooperative transitions with concomitant volume changes.
Anomalous microphotoluminescence of high-aspect-ratio Si nanopillars formatted by dry-etching Si substrate with self-aggregated Ni nanodot mask
Authors: Lin Gong-Ru , Lin Chun-Jung , Kuo Hao-Chung , Lin Huang-Sheng , Kao Chi-Chiang
Published: April 2007

Microphotoluminescence (μ-PL) of high-aspect-ratio Si nanopillars fabricated by etching Ni-nanodot∕SiO2 masked Si substrate is investigated. The 320-nm-tall Si nanopillars obtained by CF4∕Ar mixed inductively coupled-plasma reactive ion etching process with density of 2.8×1010cm−2 further shrink size from 30to6nm by oxidation and etching. Blue-green μ-PL with two decomposed wavelengths at 425 and 475nm is attributed to oxygen-related defects on the oxidized Si nanopillar surface. Defect-related near-infrared PL at 703 and 740nm remains unchanged, while a quantum-confinement-effect-dependent PL blueshifted from 874to826nm as the Si nanopillar size reduces from 7.2to6.0nm is preliminarily observed.
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characteristics of La1.84Sr0.16CuO4∕Nb-doped SrTiO3 heterojunction
Authors: Xiang X. Q. , Qu J. F. , Zhang Y. Q. , Lu X. L. , Zhou T. F. , Li G. , Li X. G.
Published: March 2007

Current-voltage (I-V) characteristics of the La1.84Sr0.16CuO4∕1.0wt% Nb-doped SrTiO3 heterojunction were measured in the temperature range from 5to290K under magnetic fields up to 14T. All I-V curves show a fine rectifying property. A visible reduction of the diffusion potential (Vd) can be observed at the superconducting transition temperature due to the opening of the superconducting gap in La1.84Sr0.16CuO4. The reduction of Vd from its original track, ΔVd, is found to be of similar temperature and field dependencies as those of the superconducting gap. This suggests an alternative technique for detecting the superconductivity related features in superconducting films.
Polaron relaxation related to localized charge carriers in CaCu3Ti4O12
Authors: Wang C. C. , Zhang L. W.
Published: April 2007

The dielectric properties of CaCu3Ti4O12 were studied in the frequency range from 100Hzto100kHz at temperatures ranging from 23K to room temperature. The properties can be perfectly described by the so-called universal dielectric response, indicating that they are intimately related to the hopping conductivity caused by localized carriers. A deviation from the Arrhenius behavior in the lower frequency (temperature) region has been attributed to Anderson localization. These results strongly indicate that the relaxation in CaCu3Ti4O12 might be a dipolar-type relaxation associated with the hopping localized carriers.
Modeling of nonlinearities in the capacitance-voltage characteristics of high-k metal-insulator-metal capacitors
Authors: Gonon P. , Vallée C.
Published: April 2007

Metal-insulator-metal capacitors using high-k oxides are known to display nonlinear capacitance-voltage (C-V) characteristics. In the present work it is proposed that such nonlinearities arise from an electrode polarization mechanism. By considering a field activated hopping conduction in the bulk (related to oxygen vacancies), a simple analytical expression is derived which relates the capacitance to the applied bias. The model is able to predict voltage coefficients of capacitance and is found to be in good agreement with experimental C-V.
Modulated charge separation at tetraphenyl porphyrin/Au interfaces
Authors: Zidon Y. , Shapira Yoram , Dittrich Th.
Published: April 2007

A frequency and temperature dependent change of the sign of modulated surface photovoltage signals from metal-free tetraphenyl porphyrin (H2TPP)∕Au junctions has been observed. The sign of the modulated photovoltage signal could be switched by using continuous (bias) illumination, while the sign depends on the wavelength of the bias light. The light induced modulation of the negative and positive charges in the H2TTP layer can be interpreted in terms of internal photoemission of electrons from Au into H2TTP and of hole escape after exciton dissociation at the H2TPP∕Au junction.
The Urban Transition in Sub-Saharan Africa: Challenges and Opportunities
Authors: Kessides Christine
Published: March 2007

In this paper I ask how the ongoing processes of urban and local government development in Sub-Saharan Africa can and should benefit the countries, and what conditions must be met to achieve this favourable outcome. The region faces close to a doubling of the urban population in fifteen years. This urban transition poses an opportunity as well as a management challenge. Urban areas represent underutilised resources that concentrate much of the countries' physical, financial, and intellectual capital. Therefore it is critical to understand how they can better serve the national growth and poverty reduction agendas. The paper challenges several common ‘myths’ that cloud discourse about urban development in Africa. I also take a hard look at what the urban transition can offer national development, and what support cities and local governments require to achieve these results. I argue that, rather than devoting more attention to debating the urban contribution to development in Africa, real energy needs to be spent unblocking it.
Bollards, Bunkers, and Barriers: Securing the National Mall in Washington, DC
Authors: Benton-Short Lisa
Published: March 2007

In this paper I examine the paradox of democracy and hypersecurity in one of the most significant urban public spaces in the USA, the National Mall in Washington, DC. I explore the 2002 comprehensive security plan for the National Mall. The security plan has generated heated public debate over how to improve security in a post-September 11 world, and protect highly symbolic space, while also preserving the open character of the USA's most visible and used public spaces. I conclude that so far issues of terrorism and national security have trumped concerns about public access on the National Mall. As a result this could both change the symbolic landscape as well as impede active forms of political protest, marches, and demonstrations. These changes are significant, yet have occurred without genuine public debate and participation in the planning process.
Gadolinium periconceptional exposure: pregnancy and neonatal outcome
Authors: DE SANTIS M. , STRAFACE G. , CAVALIERE A.F. , CARDUCCI B. , CARUSO A.
Published: March 2007

Background. Gadolinium derivatives are ionic paramagnetic contrast agents used to enhance magnetic resonance images, labeled as a pregnancy category C by the Food and Drug Administration because of a lack of epidemiological studies concerning first‐trimester exposure. Methods. Prospective cohort study to determine whether gadolinium derivatives exposure in periconceptional period is a risk factor for pregnancy or fetal development. Results. We report the outcome of 26 pregnant women exposed to gadolinium derivatives in the first trimester without adverse effect on pregnancy and neonatal outcome. Conclusions. Currently, this study represents the only prospective investigation of gadolinium derivatives in pregnancy, but more data are necessary to exclude a teratogenic risk.
Pregnancy outcome of uterine arterial embolization followed by selective hysteroscopic removal of a placental polyp
Authors: TAKEUCHI KYOUSUKE , SUGIMOTO MAKOTO , KITAO KEISUKE , YOSHIDA SHIGEKI , MARUO TAKESHI
Published: March 2007

Objective. To evaluate the pregnancy outcome of uterine arterial embolization followed by selective hysteroscopic removal of a placental polyp. Methods. Thirteen patients of placental polyp with abundant blood flow, which was diagnosed by ultrasound with color Doppler imaging, were studied. They underwent uterine arterial embolization followed by selective hysteroscopic removal of the polyp. Uterine arterial embolization was carried out using an absorbable gelatin sponge. Selective removal via hysteroscopy was performed on the following day, using the cutting loop with or without electrical stimulation. The polyp was gradually resected to the level of the surrounding endometrium. Results. Complete removal of the placental polyp was achieved in all patients. The presence of placental polyp was confirmed by pathologic examination. The operative time ranged from 20 to 53 min. In all cases, no complications were noted and the bleeding was minimal during and immediately after the procedure. Postoperative ultrasound demonstrated a uterine cavity free of residual mass in each case. The seven patients with complete gestation gave birth to health babies. No recurrence of placental polyp was observed. Conclusions. Selective removal directed via hysteroscopy after reduction of blood supply by uterine arterial embolization provides a safe and effective method to minimize bleeding, and can preserve future fertility and successful uneventful pregnancies in the treatment of placental polyp with abundant blood flow.
Homocysteine levels are unaffected by metformin treatment in both nonpregnant and pregnant women with polycystic ovary syndrome
Authors: CARLSEN SVEN M. , KJØTRØD SIGRUN , VANKY ESZTER , ROMUNDSTAD PÅL
Published: March 2007

Background. Women with polycystic ovary syndrome have elevated homocysteine levels. Elevated homocysteine levels associate with pregnancy complications. Women with polycystic ovary syndrome are often treated with metformin, a drug that may increase homocysteine levels. Hence, we investigated the effect of metformin treatment on homocysteine levels in nonpregnant and pregnant women with polycystic ovary syndrome. Methods. Two prospective randomized placebo‐controlled studies included women with polycystic ovary syndrome in a university hospital setting. Sixty‐three infertile women were treated with metformin 1,000 mg bid or placebo for 16 weeks and 38 pregnant women with metformin 850 mg bid or placebo from the first trimester and throughout pregnancy. All the women had polycystic ovary syndrome and all participants received diet and lifestyle advice, and oral folate and vitamin B12 substitution, and a daily oral multivitamin tablet. The main outcome measures were serum levels of homocysteine, folate, and vitamin B12. Results. Serum homocysteine levels were unaffected by metformin treatment both in nonpregnant and pregnant women with polycystic ovary syndrome. However, in nonpregnant women both serum folate and vitamin B12 levels decreased with treatment. At inclusion in nonpregnant women, serum homocysteine levels associated negatively with serum levels of folate and methyl malonic acid and positively with free testosterone index. No such associations were seen in pregnant women. Conclusions. Metformin treatment in women with polycystic ovary does not increase serum homocysteine levels in the nonpregnant or the pregnant state.
Coffee consumption and the risk of gestational diabetes mellitus
Authors: ADENEY KATHRYN L. , WILLIAMS MICHELLE A. , SCHIFF MELISSA A. , QIU CHUNFANG , SORENSEN TANYA K.
Published: March 2007

Background. Coffee consumption has been associated with a decreased risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus. We examined the relationship between coffee consumption and the risk of gestational diabetes mellitus [GDM]. Methods. In this prospective study, 1744 non‐diabetic pregnant women were questioned during early gestation about their coffee consumption. We studied the association of coffee consumption before and during pregnancy, and the subsequent risk of GDM. Generalised, linear models were fitted to estimate risk ratios and 95% confidence intervals. Results. Women who reported moderate pre‐pregnancy caffeinated coffee intake had a significantly reduced risk of GDM (adjusted RR 0.50; 95% CI 0.29–0.85) compared with non‐consumers. No risk reduction was associated with decaffeinated coffee intake. Conclusions. Moderate pre‐pregnancy caffeinated coffee consumption may have a protective association with GDM. Prospective studies, including a wider range of consumption habits, are necessary.
Routine assessment of amniotic fluid alpha‐Fetoprotein in early second‐trimester amniocentesis is no longer justified
Authors: FERM WIDLUND KJERSTIN , GOTTVALL TOMAS
Published: March 2007

Background. Open fetal neural tube defects are often followed by an increase in alpha‐Fetoprotein concentration in amniotic fluid. For over 25 years there has been a routine to measure amniotic fluid alpha‐Fetoprotein in conjunction with early genetic amniocentesis. The efficacy of such a screening test in a low‐risk population has been questioned but never evaluated in a Swedish population. Methods. Data were reviewed retrospectively from all consecutive early second‐trimester genetic amniocenteses from two hospitals during the years 1993–2003. Indications for the genetic amniocenteses were maternal age ≥35 years, maternal anxiety or a history of fetal aneuploidy. A questionnaire was sent to all obstetric clinics in Sweden regarding current common policy and experience of routine amniotic fluid alpha‐Fetoprotein measurements, in the detection of open fetal neural tube defects. Results. A total of 1,813 samples were included. In eight cases (0.4%) the amniotic fluid alpha‐Fetoprotein concentrations were ≥3 multiples of median, but five of them were false positive (63%). Out of the three true positive cases, one had clinical relevance. In the other two cases the detection of open fetal neural tube defects was of subordinate importance. In Sweden, during 2004, 91% of the obstetric clinics performed routine assessment of amniotic fluid alpha‐Fetoprotein at second‐trimester genetic amniocentesis, but only 9% regarded the analysis useful in clinical practice. Conclusions. According to our results, routine measurement of amniotic fluid alpha‐Fetoprotein in early second‐trimester genetic amniocentesis, to rule out a risk of open fetal neural tube defects, does not seem justified. The clinical usefulness seems to be limited.
Lower uterine blood supply: extrauterine anastomotic system and its application in surgical devascularization techniques
Authors: JARAQUEMADA JOSÉ MIGUEL PALACIOS , Mónaco Ricardo García , BARBOSA NICOLÁS E. , FERLE LUCIANA , IRIARTE HERNÁN , CONESA HORACIO ALEJANDRO
Published: March 2007

Background. To establish the arterial components that determine lower uterine blood supply, varieties and anastomoses that result in complications during selective devascularization procedures. Methods. Thirty‐nine female cadaveric pelvises with latex repletion in pelvic arteries were used. All the material was studied through direct dissection, and dissection enlarged with a 90‐diopter magnifying glass, establishing origin, course, and anastomoses of the genital arteries. Axial calibers of the uterine and the main vaginal arteries were compared. An anatomical and a historical compilation of the uterine artery was made, with special reference to anastomotic areas in the lower sector. Results. Three main pedicles were determined in the lower uterine blood supply: a cephalic one constituted by the uterine artery, a medial one made up by the cervical artery, and a distal one formed by the vaginal arteries. Different types of anastomoses were distinguished among the upper, middle, and lower pedicles. All types of anastomoses displayed similar features and were interconnected along the isthmic‐vaginal borders, or as an intramural anastomotic network. In many cases, a transmedial interuterine anastomosis of axial caliber equivalent to the uterine artery itself could be observed. The bibliography consulted provided neither detailed descriptions of the cervical‐segmental arterial system nor of the vaginal system or its anastomoses. In two cases, images were found in books that show this anastomotic system without further explanation. Conclusion. A not very well known anastomotic system was described between uterine and vaginal arteries. This system explains some reported failures, complications, and hemodynamic changes after uterine devascularization procedures.
Risk factors for abdominal scar endometriosis after obstetric hysterotomies: a case–control study
Authors: DE OLIVEIRA MARCO AURELIO PINHO , DE LEON ANTONIO CARLOS PONCE , COUTINHO FREIRE EVANDRO , DE OLIVEIRA HILDOBERTO CARNEIRO ,   Source of the study
Published: March 2007

Objective. to identify risk factors that are associated with the development of scar endometriosis after obstetric hysterotomies. The hypothesis is that early hysterotomy in pregnancy (before 22nd week) is the main risk factor for the development of scar endometriosis. Methods. The authors conducted a case–control study between April 2000 and June 2003. A total of 117 women were selected, including 39 cases and 78 controls. Exposure and confounding variables were measured by a standardized questionnaire, which included sociodemographic characteristics, reproductive/physiologic history, past pathological history, history of obstetric surgeries, family history, and social history. The odds ratio (OR) and its 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated using bivariate analysis for each possible risk factor. These estimates were obtained by multivariate analysis using unconditional logistic regression. Tests were made to assess the fit of the final model. Results. In the multivariate analysis, positive associations were observed between scar endometriosis and hysterotomy type (early versus late: OR = 42.99; CI 8.77–210.81), amount of the menstrual blood flow (heavy versus light/normal: OR = 11.97; CI 2.35–60.82), and alcoholic consumption (yes versus no: OR = 5.31; CI 1.22–23.11). Negative association was observed between scar endometriosis and parity (OR = 0.61; CI 0.31–1.23), however it was not statistically significant (p>0.05). Conclusions. Early hysterotomy in pregnancy is the main risk factor for scar endometriosis. Increased menstrual flow and alcohol consumption are also risk factors, while high parity may be a protecting factor.
The effect of smoking and hypertensive disorders on abruptio placentae in Norway 1999–2002
Authors: HØGBERG VIBECKE , RASMUSSEN SVEIN , IRGENS LORENTZ M.
Published: March 2007

Objective. To assess the effects of smoking and hypertension on abruptio placentae and whether the effect of hypertension is modified by smoking and vice versa. To quantify the proportion of abruptio placentae cases attributable to hypertension and smoking. Design. Registry based national cohort study. Materiasl and methods. 814 cases of abruptio placentae among a total of 211,868 births in Norway during the period 1999–2002. Logistic regression analysis was used to assess whether the risk of abruptio placentae is influenced by maternal smoking habits and hypertensive disorders and to evaluate interactions in the effects on abruptio placentae of smoking and hypertension. Results. In occasionally and daily smokers at the onset of pregnancy, abruptio placentae occurred in 5.4 and 5.7 per 1000, respectively, against 3.4 per 1000 in non‐smokers (adjusted odds ratios (ORs) for maternal age and birth order 1.6–1.7). No significant dose‐response effect was found. Adjusted ORs for abruptio placentae in women with pre‐eclampsia superimposed on chronic hypertension, transient hypertension, mild and severe pre‐eclampsia, and pre‐eclampsia with onset before 34th weeks of gestation were significantly increased (ORs 1.6–4.1). The combined effects of smoking and hypertensive disorder were additive. Hypertension explained 3.3% of abruptio placentae, while smoking explained 6.9% of abruptio placentae cases. Conclusions. The effects on abruptio placentae of hypertensive pregnancy disorders and smoking are independent and additive, indicating that smoking and hypertension have their effects though separate mechanisms. If smoking were eliminated in pregnant women, the number of abruptio placentae cases would be reduced by 7%.
Judged Effectiveness of Differing Antidepressant Strategies by those with Clinical Depression
Authors: Parker Gordon , Crawford Joanna
Published: March 2007

Objective: To obtain views of an Australian sample of individuals who had experienced a clinical depressive episode and examine the judged effectiveness of a wide range of professionally recommended, self-help and less orthodox antidepressant strategies.

Method: A survey was posted on the Black Dog Institute website until a large sample had been derived. Inclusion criteria resulted in a sample of 2692 respondents.

Results: Effectiveness and benefit–burden scores (adjusting for not fully testing a strategy) were quantified for 31 strategies that had been trialled by at least 100 respondents. Many self-help strategies rated as strongly as professionally recommended strategies, with exercise being rated extremely highly. Intra-class comparisons of ratings identified some differentiation of antidepressant drugs but similar results for differing psychotherapies, while alternative drug strategies tended to return lower ratings than most formal antidepressant drugs.

Conclusions: Study results, together with results from mental health literacy studies, advance our understanding about consumers’ views about the frequency of trialling quite differing strategies and offer some information about their judged effectiveness.
Neurocognitive Function Following Remission in Major Depressive Disorder: Potential Objective Marker of Response?
Authors: Gallagher Peter , Robinson Lucy J. , Gray John M. , Young Allan H. , Porter Richard J.
Published: March 2007

Objective: Neurocognitive deficits have been widely reported in patients with mood disorders. However, relatively little is known of the short-term trajectory of neurocognitive improvement once treatment has been initiated.

Method: A neurocognitive test battery was administered to unipolar depressed (major depressive disorder, MDD) patients (aged 18–65 years) who had been medication-free for at least 6 weeks, and to healthy controls. Patients were then treated according to clinical need, predominantly with standard pharmacotherapy, and all participants were followed up within 6 months.

Results: Of the 25 MDD patients who returned at follow up, 11 were defined as remitted and 14 as not remitted. Significantly less baseline psychomotor dysfunction was observed in patients who remitted compared to those who did not (effect size, d =0.78, 95% confidence interval (CI) =0.07–1.44). Analysis of the change scores between assessments revealed a significantly greater improvement in verbal memory in patients who remitted compared to those who did not (d =0.73, 95%CI =0.03–1.39).

Conclusions: This preliminary report suggests that there may be distinct temporal trajectories of neurocognitive improvement following remission in MDD. Aspects of neurocognitive functioning should be examined further as a means of providing a useful objective marker of treatment response.
Imagining Shi‘ite Iran: Transnationalism and Religious Authenticity in the Muslim World
Authors: Shaery-Eisenlohr Roschanack
Published: March 2007

Religious authority in the Shi‘ite world is often claimed and justified by drawing on national ideologies. Examining the relations between the ruling religious elite in Iran and Lebanese Shi‘ite party of Amal and followers of the Lebanese Shi‘ite scholar Sayyid Muhammad Husayn Fadlallah, this article shows how the latter two actors seek to break official Iran's hegemonic claim to lead the Shi‘ite world through parody and critical narratives about the history and society of Iran. This politics of religious authenticity is not limited to debates among Shi‘ite scholars but also involves other actors such as political party members, students of religion, and pilgrims as they take part in shaping claims to seniority and authenticity in Shi‘ite tradition.
Improvement in national test reading scores at Key Stage 1; grade inflation or better achievement?
Authors: Meadows Sara , Herrick David , Feiler Anthony ,   The ALSPAC Study Team
Published: March 2007

The aim of the UK National Literacy Strategy is to raise standards in literacy. Strong evidence for its success has, however, been lacking: most of the available data comes from performance on tests administered in schools or from Office for Standards in Education reports and is vulnerable to suggestions of bias. An opportunistic analysis of data from a population cohort study extending over three school years compares school‐based scores at school entry and at age 7–8 with independently administered scores on similar tests. The results show a small but statistically significant rise between 1998 and 1999 and between 1998 and 2000 in scores on both Key Stage 1 Reading Standard Assessment Tasks taken in schools and the reading component of the WORD test taken independently. This is clear evidence for a real rise in reading attainment over this period, which may be attributable to the children's experience of the National Literacy Strategy.
Current Concepts in Mechanisms of Emphysema
Authors: Wright J. L. , Churg A.
Published: March 2007

Over the last 10 years, there has been a remarkable degree of progress in our understanding of the pathophysiological mechanisms involved in the genesis of emphysema. This review attempts to summarize these data.
Pediatric Respiratory and Systemic Effects of Chronic Air Pollution Exposure: Nose, Lung, Heart, and Brain Pathology
Authors: Calderón-Garcidueñas Lilian , Franco-Lira Maricela , Torres-Jardón Ricardo , Henriquez-Roldán Carlos , Barragán-Mejía Gerardo , Valencia-Salazar Gildardo , Gonzaléz-Maciel Angelica , Reynoso-Robles Rafael , Villarreal-Calderón Rafael , Reed William
Published: March 2007

Exposures to particulate matter and gaseous air pollutants have been associated with respiratory tract inflammation, disruption of the nasal respiratory and olfactory barriers, systemic inflammation, production of mediators of inflammation capable of reaching the brain and systemic circulation of particulate matter. Mexico City (MC) residents are exposed to significant amounts of ozone, particulate matter and associated lipopolysaccharides. MC dogs exhibit brain inflammation and an acceleration of Alzheimer’s-like pathology, suggesting that the brain is adversely affected by air pollutants. MC children, adolescents and adults have a significant upregulation of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX2) and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) in olfactory bulb and frontal cortex, as well as neuronal and astrocytic accumulation of the 42 amino acid form of β-amyloid peptide (Aβ42), including diffuse amyloid plaques in frontal cortex. The pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is characterized by brain inflammation and the accumulation of Aβ42, which precede the appearance of neuritic plaques and neurofibrillary tangles, the pathological hallmarks of AD. Our findings of nasal barrier disruption, systemic inflammation, and the upregulation of COX2 and IL-1β expression and Aβ42 accumulation in brain suggests that sustained exposures to significant concentrations of air pollutants such as particulate matter could be a risk factor for AD and other neurodegenerative diseases.
Three-Dimensional Mapping of Ozone-Induced Injury in the Nasal Airways of Monkeys Using Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Morphometric Techniques
Authors: Carey Stephan A. , Minard Kevin R. , Trease Lynn L. , Wagner James G. , Garcia Guilherme J. M. , Ballinger Carol A. , Kimbell Julia S. , Plopper Charles G. , Corley Richard A. , Postlethwait Edward M. , Harkema Jack R.
Published: March 2007

Age-related changes in gross and microscopic structure of the nasal cavity may alter local tissue susceptibility as well as the dose of inhaled toxicant delivered to susceptible sites. This article describes a novel method for the use of magnetic resonance imaging, 3-dimensional airway modeling, and morphometric techniques to characterize the distribution and magnitude of ozone-induced nasal injury in infant monkeys. Using this method, we generated age-specific, 3-dimensional, epithelial maps of the nasal airways of infant Rhesus macaques. The principal nasal lesions observed in this primate model of ozone-induced nasal toxicology were neutrophilic rhinitis, along with necrosis and exfoliation of the epithelium lining the anterior maxilloturbinate. These lesions, induced by acute or cyclic (episodic) exposures, were examined by light microscopy, quantified by morphometric techniques, and mapped on 3-dimensional models of the nasal airways. Here, we describe the histopathologic, imaging, and computational biology methods developed to precisely characterize, localize, quantify, and map these nasal lesions. By combining these techniques, the location and severity of the nasal epithelial injury were correlated with epithelial type, nasal airway geometry, and local biochemical and molecular changes on an individual animal basis. These correlations are critical for accurate predictive modeling of exposure-dose-response relationships in the nasal airways, and subsequent extrapolation of nasal findings in animals to humans for determining risk.
Asthma/Allergic Airways Disease: Does Postnatal Exposure to Environmental Toxicants Promote Airway Pathobiology?
Authors: Plopper Charles G. , Smiley-Jewell Suzette M. , Miller Lisa A. , Fanucchi Michelle V. , Evans Michael J. , Buckpitt Alan R. , Avdalovic Mark , Gershwin Laurel J. , Joad Jesse P. , Kajekar Radhika , Larson Shawnessy , Pinkerton Kent E. , Van Winkle Laura S. , Schelegle Edward S. , Pieczarka Emily M. , Wu Reen , Hyde Dalla M.
Published: March 2007

The recent, dramatic increase in the incidence of childhood asthma suggests a role for environmental contaminants in the promotion of interactions between allergens and the respiratory system of young children. To establish whether exposure to an environmental stressor, ozone (O3), and an allergen, house dust mite (HDMA), during early childhood promotes remodeling of the epithelial-mesenchymal trophic unit (EMTU) of the tracheobronchial airway wall by altering postnatal development, infant rhesus monkeys were exposed to cyclic episodes of filtered air (FA), HDMA, O3, or HDMA plus O3. The following alterations in the EMTU were found after exposure to HDMA, O3, or HDMA plus O3: (1) reduced airway number; (2) hyperplasia of bronchial epithelium; (3) increased mucous cells; (4) shifts in distal airway smooth muscle bundle orientation and abundance to favor hyperreactivity; (5) interrupted postnatal basement membrane zone differentiation; (6) modified epithelial nerve fiber distribution; and (7) reorganization of the airway vascular and immune system. Conclusions: cyclic challenge of infants to toxic stress during postnatal lung development modifies the EMTU. This exacerbates the allergen response to favor development of intermittent airway obstruction associated with wheeze. And, exposure of infants during early postnatal lung development initiates compromises in airway growth and development that persist or worsen as growth continues, even with cessation of exposure.
Imaging Techniques for Small Animal Models of Pulmonary Disease: MR Microscopy
Authors: Driehuys Bastiaan , Hedlund Laurence W.
Published: March 2007

In vivo magnetic resonance microscopy (MRM) of the small animal lung has become a valuable research tool, especially for preclinical studies. MRM offers a noninvasive and nondestructive tool for imaging small animals longitudinally and at high spatial resolution. We summarize some of the technical and biologic problems and solutions associated with imaging the small animal lung and describe several important pulmonary disease applications. A major advantage of MR is direct imaging of the gas spaces of the lung using breathable gases such as helium and xenon. When polarized, these gases become rich MR signal sources. In animals breathing hyperpolarized helium, the dynamics of gas distribution can be followed and airway constrictions and obstructions can be detected. Diffusion coefficients of helium can be calculated from diffusion-sensitive images, which can reveal micro-structural changes in the lungs associated with pathologies such as emphysema and fibrosis. Unlike helium, xenon in the lung is absorbed by blood and exhibits different frequencies in gas, tissue, or erythrocytes. Thus, with MR imaging, the movement of xenon gas can be tracked through pulmonary compartments to detect defects of gas transfer. MRM has become a valuable tool for studying morphologic and functional changes in small animal models of lung diseases.
Hepatic Transcript Levels for Genes Coding for Enzymes Associated with Xenobiotic Metabolism are Altered with Age
Authors: Mori Kazuhiko , Blackshear Pamela E. , Lobenhofer Edward K. , Parker Joel S. , Orzech Denise P. , Roycroft Joseph H. , Walker Kimwa L. , Johnson Kennita A. , Marsh Tiwanda A. , Irwin Richard D. , Boorman Gary A.
Published: March 2007

Metabolism studies are crucial for data interpretation from rodent toxicity and carcinogenicity studies. Metabolism studies are usually conducted in 6 to 8 week old rodents. Long-term studies often continue beyond 100 weeks of age. The potential for age-related changes in transcript levels of genes encoding for enzymes associated with metabolism was evaluated in the liver of male F344/N rats at 32, 58, and 84 weeks of age. Differential expression was found between the young and old rats for genes whose products are involved in both phase I and phase II metabolic pathways. Thirteen cytochrome P450 genes from CYP families 1–3 showed alterations in expression in the older rats. A marked age-related decrease in expression was found for 4 members of the Cyp3a family that are critical for drug metabolism in the rat. Immunohistochemical results confirmed a significant decrease in Cyp3a2 and Cyp2c11 protein levels with age. This indicates that the metabolic capacity of male rats changes throughout a long-term study. Conducting multiple hepatic microarray analyses during the conduct of a long-term study can provide a global view of potential metabolic changes that might occur. Alterations that are considered crucial to the interpretation of long-term study results could then be confirmed by subsequent metabolic studies.
Imaging Techniques for Small Animal Imaging Models of Pulmonary Disease: Micro-CT
Authors: Johnson Kennita A.
Published: March 2007

Microcomputed tomography (micro-CT) is ideal for quantifying pulmonary disease because of the inherent contrast between tissue and air that exists in the lungs. Both in vivo and in vitro studies can be performed using micro-CT. Live animal studies show function, while fixed specimen studies show structure. Through the use of image processing techniques, both acute and chronic lung diseases can be quantified. The information provided by micro-CT is complementary to histological evaluation, since CT is nondestructive. This paper discusses two examples, in vivo and in vitro, of how micro-CT can be used to assess pulmonary diseases in small animal models. With the use of micro-CT, we were able to quantify pulmonary fibrosis in the live rat and investigate the microstructure of the airway in fixed mouse lungs.
Chronic Lymphocytic Thyroiditis in a Cynomolgus Macaque (Macaca fascicularis)
Authors: Guzman Roberto E. , Radi Zaher A.
Published: March 2007

Chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis characterized by multifocal follicular lymphoid cell infiltrates with germinal centers, thyroid acinar atrophy and pituitary cell hyperplasia/hypertrophy of the adenohypophysis was detected in a vehicle control, 4-year-old female Cynomolgus macaque in a routine toxicology study. Lymphoid cells of germinal centers were positive for the B-cell marker CD20 by immunohistochemistry (IHC), while remaining lymphocytes were positive for the T-cell marker CD3. Hypertrophied/hyperplastic pituitary cells were positive for thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) by IHC, consistent with an adaptive response due to removal of hormonal negative feedback from the diseased thyroid gland. Features of this case are similar to chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis in humans, an autoimmune disorder also known as Hashimoto’s disease. Chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis with compensatory pituitary changes may occur spontaneously in young, clinically normal cynomolgus macaques and its presence in drug treated animals should be interpreted with caution.
Endovascular treatment of a pulmonary artery pseudoaneurysm with a stent graft: report of two cases
Authors: Park A. , Cwikiel W.
Published: March 2007

Two patients with hemoptysis secondary to pulmonary artery pseudoaneurysm were treated by endovascular placement of stent grafts. Aneurysms were effectively excluded and hemoptysis stopped. Stent grafts were occluded in both patients. However, endovascular treatment of the pulmonary artery pseudoaneurysm with a stent graft is a safe alternative to coil embolization or surgery.
Assessment of left ventricular function and mass in patients undergoing computed tomography (CT) coronary angiography using 64-detector-row CT: comparison to magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Schlosser T. , Mohrs O. K. , Magedanz A. , Voigtländer T. , Schmermund A. , Barkhausen J.
Published: March 2007

Purpose: To quantify left ventricular function and mass derived from retrospectively ECG-gated 64-detector-row computed tomography coronary angiography data sets in comparison to cine magnetic resonance (MR) imaging as the reference standard. We hypothesized that the administration of beta-blockers prior to multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) coronary angiography has a significant impact on left ventricular functional parameters.

Material and Methods: Multiplanar reformations in the short-axis orientation were calculated from axial contrast-enhanced CT images in 21 patients (16 male, five female; age range 41–75 years, mean 64.3±6.8 years) referred for CT coronary angiography. Patients whose heart rates exceeded 60 bpm received 5 mg bisoprolol orally 1 hour before the MDCT examination. In case of insufficient heart-rate reduction, up to four vials (20 mg) of metoprolol were injected intravenously. The end-diastolic volume (EDV), end-systolic volume (ESV), stroke volume (SV), ejection fraction (EF), cardiac output (CO), and left ventricular mass (LVM) of the reformatted images were analyzed compared to volumetric measurements based on continuous short-axis steady-state free-precession cine MR sequences (TR 3 ms, TE 1.5 ms, FA 60°).

Results: On average, each patient received 15.5 mg metoprolol (range 0–20 mg) and 3.85 mg bisoprolol (range 0–5 mg). The mean heart rate was 56±5 bpm during CT and 73±9 bpm during MRI examination. This difference was statistically significant ( P<0.05). Mean EDV and ESV measured on MDCT were significantly higher compared to MR (MDCT vs. MR: EDV 164.2±52.5 vs. 144.2±46.7 ml, ESV 77.3±46.6 vs. 63.8±47.3 ml; P<0.05). Mean EF and CO derived from MDCT images were significantly lower compared to MR (MDCT vs. MR: EF 55.4±11.8 vs. 59.3±15.4%, CO 4822±779 vs. 5755±1267 ml; P<0.05). Mean SV and LVM were not significantly different between both methods (MDCT vs. MR: SV 86.8±18.1 vs. 80.3±15.6 ml, P = 0.44; LVM 132.4±42.5 vs. 138.7±39.1 g, P = 0.31).

Conclusion: Left ventricular volumes assessed by the newest-generation MDCT scanners are significantly higher compared with MRI, whereas ejection fraction and cardiac output are significantly lower in MDCT. This appears to be a result of the frequent application of beta-blockers prior to MDCT examinations.
Multiple skeletal muscle metastases from renal cell carcinoma 19 years after radical nephrectomy
Authors: Hur J. , Yoon C. S. , Jung W.-H.
Published: March 2007

Skeletal muscle metastasis is a rare condition in renal cell carcinoma (RCC). We here present an extremely rare case of late recurrence in a patient with RCC who had multiple muscle metastases 19 years after radical nephrectomy. This case shows that a soft-tissue mass in a patient with a known history of RCC even after curative nephrectomy, particularly with hypervascularity, must be regarded as highly suspicious of skeletal muscle metastasis.
The development and validation of the Indigenous Risk Impact Screen (IRIS): a 13‐item screening instrument for alcohol and drug and mental health risk
Authors: SCHLESINGER CARLA M. , OBER CORALIE , McCARTHY MOLLY M. , WATSON JOANNE D. , SEINEN ANITA
Published: March 2007

The study aimed to assess the psychometric properties of the Indigenous Risk Impact Screen (IRIS) as a screening instrument for determining (i) the presence of alcohol and drug and mental health risk in Indigenous adult Australians and (ii) the cut‐off scores that discriminate most effectively between the presence and absence of risk. A cross‐sectional survey was used in clinical and non‐clinical Indigenous and non‐Indigenous services across Queensland Australia. A total of 175 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people from urban, rural, regional and remote locations in Queensland took part in the study. Measures included the Indigenous Risk Impact Screen (IRIS), the Severity of Dependence Scale (SDS), the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) and the Leeds Dependence Questionnaire (LDQ). Additional Mental Health measures included the Depression Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS‐21) and the Self‐Report Questionnaire (SRQ). Principle axis factoring analysis of the IRIS revealed two factors corresponding with (i) alcohol and drug and (ii) mental health. The IRIS alcohol and drug and mental health subscales demonstrated good convergent validity with other well‐established screening instruments and both subscales showed high internal consistency. A receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curve analysis was used to generate cut‐offs for the two subscales and t‐tests validated the utility of these cut‐offs for determining risky levels of drinking. The study validated statistically the utility of the IRIS as a screen for alcohol and drug and mental health risk. The instrument is therefore recommended as a brief screening instrument for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
An Integrated Approach to General Practice Mental Health Training: The Importance of Context
Authors: Hodgins Gene , Judd Fiona , Davis Julian , Fahey Anne
Published: March 2007

Objective: The high prevalence of mental disorders and the barriers to detection and treatment of these in general practice are well recognized. As such, the government has placed great emphasis on training general practitioners (GPs) in primary care mental health and on the provision of support for GPs in the delivery of such services. The current paper aims to evaluate a local, rural training program in mental health for GPs. We hypothesized that local ‘context-driven’ training would lead to increased knowledge and reported change in practice by GPs with mental health patients.

Method: Locally developed and delivered ‘Level 1’ training was offered to GPs through the Better Outcomes in Mental Health Care initiative. The training was provided with 6-hour workshops covering mental health assessment and management planning. The training was evaluated through pre- and 6-week post-questionnaires assessing attitudes and practice with respect to treatment of patients with mental health problems.

Results: Forty-nine GPs from the Loddon Campaspe Southern Mallee region of Victoria participated in the training. Following the 6-hour workshop, there was an increase in reported use of psychoeducation for patients with depression, use of cognitive behavioural therapy for patients with anxiety, and ease in obtaining advice to assist with the management of psychosis.

Conclusions: GP mental health education should take into consideration the local context, cover systems issues as well as skills development, and aim to develop personal relationships between mental health clinicians and GPs to enhance outcomes.
Causal sentence production in children with language impairments
Authors: Donaldson Morag L. , Reid Jennifer , Murray Claire
Published: March 2007

Background: The production of causal sentences (e.g. The house went on fire because the girl was playing with matches) is a key component of the ability to produce explanations, which in turn is an important aspect of children's developing discourse skills. While informal observations by professionals suggest that children with language impairments often have difficulties in producing (and comprehending) causal sentences, there is a dearth of systematic research evidence on the scope and characteristics of such difficulties.

Aims: The study reported herein aimed to establish the scope and characteristics of the difficulties that children with language impairments have with causal sentence production. In particular, it investigated whether they have difficulties with (1) producing causal connectives (because and so), (2) producing semantically appropriate causal sentences, and (3) coordinating the production of more than one clause.

Methods & Procedures: The performance of 5–7‐year‐old children with language impairments (the LI group, n = 30) was compared with that of typically developing chronological age peers (the CA group, n = 30) on four elicited production tasks designed to encourage children to talk about pictures of causally related events. The tasks required the children to answer causal questions, to complete and imitate causal sentences, and to produce full causal sentences.

Outcomes & Results: Although the groups did not differ in the overall frequency with which they used causal connectives, the LI group produced fewer causal connectives than the CA group on tasks involving higher processing demands, as well as producing a lower percentage of semantically appropriate responses on most tasks. The LI group found imitating causal sentences more difficult than answering causal questions and completing causal sentences, whereas the CA group showed a similar level of performance across these three tasks.

Conclusions: Although 5–7‐year‐old children with language impairments have causal expressions in their repertoire, they have marked and extensive problems in using these expressions appropriately and in producing full causal sentences even when these are modelled for them. Given the educational importance of explanation, there is a clear need for interventions to target both the semantic appropriateness of causal sentence production and the frequency of use of causal connectives, especially in contexts where children have to cope with the additional processing demands associated with producing two‐clause sentences and/or with producing causal sentences autonomously.