bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of Follicular Development and Oocyte Quality in Pre‐pubertal Cats
Authors: Uchikura K , Nagano M , Hishinuma M
Published: February 2010

Contents

Our study was conducted to assess the follicular development and availability of sound ovarian oocytes for in vitro production (IVP) of embryos in pre‐pubertal cats. The relationship between body and ovarian weight was examined in 93 cats. The results revealed that ovarian weight rapidly increased until 100 days of estimated age. By histological evaluation of ovaries obtained from 11 pre‐pubertal cats with estimated age of <20, 20–40 and 100–120 days, it was clarified that the increase in ovarian weight during kitten growth accompanied the increase in the number and size of antral follicles. The follicular diameter and percentage of normal oocytes in secondary/antral follicles also increased as estimated age (body weight) increased. The oocytes obtained from pre‐pubertal cats with 100–120 days of estimated age were used for IVP of embryos. The results showed that the success rates of in vitro maturation, in vitro fertilization and development to blastocysts after in vitro culture in pre‐pubertal cats were lower than in sexually mature cats. However, the percentage of blastocysts based on the cleaved embryos and cell number of blastocysts in pre‐pubertal cats were comparable to those in mature cats. In conclusion, these results suggest that the ovaries of pre‐pubertal cats with ≥100 days of age contain oocytes with in vitro developmental competence to blastocysts.
Validity of registry data: Agreement between cancer records in an end‐stage kidney disease registry (voluntary reporting) and a cancer register (statutory reporting)
Authors: WEBSTER ANGELA C , SUPRAMANIAM RAJAH , O'CONNELL DIANNE L , CHAPMAN JEREMY R , CRAIG JONATHAN C
Published: February 2010

Aims:  End‐stage kidney disease registries inform outcomes and policy. Data quality is crucial but difficult to measure objectively. We assessed agreement between incident cancer reported to the Australian and New Zealand Dialysis and Transplant Registry (ANZDATA) and to the Central Cancer Registry (CCR) in New South Wales.

Methods:  ANZDATA records were linked to CCR using probabilistic matching. We calculated agreement between registries for patients with ≥1 cancers, all cancers and site‐specific cancer using the kappa statistic (κ). We investigated cases where records disagreed and compared estimates of cancer risk based either on ANZDATA or on CCR using standardized incidence ratios (indirect standardization by age, sex and calendar year).

Results:  From 1980 to 2001, 9453 residents had dialysis or transplantation. ANZDATA recorded 867 cancers in 779 (8.2%) registrants; CCR 867 cancers in 788 (8.3%). ANZDATA recorded 170 patients with cancer that CCR did not, CCR recorded 179 patients that ANZDATA did not (κ = 0.76). ANZDATA had sensitivity 77.3% (confidence interval (CI) 74.2–80.2), specificity 98.1% (CI 97.7–98.3) if CCR records were regarded as the reference standard. Agreement was similar for diagnoses while receiving dialysis (κ = 0.78) or after transplantation (κ = 0.79), but varied by cancer type. Agreement was poorest for melanoma (κ = 0.61) and myeloma (κ = 0.47) and highest for lymphoma (κ = 0.80), leukaemia (κ = 0.86) and breast cancer (κ = 0.85). Artefact accounted for 20.8% of the non‐concordance but error and misclassification did occur in both registries. Estimates of cancer risk based on ANZDATA or CCR records did not differ in any important way.

Conclusion:  Agreement of cancer records between both registries was high and differences largely explicable. It is likely that both ANZDATA and CCR have some inaccuracies, for reasons that are now more explicit, with themes similar to those likely to be experienced by other registries.
Anesthetic considerations for the pediatric oncology patient – part 2: systems‐based approach to anesthesia
Authors: LATHAM GREGORY J. , GREENBERG ROBERT S.
Published: February 2010

One of the prices paid for chemo‐ and radiotherapy of cancer in children is damage to the vulnerable and developing healthy tissues of the body. Such damage can exist clinically or subclinically and can become apparent during active antineoplastic treatment or during remission decades later. Furthermore, effects of the tumor itself can significantly impact the physiologic state of the child. The anesthesiologist who cares for children with cancer or for survivors of childhood cancer should understand what effects cancer and its therapy can have on various organ systems. In part two of this three‐part review, we review the anesthetic issues associated with childhood cancer. Specifically, this review presents a systems‐based approach to the impact from both tumor and its treatment in children, followed by a discussion of the relevant anesthetic considerations.
Turbulent dispersal promotes species coexistence
Authors: Berkley Heather A. , Kendall Bruce E. , Mitarai Satoshi , Siegel David A.
Published: February 2010

Ecology Letters (2010) 13: 360–371

Several recent advances in coexistence theory emphasize the importance of space and dispersal, but focus on average dispersal rates and require spatial heterogeneity, spatio‐temporal variability or dispersal‐competition tradeoffs to allow coexistence. We analyse a model with stochastic juvenile dispersal (driven by turbulent flow in the coastal ocean) and show that a low‐productivity species can coexist with a high‐productivity species by having dispersal patterns sufficiently uncorrelated from those of its competitor, even though, on average, dispersal statistics are identical and subsequent demography and competition is spatially homogeneous. This produces a spatial storage effect, with an ephemeral partitioning of a ‘spatial niche’, and is the first demonstration of a physical mechanism for a pure spatiotemporal environmental response. ‘Turbulent coexistence’ is widely applicable to marine species with pelagic larval dispersal and relatively sessile adult life stages (and perhaps some wind‐dispersed species) and complements other spatial and temporal storage effects previously documented for such species.
Sugarcane for bioenergy production: an assessment of yield and regulation of sucrose content
Authors: Waclawovsky Alessandro J. , Sato Paloma M. , Lembke Carolina G. , Moore Paul H. , Souza Glaucia M.
Published: February 2010

An increasing number of plant scientists, including breeders, agronomists, physiologists and molecular biologists, are working towards the development of new and improved energy crops. Research is increasingly focused on how to design crops specifically for bioenergy production and increased biomass generation for biofuel purposes. The most important biofuel to date is bioethanol produced from sugars (sucrose and starch). Second generation bioethanol is also being targeted for studies to allow the use of the cell wall (lignocellulose) as a source of carbon. If a crop is to be used for bioenergy production, the crop should be high yielding, fast growing, low lignin content and requiring relatively small energy inputs for its growth and harvest. Obtaining high yields in nonprime agricultural land is a key for energy crop development to allow sustainability and avoid competition with food production. Sugarcane is the most efficient bioenergy crop of tropical and subtropical regions, and biotechnological tools for the improvement of this crop are advancing rapidly. We focus this review on the studies of sugarcane genes associated with sucrose content, biomass and cell wall metabolism and the preliminary physiological characterization of cultivars that contrast for sugar and biomass yield.
Learning from Northern Ireland? the Uses and Abuses of the Irish ‘Model’
Authors: O'Kane Eamonn
Published: February 2010

This article examines the increasing use of Northern Ireland as a ‘model’ for resolving conflicts. It seeks to identify what may constitute an Irish ‘model’ and to examine it in relation to three key aspects of existing conflict resolution theory: the timings of peace processes, the role of third parties and how to deal with ‘spoilers’. The article argues that the existing theory is currently ill-matched to both the Northern Ireland case and the ‘model’ that some have sought to extrapolate from it. It stresses the need to examine the Northern Ireland case in context if we are to learn any lessons from it that may be of use in other conflict resolution attempts.
Half-Remembered Quotations from Mostly Forgotten Speeches: The Limits of Labour's European Policy Discourse
Authors: Broad Matthew , Daddow Oliver
Published: February 2010

This article uses discourse analysis to study the continuities in British foreign policy thinking within the Labour party from the 1960s to the present day. Using representative extracts from speeches by Hugh Gaitskell, Harold Wilson, Tony Blair and Gordon Brown, it identifies the ideational consistencies in the leaders' attitudes to: Empire; federalism in the EEC/EU; and laying down conditions that have to be met before any constructive engagement with ‘Europe’ can be countenanced. We argue that these consistencies, spanning a 50-year period, exemplify a certain stagnation both within Labour's European discourses and within British foreign policy thinking more widely. We develop the idea that Labour party thinking has been crucially framed by both small ‘c’ conservative and upper-case Conservative ideology, popularised by Winston Churchill in his ‘three circles’ model of British foreign policy.
Getting Down to Business: Using Speedstorming to Initiate Creative Cross‐Disciplinary Collaboration
Authors: Joyce Caneel K. , Jennings Kyle E. , Hey Jonathan , Grossman Jeffrey C. , Kalil Thomas
Published: February 2010

Creative collaborations that cross disciplinary boundaries are essential to innovation. Individuals face challenges, however, in forming new collaborations. Empirical and anecdotal evidence suggests that the common formats of brainstorming and free‐form networking are insufficient for enabling such collaborations to form. We present a potential solution called speedstorming, a pair‐wise method of creative interaction similar to the round‐robin ‘speed‐dating’ technique. Speedstorming combines an explicit purpose, time limits, and one‐on‐one encounters to create a setting where boundary‐spanning opportunities can be recognized, ideas can be explored at a deep level of interdisciplinary expertise, and potential collaborators can be quickly assessed. A comparison of speedstorming and brainstorming suggests that ideas from speedstorming were more technically specialized and that speedstorming participants were more certain in their assessments of the collaborative potential of others. This paper concludes with a discussion of the method's application in a variety of settings.
Creating Space for Research: The Charismatic Entrepreneur as Research Director
Authors: Mønsted Mette , Hansson Finn
Published: February 2010

The paper discusses research leadership in public universities in a time of transformation. It focuses on the role of entrepreneurial strategies in creating space for research under conditions that increasingly depend on balancing managerial control in the university against openness to other knowledge organizations, arenas and networks. Here the generation of resources is becoming more important than ever, and a creative entrepreneurial strategy is a way to produce new knowledge centres. By analysing two new research groups in social science institutions in Denmark, we show how dilemmas, uncertainty and complex relations to other managerial systems in the universities can be decisive. Entrepreneurial network organizing offers a new platform for innovation in the university. We find that the charismatic traits of the research director have an important impact on the strength of this platform.
Managing the Co‐operation–Competition Dilemma in R&D Alliances: A Multiple Case Study in the Advanced Materials Industry
Authors: Faems Dries , Janssens Maddy , Van Looy Bart
Published: February 2010

Generating value in R&D alliances requires intensive and fine‐grained interaction between collaborating partners. At the same time, more intensive co‐operation increases the risk of competitive abuse of the R&D alliance by one or more partners. In this study, we explore how managers address the fundamental tension between the need for co‐operation and the risk of competition, using an in‐depth case study of five R&D alliances in the advanced materials industry. Based on our data, we identify two relational strategies to enhance co‐operation between engineers of different partners (i.e., adopting boundary‐spanning activities and installing similar technical equipment) and three structural strategies to mitigate the risk of such intensified co‐operation (i.e., definition of partner‐specific task domains, definition of partner‐specific knowledge domains and definition of partner‐specific commercial domains). In addition, we find that partners tend to use particular combinations of such relational and structural strategies at different stages of the alliance life‐cycle to address the co‐operation–competition dilemma.
Measuring Innovative Work Behaviour
Authors: De Jong Jeroen , Den Hartog Deanne
Published: February 2010

Both scientists and practitioners emphasize the importance of innovative work behaviour (IWB) of individual employees for organizational success, but the measurement of IWB is still at an evolutionary stage. This article is concerned with developed a measure of IWB with four potential dimensions: the exploration, generation, championing and implementation of ideas. From a pilot survey among 81 research professionals and their supervisors, we derived an initial version of ten items. Next, analysis of validity drew on survey data from 703 matched dyads of knowledge workers and their supervisors in 94 knowledge intensive services firms. It included confirmatory factor analyses and hierarchical multilevel regressions to test hypothesized relationships of IWB with related constructs, including participative leadership, external work contacts and innovative output. These analyses demonstrated sufficient reliability and criterion validity. Evidence for the distinctiveness of the four dimensions was, however, weak, suggesting that IWB is one‐dimensional. We conclude that further research on this issue is merited.
PLACING AND SPACING SERVICES: TOWARDS A BALANCED ECONOMIC GEOGRAPHY OF FIRMS, CLUSTERS, SOCIAL NETWORKS, CONTRACTS AND THE GEOGRAPHIES OF ENTERPRISE
Authors: RUSTEN GRETE , BRYSON JOHN R.
Published: February 2010

This paper introduces a special dossier that explores the changing economic geographies of service firms and functions. The emphasis is on exploring recent developments in the theory of the firm and what this means for understanding how complex production systems are organised in time and space. There are three important building blocks: exploring interactions between the literatures of economic geography and international business; exploring the global sourcing of services and a critical analysis of clusters. This introduction addresses some of the tensions that exist between research that emphasises the importance of social networks in production systems and the contractual and legal structures that constrain the activities of firms.
Within-Individual Dependence in Self-Controlled Case Series Models for Recurrent Events
Authors: Farrington C. Paddy , Hocine Mounia N.
Published: February 2010

The self-controlled case series model may be used to analyse recurrent events when event times are conditionally independent given fixed or random individual effects. To test the hypothesis of within-individual independence, the model is augmented by an association parameter for diagonal dependence, which provides the focus for a test of independence. Estimation methods are described, and simulations are presented to illustrate the power of the method in relevant scenarios, and to quantify the bias resulting from failure of the independence assumption. The methods are applied to two data sets, relating to a rare bleeding disorder and to myocardial infarction.
Continuous Time Brownian Motion Models for Analysis of Sequential Data
Authors: Robinson G. K.
Published: February 2010

The paper discusses techniques for analysis of sequential data from variable processes, particularly techniques that can be used even when the data are not equally spaced in time. The techniques are based on models which use continuous time Brownian motion and its integrals to describe the pattern of variation in an underlying physical process and use white noise to describe variation due to measurement processes. The paper concentrates on making statements about what has been happening in the region that is covered by the data rather than on making predictions about regions that are far from the data. It is argued that the continuous time integrated Brownian motion plus white noise model is always preferable to its discrete time analogue: the local linear trend model. Further integrals of Brownian motion can be fitted as an alternative to using splines. All of these continuous time Brownian motion models can be fitted to data that are associated with a time interval (interval data) as well as to data that are associated with a single time (spot data). They can be fitted by using mixed model methodology as well as by using Kalman filtering and smoothing.
Mixed Effect Modelling of Proteomic Mass Spectrometry Data by Using Gaussian Mixtures
Authors: Browne William J. , Dryden Ian L. , Handley Kelly , Mian Shahid , Schadendorf Dirk
Published: February 2010

Statistical methodology for the analysis of proteomic mass spectrometry data is proposed using mixed effects models. Each high dimensional spectrum is represented by using a near orthogonal low dimensional representation with a basis of Gaussian mixture functions. Linear mixed effect models are proposed in the lower dimensional space. In particular, differences between groups are investigated by using fixed effect parameters, and individual variability of spectra is modelled by using random effects. A deterministic peak fitting algorithm provides estimates of the near orthogonal Gaussian basis. The mixed effects model is fitted by using restricted maximum likelihood, and a parallel fitting procedure is used for computational convenience. The methodology is applied to proteomic mass spectrometry data from serum samples from melanoma patients who were categorized as stage I or stage IV, and significant locations of peaks are identified.
Potential and Foetal Value
Authors: BURGESS J. A.
Published: February 2010

abstract

The argument from potential has been hard to assess because the versions presented by friends and those presented by enemies have born very little resemblance to each other. I here try to improve this situation by attempting to bring both versions into enforced contact. To this end, I sketch a more detailed analysis of the modern concept of potential than any hitherto attempted. As one would expect, arguments from potential couched in terms of that notion are evident non‐starters. I then ask how the modern notion of potential needs to be supplemented in order to produce a more convincing argument. I then enquire whether the supplementations utilised in the most distinguished recent presentations of the argument have anything better than an ad hoc role to play in contemporary metaphysics. I conclude that the rehabilitation of the argument is unlikely; in any event, the onus of proof seems to be on the friend of that argument to show that it is uncontrived. Finally, I argue that the (modern) notion of potential has an important role to play in any plausible account of foetal value.
UK IPOs: Long Run Returns, Behavioural Timing and Pseudo Timing
Authors: Gregory Alan , Guermat Cherif , Al‐Shawawreh Fawaz
Published: February 2010

Abstract:  In this paper we examine a comprehensive set of 2,499 UK IPOs launched between mid‐1975 and the end of 2004. We find compelling evidence of long run under‐performance that persists for between 36 and 60 months post‐flotation, depending on the precise method chosen to measure abnormal returns. Following Schultz (2003), we ask whether our results are consistent with ‘pseudo‐timing’. Equally‐weighted returns in calendar time provide further evidence of under‐performance, a result that favours the Loughran and Ritter (2000) behavioural timing hypothesis rather than the Schultz (2003) pseudo‐timing hypothesis. However, we show that this under‐performance is concentrated in AIM and USM stocks. When we measure value‐weighted returns in calendar time we find that abnormal returns are not significantly different from zero. Further analysis shows that, consistent with the findings of other studies, IPO under‐performance is concentrated in smaller firms.
Corporate Debt Financing and Earnings Quality
Authors: Ghosh Aloke (Al) , Moon Doocheol
Published: February 2010

Abstract:  Our study establishes linkages between two extensively researched areas, debt financing and the quality of earnings. Debt can have a ‘positive influence’on earnings quality because managers are likely to use their accounting discretion to provide private information about the firms’ future prospects to lower financing costs. For high debt, it can also have a ‘negative influence’ on earnings quality as managers use accruals aggressively to manage earnings to avoid covenant violations. Using accruals quality as a proxy for earnings quality, we document a non‐monotonic (curvilinear) relation between debt and earnings quality. The relationship is positive at low levels of debt and negative at high debt levels with an inflection point around 41%. Our results suggest that firms that rely heavily on debt financing might be willing to bear higher costs of borrowing from lower earnings quality because the benefits from avoiding potential debt covenant violations exceed the higher borrowing costs.
Importance of peers and dating in the development of romantic relationships and sexual activity of young adults with cerebral palsy
Authors: WIEGERINK DIANA JHG , ROEBROECK MARIJ E , VAN DER SLOT WILMA MA , STAM HENK J , COHEN‐KETTENIS PEGGY T ,   SOUTH WEST NETHERLANDS TRANSITION RESEARCH GROUP
Published: February 2010

Aim  The aim of this study was to describe the peer group activities, romantic relationships, and sexual activity and their interrelations of young adults with cerebral palsy (CP).

Method  A cross‐sectional study was performed in 87 participants (51 males, 36 females; mean age 20y 4mo, SD 1y 3mo range age 18–22y) without cognitive disabilities. Ninety‐four per cent had spastic CP and 49% unilateral CP, while 78% were classified at Gross Motor Function Classification System level I and 84% at Manual Ability Classification System level I. Peer group activities, dating, romantic relationships, and sexual activity were assessed with an interview and questionnaire. Associations were analysed using logistic regression analyses.

Results  The study cohort reported having friends and participating in activities with peers; 71% had experience of dating, 23% had a current romantic relationship, and 38% had experience of intercourse. Young adults with CP had less experience in romantic and sexual relationships than an age‐appropriate Dutch reference population. Peer group activities and dating favoured development of romantic relationships and sexual activity. Older age was associated with greater sexual activity. Motor functioning, education level, and gender did not correlate with romantic relationships or sexual activity.

Interpretation  Being involved in peer group activities and creating a context to arrange dates seems relevant for young adults with CP to develop romantic relationships and sexual activity.
FoxP1 promotes midbrain identity in embryonic stem cell‐derived dopamine neurons by regulating Pitx3
Authors: Konstantoulas Constantine James , Parmar Malin , Li Meng
Published: February 2010

J. Neurochem. (2010) 113, 836–847.

The robust generation of midbrain dopamine neurons from embryonic stem cells and patient‐specific induced pluripotent stem cells is a prospective tool for the development of new drugs and cell based therapies, and investigations into the aetiology of Parkinson’s disease. To achieve this, it is crucial to identify the fate‐determining regulatory factors that influence dopamine cell fate decision and the underlying molecular machinery. We identified FoxP1 as a novel marker for midbrain dopamine neurons. Enforced expression of FoxP1 in embryonic stem cells actuates the expression of Pitx3, a homeobox protein that is exclusively expressed in midbrain dopaminergic neurons and is required for their differentiation and survival during development and from embryonic stem cells in vitro. We show that FoxP1 can be recruited to the Pitx3 locus in embryonic stem cells and regulate Pitx3 promoter activity in a dual‐luciferase assay. This transcriptional regulation of Pitx3 by FoxP1 depends on the presence of two high affinity binding sites in the distal Pitx3 promoter, through which FoxP1 directly binds as demonstrated by chromatin immunoprecipitation and electrophoretic mobility shift assay. Thus, this study demonstrates for the first time a transcription regulatory role for FoxP1 on the Pitx3 gene in mammalian stem cells.
Pain in older persons with severe dementia. Psychometric properties of the Mobilization–Observation–Behaviour–Intensity–Dementia (MOBID‐2) Pain Scale in a clinical setting
Authors: Husebo Bettina S. , Strand Liv I. , Moe‐Nilssen Rolf , Husebo Stein B. , Ljunggren Anne E.
Published: February 2010

Scand J Caring Sci; 2010; 24; 380–391
 
Pain in older persons with severe dementia. Psychometric properties of the Mobilization–Observation–Behaviour–Intensity–Dementia (MOBID‐2) Pain Scale in a clinical setting

Background:  To assess pain in older persons with severe dementia is a challenge due to reduced self‐report capacity. Recently, the development and psychometric property testing of the Mobilization–Observation–Behaviour–Intensity–Dementia (MOBID) Pain Scale was described using video‐recording. The purpose of this article was to present the further development of this instrument. In MOBID‐2 Pain Scale, the assessment of inferred pain intensity is based on patient’s pain behaviours in connection with standardized, guided movements of different body parts (Part 1). In addition, MOBID‐2 includes the observation of pain behaviours related to internal organs, head and skin registered on pain drawings and monitored over time (Part 2).

Objective:  The aim of this study was to examine psychometric properties of the MOBID‐2 Pain Scale, like inter‐rater and test–retest reliability, internal consistency, as well as face‐, construct‐ and concurrent validity.

Subjects and Setting:  Patients with severe dementia (n = 77) were examined by 28 primary caregivers in clinical practice, who concurrently and independently completed the MOBID‐2 Pain Scale. Characteristics of the patients’ pain were also investigated by their physicians (n = 4).

Results:  Prevalence of any pain was 81%, with predominance to the musculoskeletal system, highly associated with the MOBID‐2 overall pain score (rho = 0.82). Most frequent and painful were mobilizing legs. Pain in pelvis and/or genital organs was frequently observed. Moderate to excellent agreement was demonstrated for behaviours and pain drawings (κ = 0.41–0.90 and κ = 0.46–0.93). Inter‐rater and test–retest reliability for pain intensity was very good, ICC (1, 1) ranging 0.80–0.94 and 0.60–0.94. Internal consistency was highly satisfactory; Cronbach’s α ranging 0.82–0.84. Face‐, construct‐ and concurrent validity was good. Overall pain intensity by MOBID‐2 was well correlated with physicians’ clinical examination and defined pain variables (rho = 0.41–0.64).

Conclusion:  On the basis of pain behaviours, standardized movements and pain drawings, MOBID‐2 Pain Scale was shown to be sufficiently reliable, valid and time‐effective for nurses to assess pain in patients with severe dementia.
Effect of Local Cultural Context on the Success of Community‐Based Conservation Interventions
Authors: WAYLEN KERRY A. , FISCHER ANKE , MCGOWAN PHILIP J. K. , THIRGOOD SIMON J. , MILNER‐GULLAND E. J.
Published: February 2010

Abstract:  Conservation interventions require evaluation to understand what factors predict success or failure. To date, there has been little systematic investigation of the effect of social and cultural context on conservation success, although a large body of literature argues it is important. We investigated whether local cultural context, particularly local institutions and the efforts of interventions to engage with this culture significantly influence conservation outcomes. We also tested the effects of community participation, conservation education, benefit provision, and market integration. We systematically reviewed the literature on community‐based conservation and identified 68 interventions suitable for inclusion. We used a protocol to extract and code information and evaluated a range of measures of outcome success (attitudinal, behavioral, ecological, and economic). We also examined the association of each predictor with each outcome measure and the structure of predictor covariance. Local institutional context influenced intervention outcomes, and interventions that engaged with local institutions were more likely to succeed. Nevertheless, there was limited support for the role of community participation, conservation education, benefit provision, and market integration on intervention success. We recommend that conservation interventions seek to understand the societies they work with and tailor their activities accordingly. Systematic reviews are a valuable approach for assessing conservation evidence, although sensitive to the continuing lack of high‐quality reporting on conservation interventions.
Hemodialysis as a Treatment of Severe Accidental Hypothermia
Authors: Caluwé Rogier , Vanholder Raymond , Dhondt Annemieke
Published: February 2010

We describe a case of severe accidental hypothermia (core body temperature 23.2°C) successfully treated with hemodialysis in a diabetic patient with preexisting renal insufficiency. Consensus exists about cardiopulmonary bypass as the treatment of choice in cases of severe accidental hypothermia with cardiac arrest. Prospective randomized controlled trials comparing the different rewarming modalities for hemodynamically stable patients with hypothermia, however, are lacking. In our opinion, the choice of a rewarming technique should be patient tailored, knowing that hemodialysis is an efficient, minimally invasive, and readily available technique with the advantage of providing electrolyte support.
Robotic Skeletonized Internal Thoracic Artery Harvesting: The Sliding Fascia Technique
Authors: Ishikawa Norihiko , Watanabe Go , Tomita Shigeyuki , Ushijima Teruaki , Yamaguchi Shojiro , Nishida Satoru , Kikuchi Yujiro , Kawachi Kenji
Published: February 2010

Robotic skeletonizing and harvesting of the internal thoracic artery, using the da Vinci surgical system, has a number of advantages over robotic pediculed ITA harvesting. The advantages include greater blood flow, a longer conduit, and less bleeding. The technique is facilitated by use of the EndoWrist spatula cautery and fine tissue forceps (Intuitive Surgical, Inc., Sunnyvale, CA, USA). How the technique is performed is described in this report.
In Vivo and In Vitro Assessment of an Intraoral Dental Colorimeter
Authors: Karaagaclioglu Lale , Terzioglu Hakan , Yilmaz Burak , Yurdukoru Bengul
Published: February 2010

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to assess the performance of an intraoral dental colorimeter.

Materials and Methods: In vivo repeatability of an intraoral colorimeter was assessed by performing color measurements of 30 individuals’ right maxillary central incisor. Three consecutive measurements from each individual were made. In the in vitro part of the study, 25 metal‐ceramic and 25 all‐ceramic specimens were prepared. Five shades of metal‐ceramic and all‐ceramic specimens were selected for color determination. A widely recognized in vitro colorimeter was used as the control group for the in vitro performance assessment of the in vivo colorimeter. The color differentiation capability of two colorimeters was compared with the readings obtained from ceramic specimens. ΔE values between shade groups of ceramic specimens were calculated and statistically analyzed with Student's t‐test. The repeatability of the intraoral instrument was evaluated statistically with Intraclass correlation coefficient.

Results: The in vivo evaluation results showed that the overall repeatability coefficient values of L*, a*, and b* notations of the intraoral colorimeter were “excellent.” The color differences (ΔE) calculated between the colorimeters were significant only between shades A1‐B1 for metal‐ceramic specimens (p= 0.002); however, from 5 of 10 shade couples of all‐ceramic specimens, the color differences obtained from the readings of the in vivo colorimeter were significantly different from that of the in vitro colorimeter (p < 0.001). For all specimens, the differences between ΔE values were within clinically acceptable limits (<3.5).

Conclusions: Within the limitations of this study, the intraoral colorimeter exhibited successful in vivo repeatability; however, the color difference detection performance of the device varied depending on the translucency of the specimens.
Handgrip strength in English schoolchildren
Authors: Cohen DD , Voss C , Taylor MJD , Stasinopoulos DM , Delextrat A , Sandercock GRH
Published: February 2010

Aims:  The aims of this study were to evaluate patterns of handgrip (HG) strength in relation to gender and age in English schoolchildren and to compare this with existing data and produce reference data for this population.

Methods:  The HG of 7147 English schoolchildren (3773 boys and 3374 girls) aged 10–15.9 years was measured using a portable Takei handgrip dynamometer (Takei Scientific Instruments Co. Ltd, Tokyo, Japan). Centile data were produced using the Generalized Additive Models for Location, Scale and Shape. Z‐scores were generated using existing data for European children. Age and gender interactions were analysed using analysis of covariance.

Results:  In boys and girls, significant increases in HG were found between every age‐group (p < 0.001). Boys were significantly stronger than girls at every age (p < 0.001) and the boys’ age‐related increase was significantly greater than the girls’ (p < 0.001).

Conclusion:  This study provides reference data for handgrip strength in English schoolchildren. Handgrip strength in English children is broadly similar to existing European data, after adjusting for mass and stature. These data could be used for clinical or athletic screening of low and high strength in this population.
Fairness and the Willingness to Accept Plea Bargain Offers
Authors: Tor Avishalom , Gazal‐Ayal Oren , Garcia Stephen M.
Published: February 2010

In contrast with the common assumption in the plea bargaining literature, we show fairness‐related concerns systematically impact defendants' preferences and judgments. In the domain of preferences, innocents are less willing to accept plea offers than guilty defendants and all defendants reject otherwise attractive offers that appear comparatively unfair. We also show that defendants who are uncertain of their culpability exhibit egocentrically‐biased judgments and reject plea offers as if they were innocent. The article concludes by briefly discussing the normative implications of these findings.
Crystal structure of human cystatin C stabilized against amyloid formation
Authors: Kolodziejczyk Robert , Michalska Karolina , Hernandez‐Santoyo Alejandra , Wahlbom Maria , Grubb Anders , Jaskolski Mariusz
Published: February 2010

Human cystatin C (HCC) is a family 2 cystatin inhibitor of papain‐like (C1) and legumain‐related (C13) cysteine proteases. In pathophysiological processes, the nature of which is not understood, HCC is codeposited in the amyloid plaques of Alzheimer’s disease or Down’s syndrome. The amyloidogenic properties of HCC are greatly increased in a naturally occurring L68Q variant, resulting in fatal cerebral amyloid angiopathy in early adult life. In all crystal structures of cystatin C studied to date, the protein has been found to form 3D domain‐swapped dimers, created through a conformational change of a β‐hairpin loop, L1, from the papain‐binding epitope. We have created monomer‐stabilized human cystatin C, with an engineered disulfide bond (L47C)–(G69C) between the structural elements that become separated upon domain swapping. The mutant has drastically reduced dimerization and fibril formation properties, but its inhibition of papain is unaltered. The structure confirms the success of the protein engineering experiment to abolish 3D domain swapping and, in consequence, amyloid fibril formation. It illustrates for the first time the fold of monomeric cystatin C and allows verification of earlier predictions based on the domain‐swapped forms and on the structure of chicken cystatin. Importantly, the structure defines the so‐far unknown conformation of loop L1, which is essential for the inhibition of papain‐like cysteine proteases.
The mutations of Th1 cell‐specific T‐box transcription factor may be associated with a predominant Th2 phenotype in gastric cancers
Authors: Yang P. , Qiu G. , Wang S. , Su Z. , Chen J. , Wang S. , Kong F. , Lu L. , Ezaki T. , Xu H.
Published: February 2010

Gastric cancer is a serious public health cancer and causes nearly 1 million deaths a year worldwide. Th1 cells play critical roles in orchestrating the adaptive immune responses against gastric cancer. T‐bet, a member of the T‐box family of transcription factors, is the Th1 master regulator and up‐regulated during Th1 differentiation. Polymorphisms have also been shown to exist in T‐bet. Some reports indicated that some tumours were associated with the drift of Th1 and Th2. In the present work, we investigated the drift of Th1/Th2 by detecting the expression levels of T‐bet, IFN‐γ, IL‐4, and GATA‐3 in peripheral blood mononuclear cell of gastric cancer patients by real‐time PCR, explored the relationship between the polymorphism of T‐bet gene and drift of Th1/Th2 by gene sequence, western blot, and gene transfection. Our results indicated that a predominant Th2 phenotype was existence. T‐bet gene mutations may be associated with Th2‐dominated condition in gastric cancers.
Unveiling the hard X-ray spectrum from the ‘burst-only’ source SAX J1753.5-2349 in outburst
Authors: Del Santo M. , Sidoli L. , Romano P. , Bazzano A. , Wijnands R. , Degenaar N. , Mereghetti S.
Published: February 2010

Discovered in 1996 by BeppoSAX during a single type-I burst event, SAX J1753.5−2349 was classified as ‘burst-only’ source. Its persistent emission, either in outburst or in quiescence, had never been observed before 2008 October, when SAX J1753.5−2349 was observed for the first time in outburst. Based on INTEGRAL observations, we present here the first high-energy emission study (above 10 keV) of a so-called ‘burst-only’. During the outburst, the SAX J1753.5−2349 flux decreased from 10 to 4 mCrab in 18–40 keV, while it was found being in a constant low/hard spectral state. The broad-band (0.3–100 keV) averaged spectrum obtained by combining INTEGRAL/IBIS and Swift/XRT data has been fitted with a thermal Comptonization model and an electron temperature ≳24 keV inferred. However, the observed high column density does not allow the detection of the emission from the neutron star surface. Based on the whole set of observations of SAX J1753.5−2349, we are able to provide a rough estimate of the duty cycle of the system and the time-averaged mass-accretion rate. We conclude that the low to very low luminosity of SAX J1753.5−2349 during outburst may make it a good candidate to harbour a very compact binary system.
Sixteen‐year review of the population trends and mortality causes for captive Woolly monkey Lagothrix spp
Authors: ANGE‐VAN HEUGTEN K. , VAN HEUGTEN E. , VERSTEGEN M. W. A.
Published: February 2010

Woolly monkeys Lagothrix spp are difficult to maintain and breed successfully. These species are threatened in the wild and conservationists need to be aware of their plight in captivity if attempts to sustain the species are ultimately required. Written survey reports, International Species Information System record analysis and Woolly monkey studbook record analysis were completed to gather data on the survivability of the Woolly monkey population in captivity from 1990 to 2005. The Woolly monkey population decreased by 11% and the number of institutions holding these species also decreased. In addition, the birth to death ratio is negatively inverted (0·65:1·00). This is most pronounced in ♀♀ (0·47:1·00). The primary causes of death were infant mortality and complications during pregnancy, heart and hypertension disease, and bacterial and protozoan disease. The primary known causes of death in Woolly monkeys and both the genetic and nutritional relationship to reproductive success need further examination to conserve these species in both captivity and the wild.
Median Nerve Compression Secondary to a High Insertion of Pronator Teres
Authors: Mcculloch Robert A. , Maclean Simon B. M. , Dhaliwal Jag , Simons Adrian W.
Published: February 2010

We present a case of a 46-year-old male presenting with a 10 year history of pain and paraesthesia in the median nerve distribution together with a palpable lump in the upper arm. X-rays confirmed a supracondylar process of the humerus. Intra-operatively it was found that there was an aberrant insertion of one of the heads of pronater teres from the process. After surgical removal of the process and release of the head of pronator teres his symptoms improved.
Glass and Medicine
Authors: Hench Larry L. , Day Delbert E. , Höland Wolfram , Rheinberger Volker M.
Published: February 2010

For centuries, glass has been an important part of both the practical and the esthetic aspects of our culture. This paper documents three areas of glass research and development pioneered over the last 40 years that have greatly enhanced the quality of life (bioactive glasses and dental glass–ceramics) and the length of life (radioactive glass microspheres).
Glass and Light
Authors: Li Hong , Davis Mark J. , Marker, III Alexander J. , Hayden Joseph S.
Published: February 2010

We discuss glass as an engineered material in its traditional role to control the propagation of and to spectrally modify light in the performance of optical functions. Next, we consider fluorescence, which provides the capability to convert absorbed light of a particular frequency to emitted light of a lower frequency and as a necessary condition for light amplification through spontaneous emission of radiation. Finally, we consider glass in the framework of high‐energy particle physics experiments, including its use as a scintillator material and as a Cerenkov radiation detector.
Complete lack of vitamin C intake generates pulmonary emphysema in senescence marker protein-30 knockout mice
Authors: Koike Kengo , Kondo Yoshitaka , Sekiya Mitsuaki , Sato Yasunori , Tobino Kazunori , Iwakami Shin-iciro , Goto Sataro , Takahashi Kazuhisa , Maruyama Naoki , Seyama Kuniaki , Ishigami Akihito
Published: February 2010

Vitamin C (VC) is a potent antioxidant and plays an essential role in collagen synthesis. As we previously reported, senescence marker protein-30 (SMP30) knockout (KO) mice cannot synthesize VC due to the genetic disruption of gluconolactonase (i.e., SMP30). Here, we utilized SMP30 KO mice deprived of VC and found that VC depletion caused pulmonary emphysema due to oxidative stress and a decrease of collagen synthesis by the third month of age. We grew SMP30 KO mice and wild-type (WT) mice on VC-free chow and either VC water [VC(+)] or plain water [VC(−)] after weaning at 4 wk of age. Morphometric findings and reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the lungs were evaluated at 3 mo of age. No VC was detected in the lungs of SMP30 KO VC(−) mice, but their ROS increased 50.9% over that of the VC(+) group. Moreover, their collagen content in the lungs markedly decreased, and their collagen I mRNA decreased 82.2% compared with that of the WT VC(−) group. In the SMP30 KO VC(−) mice, emphysema developed [21.6% increase of mean linear intercepts (MLI) and 42.7% increase of destructive index compared with VC(+) groups], and the levels of sirtuin 1 (Sirt1) decreased 16.8%. However, VC intake increased the MLI 16.2% and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances 22.2% in WT mice, suggesting that an excess of VC can generate oxidative stress and may be harmful during this period of lung development. These results suggest that VC plays an important role in lung development through affecting oxidant-antioxidant balance and collagen synthesis.
Dietary inhibition of xanthine oxidase attenuates radiation-induced endothelial dysfunction in rat aorta
Authors: Soucy Kevin G. , Lim Hyun Kyo , Attarzadeh David O. , Santhanam Lakshmi , Kim Jae Hyung , Bhunia Anil K. , Sevinc Baris , Ryoo Sungwoo , Vazquez Marcelo E. , Nyhan Daniel , Shoukas Artin A. , Berkowitz Dan E.
Published: February 2010

Radiation exposure is associated with the development of various cardiovascular diseases. Although irradiation is known to cause elevated oxidant stress and chronic inflammation, both of which are detrimental to vascular function, the molecular mechanisms remain incompletely understood. We previously demonstrated that radiation causes endothelial dysfunction and increased vascular stiffness by xanthine oxidase (XO) activation. In this study, we investigated whether dietary inhibition of XO protects against radiation-induced vascular injury. We exposed 4-mo-old rats to a single dose of 0 or 5 Gy gamma radiation. These rats received normal drinking water or water containing 1 mM oxypurinol, an XO inhibitor. We measured XO activity and superoxide production in rat aorta and demonstrated that both were significantly elevated 2 wk after radiation exposure. However, oxypurinol treatment in irradiated rats prevented aortic XO activation and superoxide elevation. We next investigated endothelial function through fluorescent measurement of nitric oxide (NO) and vascular tension dose responses. Radiation reduced endothelium-dependent NO production in rat aorta. Similarly, endothelium-dependent vasorelaxation in the aorta of irradiated rats was significantly attenuated compared with the control group. Dietary XO inhibition maintained NO production at control levels and prevented the development of endothelial dysfunction. Furthermore, pulse wave velocity, a measure of vascular stiffness, increased by 1 day postirradiation and remained elevated 2 wk after irradiation, despite unchanged blood pressures. In oxypurinol-treated rats, pulse wave velocities remained unchanged from baseline throughout the experiment, signifying preserved vascular health. These findings demonstrate that XO inhibition can offer protection from radiation-induced endothelial dysfunction and cardiovascular complications.