bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Plasma Etch Rates of Porous Silica Low-k Films with Different Dielectric Constants
Authors: Ono Tetsuo , Takahashi Hideki , Kinoshita Keizo , Fujii Nobutoshi , Hata Nobuhiro , Kikkawa Takamaro
Published: November 2006

The reactive ion etch rates of porous silica films with different dielectric constants (k-values) or film densities were measured by varying wafer bias and gas ratio for Ar/C5F8/O2 plasma. Both the etch rates of porous silica films and the optical emission intensities from the etching products (SiF) increased with wafer bias power. Etch rate increased with decreasing k-value of porous silica, whereas SiF emission intensity was maintained constant regardless of k-value, indicating that the amount of etching products escaping from the porous silica surface to the gas phase remained unchanged. From this result it is concluded that mass etch rate, defined as the weight of a porous silica film etched from a unit area per unit time, is constant for Ar/C5F8/O2 plasma.
Experimental Study on Favorable Properties of Compound RF Discharge Plasmas with a Tapered Shape Hollow Cathode Compared with a Plane Cathode
Authors: Yambe Kiyoyuki , Matsuoka Akio , Kondoh Yoshiomi
Published: November 2006

An experimental investigation on the characteristics of compound RF discharge plasmas with a tapered shape hollow-cathode (HC) compared with a plane cathode is presented for the development of processing plasma. Dense plasmas are shown to be generated in the wide range of working pressures, 3< p<90 Pa. It is clarified that the higher RF power yields the greater HC effect to increase the ratio of electron density with the HC to that without it. The HC effect is shown to work well for decreasing the self-bias potential compared with the plane cathode. It is clarified that the dense plasma with relatively low electron temperature produced by the compound RF discharge results from the synergetic effect of the lowered input RF power density and the effective increased discharge area due to the HC effect.
Electrical Properties of Organic Field-Effect Transistor with Lewis-Acid Thin Film between Organic and Insulator Layers
Authors: Minagawa Masahiro , Shinbo Kazunari , Usuda Kohei , Takahashi Toshiaki , Iwasaki Masahide , Kato Keizo , Kaneko Futao
Published: November 2006

Organic field-effect transistors (OFETs) with Lewis-acid films were fabricated using copper phthalocyanine (CuPc), and the operating mechanism was studied. These OFETs have active layers of CuPc and vanadium pentoxide (V2O5) as a Lewis-acid film. A large drain current was observed in OFETs with a V2O5 layer for a positive gate voltage, and the mobility of these OFETs was improved compared with OFETs with only CuPc as an active layer. To investigate the operating mechanism, X-ray diffraction patterns, UV–vis absorption spectra, and ionization potentials were measured in V2O5 films and CuPc films with and without a co-evaporation of V2O5. Each characteristic of the CuPc layer changed owing to the introduction of V2O5. It was considered that a CT complex is formed in the CuPc layer owing to the interaction between CuPc and V2O5 molecules, and contributes to the large drain current and improvement in mobility.
Fabrication of Organic Light-Emitting Diode Arrays on Flexible Plastic Substrates by Imprint Lithography
Authors: Cheng Chiao-Yang , Hong Franklin Chau-Nan
Published: November 2006

Imprint lithography has been employed as a patterning technology for the fabrication of organic light-emitting diode (OLED) device arrays on flexible poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) substrates. Poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) was used as the etching barrier coated on an indium tin oxide (ITO)/PET substrate. A silicon mold fabricated by photolithography was coated with a fluorinated diamond-like carbon film for easy mold-releasing. By hot pressing the silicon mold on the PMMA-coated ITO/PET substrate and etching in oxalic acid solution, patterned ITO strips were obtained. Imprint lithography was repeated to fabricate PMMA ribs vertical to the ITO strips. Finally, a matrix of 40×40 OLED devices (300×300 µm2) was fabricated with an area of 25×25 mm2after depositing the organic and cathode layers consisting of TPD/Alq3/Bphen/LiF/Al. High quality OLED arrays on flexible PET substrate were obtained with a turn-on voltage of around 5 V, a luminous efficiency of 3 cd/A, a power efficiency of 1.2 lm/W, and a luminance of 800 cd/m2operated at 7 V on the basis of the actual light emitting area.
Investigation of Optimum Biasing and Undercut for Single Trench Alternating Phase Shift Mask in 193 nm Lithography
Authors: Lee Ji-Eun , Kang Hye-Young , Shin Dong-Soo , Jeong Hee-Jun , An Ilsin , Ahn Chang-Nam , Oh Hye-Keun
Published: November 2006

The use of an alternating phase shift mask is an effective method of improving resolution compared with binary and embedded attenuated phase shift mask technologies, but the intensity imbalance between the light propagating through the zero- and π-shifted spaces is the main obstacle to be overcome. Several technical methods are proposed to compensate for such an imbalance in the mask manufacturing process. The known general solutions for the intensity imbalance are applying a space bias and/or an undercut of the space region of the alternating phase shift mask. We evaluated the uniformity of the resist profile after the application of a space bias or an undercut of the mask space region in order to minimize the pattern position displacement and the critical dimension difference between the phase-shifted and unshifted regions for the 90 and 65 nm nodes. Additionally, we found that the imperfect side wall angle of an undercut or a space bias obviously affected the quality of pattern fidelity and hence investigated how the side wall angle affects pattern printability.
Accurate Velocity Measurement of Periodic Striae of TiO2–SiO2 Glasses by the Line-Focus-Beam Ultrasonic Material-Characterization System
Authors: Arakawa Mototaka , Kushibiki Jun-ichi , Ohashi Yuji , Suzuki Kouji
Published: November 2006

The evaluation of periodic striae layers in TiO2–SiO2 ultra-low-expansion glasses, formed during production, is discussed through the measurement of leaky surface acoustic-wave (LSAW) velocities by the line-focus-beam (LFB) ultrasonic material-characterization system. The averaging effect associated with an LSAW propagation region interacting with periodic striae on a specimen surface was examined at 225 MHz, taking several specimens prepared with inclination angles of θ=0, 2, 5, 10, 20, and 90° to the plane of striae layers with a periodicity of 0.16 mm. LSAW velocities corresponding to TiO2 concentrations in the glass were properly measured for the specimens with θ less than 10°, and the perpendicular specimen (θ=90°) was suitable for accurate determination of the striae periodicities for LSAW propagation perpendicular to the striae plane.
Hydrodynamic Analysis of Density Oscillator
Authors: Ueno Makoto , Uehara Fumiya , Narahara Yoshimasa , Watanabe Yoshio
Published: November 2006

A cylindrical vessel, in which a tube is installed vertically in its base, is mounted in a reservoir. When heavy fluid is placed in the cylindrical vessel and light fluid in the reservoir, at first, the downflow of heavy fluid and the upflow of light fluid through the tube take place. This oscillation is repeated, and this system is called a density oscillator. In our research study, saltwater and fresh water are used as heavy and light fluids respectively. A theory based on the Hagen–Poiseuille flow approximation in a tube is constructed on the basis of the mechanism of the rise and fall of the saltwater surface. Our theory agrees well with experimental data. It is confirmed experimentally that the mean velocities of saltwater and fresh water in the tube immediately before the fall of the saltwater and the rise of the fresh water begin, are proportional to the density difference between saltwater and fresh water and inversely proportional to saltwater viscosity.
Charge Injection from Si Substrate into Amino Acids
Authors: Oda Masato , Nakayama Takashi
Published: November 2006

The electronic structures of amino acids on Si(111) surfaces are investigated using ab initio Hartree–Fock calculations. It is shown that six amino acids can be positively ionized when hole carriers are supplied to the Si substrate by transferring the hole charge from the Si substrate into an amino acid. This result indicates that the ionization of an amino acid, which activates protein functions, can be controlled electrically by producing amino-acid/Si junctions.
Evaluation of Optical Properties for Development of Ultrahigh-Resolution Flexible Contact Endoscope
Authors: Lee Bongsoo , Cho Dong Hyun , Chung Soon-Cheol , Lee Jeong-Whan , Tack Gye-Rae , Yi Jeong Han , Jun Jae Hun , Kang Yeon June
Published: November 2006

In this study, a new flexible contact endoscope that is similar to a fiber-optic ultrathin endoscope is examined. Using a new optical design with a 0.23 pitch gradient index lens and an ultrathin fiber-optic image guide, we have obtained 228 line pairs/mm ultrahigh-resolution images. The resolution and magnification of the obtained images are measured and analyzed. Also, the relationship between magnification and the working distance from the target to the gradient index (GRIN) lens using GRIN lenses of different pitch lengths is determined. Finally, we have taken an image of red blood corpuscles of 6–9 µm average size.
Structure, Conductance and Strength of Iridium Wires of Single Atom Width
Authors: Ryu Minoru , Kizuka Tokushi
Published: November 2006

The formation of iridium (Ir) wires of single-atom width during the contact and subsequent retraction of two nanometer-sized Ir tips was observed byin situtransmission electron microscopy with simultaneous measurements of conductance and force. The Ir wires, composed of a few atoms, grew straight along the retraction direction with an interatomic distance of 0.21–0.30 nm. The mechanical properties, i.e., elastic limit, Young's modulus and strength, of individual Ir wires were analyzed on the basis of the mechanics of materials on an atomic scale. It was found that in contrast to coarse-grained Ir crystals, the strength and elastic limit of the single-atom-width Ir wires increased to 25±17 GPa and 0.21±0.04, respectively, while Young's modulus decreased to 90±55 GPa. The conductance of the Ir wires at room temperature ranged from 0.2–3.0G0(G0=2e2/h, whereeis the charge of an electron andhis Planck's constant), even for the same width, a single atom.
New Growth Method of ZnO Nanostructures Using Sputter Machines without Heat Treatment
Authors: Youn Doo-Hyeb , Maeng Sung-Lyul , Kang Kwang-Yong
Published: November 2006

New shapes of ZnO nanostructures formed using radio-frequency sputter deposition are revealed for the first time. The effects of growth conditions, such as O2/Ar ratio, growth time and metal surface, on the shapes of ZnO are investigated. ZnO clusters grown on the surface of polycrystalline metal particles were found to be amorphous and had polycrystalline structures. The crystallinity and preferred growth direction of ZnO were promoted with increasing O2/Ar ratio and growth time. The atomic percent of oxygen in ZnO increased and oxygen excess occurred with increasing O2/Ar ratio and growth time. Two distinct ZnO shapes were observed on Cu/Ti/Si and Cu/Au/Si surfaces, but were not observed on Ti/Si surface.
Photopatterning of an Organic Monolayer Formed on a Si Single Crystal Surface via Si–C Covalent Bond by UV Irradiation in an Inert Atmosphere
Authors: Takakusagi Satoru , Uosaki Kohei
Published: November 2006

We demonstrate that photopatterning of an octadecyl monolayer, which was covalently attached to a Si(111) surface via Si–C bond [C18H37–Si(111)], is possible just by irradiating the monolayer surface with UV light (254 nm+185 nm) in an atmospheric Ar environment through Cu microgrid patterns. The grid patterns were successfully transferred to the surface without detectable damage in the non-irradiated region. The patterned monolayer was further used as a template for metal pattern formation by electroless Cu deposition. The organic monolayer effectively worked as an efficient insulating mask for the electroless deposition of Cu, which was selectively deposited on the UV irradiated region. This approach is simple and convenient for fabricating microstructures of various molecules and metals on a Si surface.
Molecular Dynamics Simulation of Magnetic Field Induced Orientation of Nanotube-Polymer Composite
Authors: Al-Haik Marwan S. , Hussaini M. Yousuff
Published: November 2006

Molecular dynamics simulations are carried out to study the reorientation of single wall carbon nanotubes in a polyethylene matrix under the influence of a 25 T magnetic field. The simulations are based on a variant of velocity Verlet algorithm, which relaxes the Larmor time-step restriction while preserving second-order accuracy. Simulations reveal that the unfolding and reorganization of the polyethylene (PE) chain facilitates the reorientation of the single wall carbon nanotubes closer to the direction of the applied magnetic field. Also, they bring out the difference between the behavior of the carbon nanotubes of zigzag chirality and that of armchair chirality.
Dependence of Electric Properties of Al Atomic Chains on Structure of Chain–Electrode Junction
Authors: Furuya Shinnosuke , Gohda Yoshihiro , Watanabe Satoshi
Published: November 2006

We carried out ab initio calculations of the electric properties of Al atomic chains connected to electrodes by the boundary-matching scattering-state density functional method developed by our group. We examined two adsorption sites on Al(001), hollow and on-top sites, and found that the current–voltage characteristics of the chain are significantly different between the two sites. We also found that the current–voltage characteristics, potential shift and energy shift of the peak of the local density of states are correlated with one another.
Simulations of osmotic ultrafiltration failure in CAPD using a serial three-pore membrane/fiber matrix model
Authors: Rippe Bengt , Venturoli Daniele
Published: November 2006

Ultrafiltration failure (UFF) is a common complication of long-term peritoneal dialysis (PD). Functionally UFF is in most cases characterized by an enhanced peritoneal mass transfer area coefficient for glucose (PSg) combined with a largely unchanged peritoneal glucose osmotic conductance (LpSσg). Morphologically, marked UFF occurs with fibrosis of the submesothelial zone in the peritoneum, combined with vasculopathy and vascular proliferation in deeper tissues. To computer simulate UFF, changes both in the vasculature and in the interstitium have to be taken into account. For that purpose, we used a three-pore membrane/fiber matrix serial barrier model, applying the three-pore model to the capillaries and the fiber-matrix model to the interstitium. The parameters of the three-pore model have been published previously. The interstitial fiber density was set at 0.5% (vol/vol) and the fiber radius ( rf) at 6 Å during control. If the interstitial fiber density was increased from 0.5 to 3%, and rfto 7.5 Å (cf. collagen) while the capillary surface area was increased by 40% from control, then PSgincreased from 9.3 to 11.5 ml/min, while the UF coefficient (LpS) was largely unchanged. Further increases in vascular surface area combined with further increases in fiber density caused further increments in PSg, whereas LpS remained unchanged. It is concluded that a matrix of fibers coupled in series with a three-pore membrane may be used for simulating the pathophysiological alterations occurring in the peritoneum in UFF, explaining the commonly observed “uncoupling” of small solute transport (PS) from the peritoneal UF coefficient (LpS) in this condition.
Effects of inhibition of the Na+/K+/2Cl− cotransporter on myogenic and angiotensin II responses of the rat afferent arteriole
Authors: Wang Xuemei , Breaks Jennifer , Loutzenhiser Kathy , Loutzenhiser Rodger
Published: November 2006

The Na+/K+/2Cl− cotransporter (NKCC) plays diverse roles in the kidney, contributing sodium reabsorption and tubuloglomerular feedback (TGF). However, NKCC is also expressed in smooth muscle and inhibitors of this transporter affect contractility in both vascular and nonvascular smooth muscle. In the present study, we investigated the effects of NKCC inhibitors on vasoconstrictor responses of the renal afferent arteriole using the in vitro perfused hydronephrotic rat kidney. This preparation has no tubules and no TGF, eliminating this potential complication. Furosemide and bumetanide inhibited myogenic responses in a concentration-dependent manner. Bumetanide was ∼20-fold more potent (IC50 1.0 vs. 20 μmol/l). At 100 and 10 μmol/l, furosemide and bumetanide inhibited myogenic responses by 72 ± 4 and 68 ± 5%, respectively. The maximal level of inhibition by bumetanide was not affected by nitric oxide synthase inhibition (100 μmol/l NG-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester). However, the time course for the dilation was slowed (from t1/2 = 4.0 ± 0.5 to 8.3 ± 1.7 min, P = 0.04), suggesting either a partial involvement of NO or a permissive effect of NO on relaxation kinetics. Bumetanide also inhibited ANG II-induced afferent arteriolar vasconstriction at similar concentrations. Finally, NKCC1, but not NKCC2, expression was demonstrated in the afferent arteriole by RT-PCR and the presence of NKCC1 in afferent arteriolar myocytes was confirmed by immunohistochemistry. In concert, these results indicate that NKCC modulation is capable of altering myogenic responses by a mechanism that does not involve TGF and suggest a potential role of NKCC1 in the regulation of vasomotor function in the renal microvasculature.
Selective Removal of Lateral Olivocochlear Efferents Increases Vulnerability to Acute Acoustic Injury
Authors: Darrow Keith N. , Maison Stéphane F. , Liberman M. Charles
Published: November 2006

Cochlear sensory cells and neurons receive efferent feedback from the olivocochlear (OC) system. The myelinated medial component of the OC system and its effects on outer hair cells (OHCs) have been implicated in protection from acoustic injury. The unmyelinated lateral (L)OC fibers target ipsilateral cochlear nerve dendrites and pharmacological studies suggest the LOC's dopaminergic component may protect these dendrites from excitotoxic effects of acoustic overexposure. Here, we explore LOC function in vivo by selective stereotaxic destruction of LOC cell bodies in mouse. Lesion success in removing the LOC, and sparing the medial (M)OC, was assessed by histological analysis of brain stem sections and cochlear whole mounts. Auditory brain stem responses (ABRs), a neural-based metric, and distortion product otoacoustic emissions (DPOAEs), an OHC-based metric, were measured in control and surgical mice. In cases where the LOC was at least partially destroyed, there were increases in suprathreshold neural responses that were frequency- and level-independent and not attributable to OHC-based effects. These interaural response asymmetries were not found in controls or in cases where the lesion missed the LOC. In LOC-lesion cases, after exposure to a traumatic stimulus, temporary threshold shifts were greater in the ipsilateral ear, but only when measured in the neural response; OHC-based measurements were always bilaterally symmetric, suggesting OHC vulnerability was unaffected. Interaural asymmetries in threshold shift were not found in either unlesioned controls or in cases that missed the LOC. These findings suggest that the LOC modulates cochlear nerve excitability and protects the cochlea from neural damage in acute acoustic injury.
Genomic analysis of nucleoside transporters in Diptera and functional characterization ofDmENT2, a Drosophila equilibrative nucleoside transporter
Authors: Machado Jerry , Abdulla Parween , Hanna W. J. Brad , Hilliker Arthur J. , Coe Imogen R.
Published: November 2006

The recent completion of genome sequencing projects in a number of eukaryotes allows comparative analysis of orthologs, which can aid in identifying evolutionary constraints on protein structure and function. Nucleoside transporters (NTs) are present in a diverse array of organisms and previous studies have suggested that there is low protein sequence similarity but conserved structure in invertebrate and vertebrate NT orthologs. In addition, most taxa possess multiple NT isoforms but their respective roles in the physiology of the organism are not clear. To investigate the evolution of the structure and function of NTs, we have extended our previous studies by identifying NT orthologs in the Dipteran Anopheles gambiae and comparing these proteins to human and Drosophila melanogaster (Dm) NTs. In addition, we have functionally characterized DmENT2, one of three putative D. melanogaster ENTs that we have previously described. DmENT2 has broad substrate specificity, is insensitive to standard nucleoside transport inhibitors and is expressed in the digestive tract of late stage embryos based on in situ hybridization. DmENT1 and DmENT2 are expressed in most stages during development with the exception of early embryogenesis suggesting specific physiological roles for each isoform. These data represent the first complete genomic analysis of Dipteran NTs and the first report of the functional characterization of any Dipteran NT.
A Genome-Wide Screen Reveals Functional Gene Clusters in the Cancer Genome and Identifies EphA2 as a Mitogen in Glioblastoma
Authors: Liu Fenghua , Park Peter J. , Lai Weil , Maher Elizabeth , Chakravarti Arnab , Durso Laura , Jiang Xiuli , Yu Yi , Brosius Amanda , Thomas Meredith , Chin Lynda , Brennan Cameron , DePinho Ronald A. , Kohane Isaac , Carroll Rona S. , Black Peter M. , Johnson Mark D.
Published: November 2006

A novel genome-wide screen that combines patient outcome analysis with array comparative genomic hybridization and mRNA expression profiling was developed to identify genes with copy number alterations, aberrant mRNA expression, and relevance to survival in glioblastoma. The method led to the discovery of physical gene clusters within the cancer genome with boundaries defined by physical proximity, correlated mRNA expression patterns, and survival relatedness. These boundaries delineate a novel genomic interval called the functional common region (FCR). Many FCRs contained genes of high biological relevance to cancer and were used to pinpoint functionally significant DNA alterations that were too small or infrequent to be reliably identified using standard algorithms. One such FCR contained the EphA2 receptor tyrosine kinase. Validation experiments showed that EphA2 mRNA overexpression correlated inversely with patient survival in a panel of 21 glioblastomas, and ligand-mediated EphA2 receptor activation increased glioblastoma proliferation and tumor growth via a mitogen-activated protein kinase–dependent pathway. This novel genome-wide approach greatly expanded the list of target genes in glioblastoma and represents a powerful new strategy to identify the upstream determinants of tumor phenotype in a range of human cancers. (Cancer Res 2006; 66(22): 10815-23)
Inhibition of Transforming Growth Factor-β1 Signaling Attenuates Ataxia Telangiectasia Mutated Activity in Response to Genotoxic Stress
Authors: Kirshner Julia , Jobling Michael F. , Pajares Maria Jose , Ravani Shraddha A. , Glick Adam B. , Lavin Martin J. , Koslov Sergei , Shiloh Yosef , Barcellos-Hoff Mary Helen
Published: November 2006

Ionizing radiation causes DNA damage that elicits a cellular program of damage control coordinated by the kinase activity of ataxia telangiectasia mutated protein (ATM). Transforming growth factor β (TGFβ)-1, which is activated by radiation, is a potent and pleiotropic mediator of physiologic and pathologic processes. Here we show that TGFβ inhibition impedes the canonical cellular DNA damage stress response. Irradiated Tgfβ1 null murine epithelial cells or human epithelial cells treated with a small-molecule inhibitor of TGFβ type I receptor kinase exhibit decreased phosphorylation of Chk2, Rad17, and p53; reduced γH2AX radiation-induced foci; and increased radiosensitivity compared with TGFβ competent cells. We determined that loss of TGFβ signaling in epithelial cells truncated ATM autophosphorylation and significantly reduced its kinase activity, without affecting protein abundance. Addition of TGFβ restored functional ATM and downstream DNA damage responses. These data reveal a heretofore undetected critical link between the microenvironment and ATM, which directs epithelial cell stress responses, cell fate, and tissue integrity. Thus, Tgfβ1, in addition to its role in homoeostatic growth control, plays a complex role in regulating responses to genotoxic stress, the failure of which would contribute to the development of cancer; conversely, inhibiting TGFβ may be used to advantage in cancer therapy. (Cancer Res 2006; 66(22): 10861-9)
Uses and Limitations of 40 Slice Multi-Detector Row Spiral Computed Tomography for Diagnosing Coronary Lesions in Unselected Patients Referred for Routine Invasive Coronary Angiography
Authors: Halon David A. , Gaspar Tamar , Adawi Salim , Rubinshtein Ronen , Schliamser Jorge E. , Peled Nathan , Lewis Basil S.
Published: November 2006

Background and Aims: The value of multi-detector row computed tomography (MDCT) in routine cardiology practice is uncertain. We examined the applicability of MDCT imaging for the diagnosis of obstructive coronary artery disease in a routine clinical setting. Methods: MDCT scanning (40 slice) was performed in 111 unselected patients referred for invasive coronary angiography (ICA) and findings were compared to an independent quantitative assessment of the ICA on a segmental, vessel and patient basis. Results: Sensitivity and positive predictive value for segmental disease (72.2 and 70.9% respectively, overall) were higher in patients aged ≧60 years and history of disease ≧1 year, whereas specificity and negative predictive value were high in all groups. In the patient-based analysis, sensitivity and positive predictive value (84.7 and 87.8%, respectively) were higher, the latter in keeping with the high-patient prevalence of disease, but specificity and negative predictive value (61.5 and 55.2%) were low. Conclusions: Usefulness of MDCT was significantly influenced by age, duration of coronary artery disease and female gender, and on a patient-based analysis its diagnostic accuracy was not sufficient to replace ICA in a routine clinical setting.
Recurrent Apical Ballooning despite Treatment with Verapamil
Authors: Abu-Fanne R. , Rott D. , Klein M. , Leitersdorf E. , Pollak A.
Published: November 2006

Objective: To report a case of recurrent tako-tsubo syndrome that developed despite treatment with calcium channel antagonists. Case Summary: A 76-year-old woman with past medical history of ischemic heart disease and mild chronic asthma presented in 2001 with clinical characteristics and laboratory markers consistent with myocardial ischemia. Coronary angiogram was done with successful balloon angioplasty to LAD stenosis. Ventriculogram and echocardiography demonstrated apical ballooning believed to represent aneurysm formation. Several months later, a follow-up echocardiogram (ECG) revealed normal LV size and function with no wall motion abnormalities. ECG was unremarkable. In 2004, the patient was admitted with dyspnea, chest pain and ST elevation in ECG with normal troponin. Coronary angiogram demonstrated patent coronary tree. Left ventriculogram revealed apical ballooning sparing the base of the heart. Medically controlling the asthma attack led to clinical, echocardiographic and remarkable electrocardiographic normalization within days. Rest thallium perfusion scan done within 48 h demonstrated isolated fully reversible defect in the apex after 24 h suggesting a microvessel etiology. Conclusion: Tako-tsubo cardiomyopathy is an increasingly recognized condition. We report here the first case of tako-tsubo recurrence despite treatment with verapamil, and suggest a microvessel pathophysiology supported by rest thallium scan.
Abnormal Atrial Depolarization Associated with Chiari Network?
Authors: Prajapat Laxman , Ariyarajah Vignendra , Spodick David H.
Published: November 2006

The Chiari network, a congenital remnant of fetal membrane in the right atrium, is infrequently associated with complications, such as supraventricular tachyarrhythmias. There have however been no known reports of basic electrocardiographic significance of the Chiari network. We present three consecutive cases of Chiari network found in the presence of abnormal interatrial conduction (P-waves ≧110 ms), which is a potential predictor of atrial tachyarrhythmias.
The Role of Induced Sputum in Amiodarone-Associated Interstitial Lung Diseases
Authors: Fireman Elizabeth , Topilsky Ian , Viskin Sami , Priel Israel E.
Published: November 2006

Amiodarone, a highly effective medication for suppressing cardiac rhythm disturbances, may cause pulmonary injury, such as chronic interstitial lung diseases, in 5–15% of the patients who take it. We applied induced sputum (IS), a non-invasive technique, for diagnosing amiodarone-induced pulmonary toxicity. Four patients with interstitial lung disease who were treated by amiodarone for ischemic heart diseases were evaluated by a conventional clinical workup. All four patients showed marked interstitial pattern on computerized tomography and decreased diffusion capacity (DLCO-SB 51–76%). IS showed lymphocytosis, a high CD4 or CD8 count, eosinophilia and amiodarone in 3 of 4 patients. IS may be a useful tool for assessing amiodarone toxicity in patients with ischemic heart diseases and concomitant pulmonary side effects.
What Peripheral Vestibular Manipulations Reveal about the Function and Plasticity in the Primate Oculomotor System
Authors: Newlands Shawn D. , Angelaki Dora E.
Published: November 2006

Central to our understanding of the function and dysfunction of the vestibular system are results from experiments where distinct manipulations of the peripheral vestibular apparatus have been used to characterize deficits and recovery of neural and reflexive responses. Using the primate oculomotor system as a focus, we summarize here recent advances where peripheral vestibular manipulations have revealed important properties of vestibular function and adaptability.
Lifestyle Factors and Multiple Sclerosis: A Case-Control Study in Belgrade
Authors: Pekmezovic Tatjana , Drulovic Jelena , Milenkovic Marija , Jarebinski Mirjana , Stojsavljevic Nebojsa , Mesaros Sarlota , Kisic Darija , Kostic Jelena
Published: November 2006

The aim of this case-control study was to assess the risk of developing multiple sclerosis (MS) associated with certain lifestyle factors (cigarette smoking and coffee and alcohol consumption). The study groups consisted of 210 cases with clinically proven and/or laboratory-confirmed MS (Poser’s criteria) and an identical number of sex- and age-matched hospital controls. In the MS patients, cigarette smoking was significantly more frequent than in the controls (OR = 1.6, p = 0.021). A dose-response relationship between the risk of MS and both duration (years) of smoking (p = 0.027) and number of cigarettes smoked daily (p = 0.021) was observed. Coffee consumption was significantly more frequent in the MS group (OR = 1.7, p = 0.047), with dose-response relationships. The analysis of alcohol drinking showed a significant association between consumption of hard liquor per day and risk of MS (OR = 6.7, p = 0.026). In multivariate logistic regression analysis, smoking was detected to be a significant independent risk factor for MS (OR = 2.4, p = 0.004).
The Not So ‘Mighty Chondrion’: Emergence of Renal Diseases due to Mitochondrial Dysfunction
Authors: Hall Andrew M. , Unwin Robert J.
Published: November 2006

Mitochondria are intracellular organelles with a variety of vital functions, including the provision of energy in the form of adenosine 5′-triphosphate. Increasingly, we are becoming more aware of the importance of mitochondrial dysfunction in a number of common medical conditions. In this review and overview, we focus on the growing evidence that mitochondrial dysfunction is involved in either the etiology or underlying pathophysiology of a broad spectrum of renal diseases, including acute renal injury due to ischemia-reperfusion injury, renal Fanconi syndrome, and glomerular disorders such as focal segmental glomerulosclerosis. In addition, mitochondrial dysfunction may also contribute to the growing burden of chronic kidney disease seen in our aging population, which is still largely unexplained. Unfortunately, at present, our ability to diagnose and treat renal disorders related to mitochondrial dysfunction is limited, and further work in this field is needed.
Comparing Pain Severity and Functional Status of Older Adults without Spinal Symptoms, with Lumbar Spinal Stenosis, and with Axial Low Back Pain
Authors: Tong Henry C. , Haig Andrew J. , Geisser Michael E. , Yamakawa Karen S.J. , Miner Jennifer A.
Published: November 2006

Background: Functional status has been quantified in the adult low back pain (LBP) population, but has not been characterized for older adults with spinal symptoms. Objectives: To compare pain severity and functional status of older adults with and without spinal symptoms, and to determine what factors are associated with quality of life in the spinal stenosis and axial LBP groups. Methods: In 24 subjects greater than 55-years old with lumbar spinal stenosis, 12 with LBP, and 12 without spinal symptoms, obtain the following: pain severity with 10-cm visual analog scale (VAS), 15-minute walk test, 7-day walking distance, Quebec Back Pain Disability Scale (QBPDS), and Pain Disability Index (PDI). Results: The mean scores were worst for the stenosis group, were intermediate for the LBP group, and were the best for the asymptomatic group. Analysis of variance showed that the pain VAS (p < 0.001), 15-minute walk test (p = 0.01), 7-day walk (p = 0.02), QBPDS (p < 0.001), and PDI (p < 0.001) were different between at least two groups. All the variables in the stenosis group were worse than in the asymptomatic group, but only the pain VAS, QBPDS, and PDI in the LBP group were worse than in the asymptomatic group. In both the stenosis and LBP group the QBPDS and PDI were only related to pain VAS. Conclusion: Seniors with spinal stenosis and LBP have more disability than asymptomatic seniors. The 15-minute walking test with the stenosis group was slower than with the asymptomatic seniors. However, they compensate so that their 7-day walking distance is not as significantly decreased.
Tubal Pathology: The Role of Hormonal Contraception, Intrauterine Device Use and Chlamydia trachomatis Infection
Authors: Merki-Feld Gabriele S. , Gosewinkel Andrea , Imthurn Bruno , Leeners Brigitte
Published: November 2006

Background: The aim of the present study was to identify a possible association between tubal pathology and the contraceptive methods previously used, especially third generation copper intrauterine devices (IUDs). Method: In this retrospective unmatched case-control study, use of contraceptive methods and Chlamydiatrachomatis antibody titres were compared in women with tubal occlusion (n = 84) and infertile women with tubal patency (n = 253) demonstrated by hysterosalpingography. Contraceptive methods were also compared to primiparous women with natural pregnancy. Results: A significantly higher percentage of women with tubal occlusion had previously used an IUD. Positive C. trachomatis antibody testing was found significantly more often in women with tubal occlusion. Neither hormonal contraceptives nor condoms were associated with an increased risk for uni- or bilateral tubal occlusion. Conclusion: In the present study, we observed an increased rate of tubal occlusions in previous IUD users. This should be considered in the contraceptive counseling of young and nulliparous women.
Increased Serum High-Molecular-Weight Complex of Adiponectin in Type 2 Diabetic Patients with Impaired Renal Function
Authors: Komaba Hirotaka , Igaki Naoya , Goto Shunsuke , Yokota Kazuki , Doi Hisako , Takemoto Toshiyuki , Kohno Maki , Hirosue Yoshiaki , Goto Takeo
Published: November 2006

Background/Aim: Adiponectin, an adipocyte-derived protein, has been shown to exert antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, and antiatherosclerotic effects. Although recent reports show an increase in the total adiponectin levels in chronic kidney disease patients and in patients with end-stage renal disease, the nature of biodegradation and renal involvement of adiponectin is largely unknown. We aimed at determining whether the high-molecular-weight (HMW) complex of adiponectin is associated with renal insufficiency in type 2 diabetic patients. Methods: A total of 179 type 2 diabetic patients were selected from among outpatients and divided into four groups according to their albumin-to-creatinine ratio: patients with normoalbuminuria (n = 86), patients with microalbuminuria (n = 44), patients with macroalbuminuria (n = 23), and patients on hemodialysis (n = 26). The serum HMW adiponectin was specifically assayed with a commercially available enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kit. Results: The HMW adiponectin levels were higher in patients on hemodialysis (17.1 ± 8.2 µg/ml) and in those with macroalbuminuria (14.3 ± 8.7 µg/ml) than in patients with normoalbuminuria (7.2 ± 5.6 µg/ml) and microalbuminuria (10.8 ± 7.0 µg/ml). Univariate linear regression analysis showed that the HMW adiponectin concentrations correlated negatively with the estimated glomerular filtration rate in patients with normoalbuminuria, microalbuminuria, and macroalbuminuria (r = –0.42, p < 0.001). Multiple stepwise regression analysis disclosed that estimated glomerular filtration rate, pioglitazone therapy, gender differences, and systolic blood pressure were independently associated with HMW adiponectin levels (r = 0.56). Conclusions: The serum HMW adiponectin concentrations are higher in type 2 diabetic patients with nephropathy, and these levels are also associated with renal insufficiency.
Histologic and Clinical Findings in Living Donor Allografts with Long-Term Stable Function
Authors: Abbas Tarek M. , Wafa Ehab W. , Bakr Mohamed A. , Refaie Ayman F. , Sheashaa Hussein A. , Elagroudy Amgad E. , El-Baz Mahmoud A. , Mohsen Tarek A. , Shehab El Dein Ahmed B. , Sobh Mohamed A. , Ghoneim Mohamed A.
Published: November 2006

Background/Aims: Protocol biopsy is an important strategy which assesses the histological changes that can occur in the renal allograft and adversely affect its outcome. We aimed to evaluate histological changes in long-term living donor transplants. Methods: Elective biopsies were done for 120 live donor renal transplant recipients with well-functioning grafts and no rejection history at least 1 year or more after transplant. All patients had serum creatinine levels <2 mg/dl. The histopathological findings using the chronic allograft damage index score were correlated with different clinical and immunological parameters. Results: Chronic tubulointerstitial fibrosis was the most prevalent finding (85% of cases), mostly of mild degree. Normal biopsies were reported in only 7.5% of cases, whereas chronic cyclosporine nephrotoxicity was detected in 5.8% of biopsies. Posttransplant hypertension was significantly correlated with glomerulosclerosis, and posttransplant diabetes with glomerulosclerosis, mesangial matrix increase, tubular atrophy and interstitial fibrosis. The main risk factors associated with a high chronic allograft damage index score were DR mismatching, posttransplant diabetes and time of biopsy. All histopathological changes increased with advancing donor age and declining graft function. Conclusion: Elective biopsies showed that histopathological findings do exist even with stable renal function that may pave the way for predicting long-term graft outcome.
First Use of Violent Force in Militarized Interstate Disputes, 1980-2001
Authors: Caprioli Mary , Trumbore Peter F.
Published: November 2006

The authors introduce and describe a new variable for interstate conflict research for use in conjunction with the Militarized Interstate Disputes (MID) dataset. This variable, First Use of Violent Force (FUVF), covers the period 1980-2001 and identifies which state involved in a violent militarized interstate dispute was the first to actually use violence rather than threatening or displaying force. This article introduces the variable, which, along with all of the supporting documentation, is now publicly available, describes its creation, discusses its utility, and uses both multivariate regression and measures of association to draw attention to theoretically interesting patterns in first use of violent force that are worthy of further exploration. The authors find that non-democratic states are more likely than democracies to be the first to resort to violent force when involved in a militarized interstate dispute; also, minor powers are more likely to use violent force first, compared with major powers. Measures of association also indicate that states that use violent force first in a MID are much more likely to be revisionist states, but that first users of violent force are unlikely to achieve victory in the dispute as a result.
‘The Full Weight of the State’: The Logic of Random State-Sanctioned Violence
Authors: Herreros Francisco
Published: November 2006

The literature on political violence has advanced some hypotheses concerning the forms and the causes of state-sanctioned violence and terror: why some governments make more widespread use of violence than others. However, one aspect of this question that has scarcely been considered concerns the conditions under which state violence achieves its goal, that is, to secure citizens’ submission to the state. This article offers an analysis of the conditions of success of a certain form of state violence: random repression by the state. It shows that random repression usually does not prevent a shift in popular support from the regime to the opposition. But under certain circumstances, if the state resorts to random violence but at the same time mimics, to a certain extent, the behaviour of a non-arbitrary repressor, this form of political violence by the state can achieve success. This explanation is illustrated with various cases of random state-sanctioned violence, including occupied Europe during World War II, El Salvador in the 1980s, present-day Israel and, especially, the terror in the Soviet Union during the Stalinist period. The Soviet regime combined random violence, through the imposition of quotas of arrests on each region, with signals about the legality of the arrests both before and during the terror process. These signals included the 1936 Soviet Constitution and the extraction of confessions of imaginary crimes. This strategy was largely successful.
Does object naming aid 12-month-olds' formation of novel object categories?
Authors: Fulkerson Anne L. , Haaf Robert A.
Published: November 2006

An experiment with 64 twelve-month-olds investigated the influence of object naming on their formation of novel object categories. Stimuli were constructed to represent 2 broad categories consisting of 3 narrow categories each. Objects representing the same narrow or broad category were presented with either a labelling or non-labelling phrase in a modified word extension procedure. Only infants in the narrow category-level condition who heard labelling phrases demonstrated categorization, and categorization performance in the narrow label condition was superior to that in the narrow no-label condition. Consistent with studies utilizing conventional objects, results indicate that object naming can facilitate infants' formation of novel object categories early in the process of lexical acquisition.
When three is not a crowd: Mother-triplet interaction during individual memory conversations and group book reading
Authors: Burch Melissa M. , Güler O. Evren , Bauer Patricia J.
Published: November 2006

Consistency in maternal support and children's involvement in conversations was examined in this case study by observing the interaction of one mother and her triplet sons individually in conversations about past experiences and during group book reading. The mother demonstrated consistent use of elaborations and affirmations across memory conversations, but she varied in her use of utterances that gained the boys' involvement. Although the children were similar in the content of their memory reports, they varied in their need for repeated queries and their responsiveness to questions. The children's responsiveness to questions when reminiscing was mirrored by the questions they responded to during reading. Results of this exploratory study indicate the consistency of the narrative model to which children in a family are exposed and suggest children's participation may evidence stability across contexts.
Fast-mapping in young children with autism spectrum disorders
Authors: McDuffie Andrea , Yoder Paul , Stone Wendy
Published: November 2006

A longitudinal correlational design was used to examine whether fast-mapping mediates the relationship between attention-following and vocabulary size in a group of 29 young children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders. Attention-following was measured at the initial visit. Fast-mapping as well as comprehension and production of noun vocabulary were measured six months later. Attention-following had a significant predictive association with fast-mapping and with both vocabulary outcomes. Fast-mapping had a significant concurrent association with vocabulary and met all the criteria for mediating the association between attention-following and the number of nouns children understood and said at the follow-up. These findings support the value of targeting attention-following to increase word learning for children with ASD.
Effects of an Introductory Letter on Response Rates to a Teen/Parent Telephone Health Survey
Authors: Woodruff Susan I. , Mayer Joni A. , Clapp Elizabeth
Published: November 2006

The authors conducteda pilotstudyin preparationfor a larger investigationthatwill rely ontelephone surveys to assess select health behaviors of teens and their parents, with a focus on indoor tanning. This study used a randomized design to assess the impact of a presurvey letter on response rates to a telephone survey, as well as prevalence estimates of ever having used an indoortanningfacility. The letter didnothavea significanteffect onresponserates or prevalence estimates in the two cities under study. Findings suggest that researchers should not assume that a letter sent in advance of a telephone survey will necessarily increase response rates enough to justify their use.
Does Receiving an Earnings Supplement Affect Union Formation? Estimating Effects for Program Participants Using Propensity Score Matching
Authors: Harknett Kristen
Published: November 2006

This article demonstrates a novel application of propensity score matching techniques: to estimate nonexperimental impacts on program participants within the context of an experimental research design. The author examines the relationship between program participation, defined as qualifying for an earnings supplement by working full-time, and marital union formation among low-income mothers in two Canadian provinces. The author finds that receipt of an earnings supplement substantially increased union formation in one province but not the other. A subgroup analysis based on propensities of program participation revealed that the positive effect on unions was concentrated among relatively disadvantaged participants. The techniques demonstrated in the article are broadly applicable to studies in which take-up is less than 100% among those randomly assigned to a program group.