bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adaptive window flow control and learning algorithms for adaptive routing in data networks
Authors: Vasilakos Athanasios V. , Moschonas Christos A. , Paximadis Constantinos T.
Published: January 2007

We present a new adaptive flow control algorithm together with learning routing algorithms.

The key performance measure in both algorithms is packet delay. Window adjustment and route selection are based on delay measurements. Simulation results have shown the superiority of the new scheme over existing algorithms.
LU based algorithms for characteristic polynomial over a finite field
Authors: Pernet Clément , Wan Zhendong
Published: January 2007

Linear algebra computation over finite fields is important because many symbolic computation problems directly or indirectly rely on linear algebra using efficient finite fields representation.
Application of extreme value theory to the analysis of a network simulation
Authors: Berberana Ignacio
Published: January 2007

In this paper we present an application of the extreme value theory to the results of a GPSS simulation of a network of queues which is not suitable to be modeled by a product form and, so, to be treated by operational analysis. The objective of this work is to estimate the finite buffer size of the queues such that packets (elements) arriving to the system at a lower rate than one fixed have a very low probability — usually, less than 10
-8
— to be rejected (because the buffer is full). To carry out this task only by means of simulation would require a large amount of computational effort. Extreme value theory is employed to estimate, from the results of a reduced simulation, which buffer size corresponds to this loss probability.

The extreme value theory is presented and the way it can be applied to the simulation analysis is explained. Further refinements, in order to extend its extrapolative capability, are introduced, and also the way to calculate confidence intervals. Numerical results are presented.
Knocking down the diencephalic thyrotropin-releasing hormone precursor gene normalizes obesity-induced hypertension in the rat
Authors: Landa María S. , García Silvia I. , Schuman Mariano L. , Burgueño Adriana , Alvarez Azucena L. , Saravia Flavia E. , Gemma Carolina , Pirola Carlos J.
Published: January 2007

We recently showed that diencephalic TRH may mediate the central leptin-induced pressor effect. Here, to study the role of TRH in obesity-induced hypertension (OIH), we used a model of OIH produced by a high-fat diet (HFD, 45 days) in male Wistar rats. After 4 wk, body weight and systolic arterial blood pressure (SABP) increased in HFD animals. Plasma leptin was correlated with peritoneal adipose tissue. Then, we treated OIH animals with an antisense oligodeoxynucleotide and small interfering (si)RNA against the prepro-TRH. Antisense significantly decreased diencephalic TRH content and SABP at 24 and 48 h posttreatment. Similar effects were observed with siRNA against prepro-TRH but for up to 4 wk. Conversely, vehicle, an inverted antisense sequence and siRNA against green fluorescence protein, produced no changes. SABP decrease seems to be owing to an inhibition of the obesity-enhanced sympathetic outflow but not to an alteration in thyroid status. Using a simple OIH model we demonstrated, for the first time, that central TRH participates in the hypertension induced by body weight gain probably through its well-known action on sympathetic activity. Thus the TRH-leptin interaction may contribute to the strong association between hypertension and obesity.
Differential effects of fasting and leptin on proopiomelanocortin peptides in the arcuate nucleus and in the nucleus of the solitary tract
Authors: Perello Mario , Stuart Ronald C. , Nillni Eduardo A.
Published: January 2007

The α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH), derived from proopiomelanocortin (POMC), is generated by a posttranslational processing mechanism involving the prohormone convertases (PCs) PC1/3 and PC2. In the brain, α-MSH is produced in the arcuate nucleus (ARC) of the hypothalamus and in the nucleus of the solitary tract (NTS) of the medulla. This peptide is key in controlling energy balance, as judged by changes observed at transcriptional level. However, little information is available regarding the biosynthesis of the precursor POMC and the production of its processed peptides during feeding, fasting, and fasting plus leptin in the ARC compared with the NTS in conjunction with the PC activity. In this study we found that, in the ARC, pomc mRNA, POMC-derived peptides, and PC1/3 all decreased during fasting, and administration of leptin reversed these effects. In contrast, in the NTS, where there is a large amount of a 28.1-kDa peptide similar in size to POMC, the 28.1-kDa peptide and other POMC-derived peptides, including α-MSH, were further accumulated in fasting conditions, whereas pomc mRNA decreased. These changes were not reversed by leptin. We also observed that, during fasting, PC2 levels decreased in the NTS. These data suggest that, in the NTS, fasting induced changes in POMC biosynthesis, and processing is independent of leptin. These observations indicate that changes in energy status affect POMC in the brain in a tissue-specific manner. This represents a novel aspect in the regulation of energy balance and may have implications in the pathophysiology of obesity.
A1adenosine receptor partial agonist lowers plasma FFA and improves insulin resistance induced by high-fat diet in rodents
Authors: Dhalla Arvinder K. , Wong Mei Yee , Voshol Peter J. , Belardinelli Luiz , Reaven Gerald M.
Published: January 2007

There is substantial evidence in the literature that elevated plasma free fatty acids (FFA) play a role in the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes. CVT-3619 is a selective partial A1adenosine receptor agonist that inhibits lipolysis and lowers circulating FFA. The present study was undertaken to determine the effect of CVT-3619 on insulin resistance induced by high-fat (HF) diet in rodents. HF diet feeding to rats for 2 wk caused a significant increase in insulin, FFA, and triglyceride (TG) concentrations compared with rats fed chow. CVT-3619 (1 mg/kg) caused a time-dependent decrease in fasting insulin, FFA, and TG concentrations. Acute administration of CVT-3619 significantly lowered the insulin response, whereas glucose response was not different with an oral glucose tolerance test. Treatment with CVT-3619 for 2 wk resulted in significant lowering of FFA, TG, and insulin concentrations in rats on HF diet. To determine the effect of CVT-3619 on insulin sensitivity, hyperinsulinemic euglycemic clamp studies were performed in C57BL/J6 mice fed HF diet for 12 wk. Glucose infusion rate was decreased significantly in HF mice compared with chow-fed mice. CVT-3619 treatment 15 min prior to the clamp study significantly ( P < 0.01) increased glucose infusion rate to values similar to that for chow-fed mice. In conclusion, CVT-3619 treatment lowers FFA and TG concentrations and improves insulin sensitivity in rodent models of insulin resistance.
Autonomic Control Network Active inAplysiaDuring Locomotion Includes Neurons That Express Splice Variants of R15-Neuropeptides
Authors: Romanova Elena V. , McKay Natasha , Weiss Klaudiusz R. , Sweedler Jonathan V. , Koester John
Published: January 2007

Splice-variant products of the R15 neuropeptide gene are differentially expressed within the CNS of Aplysia. The goal of this study was to test whether the neurons in the abdominal ganglion that express the peptides encoded by this gene are part of a common circuit. Expression of R15 peptides had been demonstrated previously in neuron R15. Using a combination of immunocytochemical and analytical methods, this study demonstrated that R15 peptides are also expressed in heart exciter neuron RBHE, the two L9Ggill motoneurons, and L40—a newly identified interneuron. Mass spectrometric profiling of individual neurons that exhibit R15 peptide-like immunoreactivity confirmed the mutually exclusive expression of two splice-variant forms of R15 peptides in different neurons. The L9Gcells were found to co-express pedal peptide in addition to the R15 peptides. The R15 peptide-expressing neurons examined here were shown to be part of an autonomic control circuit that is active during fictive locomotion. Activity in this circuit contributes to implementing a central command that may help to coordinate autonomic activity with escape locomotion. Chronic extracellular nerve recording was used to determine the activity patterns of a subset of neurons of this circuit in vivo. These results demonstrate the potential utility of using shared patterns of neuropeptide expression as a guide for neural circuit identification.
Fast skeletal muscle myosin heavy chain gene cluster of medakaOryzias latipesenrolled in temperature adaptation
Authors: Liang Chun-Shi , Kobiyama Atsushi , Shimizu Atsushi , Sasaki Takashi , Asakawa Shuichi , Shimizu Nobuyoshi , Watabe Shugo
Published: January 2007

To disclose mechanisms involved in temperature acclimation of fish muscle, we subjected eurythermal fish of medaka Oryzias latipes to cloning of myosin heavy chain genes ( MYHs). We cloned cDNAs encoding fast skeletal muscle myosin heavy chain (MYH) isoforms from cDNA libraries of medaka acclimated to 10 and 30°C and observed that different MYH cDNA clones are expressed in the two temperature-acclimated fish. Subsequently, we isolated several overlapping MYH contigs by shotgun cloning strategy from a medaka genomic library. Contig assembly of the complete medaka MYH ( mMYH) locus of 219 kbp revealed a cluster of tandemly arrayed 11 mMYHs, in which eight genes are actually transcribed, with the remaining three being pseudogenes. Expression analysis of the transcribed genes revealed that two genes were each highly expressed in medaka acclimated to 10 and 30°C, whereas comparatively lower expression levels of the three genes were exclusively observed in medaka acclimated to 30°C. cDNAs of the remaining genes were too underrepresented in the libraries to determine the expression levels, and the transcripts could only be obtained by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. Deduced amino acid sequences in the loop 1 and loop 2 regions of mMYHs were highly variable, suggesting that these isoforms were functionally different. The present findings consolidate our knowledge on teleost MYH multigene family and would provide further insight into the mechanisms by which expressions of individual MYH molecules are fine-tuned with environmental temperature fluctuations with further functional analysis of the genes concerned.
Winter Excess in Hospital Admissions, In-Patient Mortality and Length of Acute Hospital Stay in Stroke: A Hospital Database Study over Six Seasonal Years in Norfolk, UK
Authors: Myint Phyo K. , Vowler Sarah L. , Woodhouse Peter R. , Redmayne Oliver , Fulcher Robert A.
Published: January 2007

Background: Several studies have examined the incidence and mortality of stroke in relation to season. However, the evidence is conflicting partly due to variation in the populations (community vs. hospital-based), and in climatic conditions between studies. Moreover, they may not have been able to take into account the age, sex and stroke type of the study population. We hypothesized that the age, sex and type of stroke are major determinants of the presence or absence of winter excess in morbidity and mortality associated with stroke. Methods: We analyzed a hospital-based stroke register from Norfolk, UK to examine our prior hypothesis. Using Curwen’s method, we performed stratified sex-specific analyses by (1) seasonal year and (2) quartiles of patients’ age and stroke subtype and calculated the winter excess for the number of admissions, in-patient deaths and length of acute hospital stay. Results: There were 5,481 patients (men = 45%). Their ages ranged from 17 to 105 years (median = 78 years). There appeared to be winter excess in hospital admissions, deaths and length of acute hospital stay overall accounting for 3/100,000 extra admissions (winter excess index of 3.4% in men and 7.6% in women) and 1/100,000 deaths (winter excess index of 4.7 and 8.6% in women) due to stroke in winter compared to non-winter periods. Older patients with non-haemorrhagic stroke mainly contribute to this excess. If our findings are replicated throughout England and Wales, it is estimated that there are 1,700 excess admissions, 600 excess in-patient deaths and 24,500 extra acute hospital bed days each winter, related to stroke within the current population of approximately 60 million. Conclusions: Further research should be focused on the determinants of winter excess in morbidity and mortality associated with stroke. This may subsequently reduce the morbidity and mortality by providing effective preventive strategies in future.
No Allele Variation of the MAOA Gene Promoter in Male Chinese Subjects with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
Authors: Lung For-Wey , Yang Pinchen , Cheng Ting-Sheng , Kao Wei-Tsung
Published: January 2007

The aim of the current study was to examine any difference in the repeat sequence of the monoamine oxidase A (MAOA) gene promoter between males with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and randomly selected subjects in a community. The role of the MAOA gene promoter in ADHD cases was also investigated. The total of 244 participants included 57 male ADHD subjects as the case group and 187 males, also in southern Taiwan, as the community controls. There was no significantly different distribution in the repeat sequence of the MAOA gene promoter (χ2 = 3.895, d.f. = 3, p = 0.273), and no significantly different distribution of ‘long-form’ and ‘short-form’ alleles between the ADHD group and the male community group was noted (χ2 = 2.484, d.f. = 1, p = 0.115). Some aspects of clinical response are mentioned in the discussion of this study which are worth exploring further in the future.
Association of GABRB3 Polymorphisms with Autism Spectrum Disorders in Korean Trios
Authors: Kim Soon Ae , Kim Jin Hee , Park Mira , Cho In Hee , Yoo Hee Jeong
Published: January 2007

Background/Aims: Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are complex neuropsychiatric disorders having a genetic risk factor. The association and linkage study for the γ-aminobutyric acid type A receptor β3 subunit gene (GABRB3), located within the chromosome 15q11-q13 autism candidate region, and ASD have been evaluated. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between GABRB3 and ASD in the Korean population. Methods: The present study was conducted with the detection of four single-nucleotide polymorphisms (rs1426217, rs2081648, rs890317, rs981778) in GABRB3 and association analysis in 104 Korean ASD trios using the transmission disequilibrium test. Results: The transmission disequilibrium test demonstrated that an allele at rs2081648 showed preferential transmission (p = 0.027). One haplotype, including all examined markers in GABRB3, demonstrated significant association (p = 0.043), but the global χ2 test for haplotype transmission did not reveal an association between GABRB3 and ASD (χ2 = 15.516, d.f. = 15). Conclusion: Our finding suggested that single-nucleotide polymorphisms in GABRB3 may play a significant role in the genetic predisposition to ASD in the Korean population.
No Association between Dorsolateral Prefrontal Gray Matter Deficit and N-Acetyl Aspartate Ratios in Schizophrenia
Authors: Molina Vicente , Sanz Javier , Sarramea Fernando , Luque Rogelio , Benito Carlos , Palomo Tomás
Published: January 2007

The cellular substrates of cortical volume deficit in schizophrenia are unclear. We may hypothesize that, if that deficit was related to a decrease in the amount in neuronal tissue, it should correlate with N-acetyl aspartate levels. We studied a group of 34 schizophrenia patients (of them, 17 first episodes) with both structural and spectroscopic magnetic resonance (MR). Using the data of 50 controls, we were able to calculate for each case residuals of gray matter and cortical cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the dorsolateral prefrontal (DLPF) region, representing the deviation from the expected values in normals, given individual intracranial volume and age. Although our patients showed a significant deficit in gray matter and excess in cortical CSF in the DLPF region, that deficit was unrelated to N-acetyl aspartate levels. This was also true for the chronic and first episode groups analyzed separately. These results do not support a neuronal tissue deficit as contributing to the cortical volume deficit in schizophrenia, at least in the DLPF region.
Celecoxib and Curcumin Additively Inhibit the Growth of Colorectal Cancer in a Rat Model
Authors: Shpitz Baruch , Giladi Nis , Sagiv Eyal , Lev-Ari Shahar , Liberman Eliezer , Kazanov Diana , Arber Nadir
Published: January 2007

Background: Multiple studies have indicated that specific COX-2 inhibitors may prevent CRC. However, the long-term use of COX-2 inhibitors is not toxicity-free and may be limited due to its cardiovascular side effects. The present study was carried out to examine the chemopreventive effects of celecoxib and curcumin alone and in combination using the 1,2-dimethylhydrazine (DMH) rat model. Methods: Male rats were injected with DMH and randomly divided into four groups that consumed one of the following diets: (a) AIN-076 control diet; (b) AIN-076/curcumin (0.6%); (c) AIN-076/celecoxib (0.16%), or (d) AIN-076/celecoxib (0.16%) and curcumin (0.6%). Aberrant crypt foci (ACF) were identified by intensive staining with methylene blue in comparison to the surrounding normal crypts. Results: The average number of ACF per rat colon was 64.2 ± 3 in the control group, 39 ± 5 and 47 ± 10 for the curcumin- and celecoxib-treated group, respectively, and 24.5 ± 6 in the group that had received both agents. Conclusions: In vivo, curcumin augments the growth inhibitory effect of celecoxib. This may be clinically important as this dose of celecoxib can be achieved in human serum following standard anti-inflammatory dosing of 100 mg.
Severe Immediate Allergic Reactions to Grapes: Part of a Lipid Transfer Protein-Associated Clinical Syndrome
Authors: Vassilopoulou Emilia , Zuidmeer Laurian , Akkerdaas Jaap , Tassios Ioannis , Rigby Neil R. , Mills E.N. Clare , van Ree Ronald , Saxoni-Papageorgiou Photini , Papadopoulos Nikolaos G.
Published: January 2007

Background: Grape allergy is considered rare; grape lipid transfer protein (LTP; Vit v 1), an endochitinase and a thaumatin-like protein (TLP) have been reported as grape allergens. A considerable number of patients have referred to our department for severe reactions to grapes, and several IgE binding proteins were detected. Objectives: The aim of this study was to identify and characterise the allergens involved in severe allergic reactions to grapes and describe the population in which they occur. Methods: Patients with reported severe allergic reactions to grapes (n = 37) are described. Grape allergens were purified/fractionated by a combination of chromatographic techniques, identified by proteomic analysis and biochemically characterised. Immunoreactivity was assessed by blot (inhibitions) and RAST (inhibitions), and skin prick tests were performed with the isolated allergens. Results: All subjects were polyallergic, sensitised and reactive to several additional foods and pollen. All patients were sensitised to grape LTP. A 28-kDa expansin, a 37.5-kDa polygalacturonase-inhibiting protein, a 39-kDa β-1,3-glucanase and a 60-kDa protein were identified as minor grape allergens. Endochitinase and TLP did not play a role. Inhibition experiments revealed the possible cross-reactive role of LTP for clinical sensitivities to other LTP-containing plant foods, but also the involvement of cross-reactive carbohydrate determinants of minor allergens in IgE cross-reactivity. Conclusions: LTP is the major grape allergen, while additional minor allergens may contribute to clinical reactivity. Severe grape allergy presents in atopic patients who frequently react to other LTP-containing, plant-derived foods. The ‘LTP syndrome’ is the appropriate term to describe this condition.
Etoricoxib Tolerability in Patients with Hypersensitivity to Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs
Authors: Viola Marinella , Quaratino Donato , Gaeta Francesco , Caruso Cristiano , Valluzzi Rocco , Romano Antonino
Published: January 2007

Background: Adverse reactions to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly observed, particularly among patients with chronic urticaria or asthma. The identification of a safe and reliable alternative is a frequent problem in clinical practice. Our aim was to investigate the clinical tolerability of etoricoxib, a new selective cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitor, in a group of patients with well-established NSAID hypersensitivity. Methods: We assessed 31 adults (21 women and 10 men) who reported one or more adverse reactions to NSAIDs, manifested as cutaneous, respiratory or anaphylactic symptoms. Sixteen of them reported reactions to a single NSAID (single reactors) and 15 to more than one NSAID (multiple reactors); the most frequently involved drug was acetylsalicylic acid. First, each patient underwent allergologic tests (skin and/or oral challenge tests) with culprit NSAIDs and then tolerability tests with increasing doses of etoricoxib up to 120 mg. All challenges were performed under single-blind, placebo-controlled conditions. Results: NSAID hypersensitivity was diagnosed in all 31 patients: 3 displayed positive results to pyrazolone skin tests and the other 28 to challenges with culprit NSAIDs. None reacted to either placebos or etoricoxib. Conclusions: Etoricoxib seems to be a safe alternative for patients with well-demonstrated NSAID hypersensitivity.
Role of Human Leucocyte Antigen DQ in the Presentation of T Cell Epitopes in the Major Cow’s Milk Allergen αs1-Casein
Authors: Ruiter B. , Rozemuller E.H. , van Dijk A.J. , Garssen J. , Bruijnzeel-Koomen C.A.F.M. , Tilanus M.G. , Knol E.F. , van Hoffen E.
Published: January 2007

Background: Little is known about the association between human leucocyte antigen (HLA) and cow’s milk allergy (CMA). The aim of the present study was to determine the HLA restriction of T cell clones (TCCs) specific to αs1-casein, the most abundant milk protein, and to study possible HLA class II allele associations with CMA. Methods: αs1-Casein-specific TCCs were derived from 6 children with CMA, 9 atopic children without CMA and 5 non-atopic children. T cell epitope specificity was defined by stimulation with overlapping peptides, spanning the αs1-casein molecule. HLA restriction was determined in proliferation assays using antibodies blocking either HLA-DP, HLA-DQ or HLA-DR. HLA genotyping was performed in 32 subjects with CMA, 23 atopic and 22 non-atopic individuals. Results: Ten TCCs were restricted to HLA-DQ, 6 TCCs to HLA-DR and 4 TCCs to HLA-DP. The sequence in αs1-casein that was most immunogenic to T cells from children with CMA contained T cell epitopes restricted to DQB1*0201, DPB1*0401 and DRB1*1501. The DQB1*0501 allele frequency was lower in children with CMA than in non-atopic children, but this difference could not be confirmed in an additional group of subjects with and without CMA. Conclusions: HLA-DQ plays a substantial role in the presentation of T cell epitopes in αs1-casein. However, HLA class II allele frequencies do not show major differences between cow’s milk allergic, atopic and non-atopic subjects. T cell epitopes in the most immunogenic region are presented by various abundantly present HLA genotypes. Therefore, this sequence may be a suitable target for peptide immunotherapy.
The Peritoneal Explant Test for Evaluating Tissue Tolerance to Mouthrinses
Authors: Welk A. , Rosin M. , Lüdtke C. , Schwahn C. , Kramer A. , Daeschlein G.
Published: January 2007

The tissue cultures of explants of neonatal rat peritoneum have been demonstrated to be a sensitive test for tissue compatibility with wound antiseptics. The present study investigated the suitability of this method to assess the relative toxicity of mouthrinses to tissue. Mouthrinses containing 0.1% chlorhexidine (Chlorhexamed® Fluid 0.1%) (A), 0.3% triclosan (Colgate®) (B), essential oil in ethanolic solution (Listerine®) (C), and amine/stannous fluoride (Meridol®) (D) were tested at use concentration and in dilutions of 10, 1, and 0.1% with exposure times of 1, 10, and 30 min, respectively. The mouthrinses (test) and Ringer’s solutions (control) were applied to opened rat peritoneum. After thorough irrigation with Ringer’s solution, a piece of peritoneum was removed and 1 × 1 mm explants were cut. The explants were cultivated with a bovine serum culture medium in 24-well plates at 37°C in a CO2 incubator (95% air, 5% CO2). After 10 days, the tissue proliferation for the explants was assessed by a stereo microscope at 10× magnification after ethanol fixing and hemalaun staining. With 24 grafts per test, the proliferation rate was calculated relative to a control, which was run for each mouthrinse and concentration/time combination. Data were analyzed using ANOVA (SPSS 11.0) and post-hoc paired t test. Statistical significance of all correlations was tested by setting the significance level at p < 0.05. At most concentrations, D caused significantly less tissue damage than A or B. There was no difference between C and A or C and B at 100%. However, the toxicity of C was significantly less than A or B at 10, 1, and 0.1%. C and D behaved similarly except for the 10% (30 min) and the 1% (10 min) solutions in which C was significantly less toxic. We concluded that the rat peritoneum explant test was demonstrated to be a sensitive test to assess the relative toxicity of mouthrinses to tissue.
Diffuse Placental Chorioangiomatosis and Fetal Hydrops
Authors: Russell R.T. , Carlin A. , Ashworth M. , Welch C.R.
Published: January 2007

A highly unusual case of a pregnancy complicated by diffuse placental chorioangiomatosis that resulted in a live-birth and short-term fetal survival is reported. The potential for antenatal diagnosis and intrauterine treatment to optimise fetal outcome is discussed.
Fetus-in-Fetu: A Rare Entity
Authors: Mohan Harsh , Chhabra Seema , Handa Uma
Published: January 2007

Fetus-in-fetu is a malformed parasitic monozygotic diamniotic twin that is found inside the body of the living child or adult. A 3-year-old male child presented with a retroperitoneal mass, which on radiological examination showed retroperitoneal teratoma. Pathological examination revealed fetus-in-fetu with partially developed vertebral column.
Short Femurs Detected at 25 and 31 Weeks of Gestation Diagnosed as Leroy I-Cell Disease in the Postnatal Period: A Report of Two Cases
Authors: Yuksel A. , Kayserili H. , Gungor F.
Published: January 2007

Leroy I-cell disease is a rare autosomal recessive lysosomal storage disorder characterized by marked psychomotor and growth retardation, skeletal anomalies, and typical facial features. There is a biochemical defect in uridine diphospho-N-acetylglucosamine-1-phosphotransferase, which is the enzyme responsible for addition of a mannose phosphate residue for lysosomal trafficking. Prenatal diagnosis is possible by analysis of enzyme activity in chorionic villi or cultured amniocytes, but this is offered to families only known to be at increased risk. We describe two cases that had bilateral shortness of the femurs at 25 and 31 weeks of gestation in the ultrasound scan and were diagnosed as Leroy I-cell disease by plasma enzyme analysis in the postnatal period. There was also bowing of the femurs in one case. None of the two families had a history of Leroy I-cell disease. The parents of one case were second-degree cousins. In view of these two cases that are presented, we propose that Leroy I-cell disease should be included in the differential diagnosis of short femurs even when there is no evident family history.
Experiences in the Perinatal Management of Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia during the Last 15 Years in a Tertiary Referral Institute
Authors: Harmath Ágnes , Hajdú Júlia , Hauzman Erik , Pete Barbara , Róna Zsófia , Papp Zoltán
Published: January 2007

Objective: Review of cases of perinatally diagnosed congenital diaphragmatic hernias with special regard to time of diagnosis, organs herniated into the thorax, associated malformations, and outcomes. Methods: We analyzed the data of 106 cases between July 1, 1990, and June 30, 2005. The observation period was analyzed in two parts. Results: Prenatal ultrasound was performed in 89.6% (95/106) of the cases. 51.7% (46/89) of the pre- and postnatally verified congenital diaphragmatic hernia cases were diagnosed before the 24th week of gestation. 11% (11/100) of the hernias were identified postnatally. 71% (71/100) of the cases were associated with other malformations. The hernia was on the left side in 86% (86/100) and bilateral in 5% (5/100) of the cases. Between 1990 and 1997, the proportion of right-sided hernias was 4.3% (2/46), while during the second period it was 13% (7/54). 27.5% (14/51) of the newborns survived the perinatal period. The survival rate of the newborns delivered by caesarean section was three times higher than that of infants delivered vaginally. In the latter group, the rate of premature deliveries was considerably higher. The pregnancy was terminated in 45% (40/89) of the cases. 15% (6/40) of the terminated cases were isolated. Intrauterine or intrapartum deaths occurred in 5.6% (5/89) of the prenatally diagnosed cases. Simultaneous thoracic herniation of liver, spleen, or stomach decreased the survival rate. In these cases, the discharge rate was between 6 and 22%. Conclusions: According to the analysis of 15-year data, the herniated organs, multiple malformations, as well as the mode of delivery influence the survival in a large number of cases. Early diagnosis predicts a large hernia, a higher malformation rate, and a less favourable prognosis.
Prenatal Diagnosis of a Fetus with Partial Trisomy 7p
Authors: Ozgun Mahmut Tuncay , Batukan Cem , Basbug Mustafa , Akgun Hulya , Caglayan Okay , Dundar Munis
Published: January 2007

We report a prenatal diagnosis of a fetus with partial trisomy 7p. Ultrasonography at 28 weeks of gestation of a 27-year-old multigravid woman revealed a growth-retarded fetus with agenesis of the corpus callosum, enlarged left kidney, single umbilical artery, hypertelorism, depressed nasal bridge, frontal bossing, irregular maxiller alveolar composition, club feet, flexion deformity of the upper extremities and Epstein anomaly. Fetal karyotype was 46,XX,der(9)add(9p24),16qh+. Our results indicated that the fetus had an unbalanced translocation, which resulted in duplication of the proximal segment of 7p. Maternal karyotype was (46,XX,t(7,9)(p15.3,p24),16qh+). Because fetal death occurred at 31 weeks of gestation, induction of labor was performed. An enlarged anterior fontanel and micrognathia were seen during fetal autopsy. Trisomy 7p is related to a well-known clinical picture with a dismal prognosis. Our report showed that the outcome of the affected pregnancy may also be poor. Detection of fetal chromosomal abnormality and parental translocations are essential for counseling of the parents.
Fetal Diagnosis – Obligations of the Clinician
Authors: Menahem Samuel , Gillam Lynn
Published: January 2007

Fetal echocardiography allows for accurate diagnosis of major heart abnormalities by 16–18 weeks. The parents have up to 22 weeks to consider possible termination. What are the obligations of the clinician once an abnormality is found? Should only information be provided or is there a role in influencing the parents’ decision? Two diverse examples are provided to discuss these questions. Mrs A., aged 40 years was noted at the 18-week and then the 20-week scan to have a fetus with a complete atrio-ventricular septal defect. In addition, the fetus had a Danny-Walker cyst. There was thickened nuchal folds and echogenic bowel all suggestive of a chromosomal abnormality. Amniocentesis was refused and the pregnancy continued. Mrs B., aged 34 years was noted at 19 weeks and again at 20 weeks to have a fetus with mild thickening of the walls of both the right and left ventricles. The flow patterns appeared normal. Despite a probable good outlook, the parents asked for a repeat scan at 22 weeks to allow them to consider possible termination. Despite a probable chromosomal abnormality, definite major cardiac and neurological abnormalities, Mrs A. refused karotyping and planned to proceed with the pregnancy. Mrs B., despite a probable good outcome for the fetus asserted pressure for us to prognosticate by 22 weeks. While non-directive counselling is the accepted norm, is that appropriate for all situations? Should one strongly influence Mrs A. to have an amniocentesis to confirm a probable Trisomy thereby allowing her to make a more informed decision? How reassuring can the clinician be to Mrs B. and if termination is sought should one counsel against that? Arguments for these positions are described, highlighting the difficulties faced by clinicians as they counsel parents often with incomplete information and in a setting of acute emotional distress.
Measuring the Ensemble Spread–Error Relationship with a Probabilistic Approach: Stochastic Ensemble Results
Authors: Grimit Eric P. , Mass Clifford F.
Published: January 2007

One widely accepted measure of the utility of ensemble prediction systems is the relationship between ensemble spread and deterministic forecast accuracy. Unfortunately, this relationship is often characterized by spread–error linear correlations, which oversimplify the true spread–error relationship and ignore the possibility that some end users have categorical sensitivities to forecast error. In the present paper, a simulation study is undertaken to estimate the idealized spread–error statistics for stochastic ensemble prediction systems of a finite size. Under a variety of spread–error metrics, the stochastic ensemble spread–error joint distributions are characterized by increasing scatter as the ensemble spread grows larger. A new method is introduced that recognizes the inherent nonlinearity of spread–error joint distributions and capitalizes on the fact that the probability of large forecast errors increases with ensemble spread. The ensemble spread–error relationship is measured by the skill of probability forecasts that are constructed from a history of ensemble-mean forecast errors using only cases with similar ensemble spread. Thus, the value of ensemble spread information is quantified by the ultimate benefit that is realized by end users of the probability forecasts based on these conditional-error climatologies. It is found that the skill of conditional-error-climatology forecasts based on stochastic ensemble spread is nearly equal to the skill of probability forecasts constructed directly from the raw ensemble statistics. The skill is largest for cases with anomalous spread and smallest for cases with near-normal spread. These results reinforce the findings of earlier studies and affirm that the temporal variability of ensemble spread controls its potential value as a predictor. Additionally, it is found that the skill of spread-based error probability forecasts is maximized when the chosen spread metric is consistent with the end user’s cost function.
A Hybrid Kalman Filter Algorithm for Large-Scale Atmospheric Chemistry Data Assimilation
Authors: Hanea R. G. , Velders G. J. M. , Segers A. J. , Verlaan M. , Heemink A. W.
Published: January 2007

In the past, a number of algorithms have been introduced to solve data assimilation problems for large-scale applications. Here, several Kalman filters, coupled to the European Operational Smog (EUROS) atmospheric chemistry transport model, are used to estimate the ozone concentrations in the boundary layer above Europe. Two Kalman filter algorithms, the reduced-rank square root (RRSQRT) and the ensemble Kalman filter (EnKF), were implemented in a prior study. To combine the best features of these two filters, a hybrid filter was constructed by making use of the reduced-rank approximation of the covariance matrix as a variance reducer for the EnKF. This hybrid algorithm, complementary orthogonal subspace filter for efficient ensembles (COFFEE), is coupled to the EUROS model. The performance of all algorithms is compared in terms of residual errors and number of EUROS model evaluations. The COFFEE results score somewhere between the EnKF and RRSQRT results for less than approximately 30 model evaluations. For more than approximately 30 model evaluations, the COFFEE results are, in all cases, better than the EnKF and RRSQRT results. The results of the COFFEE simulations with more than about 60 model evaluations proved to be significantly better than all the EnKF and RRSQRT simulations (even better than those with 100 and 200 modes or ensemble members). The performance of both the EnKF- and RRSQRT-type filters is affected by the nonlinear properties of the model and observation operator, because both rely on linearization to some extent. To further study this aspect, several measures of nonlinearity were calculated and linked with the performance of these algorithms.
Importance of Forecast Error Multivariate Correlations in Idealized Assimilations of GPS Radio Occultation Data with the Ensemble Adjustment Filter
Authors: Liu Hui , Anderson Jeffrey L. , Kuo Ying-Hwa , Raeder Kevin
Published: January 2007

The importance of multivariate forecast error correlations between specific humidity, temperature, and surface pressure in perfect model assimilations of Global Positioning System radio occultation (RO) refractivity data is examined using the Ensemble Adjustment Filter (EAF) and the NCAR global Community Atmospheric Model, version 3. The goal is to explore whether inclusion of the multivariate forecast error correlations in the background term of 3D and 4D variational data assimilation systems (3DVAR and 4DVAR, respectively) is likely to improve RO data assimilation in the troposphere. It is not possible to explicitly neglect multivariate forecast error correlations with the EAF because they are not used directly in the algorithm. Instead, the filter only makes use of the forecast error correlations between observed quantities (RO here) and model state variables. However, because the forecast error correlations for RO observations are dominated by correlations with a subset of state variable types in certain regions, the importance of multivariate forecast error correlations between state variables can be indirectly assessed. This is done by setting the forecast error correlations of RO observations and some state variables (e.g., temperature) to zero in a set of assimilation experiments. Comparing these experiments to a control in which all state variables are impacted by RO observations allows an indirect assessment of the importance of multivariate correlations between state variables not impacted by the observations and those that are impacted. Results suggest that proper specification of the multivariate forecast error correlations in 3DVAR and 4DVAR systems should improve the analysis of specific humidity, surface pressure, and temperature in the troposphere when assimilating RO data.
The Statistical Characteristics of Convective Cells in a Monsoon Regime (Darwin, Northern Australia)
Authors: May Peter T. , Ballinger Andrew
Published: January 2007

A season of operational cell and track data from Darwin, Australia, has been analyzed to explore the statistical characteristics of the convective cell heights. The statistics for the monsoon and break regimes are significantly different with the break season cells being higher for a given reflectivity threshold. The monsoon cells produce more rain, but there are fewer intense cells and there is a much larger contribution from stratiform rain. The monsoon cells are also slightly larger, but shorter lived than the breaks. The shorter lifetime may reflect a more rapid transition to a longer-lived stratiform character. The monsoon regime is shown to be associated with large-scale ascent and higher humidity that may lead to more frequent, but weaker cells. Within regimes, the subset of intense cells generally reach near the tropopause or overshoot. However, there is little evidence in the data for a multimodal distribution of cell heights, except perhaps for the intense monsoon cases. Instead, the picture is a continuous distribution of cell heights with the peak of the distribution shifting to higher values as the distributions are conditioned on higher reflectivity.
A Consistent Time-Split Numerical Scheme Applied to the Nonhydrostatic Compressible Equations*
Authors: Gassmann Almut , Herzog Hans-Joachim
Published: January 2007

The primary interest of the paper is to apply a two-time-level split explicit time scheme developed by one of the authors to the Lokal-Modell (LM) of the German Weather Service (DWD). This model belongs to the operational NWP system at DWD, which makes it particularly interesting for this study. To better understand the implementation of this time scheme in a compressible nonhydrostatic model type, and so in the LM, a linear analysis is presented demonstrating how the equations are to be split up into fast- and slow-mode parts. For the fast-mode part, this analysis demonstrates how the connected short time-step scheme is necessary for a consistent treatment of gravity modes on the one side and a sufficient damping of acoustic modes on the other side. An extended linear stability analysis for the new splitting scheme follows then to establish its application in a full model. An advantage of the given time scheme is that any forward-in-time and stable advection scheme can be linked with the reformulated fast-mode equation part. A Runge–Kutta third-order-in-time and second-order-in-space scheme (RK3/2) has been applied to the horizontal advection, and the vertical advection terms are treated implicitly. A new consistent lower boundary condition and a radiative upper boundary condition are taken into account. Steady airflow simulations over an isolated mountain (Schär test) and the successful incorporation of the Klemp–Durran–Bougeault radiative upper boundary condition in the vertically implicit fast-mode scheme confirm the given approach as necessary and effective for the application of the time scheme.
Attitudes of Nursing Staff Towards Co-Workers Returning from Psychiatric and Physical Illnesses
Authors: Glozier Nick , Hough Caroline , Henderson Max , Holland-Elliott Kevin
Published: January 2007

Background: Co-worker support, or lack of it, plays an important role in the contribution of workplace pressure to psychiatric illness and rehabilitation after sickness.

Aims: To develop and validate a measure to compare attitudes towards coworkers with different illnesses to identify specific aspects of colleagues’ attitudes which may hinder the reintegration in the workplace after sickness absence of individuals with common psychiatric conditions.

Method: A measure of co-worker behavioural concern was developed and validated using focus groups and a pilot study to determine questionnaire items. This was followed by a cross-sectional survey of 532 nursing staff within a UK hospital assessing attitudes to vignettes of a co-worker with different embedded diagnoses.

Results: A measure of attitudes to co-workers was developed and validated. In the survey of nurses this revealed that attitudes were significantly more negative towards co-workers returning after psychiatric illnesses than to those with diabetes. Those with alcohol problems were held in particularly low esteem.

Conclusions: Psychiatric illnesses are stigmatised compared with physical illnesses, with the degree of behavioural blame evidently important. Co-worker reliability, predictability and coping were more important issues than particular work-related skills and could be incorporated into return-to-work plans.
Historical Statistics as Text
Authors: Ejiogu E. C.
Published: January 2007

Europe's colonization of other peoples was a program that aided and deepened the then on-going process of drawing and incorporating non-European regions of the world into the European-dominated capitalist world-economy. Since inception, the world capitalist economic system has enabled European nations to transfer enormous wealth from non-European areas to their respective economies. The beneficiaries of wealth transferred from the periphery regions of the world include European states, their rulers, and their peoples. But the extent to which ordinary members of a specific European population may have benefited from wealth that was generated in specific world regions over a period of time is largely unaccounted for in existing studies. The analysis of British historical statistics for the period 1800-1960 reveals pointers on certain aspects of the extent to which non-state components of the British society may have reaped from the wealth that was extracted from the Indian and West African sub-continents. Indigenous economies in both regions were incorporated and peripherialized into the world-economy and imperial Britain subsequently acquired colonies in them.
Predicting Decade-Long Changes in Community Motor Vehicle Theft Rates
Authors: Walsh Jeffrey A. , Taylor Ralph B.
Published: January 2007

Motor vehicle theft (MVT) is arguably the most underresearched Part I crime. This work predicts long-term changes in community MVT rates, extrapolating from earlier work in community fabric and changing personal crime and delinquency rates and cross-sectional work on MVT. Police data on MVTs generated MVT rates in one Midwestern city in 1990-1991 and 2000-2001 that were linked with census block group data. MVT rates went up later in communities more racially mixed initially and in those surrounded by initially higher MVT rates, suggesting extant community structure and surrounding crime generate subsequently unfolding impacts on MVT. A second series of models links changing MVT rates with contemporaneously increasing racial heterogeneity, decreasing community instability, and increasing surrounding MVT rates. Some associations between community structure and changing delinquency or crime appear relevant to shifting MVT rates. Resident-based, target-linked, and offender-dependent processes to be investigated are outlined.
A Bigger Piece of the Pie? State Corrections Spending and the Politics of Social Order
Authors: Stucky Thomas D. , Heimer Karen , Lang Joseph B.
Published: January 2007

The dramatic increase in American state prison populations during the past three decades has sparked considerable research interest. Empirical research has most often examined changes in prison admissions or populations, but few studies have considered shifts in state corrections budgets. This study examines variation in annual, state-level corrections expenditures as a proportion of state expenditures from 1980 to 1998, drawing together existing theoretical arguments about criminal punishment under a common rubric that focuses on state responsibility for the maintenance of social order and the need for state officials to maintain office through popular election. From this view, partisan politics, economic and racial threats, citizen preferences, fiscal considerations, policy priorities, and crime are important explanations of corrections spending because they affect strategies for maintaining social order, garnering votes, and maintaining political office. Findings generally support this perspective. Partisan politics, racial threats, state economic prosperity, and budgetary priorities all play a role in determining state corrections expenditures.