bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fracture of a Y-TZP ceramic femoral head
Authors: Maccauro G. , Piconi C. , Burger W. , Pilloni L. , De Santis E. , Muratori F. , Learmonth I. D.
Published: November 2004

We studied factors contributing to the initiation of fracture and failure of a zirconia ceramic femoral head. The materials retrieved during a revision total hip replacement were submitted to either visual, stereomicroscopic and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) or SEM and energy-dispersive x-ray analysis. X-ray diffraction was performed in order to investigate the extent of tetragonal to monoclinic phase transition. Histological examination was performed on the periprosthetic tissues.

The results showed that failure was due to the propagation during clinical use of defects which may have been introduced into the material during the processing of the ceramic, rather than those intrinsic to zirconia. The literature relating to previous failures of zirconia components is reviewed.
Does the Experience With the Use of Nasal Continuous Positive Airway Pressure Improve Over Time in Extremely Low Birth Weight Infants?
Authors: Aly Hany , Milner Joshua D. , Patel Kantilal , El-Mohandes Ayman A.E.
Published: November 2004

Objective. Early use of nasal continuous positive airway pressure (ENCPAP) in extremely low birth weight (ELBW) infants continues to be a source of debate. Centers are applying this management strategy with varying success. Our center has implemented this strategy of care over the past 4 years, and the objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of experience over time with the use of ENCPAP on outcomes of ELBW infants.

Methods. All ELBW infants who were born at our hospital since the institution of the ENCPAP practice (n = 101) were analyzed retrospectively. Patients were divided into 3 terciles according to their birth date. A baseline group of ELBW infants who were born in the 2 years preceding the institution of the ENCPAP practice (group 0; n = 45) were used for comparison. Trends in practices and outcomes over time were analyzed using the 2-sided Cochran-Armitage linear trend test. Statistical significance for these trends were then analyzed again using a multivariate regression model controlling for significant variables. Bivariate analyses comparing individual groups were also conducted.

Results. There were no significant trends in mortality rate among the baseline group and the 3 terciles since the institution of the ENCPAP practice (26.7% vs 26.5% vs 11.8% vs 18.2%). ENCPAP management increased in the surviving infants over time (14% vs 19.2% vs 65.52% vs 70.4%), whereas the use of surfactant decreased (51.5% vs 48% vs 13.3% vs 33.3%) and the incidence of bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) decreased (33.3% vs 46.2% vs 25.9% vs 11.1%). The average ventilator days per infant decreased, the rate of sepsis decreased, and the average daily weight gain increased. There were no significant trends in the incidence of intraventricular hemorrhage or necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC). When comparing the cohorts of survivors in the 3 terciles since the institution of ENCPAP system, ELBW infants who were started on ENCPAP but intubated within 1 week (CPAP failure) decreased over time (38.5% vs 13.8% vs 7.4%). There were other trends that did not reach significance, such as increased incidence of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC). In a multivariate analysis controlling for gestational age, birth weight, and sepsis, the incidence of BPD was significantly lower over time (regression coefficient = −1.002 ± 0.375).

Conclusions. The frequency of use of ENCPAP in ELBW infants and its success improved in our unit over time. The major positive association in this population was a reduction in BPD rates and an increase in average weight gain. Relation of ENCPAP and NEC should be evaluated further.
Comparison of Two Programs to Teach Firearm Injury Prevention Skills to 6- and 7-Year-Old Children
Authors: Gatheridge Brian J. , Miltenberger Raymond G. , Huneke Daniel F. , Satterlund Melisa J. , Mattern Amanda R. , Johnson Brigette M. , Flessner Christopher A.
Published: November 2004

Background. Each year, hundreds of children unintentionally kill or injure other children while playing with firearms in the United States. Although the numbers of these deaths and injuries are distressing, few prevention programs have been developed to prevent gun play among children.

Objective. This study compared the efficacy of 2 programs designed to prevent gun play among young children.

Design. A posttest-only, control group design with 2 treatment groups was used. Children were randomly assigned to 1 of 2 treatment groups or a control group. For all children who did not exhibit the skills after training, 1 in situ (ie, real-life situation) training session was conducted.

Setting. Participant recruitment, training sessions, and assessments were all conducted in the children’s after-school program facility.

Participants. Forty-five children, 6 or 7 years of age, were recruited for participation.

Interventions. The efficacy of the Eddie Eagle GunSafe Program, developed by the National Rifle Association, and a behavioral skills training program that emphasized the use of instruction, modeling, rehearsal, and feedback was evaluated.

Main Outcome Measures. The criterion firearm safety behaviors included both motor and verbal responses, which were assessed in a naturalistic setting and then assigned a numerical value based on a scale of 0 to 3.

Results. Both programs were effective for teaching children to verbalize the safety skills message (don’t touch the gun, get away, and tell an adult). However, children who received behavioral skills training were significantly more likely to demonstrate the desired safety skills in role-playing assessments and in situ assessments than were children who received Eddie Eagle program training. In addition, in situ training was found to be effective for teaching the desired safety skills for both groups of children.

Conclusions. Injury prevention programs using education-based learning materials are less effective for teaching children the desired safety skills, compared with programs incorporating active learning approaches (eg, modeling, rehearsal, and feedback). The efficacy of both types of injury prevention programs for teaching the desired skills could be significantly enhanced with the use of in situ training. This program, when implemented with 6- and 7-year-old children, was effective in teaching the desired safety skills.
Continuous Quality Improvement: Reducing Unplanned Extubations in a Pediatric Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Sadowski Roxanne , Dechert Ronald E. , Bandy Kenneth P. , Juno Julie , Bhatt-Mehta Varsha , Custer Joseph R. , Moler Frank W. , Bratton Susan L.
Published: November 2004

Objective. Unplanned extubation (UEX) is a potentially serious complication of mechanical ventilation. Limited information is available regarding factors that contribute to UEXs and subsequent reintubation of children. We monitored UEXs in our pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) for a 5-year period to assess the incidence and patient conditions associated with UEX and to evaluate whether targeted interventions were associated with a reduced rate of UEXs.

Methods. Over a 5-year period, demographic and clinical information was collected prospectively on all patients who required an artificial airway while admitted to the PICU. Additional information was collected for patients who experienced an UEX. Educational sessions and care management protocols were developed, implemented, and modified according to issues identified via the monitoring program.

Results. From a total of 2192 patients who required 13 630 airway days (AWD), 141 (6%) patients experienced 164 UEXs. The overall rate of UEX for the study period was 1.2 UEXs per 100 AWD, and this rate decreased from 1.5 in the first year to 0.8 in the last year. UEXs were more common in children who were younger than 5 years (1.6 vs 0.6 UEX per 100 AWD) compared with older children. The UEX children experienced significantly longer length of mechanical ventilation (6 vs 3 days) and longer length of PICU stay (8 vs 4 days) compared with non-UEX children. Forty-six percent of the UEXs occurred in patients who were weaning from mechanical ventilation, and 22% of those patients required reintubation.

Conclusions. We conclude that UEX in pediatric patients is associated with longer length of mechanical ventilation and length of stay in the PICU. A continuous quality improvement monitoring and educational program that identified high-risk patients for UEX (younger patients) and patients who were at low risk for subsequent reintubation (weaning patients) contributed to a reduction of these potentially adverse events.
The EPIBEL Study: Outcomes to Discharge From Hospital for Extremely Preterm Infants in Belgium
Authors: Vanhaesebrouck Piet , Allegaert Karel , Bottu Jean , Debauche Christian , Devlieger Hugo , Docx Martine , François Anne , Haumont Dominique , Lombet Jacques , Rigo Jacques , Smets Koenraad , Vanherreweghe Inge , Overmeire Bart Van , Reempts Patrick Van ,   for the EPIBEL Study Group
Published: November 2004

Objective. To determine mortality and morbidity at discharge from the hospital of a large population-based cohort of infants who were born at ≤26 weeks' gestation.

Methods. Perinatal data were collected on extremely preterm infants who were alive at the onset of labor and born between January 1, 1999, and December 31, 2000, in all 19 Belgian perinatal centers.

Results. A total of 525 infants were recorded. Life-supporting care was provided to 322 liveborn infants, 303 of whom were admitted for intensive care. The overall survival rate of liveborn infants was 54%. Of the infants who were alive at the age of 7 days, 82% survived to discharge. Vaginal delivery, shorter gestation, air leak, longer ventilator dependence, and higher initial oxygen need all were independently associated with death; gender, plurality, and surfactant therapy were not. Among the 175 survivors, 63% had 1 or more of the 3 major adverse outcome variables at the time of discharge (serious neuromorbidity, chronic lung disease at 36 weeks' postmenstrual age, or treated retinopathy of prematurity). The chance of survival free from serious neonatal morbidity at the time of hospital discharge was <15% (21 of 158) for the admitted infants with a gestation <26 weeks.

Conclusions. If for the time being prolongation of pregnancy is unsuccessful, then outcome perspectives should be discussed and treatment options including nonintervention explicitly be made available to parents of infants of <26 weeks' gestation within the limits of medical feasibility and appropriateness.
Watching Sex on Television Predicts Adolescent Initiation of Sexual Behavior
Authors: Collins Rebecca L. , Elliott Marc N. , Berry Sandra H. , Kanouse David E. , Kunkel Dale , Hunter Sarah B. , Miu Angela
Published: November 2004

Background. Early sexual initiation is an important social and health issue. A recent survey suggested that most sexually experienced teens wish they had waited longer to have intercourse; other data indicate that unplanned pregnancies and sexually transmitted diseases are more common among those who begin sexual activity earlier. The American Academy of Pediatrics has suggested that portrayals of sex on entertainment television (TV) may contribute to precocious adolescent sex. Approximately two-thirds of TV programs contain sexual content. However, empirical data examining the relationships between exposure to sex on TV and adolescent sexual behaviors are rare and inadequate for addressing the issue of causal effects.

Design and Participants. We conducted a national longitudinal survey of 1792 adolescents, 12 to 17 years of age. In baseline and 1-year follow-up interviews, participants reported their TV viewing habits and sexual experience and responded to measures of more than a dozen factors known to be associated with adolescent sexual initiation. TV viewing data were combined with the results of a scientific analysis of TV sexual content to derive measures of exposure to sexual content, depictions of sexual risks or safety, and depictions of sexual behavior (versus talk about sex but no behavior).

Outcome Measures. Initiation of intercourse and advancement in noncoital sexual activity level, during a 1-year period.

Results. Multivariate regression analysis indicated that adolescents who viewed more sexual content at baseline were more likely to initiate intercourse and progress to more advanced noncoital sexual activities during the subsequent year, controlling for respondent characteristics that might otherwise explain these relationships. The size of the adjusted intercourse effect was such that youths in the 90th percentile of TV sex viewing had a predicted probability of intercourse initiation that was approximately double that of youths in the 10th percentile, for all ages studied. Exposure to TV that included only talk about sex was associated with the same risks as exposure to TV that depicted sexual behavior. African American youths who watched more depictions of sexual risks or safety were less likely to initiate intercourse in the subsequent year.

Conclusions. Watching sex on TV predicts and may hasten adolescent sexual initiation. Reducing the amount of sexual content in entertainment programming, reducing adolescent exposure to this content, or increasing references to and depictions of possible negative consequences of sexual activity could appreciably delay the initiation of coital and noncoital activities. Alternatively, parents may be able to reduce the effects of sexual content by watching TV with their teenaged children and discussing their own beliefs about sex and the behaviors portrayed. Pediatricians should encourage these family discussions.
Thimerosal Exposure in Infants and Developmental Disorders: A Retrospective Cohort Study in the United Kingdom Does Not Support a Causal Association
Authors: Andrews Nick , Miller Elizabeth , Grant Andrew , Stowe Julia , Osborne Velda , Taylor Brent
Published: November 2004

Objective. After concerns about the possible toxicity of thimerosal-containing vaccines in the United States, this study was designed to investigate whether there is a relationship between the amount of thimerosal that an infant receives via diphtheria-tetanus-whole-cell pertussis (DTP) or diphtheria-tetanus (DT) vaccination at a young age and subsequent neurodevelopmental disorders.

Methods. A retrospective cohort study was performed using 109 863 children who were born from 1988 to 1997 and were registered in general practices in the United Kingdom that contributed to a research database. The disorders investigated were general developmental disorders, language or speech delay, tics, attention-deficit disorder, autism, unspecified developmental delays, behavior problems, encopresis, and enuresis. Exposure was defined according to the number of DTP/DT doses received by 3 and 4 months of age and also the cumulative age-specific DTP/DT exposure by 6 months. Each DTP/DT dose of vaccine contains 50 μg of thimerosal (25 μg of ethyl mercury). Hazard ratios (HRs) for the disorders were calculated per dose of DTP/DT vaccine or per unit of cumulative DTP/DT exposure.

Results. Only in 1 analysis for tics was there some evidence of a higher risk with increasing doses (Cox's HR: 1.50 per dose at 4 months; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.02–2.20). Statistically significant negative associations with increasing doses at 4 months were found for general developmental disorders (HR: 0.87; 95% CI: 0.81–0.93), unspecified developmental delay (HR: 0.80; 95% CI: 0.69–0.92), and attention-deficit disorder (HR: 0.79; 95% CI: 0.64–0.98). For the other disorders, there was no evidence of an association with thimerosal exposure.

Conclusions. With the possible exception of tics, there was no evidence that thimerosal exposure via DTP/DT vaccines causes neurodevelopmental disorders.
Decline in Varicella-Related Hospitalizations and Expenditures for Children and Adults After Introduction of Varicella Vaccine in the United States
Authors: Davis Matthew M. , Patel Mitesh S. , Gebremariam Achamyeleh
Published: November 2004

Objective. Universal childhood immunization against varicella in the United States, first recommended in 1995, was predicted to lead to significant decreases in varicella-related hospitalization rates and corresponding charges. Previous studies have not found such effects. We studied trends in varicella-related hospitalization rates and associated charges before and after introduction of varicella vaccine.

Methods. We examined hospitalization and charge data from the Nationwide Inpatient Sample for the years 1993–2001, representative of national hospitalization patterns for children and adults. We derived weighted estimates of population-adjusted, varicella-related hospitalization rates and inflation-adjusted, varicella-related hospital charges.

Results. The annual varicella-related hospitalization rate exceeded 0.5 hospitalizations per 10 000 US population from 1993 to 1995, declined to 0.26 per 10 000 by 1999, and again halved to 0.13 per 10 000 by 2001. Hospitalization rates declined most substantially among individuals primarily targeted for vaccination (0- to 4-year-old children) but decreased among youths aged 5 to 19 years and among adults as well. Concomitantly, varicella-related hospital charges declined from $161.1 million (95% confidence interval: $130.5 million–$191.8 million) in 1993 to $66.3 million (95% confidence interval: $50.9 million–$81.7 million) in 2001 (all 2001 $US). Among expected primary payers, inflation-adjusted declines in varicella-related hospital discharges–related charges accrued to Medicaid, private insurance, and “other” payers (including uninsured and self-pay) but not to Medicare.

Conclusions. This national analysis indicates a clinically and statistically significant reduction in varicella-related hospitalizations for children and adults associated with childhood varicella immunization in the United States and a corresponding significant decrease in hospital charges.
“Who Is Sitting Across From Me?” Immigrant Mothers’ Knowledge of Parenting and Children’s Development
Authors: Bornstein Marc H. , Cote Linda R.
Published: November 2004

Objective. Although parents’ knowledge about child development and child rearing is relevant to pediatric practice, very little is known about immigrant parents’ knowledge. To fill this gap in research, this study investigated parenting knowledge in 2 groups of mothers who had immigrated to the United States.

Design. Japanese and South American immigrant mothers of 2-year-olds completed a standardized survey of parenting knowledge and provided information about sociodemographic and infant health status. Their data were compared with European American mothers in the United States.

Results. Immigrant mothers scored ∼70% on the evaluation of parenting knowledge, significantly lower than multigenerational US mothers. The majority of immigrant mothers did not know correct answers for 25% of the items, and their incorrect answers were mostly to questions about normative child development.

Conclusions. Parents’ knowledge is relevant to pediatricians’ evaluations of the health and welfare of children as understood by their parents. Gaps in parenting knowledge have implications for clinical interactions with parents, child diagnosis, pediatric training, and parent education.
“Social Medication” and the Control of Children: A Qualitative Study of Over-the-Counter Medication Among Australian Children
Authors: Allotey Pascale , Reidpath Daniel Diamond , Elisha Danielle
Published: November 2004

Objective. The aim of the study was to identify the patterns of use of over-the-counter (OTC) medications among children.

Methods. The study used a qualitative design, with in-depth interviews of 40 parents with children <5 years of age.

Results. There were 3 striking and readily apparent themes in the use of OTC medications among children. One was the administration of OTC medications as a form of “social medication,” to give parents control over children's behavior that they perceived as fractious and irritating. A related theme was the use of OTC medications to reduce the inconvenience to the parents of having a sick child, again giving parents greater control and better time-management abilities. Finally, acetaminophen was considered by many parents to have almost miraculous properties in calming, sedating, and lifting the mood of children.

Conclusions. The use of OTC medications for the treatment of minor ailments among children is widespread, despite the lack of evidence of efficacy of the most commonly used medications and the potential for toxicity. With the increasing propensity to look to medication as a means of supporting changing lifestyles, there is an urgent need to review the prevalence and effects of social medication.
Age Terminology During the Perinatal Period
Authors:   Committee on Fetus and Newborn
Published: November 2004

This Policy Statement was reaffirmed November 2008 and July 2021.

Consistent definitions to describe the length of gestation and age in neonates are needed to compare neurodevelopmental, medical, and growth outcomes. The purposes of this policy statement are to review conventional definitions of age during the perinatal period and to recommend use of standard terminology including gestational age, postmenstrual age, chronological age, corrected age, adjusted age, and estimated date of delivery.
Molecular Dynamics Simulation
Authors: Bopp Philippe A. , Buhn Jörn B. , Hampe Manfred J.
Published: November 2004

The article contains sections titled:

1.Introduction2.Fundamental Approximations3.Interaction Models3.1.Intramolecular Interactions3.2.Intermolecular Interactions3.2.1.Pair Potentials3.2.2.Three‐Body and Higher Order Intermolecular Potentials3.3.Example: Intermolecular Potentials for an Aqueous Salt Solution3.4.Data for Interaction Models4.Approximations for the Simulations5.Constructing the Ensemble5.1.Method5.2.Setting up a Simulation6.Obtaining Results6.1.Simple Averages6.2.Time‐Correlation Functions7.Examples8.Applications
Multisystem study of 20 older adults with Williams syndrome
Authors: Cherniske Elizabeth M. , Carpenter Thomas O. , Klaiman Cheryl , Young Eytan , Bregman Joel , Insogna Karl , Schultz Robert T. , Pober Barbara R.
Published: November 2004

To address the natural history of Williams syndrome (WS), we performed multisystem assessments on 20 adults with WS over 30 years of age and documented a high frequency of problems in multiple organ systems. The most striking and consistent findings were: abnormal body habitus; mild–moderate high frequency sensorineural hearing loss; cardiovascular disease and hypertension; gastrointestinal symptoms including diverticular disease; diabetes and abnormal glucose tolerance on standard oral glucose tolerance testing; subclinical hypothyroidism; decreased bone mineral density on DEXA scanning; and a high frequency of psychiatric symptoms, most notably anxiety, often requiring multimodal therapy. Review of brain MRI scans did not demonstrate consistent pathology. The adults in our cohort were not living independently and the vast majority were not competitively employed. Our preliminary findings raise concern about the occurrence of mild accelerated aging, which may additionally complicate the long‐term natural history of older adults with WS. We provide monitoring guidelines to assist in the comprehensive care of adults with WS. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Retrieving meaning after temporal lobe infarction: The role of the basal language area
Authors: Sharp David J. , Scott Sophie K. , Wise Richard J. S.
Published: November 2004

During speech comprehension the auditory association cortex in the superior temporal cortex is involved in perceptual analysis of the speech signal, whereas the basal language area in the inferior temporal cortex mediates access to word meaning. Disruption of the interaction between the superior and inferior temporal cortices is one factor that may determine recovery from aphasic stroke. We used positron emission tomography to investigate semantic processing within inferior temporal cortex in control subjects and after infarction involving the superior temporal cortex. In the control group, semantic decision making on clear speech activated both anterior fusiform gyri. Chronic aphasic patients were impaired at the task and demonstrated reduced activation within the left anterior fusiform gyrus. A similar pattern of impaired performance and reduced left anterior fusiform gyrus activation was observed when control subjects heard perceptually degraded speech. Performance in both groups predicted activity in the right anterior fusiform gyrus and the temporal poles, where accuracy linearly correlated with activity. These results demonstrate that the function of the basal language area is sensitive to changes in the quality of perceptual input. In addition, different profiles of response observed in each hemisphere suggest distinct contributions of both left and right inferior temporal cortices to the semantic processing of speech. Ann Neurol 2004
Structure formation and mechanical properties of thermoplastic elastomer and oil system having a microcellular porous structure
Authors: Mashita Naruhiko , Fukahori Yoshihide
Published: November 2004

A novel microcellular porous structure, the product of a small proportion of a semicrystalline thermoplastic elastomer and a large proportion of low molecular weight oil, was examined. The system exhibited a unique three‐dimensional continuous polymer network, consisting of interconnected spherical cells of a few tens of micrometers in diameter. In this report, details of morphology and stress–strain relationship of the system, which is made from hydrogenated poly[butadiene‐b‐(styrene‐random‐butadiene)] (H‐SBR) as a semicrystalline thermoplastic elastomer and straight asphalt as an oil, were investigated and analyzed. The system exhibited inverse S‐shape type stress–strain curves, but was characterized by extension rate and polymer concentration dependency. It was demonstrated that the stress–strain curves of the system can be described by a simple combination of that of two phases: asphalt‐rich phase and H‐SBR–rich phase. Calculations of a simple parallel model quantitatively agreed with experimental data, especially in the case of higher polymer concentrations (about 12 to 20 vol %) where uniform polymer network is formed over the whole system. Disagreement between calculation and experimental data was, however, found in the cases of very small proportions of H‐SBR (< ∼ 8 vol %), where the polymer network structure in the system was imperfect. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 95: 107–112, 2005
Effects of a 60 Hz magnetic field on photosynthetic CO2uptake and early growth of radish seedlings
Authors: Yano Akira , Ohashi Yoshiaki , Hirasaki Tomoyuki , Fujiwara Kazuhiro
Published: November 2004

Photosynthetic CO2uptake rate and early growth parameters of radishRaphanus sativusL. seedlings exposed to an extremely low frequency magnetic field (ELF MF) were investigated. Radish seedlings were exposed to a 60 Hz, 50 μTrms(root mean square) sinusoidal magnetic field (MF) and a parallel 48 μT static MF for 6 or 15 d immediately after germination. Control seedlings were exposed to the ambient MF but not the ELF MF. The CO2uptake rate of ELF MF exposed seedlings on day 5 and later was lower than that of the control seedlings. The dry weight and the cotyledon area of ELF MF exposed seedlings on day 6 and the fresh weight, the dry weight and the leaf area of ELF MF exposed seedlings on day 15 were significantly lower than those of the control seedlings, respectively. In another experiment, radish seedlings were grown without ELF MF exposure for 14 d immediately after germination, and then exposed to the ELF MF for about 2 h, and the photosynthetic CO2uptake rate was measured during the short term ELF MF exposure. The CO2uptake rate of the same seedlings was subsequently measured in the ambient MF (control) without the ELF MF. There was no difference in the CO2uptake rate of seedlings exposed to the ELF MF or the ambient MF. These results indicate that continuous exposure to 60 Hz, 50 μTrmssinusoidal MF with a parallel 48 μT static MF affects the early growth of radish seedlings, but the effect is not so severe that modification of photosynthetic CO2uptake can be observed during short term MF exposure. Bioelectromagnetics 25:572–581, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Synthesis, Inhibition Properties, and Theoretical Study of the New Nanomolar Trehalase Inhibitor 1‐Thiatrehazolin: Towards a Structural Understanding of Trehazolin Inhibition
Authors: Chiara Jose Luis , Storch de Gracia Isabel , García Ángela , Bastida Ágatha , Bobo Sofía , Martín‐Ortega María D.
Published: November 2004

A new trehazolin analogue, 1‐thiatrehazolin, has been synthesized from carbohydrate precursors by a highly efficient route based on our previously developed ketone/oxime ether reductive carbocyclization reaction for the construction of the cyclitol ring and an intramolecular nucleophilic displacement reaction for the construction of the thiazoline ring. 1‐Thiatrehazolin is a very potent, slow, tight‐binding trehalase inhibitor. A structural model for trehalase inhibition by trehazolin and its analogues, based on the experimental results and supported by theoretical calculations, is proposed.
Characterization of GalR1, GalR2, and GalR3 immunoreactivity in catecholaminergic nuclei of the mouse brain
Authors: Hawes Jessica J. , Picciotto Marina R.
Published: November 2004

The distribution of immunoreactivity for the three identified neuropeptide galanin receptors, GalR1, GalR2, and GalR3, was determined in areas of the mouse brain involved in drug addiction, including the ventral tegmental area (VTA), substantia nigra (SN), nucleus accumbens (NA), and locus coeruleus (LC). All three galanin receptors are found in the VTA, SN, NA, and LC; however, GalR1 protein is most highly represented in the VTA, NA, and SN, suggesting that GalR1 may play a predominant role in galanin‐mediated regulation of dopamine neurotransmission. GalR1 and GalR3 protein levels are high in the LC, suggesting that these isoforms may be important for galanin‐mediated regulation of noradrenergic transmission during opiate withdrawal. Although the distribution of GalR1, GalR2, and GalR3 largely recapitulates the pattern of galanin binding throughout the brain, some discrepancies exist, suggesting that another galanin receptor(s) may be present in some brain areas. Overall, GalR1, GalR2, and GalR3 are distributed widely throughout the brain, correlate with widespread galanin binding, and colocalize with tyrosine hydroxylase in catecholaminergic brain areas. J. Comp. Neurol. 479:410–423, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Transgenic mice expressing a fluorescent in vivo label in a distinct subpopulation of neocortical layer 5 pyramidal cells
Authors: Akemann Walther , Zhong Yong‐Mei , Ichinohe Noritaka , Rockland Kathleen S. , Knöpfel Thomas
Published: November 2004

The neuronal components of cortical circuits have been characterized on the basis of their morphological and functional properties, and further refined by correlation of marker proteins with particular cell types. This latter approach has been very fruitful for GABA‐containing neurons, but comparable diagnostic markers for subpopulations of excitatory pyramidal cells have been more elusive. An emerging new approach consists of transgenic mice that express fluorescent proteins under the control of promoters that are active in specific cell types. Here, we analyzed a line of transgenic mice that carries a transgene consisting of regulatory sequences of the potassium channel Kv3.1 and enhanced yellow fluorescent protein (EYFP). In these mice, a set of neurons in neocortical layer 5 expresses high levels of the transgenic marker protein. EYFP‐expressing, and nonexpressing layer 5 cells were easily identified in living tissue under conditions suitable for patch‐clamp electrophysiology. By using immunolabeling, retrograde Fast Blue labeling and electrophysiological recordings with biocytin injections, we identified the fluorescent neurons as a population of pyramidal cells with distinct morphological and electrophysiological properties when compared with nonfluorescent neighboring layer 5 pyramidal cells. The most prominent morphological difference between these two populations was a much smaller number of apical oblique dendrites in EYFP‐positive as compared with the EYFP‐negative cells. The most prominent electrophysiological feature was a steady spike frequency adaptation in EYFP‐positive cells, whereas EYFP‐negative cells responded to a depolarizing current injection with a closely spaced spike doublet followed by constant frequency firing. The in vivo labeled transgenic mice provide an experimental tool for further functional differentiation of these populations of layer 5 pyramidal cells. J. Comp. Neurol. 480:72–88, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Odour and ﬂavour thresholds for key aroma components in an orange juice matrix: terpenes and aldehydes
Authors: Plotto Anne , Margaría Carlos A. , Goodner Kevin L. , Goodrich Renée , Baldwin Elizabeth A.
Published: November 2004

Thresholds for ﬂavour volatiles have been traditionally calculated in water or air, but they may vary widely in more complex matrices. Thresholds of key aroma compounds of orange juice (OJ) were determined in a deodorized OJ matrix. The three‐alternative‐forced‐choice (3‐AFC) method was used (ASTM: E‐679). Untrained panelists, 33–58 in number, were presented with deodorized orange juice samples arranged in ﬁve rows of three samples, corresponding to ﬁve spiking levels, each separated by a factor of 3, with a 3‐AFC presentation at each level. The test was repeated at least three times for experienced panelists. Odour thresholds in the orange juice matrix were 15 times (citral, hexanal) to over 200 times (β‐pinene, limonene) higher than published values in water. Retronasal odour thresholds were more consistent with published values, being higher only by 2–60‐fold, except for octanal which was higher by 187‐fold. These results will provide the industry with more realistic threshold guidelines for use in ﬂavouring citrus juices. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
RNA binding motif (RBM) proteins: A novel family of apoptosis modulators?
Authors: Sutherland Leslie C. , Rintala‐Maki Nina D. , White Ryan D. , Morin Cory D.
Published: November 2004

RBM5 is a known modulator of apoptosis, an RNA binding protein, and a putative tumor suppressor. Originally identified as LUCA‐15, and subsequently as H37, it was designated “RBM” (for RNA Binding Motif) due to the presence of two RRM (RNA Recognition Motif) domains within the protein coding sequence. Recently, a number of proteins have been attributed with this same RBM designation, based on the presence of one or more RRM consensus sequences. One such protein, RBM3, was also recently found to have apoptotic modulatory capabilities. The high sequence homology at the amino acid level between RBM5, RBM6, and particularly, RBM10 suggests that they, too, may play an important role in regulating apoptosis. It is the intent of this article to ammalgamate the data on the ten originally identified RBM proteins in order to question the existence of a novel family of RNA binding apoptosis regulators. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Group construction of covering arrays
Authors: Meagher Karen , Stevens Brett
Published: November 2004

A covering arrayt‐CA(n,k,g) is ak × narray on a set ofgsymbols with the property that in eacht × nsubarray, everyt × 1 column appears at least once. This paper improves many of the best known upper bounds onnfor covering arrays, 2‐CA(n,k,g) withg + 1 ≤ k ≤ 2g, forg = 3 · · · 12 by a construction which in many of these cases produces a 2‐CA(n,k,g) withn = k(g − 1) + 1. The construction is an extension of an algebraic method used by Chateauneuf, Colbourn, and Kreher which uses an array and a group action on the array. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Combin Designs 13: 70–77, 2005.
HIV/AIDS policy in Africa: what has worked in Uganda and what has failed in Botswana?
Authors: Allen Tim , Heald Suzette
Published: November 2004

A comparison of HIV/AIDS policies in Botswana and Uganda is revealing. It helps to highlight the kinds of policies that are necessary to come to terms with the pandemic in Africa, where it is already a public health disaster. It is argued that the promotion of condoms at an early stage proved to be counter‐productive in Botswana, whereas the lack of condom promotion during the 1980s and early 1990s contributed to the relative success of behaviour change strategies in Uganda. Other important factors included national and local‐level leadership, the engagement (or alienation) of religious groups and local healers and, most controversially, procedures of social compliance. We end with a call for more draconian measures than are currently envisaged. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Expression of a reporter gene after microinjection of mammalian artificial chromosomes into pronuclei of bovine zygotes
Authors: Wang Bin , Lazaris A. , Lindenbaum M. , Stewart S. , Co D. , Perez C. , Drayer J. , Karatzas C.N.
Published: November 2004

The introduction of mammalian artificial chromosomes (ACs) into zygotes represents an alternative, more predictive technology for the production of recombinant proteins in transgenic animals. The aim of these experiments was to examine the effects of artificial chromosome microinjection into bovine pronuclei on embryo development and reporter gene expression. Bovine oocytes aspirated from 2–5 mm size follicles were matured in vitro for 22 hr. Mature oocytes were fertilized in vitro with frozen‐ thawed bull spermatozoa. Artificial chromosome carrying either β‐galactosidase (Lac‐Z) gene or green fluorescence protein (GFP) gene were isolated by flow cytometry. A single chromosome was microinjected into one of the two pronuclei of bovine zygotes. Sham injected zygotes served as controls. Injected zygotes were cultured in G 1.2 medium for 7 days. Hatched blastocysts were cultured on blocked STO cell feeder layer for attachment and outgrowth of ICM and trophectoderm cells. The results showed a high zygote survival rate following LacZ‐ACs microinjection (74%). However, the blastocyst development rate after 7 days of culture was significantly lower than that of sham injected zygotes (7.5 vs. 22%). Embryonic cells positive for Lac‐Z gene were detected by PCR in three of nine outgrowth colonies. In addition, GFP gene expression was observed in 15 out of 85 (18%) embryos at the arrested 2‐cell stage to blastocyst stage. Six blastocysts successfully outgrew, three outgrowths were GFP positive for up to 3 weeks in culture. We conclude that the methodology for artificial chromosome delivery into bovine zygotes could lead to viable blastocyst development, and reporter gene expression could be sustained during pre‐implantation development. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 60: 433–438, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Audio‐visual relaxation training for anxiety, sleep, and relaxation among Chinese adults with cardiac disease
Authors: Tsai Sing‐Ling
Published: November 2004

The long‐term effect of an audio‐visual relaxation training (RT) treatment involving deep breathing, exercise, muscle relaxation, guided imagery, and meditation was compared with routine nursing care for reducing anxiety, improving sleep, and promoting relaxation in Chinese adults with cardiac disease. This research was a quasi‐experimental, two‐group, pretest–posttest study. A convenience sample of 100 cardiology patients (41 treatment, 59 control) admitted to one large medical center hospital in the Republic of China (ROC) was studied for 1 year. The hypothesized relationships were supported. RT significantly (p < .05) improved anxiety, sleep, and relaxation in the treatment group as compared to the control group. It appears audio‐visual RT might be a beneficial adjunctive therapy for adult cardiac patients. However, considerable further work using stronger research designs is needed to determine the most appropriate instructional methods and the factors that contribute to long‐term consistent practice of RT with Chinese populations. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Res Nurs Health 27:458–468, 2004
Coordination in nurses' listening activities and communication about patient–nurse relationships
Authors: Gilbert Dorothy Ann
Published: November 2004

The purpose of this analysis was to examine whether nurses' listening behavior, especially the coordination of their nonverbal involvement activities with those of their patients, communicates information about patient–nurse relationships. Participants were 126 college women who responded to a 30‐item instrument measuring relational information that was communicated to them by nurses' behavior in videotaped segments of interactions between a patient/actress and 12 nurses. Participants' responses to two consecutive interaction segments were selected for this analysis. The research team coded the patient's and nurses' listening activities, and they calculated coordination and activity rates for all interaction segments. Multiple regression analysis revealed that nurses' verbal listening activities, such as reflection, their nonverbal involvement activities, and their simultaneous coordination of nonverbal involvement activities with those of the patient predicted relational information dimensions of trust/receptivity, depth/similarity/affection, composure, and non‐formality. Thus, nurses' listening behavior, including coordination, may contribute to communication about patient–nurse relationships. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Res Nurs Health 27:447–457, 2004
New perylene polyimides containing p‐n diblocks for sensitization in TiO2solar cells
Authors: Niu Haijun , Wang Cheng , Bai Xuduo , Huang Yudong
Published: November 2004

Three novel perylene polyimides (PPIs) containing p‐n diblock units were designed and synthesized for use in dye‐sensitized mesoporous TiO2solar cells. They all dissolve inm‐cresol andN‐methyl‐2‐pyrrolidone (NMP). Their visible light absorption, electrochemical and photoelectrochemical properties were systematically studied. The polyimides have band gap energies of 2.16, 2.19 and 2.25 eV deduced from ultraviolet–visible absorption spectra, and electron affinity (Ea) and ionization potential (IP) of −3.93 and 6.10 eV for PPI1, −3.94 and 6.13 eV for PPI2, −3.93 and 6.59 eV for PPI3, respectively, deduced from cyclic voltammogram. Experimental data show that introduction of 4,4′‐bisaminetriphenylamine cannot only greatly enhance optic‐electro conversion efficiency, but also enhance the dissolubility which in favorable for making the devices. The relationship of structure and properties of PPI is discussed and the mechanism of photocurrent generation is explained. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The effect of grass fiber filler on curing characteristics and mechanical properties of natural rubber
Authors: De Debasish , De Debapriya , Adhikari Basudam
Published: November 2004

Natural rubber is reinforced with a novel type of grass fiber (Cyperus Tegetum Rox b). The effects of fiber loading of different mesh sizes on curing characteristics and mechanical properties of grass fiber filled natural rubber composite are studied. Since 400 mesh grass fiber loaded natural rubber composite shows superior mechanical properties, therefore the effect of silane coupling agent was studied for this particular composite. Here composites were prepared by using water leached grass fiber. Optimum cure time increases with the increase in fiber loading but the change in scorch time is less. The same trend of increase in optimum cure time is observed in the presence of Si69. But the value is higher compared to that of rubber composite without Si69. With increase in the fiber loading, modulus and hardness of the composite increases but tensile strength decreases. The mechanical properties of the composite, namely moduli at 200 and 300% elongation and hardness increase in the presence of Si69 but tensile strength is less compared to that of the composite without Si69. Elongation at break is not much affected due to the presence of Si69. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Expression profiling of microdissected matched prostate cancer samples reveals CD166/MEMD and CD24 as new prognostic markers for patient survival
Authors: Kristiansen Glen , Pilarsky Christian , Wissmann Christoph , Kaiser Simone , Bruemmendorf Thomas , Roepcke Stefan , Dahl Edgar , Hinzmann Bernd , Specht Thomas , Pervan Janja , Stephan Carsten , Loening Stefan , Dietel Manfred , Rosenthal André
Published: November 2004

In order to screen for differentially expressed genes that might be useful in diagnosis or therapy of prostate cancer we have used a custom made Affymetrix GeneChip containing 3950 cDNA fragments. Expression profiles were obtained from 42 matched pairs of mRNAs isolated from microdissected malignant and benign prostate tissues. Applying three different bioinformatic approaches to define differential gene expression, we found 277 differentially expressed genes, of which 98 were identified by all three methods. Fourteen per cent of these genes were not found in other expression studies, which were based on bulk tissue. Resultant candidate genes were further validated by quantitative RT‐PCR, mRNA in situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry. AGR2 was over‐expressed in 89% of prostate carcinomas, but did not have prognostic significance. Immunohistologically detected over‐expression of MEMD and CD24 was identified in 86% and 38.5% of prostate carcinomas respectively, and both were predictive of PSA relapse. Combined marker analysis using MEMD and CD24 expression proved to be an independent prognostic factor (RR = 4.7, p = 0.006) in a Cox regression model, and was also superior to conventional markers. This combination of molecular markers thus appears to allow improved prediction of patient prognosis, but should be validated in larger studies. Copyright © 2004 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Determinants of medicine use in a Swedish primary health care practice population
Authors: Al‐Windi Ahmad
Published: November 2004

Background

Pharmaceuticals represent an increasing share of private and public health care expenditures. The aim of this study was to characterise users and to determine the pattern of uses of prescribed medicines and to identify determinants of medicine use in a multi‐ethnic Swedish general practice population.

Methods

The study was performed in 1055 of 1442 consecutive adult patients visiting the Jordbro Health Centre (JHC) in Stockholm, Sweden.

Results

In a regression analysis adjusted for the influence of confounders, subjects reporting 10–30 complaint symptoms, subjects with chronic disease and subjects that had a cost limitation card all reported a higher number of used medicines than subjects with a few (0–10) symptoms and those without chronic disease and a cost limitation card. In a Poisson's regression analysis, high age, female gender, not working, more than 10 symptoms, chronic disease and having a cost limitation card were related to use of prescribed medicines. All included variables predicted 19% of the explanation. Marital status, multi‐symptomatology, chronic disease and having a cost limitation card were related to polypharmacy in a logistic regression analysis.

Conclusion

A high number of complaint symptoms, chronic disease and having a cost limitation card were all significantly and independently related to use of medicines and polypharmacy. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.