bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fear and Terror in a Post-Political Age
Authors: Durodié Bill
Published: June 2007

Despite an investigation lasting almost a year there is still no clarity as to why the perpetrators of the London bombings of 2005 acted as they did. Many commentators projected their own views into the vacuum left by the terrorists. These ideas, ranging from revenge for British foreign policy to the logical outcome of social exclusion, may shape security and community-related policies adversely. This article suggests that the bombers reflected a wider sense of disgruntlement in contemporary culture, one that is largely home grown and inculcated. Exploring the recent development of this politics of alienation, and a concomitant search for identity and meaning, it is proposed that the biggest danger is to live in a society with no clear sense of direction or purpose.
Detection of an invasive gall‐inducing pest, Quadrastichus erythrinae (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae), causing damage to Erythrina variegata L. (Fabaceae) in Okinawa Prefecture, Japan
Authors: UECHI Nami , UESATO Takumi , YUKAWA Junichi
Published: June 2007

In 2005, Quadrastichus erythrinae Kim, 2004 (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae), which induces stem, petiole, and leaf galls on Erythrina variegata L. (Fabaceae), was found on the following six islands in Okinawa Prefecture, Japan: Okinawa, Kume, Miyako, Ishigaki, Iriomote, and Hateruma. Galls were also found in Vietnam. In Japan, no further infestation records have been reported from any of Japan's other south‐western prefectures where Erythrina species grow. Because no Erythrina galls were observed in Okinawa Prefecture before 2005, Q. erythrinae seems to have invaded quite recently.
A New Approach to Quantitate Carbohydrate‐Deficient Transferrin Isoforms in Alcohol Abusers: Partial Iron Saturation in Isoelectric Focusing/Immunoblotting and Laser Densitometry
Authors: Bean P. , Peter J. B.
Published: June 2007

Carbohydrate‐deficient transferrin (Tf) represents a significant advance over previous markers of alcohol abuse. Isoelectric focusing (IEF) analysis of affinity‐purified Tf, under conditions of total iron saturation, identifies a major isoform at pi 5.4 in both normal consumers and alcohol abusers; three additional Tf isoforms (pi 5.6,5.7, and 5.8) are associated with alcohol abuse. Under conditions of partial iron saturation, IEF analysis of affinity‐purified Tf reveals up to seven isoforms (pi range 5.3–6.0) common to normal consumers and alcohol abusers; three additional transferrin isoforms (pi range 6.1–6.3) are present in 68% (15/22) of the alcohol abuser specimens, but in only 8% (1/12) of the specimens from normal consumers and in none of the three specimens from abstainers. These three diagnostic bands comigrate with a set of defined Tf isoforms: human iron‐free Tf containing two sialic acid residues, human sialic acid‐free Tf with one iron molecule, and human sialic acid‐free, iron‐free Tf. Serum specimens from normal consumers and alcohol abusers, analyzed for Tf isoforms by an lEF‐immunoblot method under conditions of partial iron saturation, expressed Tf isoforms similar to those found using affinity‐purified Tf in standard IEF. Visual examination of the immunoblots reveals the diagnostic bands in 67% (32/ 48) of patients with histories of sustained alcohol abuse compared with only 17% (8/48) of the normal consumers. Scanning densitometry and volume integration analysis of the immunoblots representative of normal consumer and alcohol abuser populations results in mean (±se) values of 4.1 ± 0.8 and 19.3 ± 3.6 units, respectively (p < 0.0002).
Psychometric Properties and Validity of the Obsessive‐Compulsive Drinking Scale
Authors: Bohn Michael J. , Barton Beth A. , Barron Kenneth E.
Published: June 2007

Abstinent alcoholics' self‐reports of distressing alcohol‐associated thoughts and compulsions to drink were evaluated by the Obsessive‐Compulsive Drinking Scale (OCDS). Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses on separate subject samples revealed that subjects' OCDS responses were best described by four correlated dimensions: alcohol obsessions, alcohol consumption, automaticity, and interference due to drinking. The validity of this four‐factor solution was supported by the pattern of associations with drinking and coping style measures. In particular, alcohol obsessions were positively associated with alcohol dependence and use of passive/ avoidant coping. Automaticity was positively associated with the intensity and salience of drinking, and inversely associated with use of activefapproach coping. as well as abstinence duration. The obsession and automaticity subscales of the OCDS may be useful in evaluating cognitive‐motivational processes associated with recovery from alcoholism.
Combining the Memory Impairment Screen and the Isaacs Set Test: A Practical Tool for Screening Dementias
Authors: Chopard Gilles , Pitard Alexandre , Ferreira Sabrina , Vanholsbeeck Geraldine , Rumbach Lucien , Galmiche Jean
Published: June 2007

OBJECTIVES: To assess the accuracy of combining the Memory Impairment Screen (MIS) with the Isaacs Set Test (IST) in distinguishing subjects with dementia from controls without dementia.

DESIGN: The weighted sum of MIS and IST scores was calculated, and the logical “or” rule combination was performed using two different patient and control samples. Combination results were compared with each test used alone and with Mini‐Mental State Examination to detect all types of dementias.

SETTING: Database of the Regional Network for Diagnostic Aid and Management of Patients with Cognitive Impairment in the Franche‐Comté, France, geographical area.

PARTICIPANTS: A cohort of 444 patients with Alzheimer's disease, non‐Alzheimer's dementia, and reversible dementia and 311 controls.

MEASUREMENTS: Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value were calculated for the combination of these two tests.

RESULTS: The weighted sum had overall sensitivities of 0.92 and 0.84 for mild cases, with a specificity of 0.92. The “or” rule had overall sensitivities of 0.92 and 0.89 for mild cases, with a specificity of 0.90. This pairing requires no more than 5 minutes. Its scoring is simple with the “or” rule combination.

CONCLUSIONS: The combination of MIS and IST could be a useful tool for screening dementias. The “or” rule combination seems particularly adapted to medical practice.
Electric and Dielectric Properties of Nb‐Doped CaCu3Ti4O12Ceramics
Authors: Hong Seong‐Hyeon , Kim Doh‐Yeon , Park Hyun‐Min , Kim Young‐Min
Published: June 2007

Pure and Nb‐substituted CaCu3Ti4−xNbxO12+x/2(CCTO,x=0, 0.02, 0.1, 0.2, 0.4) ceramics were prepared by a conventional solid‐state sintering, and their electric and dielectric properties were investigated using an impedance analyzer. A single‐phase CCTO was obtained up tox=0.2 Nb substitution and the lattice parameter increased with Nb substitution concentration. While the grain size decreased with Nb substitution, the resistivity of the grain boundary decreased. The dielectric constant increased with Nb substitution, and the highest value of ∼420 000 was observed in thex=0.2 Nb‐substituted specimen at 10 kHz. The obtained electric and dielectric properties in Nb‐substituted CCTO were discussed in terms of the internal barrier layer capacitor model, particularly focusing on a ratio of thickness of the grain boundary region to grain size.
Transient and Robust Knowledge: Contextual Support and the Dynamics of Children’s Reasoning About Density
Authors: Rappolt‐Schlichtmann Gabrielle , Tenenbaum Harriet R. , Koepke Margy F. , Fischer Kurt W.
Published: June 2007

ABSTRACT— Contextual support for performance and understanding plays an important role in learning and teaching. This study investigated the temporal course of the effects of support—how it affects complexity and correctness of judgments about density in kindergarten (n= 35) and second‐grade (n= 29) children. In the experimental group, a teacher provided support through modeling more complex reasoning about why objects sink or float. Children’s complexity judgments increased sharply with support compared to no support, although their predictions about whether objects would sink or float were mostly correct from the start. Following the support event, children showed a sudden jump in complexity of explanations, which was transient for most children, who showed either rapid decrease or some oscillation and then decrease. A few sustained the high‐level explanation after the jump, showing robust knowledge. That is, patterns of performance across trials were primarily nonlinear, following mostly cubic or quadratic change. In addition, second‐graders had a more complex understanding of density than did kindergarteners. Findings indicate that children’s concepts are dynamic rather than static, as evidenced by the strong but transient effects of support for most students. To move from transient to robust knowledge requires the building of knowledge and skill over time.
Comparison of Recoveries by Lead Fire Assay and Nickel Sulfide Fire Assay in the Determination of Gold/ Platinum/ Palladium and Rhenium in Sulfide Ore Samples
Authors: Juvonen M.‐Riitta , Bartha Andras , Lakomaa Tuula M. , Soikkeli Leena A. , Bertalan Eva , Kallio Eeva I. , Ballok Maria
Published: June 2007

We compared the recovery of gold, palladium and platinum by two fire assaying procedures, using nickel sulfide and lead as collectors. The presence of appreciable amounts of sulfide minerals in the sample caused interferences in both procedures. An in‐house reference sample, a reference sample of high‐grade sulfide ore and samples of high sulfide content from the Recsk porphyry copper ore in Hungary were analysed by both methods. The elements were determined by inductively coupled plasma‐atomic emission (ICP‐AES) and/or inductively coupled plasma‐mass spectrometry (ICP‐MS). It was found that for the sulfide ore samples, the recoveries of Au and Pd are sometimes lower by nickel sulfide fire assay than by lead fire assay. Recovery of Re by nickel sulfide fire assay was found to be low: the average recovery of five repeated analyses of the reference sample NIST SRM 330 was 9% with a relative standard deviation of 48%. Increasing the amount of S in the fusion flux gave better recovery.
Simulation of Sliding Wear in Mixed Lubrication
Authors: Zhu Dong , Martini Ashlie , Wang Wenzhong , Hu Yuanzhong , Lisowsky Bohdan , Wang Q. Jane
Published: June 2007

Sliding wear is a significant surface failure mode in many mechanical components. The magnitude of changes in surface topography due to wear may be comparable to or larger than the original surface roughness and elastic deformation. However, wear has rarely been incorporated into the numerical models used as predictive tools in engineering practice. This paper presents a numerical approach to simulate the wear process based on the deterministic mixed elastohydrodynamic lubrication (EHL) model developed and modified by Zhu and Hu (2001, Tribol. Trans., 44, pp. 383–398). It is assumed that wear takes place at locations where the surfaces are in direct contact, and the wear rate at those local contact spots is proportional to the relative sliding speed, the local contact pressure, and inversely proportional to the hardness of the surface. At each simulation cycle, the distributions of lubricant film thickness and contact pressure are calculated by using the mixed EHL model. The material removal at each contact location is evaluated and the surface topography modified correspondingly. The renewed surface topography is then used for the next cycle. The model is formulated such that any mathematically expressed wear law can be implemented, and therefore, the simulation can be applied to a wide variety of engineering applications.
An Experimental Study of Grease-Lubricated Journal Bearings Undergoing Oscillatory Motion
Authors: Lu Xiaobin , Khonsari M. M.
Published: June 2007

A series of experiments was performed to study the behavior of grease-lubricated journal bearings. The results reveal that an oscillatory bearing undergoes a transition from boundary, to mixed, and to hydrodynamic regime. Another distinct feature is friction hysteresis that occurs as a result of oscillation. In this paper, we examine the effect of load, oscillating frequency, and lubricant on the friction hysteresis loop.
Hydroinertia Gas Bearing System to Achieve 470m∕s Tip Speed of 10mm-Diameter Impellers
Authors: Tanaka Shuji , Esashi Masayoshi , Isomura Kousuke , Hikichi Kousuke , Endo Yuki , Togo Shinichi
Published: June 2007

A microbearing tester driven by an air turbine of 10mm diameter has been developed, and successfully used to test hydroinertia gas bearings with a shaft of 4mm diameter. The effects of bearing gas pressure conditions and bearing length to diameter ratio (L∕D) on the maximum achievable rotation speed were investigated. The maximum rotation speed of 890,000rpm, which corresponds to the DN number (the product of a shaft diameter in millimeter and a rotation speed in rpm) of 3,560,000, was achieved. At 890,000rpm, the tip speed of the turbine reaches approximately 470m∕s. Using the bearing system developed, the turbo components of a 100W class gas turbine and an air pump for 1kW class fuel cells can be tested.
Chitosan Malate Inhibits Growth and Exotoxin Production of Toxic Shock Syndrome-Inducing
Staphylococcus aureus
Strains and Group A Streptococci
Authors: Schlievert Patrick M.
Published: June 2007

Previously, it has been shown that the polysaccharide chitosan inhibits the growth of gram-positive bacteria. In this study, chitosan malate was evaluated in broth and thin-film cultures for its effect on the growth and exotoxin production of toxic shock syndrome (TSS)-inducing
Staphylococcus aureus
(five strains, three producing TSS toxin 1 and one each producing enterotoxin B or C) and group A streptococci (three strains producing streptococcal pyrogenic exotoxin A). Also, the compound was evaluated in a rabbit subcutaneous Wiffle ball model for its ability to prevent
S. aureus
and group A streptococcal induction of TSS. Finally, chitosan malate was evaluated for its ability to prevent TSS and necrotizing fasciitis in rabbits after subcutaneous inoculation with microbes. Chitosan malate inhibited both bacterial growth and, at sub-growth-inhibitory concentrations, the production of exotoxins, in both broth and thin-film cultures. Rabbits treated with chitosan malate in implanted Wiffle balls were protected from prior challenge with TSS-inducing
S. aureus
compared to animals not receiving chitosan malate (
P
< 0.001) and group A streptococci (
P
< 0.005). Chitosan malate protected rabbits from the development of streptococcal TSS with necrotizing fasciitis (
P
< 0.01). The data suggest that use of this growth- and toxin-inhibitory compound may be able to reduce the severity of
S. aureus
and group A streptococcal mucous membrane and trauma-associated skin infections.
The Apicomplexan PathogenNeospora caninumInhibits Host Cell Apoptosis in the Absence of Discernible NF-κB Activation
Authors: Herman Rebecca K. , Molestina Robert E. , Sinai Anthony P. , Howe Daniel K.
Published: June 2007

Neospora caninum, a causative agent of bovine abortions, is an apicomplexan parasite that is closely related to the human pathogenToxoplasma gondii. Since a number of intracellular parasites, includingT. gondii, have been shown to modulate host cell apoptosis, the present study was conducted to establish whetherN. caninumis similarly capable of subverting apoptotic pathways in its host cells. Our results indicated that death receptor-mediated apoptosis is repressed duringN. caninuminfection, and the data further showed that the executioner caspase, caspase 3, does not become activated in the infected cells. Surprisingly, nuclear translocation of the NF-κB subunit p65 was not detected inN. caninum-infected cells, although this host transcription factor has been shown to upregulate prosurvival genes in cells infected withT. gondii. Consistent with these findings, the distinct accumulation of phosphorylated IκB that is seen at the parasitophorous vacuole membrane (PVM) ofT. gondiiwas not apparent on theN. caninumPVM. Although a putative IκB kinase activity was detected inN. caninumextracts, thereby implying that this parasite is capable of modulating NF-κB translocation into the host cell nucleus, the data collectively suggest that a profound and sustained activation of the NF-κB pathway is not central to the ability ofN. caninumto prevent apoptosis of their host cells.
Stress fracture risk factors in female football players and their clinical implications
Authors: Warden Stuart J , Creaby Mark W , Bryant Adam L , Crossley Kay M
Published: June 2007

A stress fracture represents the inability of the skeleton to withstand repetitive bouts of mechanical loading, which results in structural fatigue, and resultant signs and symptoms of localised pain and tenderness. Reports of stress fractures in female football players are not prevalent; however, they are probably under-reported and their importance lies in the morbidity that they cause in terms of time lost from participation. By considering risk factors for stress fractures in female football players it may be possible to reduce the impact of these troublesome injuries. Risk factors for stress fractures in female football players include intrinsic risk factors such as gender, endocrine, nutritional, physical fitness and neuromusculoskeletal factors, as well as extrinsic risk factors such as training programme, equipment and environmental factors. This paper discusses these risk factors and their implications in terms of developing prevention and management strategies for stress fractures in female football players.
QUANTUM MARKOV SEMIGROUPS: PRODUCT SYSTEMS AND SUBORDINATION
Authors: MUHLY PAUL S. , SOLEL BARUCH
Published: June 2007

We show that if a product system comes from a quantum Markov semigroup, then it carries a natural Borel structure with respect to which the semigroup may be realized in terms of a measurable representation. We show, too, that the dual product system of a Borel product system also carries a natural Borel structure. We apply our analysis to study the order interval consisting of all quantum Markov semigroups that are subordinate to a given one.
CONVERGENCE ANALYSIS OF A DISCRETE HOPFIELD NEURAL NETWORK WITH DELAY AND ITS APPLICATION TO KNOWLEDGE REFINEMENT
Authors: TSANG ERIC C. C. , QIU S. S. , YEUNG DANIEL S.
Published: June 2007

This paper investigates the convergence theorems that are associated with a Discrete Hopfield Neural Network (DHNN) with delay. We present two updating rules, one for serial mode and the other for parallel mode. The speed of convergence of these proposed updating rules is faster than all of the existing updating rules. It has been proved in this paper that a DHNN with delay will converge to a stable state when operating in a serial mode if the matrix of weights of the no-delay term is symmetric. In addition, it has been proved that they will converge to a stable state when operating in a parallel mode if the matrix of weights of the no-delay term is a symmetric and non-negative definite matrix. The condition for convergence of a DHNN without delay can been relaxed from the need to have a symmetric matrix to an even weaker condition of having a quasi-symmetric matrix. The results in this paper extend both the existing results concerning the convergence of a DHNN without delay and our previous findings. By means of the new network structure and its convergence theorems, we propose a local searching algorithm for combinatorial optimization. We also relate the maximum value of a bivariate energy function to the stable states of a DHNN with delay, which generalizes Hopfield's energy function. Moreover, for the serial model we give the relationship between the convergence of the energy function and the convergence of the corresponding network. One application is presented to demonstrate the higher rate of convergence and the accuracy of the classification using our algorithm.
PATTERN RECOGNITION IN LARGE GEOGRAPHICAL DATABASES: TOWARDS A DETAILED ASSESSMENT OF THE WORLD CITY NETWORK
Authors: DERUDDER BEN , WITLOX FRANK , TAYLOR PETER J. , CATALANO GILDA
Published: June 2007

Although a detailed empirical analysis of the world city network is essential to attain insight in its functioning, it can be noted that previous explorations have been restricted to analyses of a limited number of thoroughly connected cities. A major reason for the neglect of less connected nodes in this global urban network is the sparse evidence on their world city formation. Drawing on earlier specifications and measurements of the world city network, the present paper shows how fuzzy set approach and pattern recognition can assess the inherent vagueness in classifications of lower ranked world cities. The resulting taxonomy asserts the intertwining relational tendencies of 234 cities in 20 clusters. Key findings include the distinctive profiles of US cities, the marginal position of (sub-Saharan) African and Central American cities, and Miami's particular role as a gateway between Anglo- and Latin America.
Role of VEGF in small bowel adaptation after resection: the adaptive response is angiogenesis dependent
Authors: Parvadia Jignesh K. , Keswani Sundeep G. , Vaikunth Sachin , Maldonado Arturo R. , Marwan A. , Stehr Wolfgang , Erwin Christopher , Uzvolgyi Eva , Warner Brad W. , Yamano Seichii , Taichman Norton , Crombleholme Timothy M.
Published: June 2007

Previous work in our group has demonstrated that mouse salivary gland has the highest concentration of salivary-derived VEGF protein compared with other organs and is essential for normal palatal mucosal wound healing. We hypothesize that salivary VEGF plays an important role in maintaining the integrity of the gastrointestinal mucosa following small bowel resection (SBR). Thirty-five 8- to 10-wk-old C57BL/6 female mice were divided into seven treatment groups: 1) sham (transaction and anastomosis, n = 5); 2) SBR ( n = 8); 3) sialoadenectomy and small bowel resection (SAL+SBR, n = 8); 4) sialoadenectomy and small bowel resection with EGF supplementation (SAL+SBR+EGF, n = 9); 5) sialoadenectomy and small bowel resection with VEGF supplementation (SAL+SBR+VEGF, n = 9); 6) sialoadenectomy and small bowel resection supplemented with EGF and VEGF (SAL+ SBR+VEGF+EGF, n = 6); 7) selective inhibition of VEGF in the submandibular gland by Ad-VEGF-Trap following small bowel resection (Ad-VEGF-Trap+SBR, n = 7). Adaptation was after 3 days by ileal villus height and crypt depth. The microvascular response was evaluated by CD31 immunostaining and for villus-vessel area ratio by FITC-labeled von Willebrand factor immunostaining. The adaptive response after SBR was significantly attenuated in the SAL group in terms of villus height (250.4 ± 8.816 vs. 310 ± 19.35, P = 0.01) and crypt depth (100.021 ± 4.025 vs. 120.541 ± 2.82, P = 0.01). This response was partially corrected by orogastric VEGF or EGF alone. The adaptive response was completely restored when both were administered together, suggesting that salivary VEGF and EGF both contribute to intestinal adaptation. VEGF increases the vascular density (6.4 ± 0.29 vs. 6.1 ± 0.29 vs. 5.96 ± 0.20) and villus-vessel area ratio (0.713 ± 0.01 vs. 0.73 ± 0.01) in the adapting bowel. Supplementation of both EGF and VEGF fully rescues adaptation, suggesting that the adaptive response may be dependent on VEGF-driven angiogenesis. These results support a previously unrecognized role for VEGF in the small bowel adaptive response.
Alveolar expansion imaged by optical sectioning microscopy
Authors: Perlman Carrie E. , Bhattacharya Jahar
Published: June 2007

During lung expansion, the pattern of alveolar perimeter distension is likely to be an important determinant of lung functions as, for example, surfactant secretion. However, the segmental characteristics of alveolar perimeter distension remain unknown. Here, we applied real-time confocal microscopy in the isolated, perfused rat lung to determine the micromechanics of alveolar perimeter distension. To image the alveolar perimeter, we loaded alveolar epithelial cells with a fluorescent dye that we microinjected into the alveolus. Then we viewed single alveoli in a 2-μm-thick optical section at a focal plane 20 μm deep to the pleural surface at baseline. In each alveolus, we identified five to eight segments of the perimeter. For each segment, we determined length ( Lseg) by means of image analysis. At baseline alveolar pressure (Palv) of 5 cmH2O, Lsegaveraged 46 μm. We hyperinflated the lung to Palvof 20 cmH2O and identified the same optical section as referenced against morphological landmarks. Hyperinflation increased mean Lsegby 14%. However, segment distension was heterogeneous, even within the single alveolus. Furthermore, distension was greater in alveolar type 1 than type 2 epithelial cells. These findings indicate that alveoli expand nonuniformly, suggesting that segments that distend the most might be preferred alveolar locations for injury in conditions associated with lung overdistension.
Enhancement of aTH1 Immune Response in Amphotericin B-Treated Mucocutaneous Leishmaniasis
Authors: Cuna Washington R. , Velasquez Rianed , Riva Janeth , Guachalla Ingrid , Rodríguez Celeste
Published: June 2007

In an attempt to investigate the effects of treatment of human leishmaniasis, the cytokines produced by peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of patients with cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) and mucocutaneous leishmaniasis (MCL) under treatment with amphotericin B were determined during the active disease from cocultures of cells andLeishmania (Viannia) braziliensisantigens. PBMC of these patients exhibited a nonsignificant marginal increased production of TNF-αupon antigen stimulation. However, under the same antigenic stimulus, patients with active MCL presented higher IFN-γproduction compared to patients with CL. This increased IFN-γproduction was accompanied by a drastically augmented IL-12 synthesis from cells of MCL patients. The highlighted T cell responses could be relevant for sound control measures of protozoan infections with emphasis on the combined usage of immunoenhancing agents and antiprotozoal drugs.
Post-transcriptional Regulation of P-Glycoprotein Expression in Cancer Cell Lines
Authors: Gómez-Martínez Angeles , García-Morales Pilar , Carrato Alfredo , Castro-Galache María D. , Soto José L. , Carrasco-García Estefanía , García-Bautista Miriam , Guaraz Patricia , Ferragut José A. , Saceda Miguel
Published: June 2007

The present study of inhibitors shows that the histone deacetylase–induced increase in P-glycoprotein (Pgp) mRNA (MDR1 mRNA) does not parallel either an increase in Pgp protein or an increase in Pgp activity in several colon carcinoma cell lines. Furthermore, studying the polysome profile distribution, we show a translational control of Pgp in these cell lines. In addition, we show that the MDR1 mRNA produced in these cell lines is shorter in its 5′ end that the MDR1 mRNA produced in the MCF-7/Adr (human breast carcinoma) and K562/Adr (human erythroleukemia) cell lines, both of them expressing Pgp. The different size of the MDR1 mRNA is due to the use of alternative promoters. Our data suggest that the translational blockade of MDR1 mRNA in the colon carcinoma cell lines and in wild-type K562 cells could be overcome by alterations in the 5′ end of the MDR1 mRNA in the resistant variant of these cell lines, as in the case of the K562/Adr cell line. This is, to our knowledge, the first report demonstrating that the presence of an additional 5′ untranslated fragment in the MDR1 mRNA improves the translational efficiency of this mRNA. (Mol Cancer Res 2007;5(6):641–53)
Hair Loss Pattern due to Chemotherapy-Induced Anagen Effluvium: A Cross-Sectional Observation
Authors: Yun Sook Jung , Kim Seong-Jin
Published: June 2007

Background: Anagen effluvium is a common side effect of chemotherapy, but few studies have examined its clinical characteristics. Objective: This study was aimed at evaluating the hair loss caused by chemotherapeutic agents. Methods: Sixty-four patients with anagen effluvium were evaluated in the study. Chemotherapeutic agents were classified into 5 different groups. The pattern of hair loss was analyzed when specific involvement of the hairline was obvious. Results: Forty-six (71.9%) of the 64 total patients maintained hairs along their hairline. Hairs were maintained with a total hairline in 20 (31.3%), frontal hairline in 13 (20.3%) and occipital hairline in 12 (18.8%) patients. Among the 20 males with patterned hair loss, the following hairlines were preserved: occipital in 10 (50%), total in 7 (35%) and frontal in 3 (15%). Among the 25 females with patterned hair loss, hairlines were preserved as total in 13 (52%), frontal in 10 (40%) and occipital in 2 (8%). However, no significant differences were detected in hair loss patterns according to age, associated symptoms, chemotherapeutic agent group or combination of chemotherapeutic agents. Conclusion: Our results suggest that anagen effluvium induced by chemotherapeutic agents represents patterned hair loss.
Infliximab for the Treatment of Hidradenitis Suppurativa
Authors: Fernández-Vozmediano J.M. , Armario-Hita J.C.
Published: June 2007

Introduction: Hidradenitis suppurativa is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by significant morbidity. Current medical therapies are usually only minimally effective. Objective: To assess the efficacy and safety of infliximab monotherapy for the treatment of severe extensive refractory forms of hidradenitis suppurativa. Design: A retrospective study in a group of 6 patients who received treatment with infliximab for hidradenitis suppurativa, in the Dermatology Department of the University Hospital of Puerto Real in the last year. The dose was 5–10 mg/kg at weeks 0, 2 and 6, followed by a maintenance dose every 4 weeks. Subjective and objective efficacy was assessed before and after each treatment session. Results: All patients experienced improvement in subjective symptoms after the initial dose. A decrease in exudation, the size and number of lesions and less development of fistulous tracts were observed. The patients were followed up during 6 months. Treatment was generally well tolerated and there was only one mild reaction to the infusion in the form of headache. No patient required treatment discontinuation due to adverse effects. Conclusions: Infliximab was shown to be an effective therapeutic alternative for severe extensive forms of hidradenitis suppurativa when it is used as monotherapy.
Dermatologists’ Adherence to the Guideline of the Dutch Society of Dermatology and Venereology with Respect to the Treatment with Methotrexate for Severe Chronic Plaque Psoriasis: Results from a Dutch Survey
Authors: Berends M.A.M. , de Jong E.M.G.J. , van de Kerkhof P.C.M. , Gerritsen M.J.P.
Published: June 2007

Background: In 2003, the Dutch guideline ‘Photo(chemo) therapy and systemic therapy for severe chronic plaque psoriasis’ was established. Objectives: To document how closely this guideline is followed in clinical practice with respect to the methotrexate (MTX) treatment and to formulate recommendations to adjust the guideline. Methods: A survey was conducted among Dutch dermatologists and residents in dermatology. The questionnaire assessed the knowledge of and the adherence to the guideline with respect to MTX treatment. Results: Fifty percent of the contacted dermatologists/residents responded. Fifty-two percent follow the guideline with respect to MTX. Liver biopsy and the frequency of blood investigations cause a discrepancy between guideline and reality. There is a lack of consensus between guidelines of the different specialisms concerning liver biopsy. Conclusion: The need for liver biopsies in combination with the frequent check-ups and the lack of consensus between rheumatologists, hepatologists and dermatologists seem to restrict the adherence to the guideline.
Birthmarks and Transient Skin Lesions in Newborns and Their Relationship to Maternal Factors: A Preliminary Report from Northern Italy
Authors: Boccardi Daniela , Menni Silvano , Ferraroni Monica , Stival Giorgio , Bernardo Luca , La Vecchia Carlo , Decarli Adriano
Published: June 2007

Background: A total of 620 healthy term neonates, randomly selected among babies born at the San Paolo Hospital in Milan (Italy), were examined to study the relationship between birthmarks and transient cutaneous lesions in newborns of different ethnic groups. Methods: Information on sociodemographic factors and on physiopathological variables of the pregnancy was collected. Multiple logistic analyses were performed to assess associations between diagnosed skin lesions and various factors. Odds ratios (OR) as a measure of association and the corresponding 95% confidence intervals were estimated. Results: A positive association was found between reduced hypoderm and pregnancy illness (OR = 2.78), hypertrophy genitalia and use of drugs (OR = 1.86) and illnesses in pregnancy (OR = 1.61). Hyperpigmentation in the genital area and Mongolian spot showed significant positive association with geographical area of origin, being systematically more frequent in non-European neonates, while for melanocytic congenital nevi a positive association was observed only for Asiatic newborns (OR = 4.67); salmon patch on the nape showed a significant OR of 1.81 among mothers aged ≧35. Conclusions: Significant associations between some sociodemographic factors and cutaneous lesions of the newborn and anamnestic data related to the pregnancy were found. Dermatologic conditions are common in the newborns and may justify dermatologic examination.
Changes in Fibrillin-1 in the Endometrium during the Early Stages of Pregnancy in Mice
Authors: Stumm Camila L. , Zorn Telma M.T.
Published: June 2007

Blastocyst reception and implantation require various adaptations of the uterine microenvironment. We have previously shown that in mice, remodeling of the extracellular matrix begins early in pregnancy, characterized by synthesis, degradation and alteration of collagen fibrillogenesis, accompanied by pregnancy stage-dependent expression of glycosaminoglycans and proteoglycans. Fibrillin-1 is a matrix glycoprotein that participates in the formation of elastic fibers and promotes cell adhesion through its integrin-binding domain. In the present study, we used light microscope immunohistochemistry to analyze the distribution of fibrillin-1 in the endometrial stroma of mice during estrous and diestrous, as well as in the pre- and postimplantation periods. Fibrillin-1 was found among endometrial fibroblasts and decidual cells, respectively, in the pre- and postimplantation periods. However, fibrillin-1 organization and distribution in the various regions of the endometrial stroma were found to be pregnancy stage dependent. Fibrillin-1 was also abundant in the basement membrane regions of blood vessels, as well as in the luminal and glandular epithelia. Fibrillin-1 at the maternal-fetal interface and in Reichert’s membrane of embryos at up to 6 days of development might facilitate embryo expansion and fixation. Changes in the fibrillin-1 expression during the peri-implantation period suggest that fibrillin-1 plays a role in preparing the endometrium for embryo implantation.
Rare Cause of Dysphagy: Giant Polypoid Esophageal Well-Differentiated Liposarcoma
Authors: Mica Ladislav , Gianom Duri , Bode Beata , Jaklin Peter , Hollinger Albert
Published: June 2007

Liposarcoma represents one of the most frequent (10–20%) malignant mesenchymal tumors in the adult, affecting mostly the soft tissue of extremities, the trunk or the retroperitoneum. This tumor type occurs exceptionally rarely in the gastrointestinal tract with only few cases described in the literature. In this case we present a 73-year-old male patient who was admitted due to loss of weight, anorexia and postprandial emesis with dysphagy. Gastrographin esophagography failed to make precise diagnostics. CT scan of the upper gastrointestinal tract revealed a large esophageal tumor filling out the whole length of the esophagus. The tumor was removed by parasternocleidomastoidal approach with a stapler. Histopathological examination revealed a well-differentiated liposarcoma (grade I). Well-differentiated liposarcomas are characterised by amplified material of the 12q13–15 chromosomal region, present in the form of giant or ring chromosomes and leading to the overexpression of MDM2 and CDK4 genes. MDM2 and CDK4 proteins can be detected immunhistochemically, which was the case in the reported tumor. Overexpression of these proteins leads to suppression of tumor suppressor genes, leading to increased cell survival.
Properties of the Lymphatic Cerebrospinal Fluid Transport System in the Rat: Impact of Elevated Intracranial Pressure
Authors: Koh Lena , Nagra Gurjit , Johnston Miles
Published: June 2007

Previous studies suggested that a major portion of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is absorbed by extracranial lymphatics located in the olfactory turbinates. The objective of this study was to determine the impact of elevated intracranial pressure (ICP) on downstream cervical lymphatic pressures in the rat. Pressures were measured in the deep cervical lymph nodes using a servo-null micropressure system. A catheter was placed in a lateral ventricle and fluid was infused from a reservoir at defined ICPs. When Ringer’s solution was infused, elevations of ICP from 10 to 50 cm H2O resulted on average in a reduction of diastolic cervical node pressures. In contrast, when a diluted plasma solution (80% plasma in Ringer’s) was infused, downstream diastolic lymphatic pressures increased as ICP was elevated to 50 cm H2O. These data are consistent with the view that much of the CSF-derived water that convects into the lymphatics is absorbed into the ethmoidal or nodal blood vessels. This study supports the concept of fluid continuity between the subarachnoid space and extracranial lymphatics and suggests that this loss of CSF-derived water may act as a safety mechanism to reduce the volume load to the downstream lymphatic vessels.
Favorable Long-Term Outcome After Drug-Eluting Stent Implantation in Nonbifurcation Lesions That Involve Unprotected Left Main Coronary Artery
Authors: Chieffo Alaide , Park Seung J. , Valgimigli Marco , Kim Young H. , Daemen Joost , Sheiban Imad , Truffa Alessandra , Montorfano Matteo , Airoldi Flavio , Sangiorgi Giuseppe , Carlino Mauro , Michev Iassen , Lee Cheol W. , Hong Myeong K. , Park Seong W. , Moretti Claudio , Bonizzoni Erminio , Rogacka Renata , Serruys Patrick W. , Colombo Antonio
Published: June 2007

Background—

The presence of a lumen narrowing at the ostium and the body of an unprotected left main coronary artery but does not require bifurcation treatment is a class I indication of surgical revascularization.

Methods and Results—

A total of 147 consecutive patients who had a stenosis in the ostium and/or the midshaft of an unprotected left main coronary artery (treatment of the bifurcation not required) and were electively treated with percutaneous coronary intervention and sirolimus-eluting stents (n=107) or paclitaxel-eluting stents (n=40) in 5 centres were included in this registry. In 72 patients (almost 50%), intravascular ultrasound guidance was performed. Procedural success was achieved in 99% of the patients; in 1 patient with stenosis in the left main coronary artery ostium, a >30% residual stenosis persisted at the end of the procedure, and the patient was referred for coronary artery bypass graft surgery. During hospitalization, no patients experienced a Q-wave myocardial infarction or died. One patient died 19 days after the procedure because of pulmonary infection. At long-term clinical follow-up (886±308 days), 5 patients had died; 7 patients had target vessel revascularization (5 repeat percutaneous coronary interventions and 2 coronary artery bypass graft surgeries), and of these only 1 patient had a target lesion revascularization. Angiographic follow-up was performed in 106 patients (72%) with a late loss of −0.01 mm. Restenosis in the left main trunk occurred only in 1 patient (0.9%).

Conclusions—

Percutaneous coronary intervention with sirolimus-eluting stents or paclitaxel-eluting stents implantation in nonbifurcation left main coronary artery lesions appears safe with a long-term major adverse clinical event rate of 7.4% and a restenosis rate of 0.9%.
Diurnal Variation in Precipitation over India during the Summer Monsoon Season: Observed and Model Predicted
Authors: Basu B. K.
Published: June 2007

Satellite-derived hourly precipitation values over India and neighboring areas are examined during the summer monsoon season of 2004 to determine the observed patterns of diurnal variations. These are compared with the patterns found in the forecasts from the global spectral model in operation at the National Centre for Medium Range Weather Forecasting in India. The observed hourly precipitation shows that maximum amounts are recorded over most areas of India during the afternoon hours, coinciding with the maximum in surface temperature. This pattern is modified in areas where local mesoscale events like katabatic winds or land–sea breezes produce strong convergence patterns and associated convection. The model forecasts weaken the mesoscale effects on precipitation and the convection due to ground heating seems to start in the model 2–3 h before the time it is observed by the satellites. The frequency and amount of precipitation increases with the forecast length but the hour of maximum precipitation remains almost the same. Harmonic analysis of the frequency of observed precipitation shows that the diurnal cycle predominates in both magnitude and the amount of variance explained. The semidiurnal cycle is considerably smaller in magnitude and explains significant variance only over a small area. Other cycles of smaller periodicity are unimportant in the diurnal variation of precipitation. A similar result is also obtained for the model forecasts except that the spatial distributions of amplitude and variance explained are different from that obtained from the observed data. The spatial distribution and values remain almost the same with forecast length.
Dual-Doppler Analysis of Winds and Vorticity Budget Terms near a Tornado
Authors: Wurman Joshua , Richardson Yvette , Alexander Curtis , Weygandt Stephen , Zhang Peng Fei
Published: June 2007

Three-dimensional dual-Doppler observations with unprecedented finescale spatial and temporal resolution are used to characterize the vector wind field and vorticity generation terms in and near a weak, short-lived tornado. The beam widths of the two Doppler on Wheels (DOW) mobile radars, at the range of the tornado, are 250 m with gate lengths of 75 m, resulting in a resolution of less than 107 m3. One of the DOWs collected data during the 240 s prior to the formation of the tornado, enabling examination of the genesis process. A single set of volumetric scans suitable for dual-Doppler analyses were completed by both DOWs, permitting the calculation of vertical and horizontal vorticity, divergence, and stretching and tilting terms in the vorticity budget of the large but weak tornado and its surroundings, but no local tendency terms. Analyses of the dual-Doppler vector wind fields document, for the first time in a supercellular tornado, revealed several structures expected to be associated with tornadoes, including the tilting of horizontal vorticity into the vertical near the tornado, and stretching of vertical vorticity in the region of the tornado. The analyses are compared to conceptual and computer models of tornadic storms, confirming the existence of various phenomena and processes, although some model predictions, particularly those concerning the distribution of horizontal vorticity, could not be verified through these analyses. The observed magnitudes of stretching of vertical vorticity and tilting of horizontal vorticity are consistent with those necessary for generating the observed vorticity near the tornado.
Left Atrial Myxoma Presenting with Acute Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Ozaydin Mehmet , Dogan Abdullah , Altinbas Ahmet
Published: June 2007

A 38-year-old man presented with an acute anterior myocardial infarction (MI) and was subjected to thrombolysis. Echocardiography and cardiac catheterization revealed a mass in the left atrium that was considered to be a myxoma. The coronary arteries appeared normal on angiography. The left atrial mass was removed surgically without complication. Histopathologic examination confirmed the diagnosis of the myxoma. Coronary embolism secondary to the myxoma was thought to be the cause of the MI.
Aortic Dissection with Pseudo-Aortic Regurgitation and Transient Myocardial Ischemia
Authors: Zreiqat Jihad , Tanaka Keiji , Yasutake Masahiro , Sato Naoki , Yajima Toshimi , Takano Teruo
Published: June 2007

Aortic dissection causes acute aortic regurgitation in one half to two thirds of cases, which is due, mainly, to dilatation of the aortic root. The unsupported intimal flap prolapse, which crosses the aortic valve, rarely produces aortic regurgitation. Moreover, transient myocardial ischemia rarely occurs by malperfusion, which might be due to compression of the ostium of the coronary artery by the false lumen or by the intimal flap. The authors had a rare case of aortic dissection with “pseudo-”aortic regurgitation; ie, regurgitation flow existed just in the area surrounding the intimal flap during diastole and produced transient myocardial ischemia. In this case, the swinging motion of the intimal flap through the aortic valve caused pseudoaortic regurgitation and transient myocardial ischemia, which should be repaired by emergency surgical procedure. Surgery was successful and saved the patient’s life.
Intestinal Ischemia as a Single Manifestation of Thromboangiitis Obliterans
Authors: Magalhães Eduardo de Paiva , Trevisan Mirian , Mochizuki Miki , Sachetto Zoraida , Samara Adil Muhib , Fernandes Sandra R.M.
Published: June 2007

Thromboangiitis obliterans (TAO) is an inflammatory, nonocclusive, and nonatherosclerotic vascular disease. It commonly affects arteries, veins, and surrounding neural elements and is directly related to smoking. Although distal vessels of lower and upper extremities are the most commonly involved, other vessels such as intestinal arteries can be rarely affected. The authors describe a 41-year-old white male smoker who presented with abdominal pain for 3 months and developed an acute bowel ischemia. He underwent urgent surgery, and segmental enterectomy was performed. Histopathologic findings were suggestive of TAO, showing typical involvement of small-sized veins and arteries with intact internal elastic lamina, preserved media, a local nonspecific inflammatory reaction, with new and older arterial and venous thromboses associated. Although mesenteric arteries are seldom injured by TAO, this diagnosis must be considered when the usual causes of intestinal ischemia are ruled out. In this case, even without any other clinical symptoms of TAO, this rare diagnosis could be made.