bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ORIGINAL ARTICLE: ‘I’m going to be here long after you’ve gone’ – sibling perspectives of the future
Authors: Rawson Hollie
Published: December 2009

Accessible summary

Adult brothers and sisters of people with learning disabilities often do not have enough support.

For this research, adult brothers and sisters were interviewed to find out what worries they have for the future and what support they would like.

Many were concerned about being responsible for their brother or sister in the future.

This report discusses ways in which organisations can better support adult brothers and sisters.

In recent years there has been a shift to recognise the needs of siblings and a growth in sibling support largely for under 16s. However, siblings will often require support into adulthood as they undertake additional responsibilities from parents in the care or advocacy of their brother or sister. Therefore this project aimed to investigate what concerns young adult siblings have for the future and what support they feel they need to develop and improve support for this sibling age group. The findings from interviews with young adult siblings of young people attending a 52 week residential school for people with complex needs highlighted many concerns for the future, particularly around the transition into adult services and holding a paucity of knowledge. It appears that many siblings are struggling with achieving the balance between being responsible, yet just being a brother or sister. This dichotomy is discussed in more detail along with strategies adopted at the residential setting to improve support.
Should liquid‐based cytology be performed prior to colposcopy? A comparison of the accuracy, unsatisfactory rates and cost in a tertiary referral setting
Authors: ANGSTETRA Donald , TAIT Thomas , TAN Jeffrey , SYMONDS Ian
Published: December 2009

Objective:  To compare the use of liquid‐based cytology (LBC) with conventional cytology (CC) in the assessment cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) prior to colposcopy.

Design:  Retrospective Cohort Study.

Methods:  Liquid‐based cytology and CC findings were compared with colposcopic assessment and directed cervical biopsy in terms of sensitivity and specificity for high grade lesions only and for any abnormalities. The degree of correlation was sought. Secondary outcomes were unsatisfactory rate and cost.

Results:  A total of 1961 women had colposcopy of whom 528 had cervical biopsy. LBC and CC have similar sensitivity and specificity for both high‐grade lesions and any abnormalities. In comparison with cervical biopsy, LBC and CC sensitivity for high‐grade disease was 89.1% and 88.6% respectively and for any abnormalities, the sensitivity was 86.6% and 87.0%. Specificity for high‐grade disease was 83.1% and 84.7% and for any abnormalities, the specificity was 53.8% and 56.4%. The unsatisfactory rate was significantly lower in LBC 4.38% compared to 1.84% (P < 0.001). However, the use of LBC was associated with an additional cost of A$1496 for each unsatisfactory smear avoided.

Conclusion:  In high prevalence setting, LBC showed no statistically significant difference in sensitivity and specificity from CC for the detection of CIN. A reduction in unsatisfactory smears was evident, but at significant additional cost.
Successful antiepileptic drug withdrawal in infants with epilepsy and cytomegalovirus neuroinfection: Longitudinal study
Authors: Dunin‐Wasowicz Dorota , Kasprzyk‐Obara Jolanta , Jóźwiak Sergiusz
Published: December 2009

Purpose:  A prospective study estimating antiepileptic and antiviral regimens administered to infants with symptomatic epilepsy and human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) neuroinfection followed for at least 4 years.

Methods:  Thirty‐two infants (19 female, 13 male) with epileptic seizures and HCMV neuroinfection diagnosed during the first year of life. Detection of HCMV DNA by qualitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), blood leukocytes, and urine confirmed the diagnosis. Infants were treated with intravenous ganciclovir (GCV) and different antiepileptic drugs. All had multiple electroencephalographic and neuroimaging examinations. Outcome of seizures was assessed using Engel classification system in the child’s fourth year of life.

Results:  Cessation of seizures was achieved in 19 infants (59.4%). In 11 children (34.4%) it was possible to withdraw administration of AEDs after 30–36 months. No infantile spasms, generalized tonic–clonic seizures, or polymorphic seizures were observed. They remained seizure‐free for 1–6 years without relapse and their psychomotor development was normal. Four patients with intractable epilepsy (class V) had the longest GCV treatment (median 8 weeks). GCV treatment was implemented at the time or within 1 month after the onset of epileptic seizures in 10 of 11 infants withdrawn from AEDs.

Conclusion:  Early introduction of antiepileptic and antiviral GCV regimens in epilepsy and CMV neuroinfection may result in discontinuation of antiepileptic treatment and normal psychomotor development in infants.
Ex vivo bone morphogenetic protein‐2 gene delivery using gingival fibroblasts promotes bone regeneration in rats
Authors: Shin Joong‐Ho , Kim Kyoung‐Hwa , Kim Su‐Hwan , Koo Ki‐Tae , Kim Tae‐Il , Seol Yang‐Jo , Ku Young , Rhyu In‐Chul , Chung Chong‐Pyoung , Lee Yong‐Moo
Published: December 2009

Shin J‐H, Kim K‐H, Kim S‐H, Koo K‐T, Kim T‐I, Seol Y‐J, Ku Y, Rhyu I‐C, Chung C‐P, Lee Y‐M. Ex vivo bone morphogenetic protein‐2 gene delivery using gingival fibroblasts promotes bone regeneration in rats. J Clin Periodontol 2009; 37: 305–311. doi: 10.1111/j.1600‐051X.2009.01522.x.

Aim: The aim of the present study was to investigate bone regeneration following ex vivo bone morphogenetic protein‐2 (BMP‐2) gene delivery using human gingival fibroblasts (HGFs) in rat calvarial defects.

Materials and Methods: An 8 mm craniotomy defect was created in Sprague–Dawley rats. The animals were divided into four groups: (1) non‐grafted group, the defect was left empty; (2) collagen matrix group, the defect was filled with collagen matrix only; (3) HGF group, the defect was filled with non‐transduced HGFs on collagen matrix; (4) BMP‐2/HGF group, the defect was filled with BMP‐2 gene‐transduced HGFs on collagen matrix. Animals were sacrificed at 2 and 4 weeks after surgery, and micro‐computed tomographic and histologic observations were performed.

Results: The BMP‐2/HGF group showed promoted osseous healing of calvarial defects, as compared with the other groups. At both 2 and 4 weeks, regenerated bone area was significantly greater in the BMP‐2/HGF group than the other three groups. Quite a few number of transplanted HGFs were observed within the regenerated bone tissues.

Conclusions: The results of this study suggest that ex vivo BMP‐2 gene delivery induces prominent bone regeneration in vivo and HGFs may be useful as target cells for ex vivo gene therapy.
Dynamic postural control but not mechanical stability differs among those with and without chronic ankle instability
Authors: Wikstrom E. A. , Tillman M. D. , Chmielewski T. L. , Cauraugh J. H. , Naugle K. E. , Borsa P. A.
Published: December 2009

The purpose of this investigation was to compare dynamic postural control and mechanical ankle stability among patients with and without chronic ankle instability (CAI) and controls. Seventy‐two subjects were divided equally into three groups: uninjured controls, people with previous ankle injury but without CAI, and people with CAI. Subjects completed a single‐leg hop‐stabilization task, and then had an anterior drawer test and lateral ankle radiograph performed bilaterally. The dynamic postural stability index was calculated from the ground reaction forces of the single‐leg hop‐stabilization task. Ankle joint stiffness (N/m) was measured with an instrumented arthrometer during the anterior drawer test, and fibula position was assessed from the radiographic image. Patients with previous ankle injuries but without CAI demonstrated higher frontal plane dynamic postural stability scores than both the uninjured control and CAI groups (P<0.01). Patients with and without CAI had significantly higher sagittal plane dynamic postural stability scores (P<0.01) and increased ankle joint stiffness (P=0.045) relative to the control group. The increased frontal plane dynamic postural control may represent a component of a coping mechanism that limits recurrent sprains and the development of CAI. Mechanical stability alterations are speculated to result from the initial ankle trauma.
Spinal modulations accompany peripheral fatigue during prolonged tennis playing
Authors: Girard O. , Racinais S. , Micallef J.‐P. , Millet G. P.
Published: December 2009

To examine the time course of alteration in neural process (spinal loop properties) during prolonged tennis playing, 12 competitive players performed a series of neuromuscular tests every 30 min during a 3‐h match protocol. Muscle activation (twitch interpolation) and normalized EMG activity were assessed during maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) of plantar flexors. Spinal reflexes and M‐waves were evoked at rest (i.e., Hmax and Mmax, respectively) and during MVC (i.e., Hsup, V‐wave, Msup, respectively). MVC torque declined significantly (P<0.001) across the match protocol, due to decrease (P<0.001) in muscle activation and in normalized EMG activity. The impairment in MVC was significantly correlated (r=0.77; P<0.05) with the decline in muscle activation. Hmax/Mmax (P<0.001), Hsup/Msup (P<0.01) and V/Msup (P<0.05) ratios were depressed with fatigue and decreased by ∼80%, 46% and 61% at the end of exercise, respectively. Simultaneously, peak twitch torque and M‐wave amplitude were significantly (P<0.01) altered with exercise, suggesting peripheral alterations. During prolonged tennis playing, the compromised voluntary strength capacity is linked to a reduced neural input to the working muscles. This central activation deficit partly results from a modulation in spinal loop properties.
Role of the pJM1 plasmid‐encoded transport proteins FatB, C and D in ferric anguibactin uptake in the fish pathogen Vibrio anguillarum
Authors: Naka Hiroaki , López Claudia S. , Crosa Jorge H.
Published: December 2009

Vibrio anguillarum serotype O1 is part of the natural flora in the aquatic habitat, but under certain circumstances it can cause terminal haemorrhagic septicemia in marine and fresh water fish due to the action of the anguibactin iron uptake system encoded by the virulence plasmid pJM1. This plasmid harbours the genes for the biosynthesis of the siderophore anguibactin and the ferric anguibactin transport proteins FatD, C, B and A encoded in the iron transport operon. The FatA protein is the outer membrane receptor for the ferric siderophore complex and the FatB lipoprotein provides the periplasmic domain for its internalization, whereas the FatC and D proteins are located in the cytoplasmic membrane and might play a role as part of the ABC transporter for internalization of the ferric siderophore. In this work we demonstrate the essential role of these two inner membrane proteins in ferric anguibactin transport and that the lipoprotein nature of FatB is not necessary for ferric anguibactin transport.
Localisation of the mechanotransducer channels in mammalian cochlear hair cells provides clues to their gating
Authors: Furness David N. , Hackney Carole M. , Evans Michael G.
Published: December 2009

Our sense of hearing and balance relies on the very rapid gating of mechanotransducer channels known to be located close to the tops of the hair cell stereocilia within the stereociliary bundle. The molecular identity of the channels is unknown but functional aspects such as permeation, block and sensitivity to bundle displacement are well known. The channel has high calcium permeability and this feature has been used in conjunction with fast confocal calcium imaging to unambiguously localise the channels at the top of the two shorter rows of stereocilia in mammalian cochlear hair cells. The data suggest that they are completely absent from the tallest row. It is thought that the structures connecting stereocilia in adjacent rows, the tip links, are either directly responsible for the channel's mechanical gating, or are closely associated with the gating process. The channels must therefore be associated with the bottom part of the tip links and not the top. This feature has important implications for both the channel's gating mechanism and its regulatory adaptation mechanism. The tip link remains an attractive candidate for mechanical coupling between the bundle and the channel or an accessory protein. The localisation of the mechanotransducer channels to the lower end of the tip link represents an important milestone in the journey towards eventual identification of the channel and its gating mechanism.
Convergence Analysis of a Steerable Nip Mechanism for Full Sheet Control in Printing Devices
Authors: Ergueta Edgar , Sanchez Rene , Horowitz Roberto , Tomizuka Masayoshi
Published: December 2009

Current approaches for high speed color printers require sheets be accurately positioned as they arrive to the image transfer station (ITS). This goal has been achieved by designing and building a steerable nip mechanism, which is located upstream from the ITS. This mechanism consists of two rollers that not only rotate to advance the paper along the track, but also steer the paper in the yaw direction. This paper briefly reviews the design and experimental setup of the system, and focuses on the design and analysis of a controller that precisely corrects the lateral, longitudinal, and angular positions of the sheet. The control strategy used is based on linearization by state feedback with the addition of internal loops for the local control of the actuators. This paper also provides a methodology to tune the controller parameters so that the desired performance specifications are met. The success of this mechatronic approach is corroborated through simulation and experimental results, which show that the system is able to correct sheet errors and meet all the performance specifications.
Sensitivity Approach for Modeling Stochastic Field of Keulegan–Carpenter and Reynolds Numbers Through a Matrix Response Surface
Authors: Schoefs Franck , Boukinda Morgan L.
Published: December 2009

The actual challenge for requalification of existing offshore structures through a rational process of reassessment indicates the importance of employing a response surface methodology. At different steps in the quantitative analysis, quite a lot of approximations are performed as a surrogate for the original model in subsequent uncertainty and sensitivity studies. This paper proposes to employ a geometrical description of the nth order Stokes model in the form of a random linear combination of deterministic vectors. These vectors are obtained by rotation transformations of the wave directional vector. This facilitates introduction of an appropriate level of complexity in stochastic modeling of the wave velocity and of the Reynolds and Keulegan–Carpenter numbers for probabilistic mechanics analysis of offshore structures. In situ measurements are used to assess suitable ranges and distributions of basic variables.
Three-Dimensional Free Vibration Analysis of a Homogeneous Transradially Isotropic Thermoelastic Sphere
Authors: Sharma J. N. , Sharma N.
Published: December 2009

In the present paper, an exact three-dimensional vibration analysis of a transradially isotropic, thermoelastic solid sphere subjected to stress-free, thermally insulated, or isothermal boundary conditions has been carried out. Nondimensional basic governing equations of motion and heat conduction for the considered thermoelastic sphere are uncoupled and simplified by using Helmholtz decomposition theorem. By using a spherical wave solution, a system of governing partial differential equations is further reduced to a coupled system of three ordinary differential equations in radial coordinate in addition to uncoupled equation for toroidal motion. Matrix Fröbenious method of extended power series is used to investigate motion along radial coordinate from the coupled system of equations. Secular equations for the existence of various types of possible modes of vibrations in the sphere are derived in the compact form by employing boundary conditions. Special cases of spheroidal and toroidal modes of vibrations of a solid sphere have also been deduced and discussed. It is observed that the toroidal motion remains independent of thermal variations as expected and spheroidal modes are in general affected by thermal variations. Finally, the numerical solution of the secular equation for spheroidal motion (S-modes) is carried out to compute lowest frequency and dissipation factor of different modes with MATLAB programming for zinc and cobalt materials. Computer simulated results have been presented graphically. The analyses may find applications in aerospace, navigation, and other industries where spherical structures are in frequent use.
Numerical Study of Boundary Layers With Reverse Wedge Flows Over a Semi-Infinite Flat Plate
Authors: Ahmad R. , Naeem K. , Khan Waqar Ahmed
Published: December 2009

This paper presents the classical approximation scheme to investigate the velocity profile associated with the Falkner–Skan boundary-layer problem. Solution of the boundary-layer equation is obtained for a model problem in which the flow field contains a substantial region of strongly reversed flow. The problem investigates the flow of a viscous liquid past a semi-infinite flat plate against an adverse pressure gradient. Optimized results for the dimensionless velocity profiles of reverse wedge flow are presented graphically for different values of wedge angle parameter β taken from 0≤β≤2.5. Weighted residual method (WRM) is used for determining the solution of nonlinear boundary-layer problem. Finally, for β=0 the results of WRM are compared with the results of homotopy perturbation method.
The M-Integral Analysis for a Nano-Inclusion in Plane Elastic Materials Under Uni-Axial or Bi-Axial Loadings
Authors: Hui Tong , Chen Yi-Heng
Published: December 2009

This paper deals with the M-integral analysis for a nano-inclusion in plane elastic materials under uni-axial or bi-axial loadings. Based on previous works (Gurtin and Murdoch, 1975, “A Continuum Theory of Elastic Material Surfaces,” Arch. Ration. Mech. Anal., 57, pp. 291–323; Mogilevskaya, et al., 2008, “Multiple Interacting Circular Nano-Inhomogeneities With Surface/Interface Effects,” J. Mech. Phys. Solids, 56, pp. 2298–2327), the surface effect induced from the surface tension and the surface Lamé constants is taken into account, and an analytical solution is obtained. Four kinds of inclusions including soft inclusion, hard inclusion, void, and rigid inclusions are considered. The variable tendencies of the M-integral for each of four nano-inclusions against the loading or against the inclusion radius are plotted and discussed in detail. It is found that in nanoscale the surface parameters for the hard inclusion or rigid inclusion have a little or little influence on the M-integral, and the values of the M-integral are always negative as they would be in macroscale, whereas the surface parameters for the soft inclusion or void yield significant influence on the M-integral and the values of the M-integral could be either positive or negative depending on the loading levels and the surface parameters. Of great interest is that there is a neutral loading point for the soft inclusion or void, at which the M-integral transforms from a negative value to a positive value, and that the bi-axial loading yields similar variable tendencies of the M-integral as those under the uni-axial tension loading. Moreover, the bi-axial tension loading increases the neutral loading point, whereas the bi-axial tension-compression loading decreases it. Particularly, the magnitude of the negative M-integral representing the energy absorbing of the soft inclusion or void increases very sharply as the radius of the soft inclusion or void decreases from 5 nm to 1 nm.
On Formulas for the Velocity of Rayleigh Waves in Prestrained Incompressible Elastic Solids
Authors: Vinh Pham Chi
Published: December 2009

In the present paper, formulas for the velocity of Rayleigh waves in incompressible isotropic solids subject to a general pure homogeneous prestrain are derived using the theory of cubic equation. They have simple algebraic form and hold for a general strain-energy function. The formulas are concretized for some specific forms of strain-energy function. They then become totally explicit in terms of parameters characterizing the material and the prestrains. These formulas recover the (exact) value of the dimensionless speed of Rayleigh wave in incompressible isotropic elastic materials (without prestrain). Interestingly that, for the case of hydrostatic stress, the formula for the Rayleigh wave velocity does not depend on the type of strain-energy function.
The Free and Forced Vibrations of a Closed Elastic Spherical Shell Fixed to an Equatorial Beam—Part II: Perturbation Approximations
Authors: Simmonds J. G. , Hosseinbor A. P.
Published: December 2009

The two small parameters that appear in the final equations developed in Part I (Simmonds and Hosseinbor, 2010, “The Free and Forced Vibrations of a Closed Elastic Spherical Shell Fixed to an Equatorial Beam—Part I: The Governing Equations and Special Solutions,” ASME J. Appl. Mech., 77, p. 021017), namely, h/R, the ratio of the constant shell thickness to the radius of curvature of the shell’s reference surface and H/R, where H is the depth (or width) of the equatorial beam, are exploited using perturbation techniques (including the WKB method). The natural frequencies depend not only on these parameters, but also on the ratio of the mass densities of the shell and beam, the ratio of the Young’s moduli of the shell and beam, Poisson’s ratio, and the circumferential wave number m. Short tables for typical parameter values are given for those cases where the frequency equation is not explicit.
Helicopter Landing Ship: Undercarriage Strength and the Role of the Human Factor
Authors: Suhir E.
Published: December 2009

We address, using probabilistic modeling and the extreme-value-distribution technique, the helicopter undercarriage strength in a helicopter-landing-ship situation. Our analysis contains an attempt to quantify, on the probabilistic basis, the role of the human factor in the situation in question. This factor is important from the standpoint of the operation time that affects the likelihood of safe landing during the lull period in the sea condition. The operation time includes (1) the time required for the officer-on-ship-board and the helicopter pilot to make their go-ahead decisions and (2) the time of actual landing. It is assumed, for the sake of simplicity, that both these times could be approximated by Rayleigh’s law, while the lull duration follows the normal law with a high enough ratio of the mean value to the standard deviation. Safe landing could be expected if the probability that it occurs during the lull time is sufficiently high. The probability that the helicopter undercarriage strength is not compromised can be evaluated as a product of the probability that landing indeed occurs during the lull time and the probability that the relative velocity of the helicopter undercarriage with respect to the ship’s deck at the moment of encounter does not exceed the allowable level. This level is supposed to be determined for the helicopter-landing-ground situation. The developed model can be used when developing specifications for the undercarriage strength, as well as guidelines for personnel training. Particularly, the model can be of help when establishing the times to be met by the two humans involved to make their go-ahead decisions for landing and to actually land the helicopter. Plenty of additional risk analyses (associated with the need to quantify various underlying uncertainties) and human psychology related efforts will be needed, of course, to make such guidelines practical.
Solving Pseudokinases
Authors: Ray L. Bryan
Published: December 2009

A “pseudokinase” activates the LKB1 tumor suppressor protein without catalyzing phosphorylation.
Contribution of epidermal growth factor receptor transactivation in angiotensin II-induced enhanced expression of Gi protein and proliferation in A10 vascular smooth muscle cellsThis article is one of a selection of papers published in a special issue on Advances in Cardiovascular Research.
Authors: Gomez Sandoval Yessica-Haydee , Lévesque Louis-Olivier , Anand-Srivastava Madhu B.
Published: December 2009

We have recently shown that vasoactive peptides such as angiotensin II (Ang II) and endothelin-1 (ET-1) increased the expression of Gi proteins and proliferation of A10 vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC) through MAP kinase / PI3 kinase pathways. The present study was undertaken to examine the implication of growth factor receptor activation in Ang II-induced enhanced expression of Gi proteins and proliferation of A10 VSMC and to further investigate the underlying mechanisms responsible for these increases. Cell proliferation was determined by [3H]thymidine incorporation, and the expression of Gi proteins and the phosphorylation of ERK1/2 and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) was determined by Western blotting. Treatment of A10 VSMC with Ang II enhanced the expression of Gi proteins, which was attenuated by Ang II AT1receptor antagonist but not by AT2receptor antagonist. The inhibitor of EGFR also attenuated the enhanced expression of Gi proteins induced by Ang II to control levels. In addition, Ang II enhanced the phosphorylation of EGFR in A10 VSMC, and this was restored to control levels by the EGFR inhibitor and antioxidants. Furthermore, Ang II also augmented the proliferation and ERK1/2 phosphorylation of A10 VSMC, which were restored to control levels by the EGFR inhibitor. These data suggest that the Ang II-induced increase in oxidative stress transactivates EGFR, which through MAP kinase signaling may contribute to the enhanced expression of Gi proteins and thereby to the increased proliferation of A10 VSMC.
Attenuation of ischemia–reperfusion-induced alterations in intracellular Ca2+in cardiomyocytes from hearts treated withN-acetylcysteine andN-mercaptopropionylglycineThis article is one of a selection of papers published in a special issue on Advances in Cardiovascular Research.
Authors: Saini-Chohan Harjot K. , Dhalla Naranjan S.
Published: December 2009

This study was undertaken to test whether Ca2+-handling abnormalities in cardiomyocytes after ischemia–reperfusion (I/R) are prevented by antioxidants such as N-acetyl l-cysteine (NAC), which is known to reduce oxidative stress by increasing the glutathione redox status, and N-(2-mercaptopropionyl)-glycine (MPG), which scavenges both peroxynitrite and hydroxyl radicals. For this purpose, isolated rat hearts were subjected to 30 min of global ischemia followed by 30 min of reperfusion, and cardiomyocytes were prepared to monitor changes in the intracellular concentration of free Ca2+([Ca2+]i). Marked depression in the left ventricular developed pressure and elevation in the left ventricular end-diastolic pressure in I/R hearts were attenuated by treatment with NAC or MPG. Cardiomyocytes obtained from I/R hearts showed an increase in the basal level of [Ca2+]ias well as augmentation of the low Na+-induced increase in [Ca2+]i, with no change in the KCl-induced increase in [Ca2+]i. These I/R-induced alterations in Ca2+handling by cardiomyocytes were attenuated by treatment of hearts with NAC or MPG. Furthermore, reduction in the isoproterenol-, ATP-, ouabain-, and caffeine-induced increases in [Ca2+]iin cardiomyocytes from I/R hearts were limited by treatment with NAC or MPG. The increases in the basal [Ca2+]i, unlike the KCl-induced increase in [Ca2+]i, were fully or partially prevented by both NAC and MPG upon exposing cardiomyocytes to hypoxia–reoxygenation, H2O2, or a mixture of xanthine and xanthine oxidase. These results suggest that improvement in cardiac function of I/R hearts treated with NAC or MPG was associated with attenuation of changes in Ca2+handling by cardiomyocytes, and the results support the view that oxidative stress due to oxyradical generation and peroxynitrite formation plays an important role in the development of intracellular Ca2+overload in cardiomyocytes as a consequence of I/R injury.
Omega-3 fatty acids and atorvastatin affect connexin 43 expression in the aorta of hereditary hypertriglyceridemic ratsThis article is one of a selection of papers published in a special issue on Advances in Cardiovascular Research.
Authors: Dlugošová Katarína , Weismann Peter , Bernátová Iveta , Sotníková Ružena , Slezák Ján , Okruhlicová Ľudmila
Published: December 2009

Statins and omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFA) reduce cardiovascular disease incidence during hypertriglyceridemia (HTG). To elucidate possible cardioprotective mechanisms, we focused on gap junction protein connexin 43 (Cx43). Its expression is disturbed during atherogenesis, but little information is available on its expression during HTG. Experiments were performed on adult male hereditary HTG (hHTG) rats treated with n-3 PUFA (30 mg/day) and atorvastatin (0.5 mg/100 g body weight per day) for 2 months. Cx43 expression and distribution in the aorta were investigated by using Western blotting and immunolabeling, followed by quantitative analysis. Transmission electronmicroscopy was used to study ultrastructure of endothelial contact sites. In contrast to age-matched Wistar, Cx43 expression in aorta of hHTG rats was significantly higher (p < 0.05), and prominent Cx43 immunospots were seen in tunica media and less in endothelium of hHTG rats. Changes in Cx43 expression were accompanied by local qualitative subcellular alterations of interendothelial connections. Treatment of hHTG rats with n-3 PUFA and atorvastatin markedly lowered Cx43 expression in aorta and modified connexin distribution in endothelium and media (p < 0.05 vs. untreated hHTG). The protective effect of treatment of HTG was observed on the structural integrity of the endothelium and was readily visible at the molecular level. Results indicate the involvement of altered Cx43 expression in vascular pathophysiology during HTG and during HTG treatment.
Chaos in a Predator‐Prey System with Impulsive Perturbations and Stage Structure for the Predator
Authors: Zhang Bin , Shi Shuai , Liu Woye
Published: December 2009

We investigate a predator‐prey model with stage structure for the predator and periodic constant impulsive perturbations. Conditions for extinction of prey and immature predator are given. By using the Floquet theory and small amplitude perturbation skills, we consider the local stability of prey, immature predator eradication periodic solution. Furthermore, by using the method of numerical simulation, the influence of the impulsive control strategy on the inherent oscillation is investigated, which shows rich complex dynamic (such as periodic doubling bifurcation, periodic halving bifurcation, nonunique attractors, chaos, and periodic windows).
Trp64Arg Polymorphism in Beta3-Adrenergic Receptor Gene Is Associated with Decreased Fat Oxidation Both in Resting and Aerobic Exercise in the Japanese Male
Authors: Morita Emiko , Taniguchi Hiroshi , Sakaue Motoyoshi
Published: December 2009

The purpose of our study was to investigate whether the Trp64Arg polymorphism in 3-AR gene and the −3826A/G polymorphism in the UCP1 gene were associated with the reduction in energy expenditure and fat oxidation both in resting and aerobic exercise in Japanese. Eighty-six nonobese young healthy Japanese were recruited. Energy expenditure was measured using indirect calorimetry. The subjects performed an aerobic exercise program at 60% of their maximal heart rate for 30 minutes. The level of fat oxidation at rest and aerobic exercise of the male subjects with Trp/Arg of the 3-AR gene was significantly lower than that of the Trp/Trp genotype. No difference in was observed in the female subjects. There was no association between UCP-1 polymorphism and energy expenditure during aerobic exercise. It was revealed that the Trp64Arg polymorphism in 3-AR gene is associated with reduction of fat oxidation both in resting and aerobic exercise in healthy, young Japanese males.
Spatial Distension Variations Are Associated with Focal Atherosclerotic Plaques
Authors: Graf Iulia M. , Schreuder Floris H.B.M. , Mess Werner H. , Reneman Robert S. , Hoeks Arnold P.G.
Published: December 2009

Background: Alterations in arterial absolute distension (AD) and relative distension (RD) in the common carotid artery (CCA), as observed by ultrasound, may relate to atherosclerotic processes in a nearby vascular segment. The main objective of the study was to establish to what extent these mechanical vascular alterations relate to carotid bulb stenosis. Methods: The AD, RD and their interrecording variation (ΔAD and ΔRD), representing the spatial inhomogeneity of AD and RD, were evaluated in 308 CCA and associated with the degree of bulb stenosis. Results: The mechanical CCA parameters were marginally correlated to the degree of ipsilateral (r = –0.14 for AD and r = –0.28 for RD) and contralateral stenosis (r = –0.21 for AD and r = –0.27 for RD). However, ΔAD (r = 0.54; p < 0.001) and ΔRD (r = 0.59; p < 0.001) were significantly correlated to ipsilateral stenosis, independent of age, gender and pulse pressure. Conclusions: The indices of CCA arterial stiffness are weakly associated with ipsilateral bulb stenosis, but their interrecording variation is a good indicator for atherosclerotic alterations in the carotid bulb. The results indicate that a focal atherosclerotic lesion is associated with modifications in the dynamic characteristics of a nearby vascular segment.
Expression of the Foxp3 Gene in Spleen Mononuclear Cells of a Mouse Model with Allergic Rhinitis
Authors: Han Demin , Xi Lin , Fan Erzhong , Li Ying , Zhang Luo
Published: December 2009

Objective: There is growing speculation that the impairment inregulatory-T-cell (Treg)-mediated dominant tolerance may play an important role in the pathogenesis of allergic rhinitis (AR). The aim of this study was to investigate whether the changes in the forkhead transcription factor 3 (Foxp3) gene expression may aggravate nasal mucosal inflammation in allergic mice, and whether or not these features result from the loss of Tregs. Methods: AR was induced by both intraperitoneal injection and intranasal administration of ovalbumin in BALB/c mice, while the control mice were treated with saline. A comparison of the frequency of CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ Tregs in peripheral blood mononuclear cells of the AR and control mice was made by flow cytometry. Spleen mononuclear cells were used for RNA extraction and RT-PCR was used to measure Foxp3 mRNA expression. Results: The expression of the Foxp3 gene was significantly reduced in spleen mononuclear cells in AR mice compared with the control. Moreover, a significant decrease in the percentage of CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ Tregs was exhibited in peripheral blood mononuclear cells of AR mice compared with the control mice. Conclusion: The insufficiency of Tregs and the Foxp3 gene may contribute to the development of AR in mice.
Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Polymorphisms in Mantle Cell Lymphoma
Authors: Galimberti S. , Nagy B. , Palumbo G.A. , Ciancia E. , Buda G. , Orciuolo E. , Melosi A. , Lambelet P. , Ronca F. , Petrini M.
Published: December 2009

In this study, we determined the allele and genotype frequencies of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) G+405C, C–460T, C+936T and C–2578A single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in 32 patients affected by mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) and 58 healthy controls. Real-time PCR combined with melting curve analysis was used for the determination of SNP alleles. A significant difference in the allele frequency of VEGFC–460T and C+936T SNPs in MCL and healthy cases was not observed. On the contrary, VEGF G+405C and C–2578A SNP allele distribution was significantly lower in the patient group than among normal controls (p = 0.014, p = 0.001). This observation suggests that further investigation is warranted, both in vitro and in a larger series of patients, to further examine the role of VEGF polymorphisms in the pathogenesis of MCL. In addition, the use of quantitative real-time PCR combined with a melting curve analysis method in the detection of the 4 VEGF SNPs may have the potential to replace older and more time-consuming PCR-RFLP methods and bears further investigation.
The Spot Sign in Intracerebral Hemorrhage: The Importance of Looking for Contrast Extravasation
Authors: Hallevi Hen , Abraham Anitha T. , Barreto Andrew D. , Grotta James C. , Savitz Sean I.
Published: December 2009

Background: The ‘spot sign’ is a bright spot on computerized tomography angiography (CTA) source images predictive of hematoma growth. Contrast extravasation (CE) is seen on routine head CT following CTA as pooling of contrast within the hematoma. Our aim was to re-evaluate the predictive value of both the spot sign and CE and measure the reliability of scoring them. Methods: Consecutive cases of spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) presenting within 4 h. The presence of a ‘spot’ and CE, ICH and intraventricular hemorrhage volume at baseline and on follow-up scans were assessed. Clinical outcome was captured using the modified Rankin Scale on hospital discharge. Results: We identified 28 patients with a mean age of 56.8 years, median ICH volume of 19 ml, and median NIH Stroke Scale score on admission of 17.5. 11/27 (40.7%) had a positive spot and 13/22 (59.1%) had CE. Interrater reliability was 0.812 (95% CI 0.57–0.91, p < 0.001) for the spot sign and 0.952 (95% CI 0.89–0.98, p < 0.001) for CE. ICH volume increased in 16/28 (57.1%) patients. Both the spot sign and CE were associated with ICH growth (p < 0.001) and poor outcome (p < 0.001). Conclusions: In ICH patients, the presence of the spot sign or CE is highly correlated with early ICH growth. In our experience, CE is a more sensitive predictor of ICH growth with a better negative predictive value than the spot sign; CE is more consistently identified even by experienced clinicians. Postcontrast CT should be done routinely after CTA in patients presenting with ICH within 4 h. Patients who are CE-positive may be candidates for hemostatic therapies or early surgical intervention.
Symptom Progression or Fluctuation in Transient Ischemic Attack Patients Predicts Subsequent Stroke
Authors: Nakajima Makoto , Hirano Teruyuki , Naritomi Hiroaki , Minematsu Kazuo
Published: December 2009

Background: The aim of this study was to investigate whether progression or fluctuation of transient ischemic attack (TIA) symptoms is a predictor of subsequent stroke. Methods: We prospectively analyzed 113 consecutive patients admitted with a diagnosis of classical TIA with symptom duration of less than 24 h. We assessed the background characteristics, TIA symptoms, attack characteristics, results of in-hospital examinations, and prescription of antithrombotic agents on discharge for each patient. We then analyzed the factors related to progression or fluctuation of TIA symptoms. Results: Of the 113 patients, 35 (31.0%) exhibited symptom progression or fluctuation. Subsequent stroke occurred in 12 (10.6%) patients within 180 days. Symptom progression or fluctuation was significantly related to the TIA symptoms of speech disturbance, hemiparesis, and monoparesis, and were also related to subsequent stroke occurrence within 90 days (29 vs. 3%, p = 0.004) and 180 days (23 vs. 5%, p = 0.008). In a logistic regression model analysis, symptom progression or fluctuation was a significant predictor of subsequent stroke within 90 days (odds ratio = 7.65, 95% CI 1.27–46.06) and 180 days (odds ratio = 4.44, 95% CI 1.08–18.13), independently of other predictors demonstrated in previous studies. Conclusions: Progression or fluctuation of TIA symptoms may be an important predictor of subsequent stroke. A detailed interview about the characteristics of each attack is also indispensable for the provision of appropriate care to TIA patients.
Severe Transient Leukopenia following Hysterosalpingography
Authors: Kovoor Elias Thomas , Morgan George
Published: December 2009

Severe anaphylaxis to contrast media used in hysterosalpingography is very rare. Leukopenia may sometimes be seen in severe anaphylaxis associated with shock. This case report is about an atypical presentation of anaphylaxis following the injection of Conray 280 for hysterosalpingography. The patient had severe leukopenia without other associated features of anaphylaxis that resolved spontaneously after 48 h. This type of reaction to Conray 280 has not been reported before.
Laboratory Measures of Exercise Capacity and Ventricular Characteristics and Function Are Weakly Associated With Functional Health Status After Fontan Procedure
Authors: McCrindle Brian W. , Zak Victor , Sleeper Lynn A. , Paridon Stephen M. , Colan Steven D. , Geva Tal , Mahony Lynn , Li Jennifer S. , Breitbart Roger E. , Margossian Renee , Williams Richard V. , Gersony Welton M. , Atz Andrew M.
Published: December 2009

Background—

Patients after the Fontan procedure are at risk for suboptimal functional health status, and associations with laboratory measures are important for planning interventions and outcome measures for clinical trials.

Methods and Results—

Parents completed the generic Child Health Questionnaire for 511 Fontan Cross-Sectional Study patients 6 to 18 years of age (61% male). Associations of Child Health Questionnaire Physical and Psychosocial Functioning Summary Scores (FSS) with standardized measurements from prospective exercise testing, echocardiography, magnetic resonance imaging, and measurement of brain natriuretic peptide were determined by regression analyses. For exercise variables for maximal effort patients only, the final model showed that higher Physical FSS was associated only with higher maximum work rate, accounting for 9% of variation in Physical FSS. For echocardiography, lower Tei index (particularly for patients with extracardiac lateral tunnel connections), lower indexed end-systolic volume, and the absence of atrioventricular valve regurgitation for patients having Fontan procedure at age <2 years were associated with higher Physical FSS, accounting for 14% of variation in Physical FSS. For magnetic resonance imaging, ratio of lower mass to end-diastolic volume and midquartiles of indexed end-systolic volume (nonlinear) were associated with higher Physical FSS, accounting for 11% of variation. Lower brain natriuretic peptide was significantly but weakly associated with higher Physical FSS (1% of variation). Significant associations for Psychosocial FSS with laboratory measures were fewer and weaker than for Physical FSS.

Conclusions—

In relatively healthy Fontan patients, laboratory measures account for a small proportion of the variation in functional health status and therefore may not be optimal surrogate end points for trials of therapeutic interventions.
Dispatcher-Assisted Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation
Authors: White Lindsay , Rogers Joseph , Bloomingdale Megan , Fahrenbruch Carol , Culley Linda , Subido Cleo , Eisenberg Mickey , Rea Thomas
Published: December 2009

Background—

Dispatcher-assisted cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) instructions can increase bystander CPR and thereby increase the rate of survival from cardiac arrest. The risk of bystander CPR for patients not in arrest is uncertain and has implications for how assertive dispatch is in instructing CPR. We determined the frequency of dispatcher-assisted CPR for patients not in arrest and the frequency and severity of injury related to chest compressions.

Methods and Results—

The investigation was a prospective cohort study of adult patients not in cardiac arrest for whom dispatchers provided CPR instructions in King County, Washington, between June 1, 2004, and January 31, 2007. The study focused on those who received chest compressions. Information was collected through review of the audio and written dispatch report, written emergency medical services report, hospital record, and telephone survey. Of the 1700 patients for whom dispatcher CPR instructions were initiated, 55% (938 of 1700) were in arrest, 45% (762 of 1700) were not in arrest, and 18% (313 of 1700) were not in arrest and received bystander chest compressions. Of the 247 not in arrest who received chest compressions and had complete outcome ascertainment, 12% (29 of 247) experienced discomfort, and 2% (6 of 247) sustained injuries likely or possibly caused by bystander CPR. Only 2% (5 of 247) suffered a fracture, and no patients suffered visceral organ injury.

Conclusions—

In this prospective study, the frequency of serious injury related to dispatcher-assisted bystander CPR among nonarrest patients was low. When coupled with the established benefits of bystander CPR among those with arrest, these results support an assertive program of dispatcher-assisted CPR.
Blood Pressure Regulation in Humans
Authors: Wehrwein Erica A. , Joyner Michael J. , Hart Emma C.J. , Wallin B. Gunnar , Karlsson Tomas , Charkoudian Nisha
Published: December 2009

Within an individual, diastolic blood pressure (DBP) is negatively related to sympathetic burst incidence, such that lower pressure is associated with high burst incidence. Our goal was to explore the use of a calculation of a DBP “error signal” in the control of muscle sympathetic nerve activity in men and women. Baseline muscle sympathetic nerve activity was measured in healthy young men (n=22) and women (n=28). Women had significantly lower muscle sympathetic nerve activity than men (29±3 versus 43±2 bursts per 100 heartbeats;
P
<0.05). For each individual, the DBP at which there is a 50% likelihood of a muscle sympathetic nerve activity burst, the “T50” value, was calculated. Mean DBP was subtracted from the T50 blood pressure as an approximate error signal for burst activation. Error signal was negative in both sexes, indicating that DBP in both sexes was higher than the DBP value associated with a 50% burst likelihood. However, average error signal was significantly larger in women (−4±2 mm Hg) than in men (−1±0 mm Hg;
P
<0.05 versus women). We conclude that women operate at a mean DBP greater than their T50 compared with men, and this may be a contributing factor to low basal muscle sympathetic nerve activity in women. The relationship between error signal and burst incidence may provide important insight into the control of muscle sympathetic nerve activity across sexes and in various populations.