bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Introduction to Limnological Research at Saqvaqjuac, Northern Hudson Bay
Authors: Welch Harold E.
Published: November 2008

Saqvaqjuac, a Department of Fisheries and Oceans research site at 63°39′N, 90°39′W on the northwest coast of Hudson Bay, is described. Information is given on cultural history, geology, vegetation, climate, and lakes.
Patterns of Growth and Smolting of Atlantic Salmon (Salmo salar) Parr in a Southwestern Newfoundland River
Authors: Evans Geoffrey T. , Rice Jake C. , Chadwick E. Michael P.
Published: November 2008

A simple model of growth and smolting of Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) parr, which can account for distributions of ages and lengths of random samples of sea-run smolts in Western Arm Brook, in northern Newfoundland, cannot account for distributions in Little Codroy River, in southwestern Newfoundland. Possible reasons for discrepancies include mortality dependent on growth rates, non-Gaussian growth rate distributions, and variability in individual growth rates. Smolt data do not allow us to reject any of these possibilities. Precocious maturation of male parr does not account for the discrepancies.
Genetic, Environmental, and Maturational Effects on Atlantic Salmon (Salmo salar) Survival in Acute Low pH Trials
Authors: Schom C. B.
Published: November 2008

Wild sea-run anadromous salmon (Salmo salar) were captured in Big Salmon River in New Brunswick and transported to the Atlantic Salmon Federation's research centre for spawning. Four year-classes were established, one each in 1980, 1981, 1982, and 1983, using a nested design, i.e. one female with one anadromous male and one or two mature parr. The mature parr, in all but the first year, were from families identified as to survival time in acute low pH trials. Resistance to low pH, i.e. survival time, was family specific and independent of the trial conditions. The heritabilities had dominant and additive components with, however, the apparent larger dam than sire effect an artifact of the experimental design. The most significant component appeared to be the dominant gene component. The mature parr were more resistant than the nonmature parr. Finally, genetic gains from selection were much greater in the down direction than the up direction, and this appeared to be a consequence of negative hatchery selection.
Role of Hypoxia in Limiting Diel Spring and Summer Distribution of Juvenile Yellow Perch (Perca flavescens) in a Prairie Marsh
Authors: Suthers Iain M. , Gee John H.
Published: November 2008

Comparative field and laboratory data on the distribution-limiting levels of dissolved oxygen (DO) for yearling yellow perch (Perca flavescens) is presented. At Blind Channel, Delta Marsh, Manitoba, diel fluctuations in DO concentrations began by June, approximately 6 wk after ice-off. By early July severe hypoxia (≤ 1.5 ppm DO) first occurred in the cattail habitat close to the substrate at dawn, and by early August severe hypoxia extended throughout the cattail bed. Using wire minnow traps, juvenile perch persisted within the cattails close to the substrate in June. In early July, juvenile perch occupied the submerged macrophyte – open water habitat, away from the cattail and hypoxia. Significant diel changes in horizontal distribution were evident at one site, where fish avoided severe hypoxia in the cattail bed overnight but returned during the day, as there was little alternative cover and when DO levels were not lethal. In situ survival experiments demonstrated decreased survival close to the substrate, in the cattail, and overnight compared with overday, reflecting the distribution of low DO. Survival increased 27% over the control by bubbling oxygen into holding cages. In a two-chambered normoxic/hypoxic tank, perch demonstrated a preference for cover, and avoidance of hypoxia at 1.5–3.0 ppm DO. The habitat choice of juvenile yellow perch in Delta Marsh is a compromise between the cattail, with favorable predator/prey conditions, and hypoxia.
Diel Distribution and Activity of American Eels (Anguilla rostrata) in a Cave-Spring
Authors: Helfman Gene S.
Published: November 2008

American eels (Anguilla rostrata) in a Florida cave-spring (total population [Formula: see text] 142 eels, density [Formula: see text] 0.03 eels/m2) showed distinctive day versus night differences in distribution and activity. Larger eels occurred deeper at all times. Eels were diurnally quiescent, nocturnally active, and changed over between behavior modes roughly at dusk and dawn, although considerable variability existed in timing of changeover. Changeover at dusk involved movement from deeper regions of low food to shallower regions of high food concentration, with smaller eels more likely to migrate. Changing light levels apparently determined onset and cessation of activity, with an inhibitory threshold of 10–100 lx influencing movement between deep and shallow regions. An endogenous rhythm and hunger may have also affected activity patterns.
Simple Method of Measuring Seston Respiration in Oligotrophic Lakes
Authors: Cornett R. J. , Rigler F. H.
Published: November 2008

A simple technique for measuring the oxygen consumption of seston in oligotrophic waters was developed and tested. Water samples were filtered through 0.45-μm filters. The filters were suspended in biological oxygen demand bottles containing lake water. NaN3 added to one bottle stopped respiration and served as a control to eliminate abiotic influences during the experiments. The difference in oxygen concentration between the respiring and control samples increased linearly over the 1-d experiments. Filtration of hypolimnetic water samples did not significantly alter the rate of oxygen consumption of the seston. Concentrating the seston increased the change in oxygen concentration so that respiration rates from 2 to 80 mg O2∙m−3∙d−1 could be measured. This method is simple, precise, and can measure very low rates of respiration directly.
Instar Increments in Copepod Growth
Authors: Longhurst Alan R.
Published: November 2008

There is a difference in the growth patterns of large and small copepods as indicated by lengths at each instar for 55 species of copepods from all latitudes. Large species put on a greater proportion of their adult size relatively late in life compared with small species. This confirms an earlier suggestion based on a comparison of only two species.
ORDINARY DIFFERENTIAL EQUATIONS, FIRST INTEGRALS, CONFORMAL INVARIANTS, BOSE OPERATORS, COHERENT STATES AND ENTANGLEMENT
Authors: STEEB WILLI-HANS
Published: November 2008

Autonomous systems of first order ordinary differential equations can be embedded into a Hilbert space description by using Bose operators and Glauber coherent states. The first integrals and conformal invariants of the autonomous system can be represented by states in a Hilbert space. Thus the embedding in a Hilbert space allows us to study entanglement of the states. We apply it here to first integrals and conformal invariants which are expressed as states.
CLASSICAL FIELD THEORY: ADVANCED MATHEMATICAL FORMULATION
Authors: SARDANASHVILY G.
Published: November 2008

In contrast with QFT, classical field theory can be formulated in strict mathematical terms of fibre bundles, graded manifolds and jet manifolds. Second Noether theorems provide BRST extension of this classical field theory by means of ghosts and antifields for the purpose of its quantization.
CURVATURE STRUCTURE OF SELF-DUAL 4-MANIFOLDS
Authors: BLAŽIĆ NOVICA , GILKEY PETER , NIKČEVIĆ STANA , STAVROV IVA
Published: November 2008

We show the existence of a modified Cliff(1,1)-structure compatible with an Osserman 0-model of signature (2,2). We then apply this algebraic result to certain classes of pseudo-Riemannian manifolds of signature (2,2). We obtain a new characterization of the Weyl curvature tensor of an (anti-)self-dual manifold and we prove some new results regarding (Jordan) Osserman manifolds.
CONNECTIONS, PARALLEL TRANSPORTS AND TRANSPORTS ALONG PATHS
Authors: ILIEV BOZHIDAR Z.
Published: November 2008

The concepts "connection", "parallel transport" and "transport along paths" are axiomatically defined. In differentiable bundles, bijective mappings between the sets of connections, parallel transports and transports along paths satisfying some additional conditions are found; in particular, the equivalence between the concepts "connection" and "(axiomatically defined) parallel transport" is established. Some results, which are specific for topological and vector bundles, are presented.
Prenatal induced chronic dietary hypothyroidism delays but does not block adult-type Leydig cell development
Authors: Rijntjes Eddy , Swarts Hans J. M. , Anand-Ivell Ravinder , Teerds Katja J.
Published: November 2008

Transient hypothyroidism induced by propyl-2-thiouracyl blocks postpartum Leydig cell development. In the present study, the effects of chronic hypothyroidism on the formation of this adult-type Leydig cell population were investigated, using a more physiological approach. Before mating, dams were put on a diet consisting of an iodide-poor feed supplemented with a low dose of perchlorate and, with their offspring, were kept on this diet until death. In the pups at day 12 postpartum, plasma thyroid-stimulating hormone levels were increased by 20-fold, whereas thyroxine and free tri-iodothyronine levels were severely depressed, confirming a hypothyroid condition. Adult-type progenitor Leydig cell formation and proliferation were reduced by 40–60% on days 16 and 28 postpartum. This was followed by increased Leydig cell proliferation at later ages, suggesting a possible slower developmental onset of the adult-type Leydig cell population under hypothyroid conditions. Testosterone levels were increased 2- to 10-fold in the hypothyroid animals between days 21 and 42 postpartum compared with the age-matched controls. Combined with the decreased presence of 5α-reductase, this implicates a lower production capacity of 5α-reduced androgens. In 84-day-old rats, after correction for body weight-to-testis weight ratio, plasma insulin-like factor-3 levels were 35% lower in the hypothyroid animals, suggestive of a reduced Leydig cell population. This is confirmed by a 37% reduction in the Sertoli cell-to-Leydig cell ratio in hypothyroid rats. In conclusion, we show that dietary-induced hypothyroidism delays but, unlike propyl-2-thiouracyl, does not block the development of the adult-type Leydig cell population.
T cell transfer model of chronic colitis: concepts, considerations, and tricks of the trade
Authors: Ostanin Dmitry V. , Bao Jianxiong , Koboziev Iurii , Gray Laura , Robinson-Jackson Sherry A. , Kosloski-Davidson Melissa , Price V. Hugh , Grisham Matthew B.
Published: November 2008

The inflammatory bowel diseases (Crohn's disease; ulcerative colitis) are idiopathic chronic inflammatory disorders of the intestine and/or colon. A major advancement in our understanding of the pathogenesis of these diseases has been the development of mouse models of chronic gut inflammation. One model that has been instrumental in delineating the immunological mechanisms responsible for the induction as well as regulation of intestinal inflammation is the T cell transfer model of chronic colitis. This paper presents a detailed protocol describing the methods used to induce chronic colitis in mice. Special attention is given to the immunological concepts that explain disease pathogenesis in this model, considerations and potential pitfalls in using this model, and finally different “tricks” that we have learned over the past 12 years that have allowed us to develop a more simplified version of this model of experimental IBD.
Role of Toll-like receptors 2, 4, and 9 in mediating neutrophil dysfunction in alcoholic hepatitis
Authors: Stadlbauer V. , Mookerjee R. P. , Wright G. A. K. , Davies N. A. , Jürgens G. , Hallström S. , Jalan R.
Published: November 2008

Neutrophil dysfunction in alcoholic hepatitis is associated with endotoxemia and an increased incidence of infection, but the mechanism is unclear. We aimed to investigate the role of Toll-like-receptors (TLR)2, 4, and 9 in mediating neutrophil dysfunction in alcoholic hepatitis. Neutrophils from healthy volunteers were incubated with alcoholic hepatitis patients’ plasma ( n = 12) with and without TLR2, 4, or 9 antagonists and with and without human albumin. TLR2, 4, and 9 expression, neutrophil oxidative burst, phagocytosis, and CXCR1+2 expression were measured by FACS analysis. Patients’ plasma increased oxidative burst, decreased CXCR1+2 expression, and decreased phagocytosis of normal neutrophils in association with increased expression of TLR2, 4, and 9 and depletion of ATP. Inhibition of TLR2, 4, and 9 prevented the increase in oxidative burst and the decrease in CXCR1 and CXCR2 expression but did not prevent phagocytic dysfunction. Incubation with albumin completely prevented the patient plasma induced neutrophil dysfunction. Increased expression of TLR2, 4, and 9 is associated with neutrophil dysfunction, endotoxemia, and energy depletion. TLR2, 4, and 9 inhibition does not improve phagocytosis, indicating that TLR overexpression may be the result and not the cause of neutrophil activation. Albumin, an endotoxin scavenger, prevents the deleterious effect of patients’ plasma on neutrophil phagocytosis, resting burst, and TLR expression.
Involvement of vasopressin 3 receptors in chronic psychological stress-induced visceral hyperalgesia in rats
Authors: Bradesi Sylvie , Martinez Vicente , Lao Lijun , Larsson Håkan , Mayer Emeran A.
Published: November 2008

Visceral hypersensitivity and stress have been implicated in the pathophysiology of functional gastrointestinal disorders. We used a selective vasopressin 3 (V3) receptor antagonist SSR149415 to investigate the involvement of the vasopressin (AVP)/V3 signaling system in the development of stress-induced visceral hyperalgesia in rats. Rats were exposed to a daily 1-h session of water avoidance stress (WAS) or sham WAS for 10 consecutive days. The visceromotor response to phasic colorectal distension (CRD, 10–60 mmHg) was assessed before and after stress. Animals were treated daily with SSR149415 (0.3, 1, or 3 mg/kg ip 30 min before each WAS or sham WAS session), with a single dose of SSR149415 (1 mg/kg ip), or the selective corticotropin-releasing factor 1 (CRF1) antagonist DMP-696 (30 mg/kg po) before CRD at day 11. Effects of a single dose of SSR149415 (10 mg/kg iv) on acute mechanical sensitization during repetitive CRD (12 distensions at 80 mmHg) were also assessed. In vehicle-treated rats, repeated WAS increased the response to CRD, indicating visceral hypersensitivity. Repeated administration of SSR149415 at 1 or 3 mg/kg completely prevented stress-induced visceral hyperalgesia. Similarly, a single dose of DMP-696 or SSR149415 completely blocked hyperalgesic responses during CRD. In contrast, a single dose of SSR149415 did not affect the acute hyperalgesic responses induced by repeated, noxious distension. These data support a major role for V3 receptors in repeated psychological stress-induced visceral hyperalgesia and suggest that pharmacological manipulation of the AVP/V3 pathway might represent an attractive alternative to the CRF/CRF1 pathway for the treatment of chronic stress-related gastrointestinal disorders.
Chloride Accumulation Drives Volume Dynamics Underlying Cell Proliferation and Migration
Authors: Habela Christa W. , Ernest Nola Jean , Swindall Amanda F. , Sontheimer Harald
Published: November 2008

During brain development, progenitor cells migrate over long distances through narrow and tortuous extracellular spaces posing significant demands on the cell's ability to alter cell volume. This phenotype is recapitulated in primary brain tumors. We demonstrate here that volume changes occurring spontaneously in these cells are mediated by the flux of Cl− along with obligated water across the cell membrane. To do so, glioma cells accumulate Cl− to ∼100 mM, a concentration threefold greater than predicted by the Nernst equation. Shunting this gradient through the sustained opening of exogenously expressed GABA-gated Cl− channels caused a 33% decrease in cell volume and impaired the ability of cells to migrate in a spatially constrained environment. Further, dividing cells condense their cytoplasm prior to mitosis, a phenomenon which is associated with the release of intracellular Cl− as indicated by a 40-mM decrease in [Cl−]i. These findings provide a new framework for considering the role of intracellular Cl− in glioma cells. Here, Cl− serves as an important osmotically active regulator of cell volume being the energetic driving force for volume changes required by immature cells in cell migration and proliferation. This mechanism that was studied in CNS malignancies may be shared with other immature cells in the brain as well.
The Distribution of the Interval between Events of a Cox Process with Shot Noise Intensity
Authors: Dassios Angelos , Jang Jiwook
Published: November 2008

Applying piecewise deterministic Markov processes theory, the probability generating function of a Cox process, incorporating with shot noise process as the claim intensity, is obtained. We also derive the Laplace transform of the distribution of the shot noise process at claim jump times, using stationary assumption of the shot noise process at any times. Based on this Laplace transform and from the probability generating function of a Cox process with shot noise intensity, we obtain the distribution of the interval of a Cox process with shot noise intensity for insurance claims and its moments, that is, mean and variance.
Regulation of α-Ketoisovalerate Decarboxylase Expression in Lactococcus lactis IFPL730
Authors: de la Plaza Marta , Peláez Carmen , Requena Teresa
Published: November 2008

The α-ketoisovalerate decarboxylase (Kivd) is a unique lactococcal key enzyme in the decarboxylation of branched-chain α-keto acids derived from branched-chain amino acids transamination into aldehydes. These products are important aroma compounds produced during cheese ripening. In this study, the Kivd expression of Lactococcus lactis IFPL730 growing either in nitrogen-rich media or in chemically defined media supplemented with different concentrations of branched-chain amino acids and casitone was analyzed. Isoleucine starvation increased 4-fold the Kivd activity of L. lactis IFPL730 compared to cells grown in chemically defined medium with casitone as nitrogen source. Regulation of expression was at the transcription level, probably mediated by CodY, for which a consensus CodY-box sequence was identified in the kivd promoter region.
An Application of Dogon Epistemology
Authors: Martin Denise
Published: November 2008

An application of Dogon epistemology proposes an analysis of African knowledge—classical, indigenous, and diasporan—in view of broader ontological realities that include the synergy of metaphysical perception and cultural production. It analyzes several texts in light of four Dogon categories of knowledge and Karenga’s framework for the creation of knowledge in Africana studies: San Spirituality: Roots, Expression, and Social Consequences, by J. David Lewis-Williams and David G. Pearce; Legends, Sorcerers, and Enchanted Lizards: The Door Locks of the Bamana of Mali, by Pascal James Imperato; and HIV/AIDS and the Curriculum: Methods of Integrating HIV/AIDS in Theological Programmes , edited by Musa W. Dube. The result is a framework for discussing the dynamics of the synergy of metaphysical perception and cultural production.
Frances Harper’s Religion of Responsibility in Sowing and Reaping
Authors: Sehulster Patricia J.
Published: November 2008

What emerged as a goal for Frances Ellen Watkins Harper (1825—1911) was no less than making a paradise on Earth—beginning with the United States. She embraced a socioreligious mission fueled by two concerns: First, material success should not stand as the major focus of one’s life; second, reform had to begin with the individual but expand to the community. Especially in Sowing and Reaping (1876), she emphasized these ideas and the necessity of excluding oppression and selfishness by acting as Christ’s followers— namely, by sacrificing the self for others. Harper paralleled three issues in their power to kill the soul: slavery as sin, intemperance (of any kind) as sin, and gold-seeking materialism as sin. She offered the same solution for the elimination of all three: a life spent doing good deeds.
Pursuing Upward Mobility
Authors: Robinson Gail , Mullins Nelson Barbara
Published: November 2008

A study was conducted to investigate how the interaction of race, gender, and class impacted lives of African American women and strategies they used to overcome these three barriers. Six African American women from various socioeconomic, educational, and professional backgrounds holding supervisory positions were interviewed. The findings did not support the expected interactive effects of race, gender, and class as an impediment to upward mobility. All six participants cited gender as the major obstacle to their progress.
Performance Outcomes
Authors: Hsieh Chih-Wei , Guy Mary E.
Published: November 2008

Recent appreciation for emotional labor draws attention to employees who work “with heart” to deliver public services. This article reports an investigation of the relationship between emotional labor and service outcomes. The survey sample is drawn from caseworkers of the Florida Network of Youth & Family Services. The Florida Network is the main youth service provider in Florida and has approximately 200 caseworkers who help troubled, runaway youth. To measure service outcome, workers' self-report of their emotion work skills is compared to client satisfaction scores. Findings indicate that clients rate higher levels of satisfaction when services are provided by caseworkers who feel capable and comfortable performing emotion work. This research moves us a step further in understanding the linkage between individual performance, emotion work, and public service delivery. It is argued that emotion work skills should be included in job descriptions and performance appraisals for human service jobs.
Covalent Surface Heparinization Potentiates Porous Polyurethane Scaffold Vascularization
Authors: Bezuidenhout Deon , Davies Neil , Black Melanie , Schmidt Christian , Oosthuysen Anel , Zilla Peter
Published: November 2008

Porous scaffolds play an integral role in many tissue-engineering approaches, and the ability to improve vascularization, without eliciting an excessive inflammatory response, would constitute an important step towards achieving long-term healing and function of devices made from these materials. After having previously optimized the dimensional requirements of the well-defined pores, the present study aimed at a further shift from inflammation to vascularization via surface immobilization with heparin. Porous polyurethane disks were produced to contain well-defined pores (147 ± 2 μm) with abundant interconnecting windows (67 ± 2 μm). After heparinization via copolymer grafting and amination to contain 32 μg of heparin, the modification appeared as a uniform layer on all exposed surfaces, with no signs of pore obliteration or significant changes in pore size. After 28 days implantation in a rat subcutaneous model, the scaffolds were assessed for vascularization/arteriolization and inflammation using CD31/actin and ED-1 staining, respectively. Heparinization resulted in a significant increase in vascularization: capillaries increased by 62% in number (66.2 ± 0.8 to 107.3 ± 1.4 vessels/mm 2; p < 0.03) and 56% in total area (0.9 ± 0.1 to 1.4 ± 0.02%; p<0.02). Arteriolization also increased in absolute terms (200% in number; p<0.03), but did not change significantly when normalized to capillary number. Heparinization did not significantly affect the inflammatory response at this time-point, as quantified by ED-1 positive macrophage and foreign body giant cell (FBGC) content. Thus, the in vivo vascularization of porous scaffolds could be increased without concomitant increase in the inflammatory response by employing a simple surface modification technique. This could be a valuable tool for in vivo tissue engineering applications where enhanced vascularization is required.
The Explication of Implicit Team Knowledge and Its Supporting Effect on Team Processes and Technical Innovations
Authors: Müller Andreas , Herbig Britta , Petrovic Kostanija
Published: November 2008

A framework for the analysis of implicit team knowledge is developed based on action regulation theory and concepts of individual implicit knowledge. We argue that the explication and reflection on implicit knowledge in and of teams supports an individual understanding and a shared mental model of the task which in turn should enhance team innovation. In an experimental study, 48 students of mechanical engineering in 16 groups worked on a product development task. Experimental conditions were explication versus no explication and individual versus collective explication. Individual as well as collective explication enhanced the overall outcome quality, but not the originality of solutions. The positive effects of collective explication were stronger than the effects of individual explication. Group processes and contents of explication were in line with the assumption from action regulation theory that reflecting on goals and strategies facilitates performance of complex tasks.
Transesophageal Echocardiography and Noncardiac Surgery
Authors: Mahmood Feroze , Christie Angus , Matyal Robina
Published: November 2008

The use of transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) for monitoring during cardiac and noncardiac surgery has increased exponentially over the past few decades. TEE has evolved from a diagnostic tool to a monitoring device and a procedural adjunct. The close proximity of the TEE transducer to the heart generates high-quality images of the intracardiac structures and their spatial orientation. The use of TEE in noncardiac and critical care settings is not well studied, and the evidence of the benefits of its use in these settings is lacking. Despite the widespread availability of TEE equipment in US hospitals, less than 30% of anesthesiologists are formally trained in the use of perioperative TEE. In this review, the safety and indications of TEE are reviewed and detailed analysis of the best available evidence in this regard is presented. Landmark trials evaluating the use of TEE and its therapeutic impact in noncardiac surgical setting are critically reviewed. This article details recommendations to familiarize anesthesiologists with TEE technology to exploit it to its fullest potential to achieve better patient monitoring standards and eventually improve outcome. Training of greater numbers of anesthesiologists in TEE is needed to increase awareness of the indications and contraindications. Until relatively inexpensive TEE equipment is available, the initial cost of equipment acquisition remains a significant prohibitive factor limiting its widespread use.
Urban Growth of a City Under Siege: Tulkarm, Palestine Over the Past Century
Authors: Thawaba Salem A.
Published: November 2008

Tulkarm city experienced planning and regulation of its development under five different regimes during the past century. These regimes left their footprints on the city's physical structure, affected its growth pattern, and affected its quality of life. Ottoman rule, the British Mandate, Jordanian rule, Israeli Occupation and the Palestinian National Authority each ruled the area and contributed to the recent shape and physical spatial structure of Tulkarm City. This study highlights the major changes and influences on the city's growth pattern and physical spatial structure during the past century.
Superficial Femoral Artery Autograft Reconstruction for Complicated Popliteal Artery Entrapment Syndrome
Authors: Paraskevas Nikolaos , Castier Yves , Fukui Sumio , Alsac Jean-Marc , Soury Patrick , Laurian Claude , Leseche Guy
Published: November 2008

We present an alternative surgical approach to popliteal artery entrapment syndrome with vascular complications in the absence of a suitable saphenous vein. Three patients (29, 35, and 78 years old) with thrombotic and/or aneurysmal lesions of the popliteal artery from popliteal artery entrapment syndrome were treated with superficial femoral artery autograft reconstruction. The procedure was performed through a medial approach. The superficial femoral artery was harvested in the upper third of the thigh and used as the conduit for reconstruction and the harvested segment was replaced by a polytetrafluoroethylene graft. At follow-up, patients were asymptomatic and duplex ultrasound revealed patent reconstruction with no morphological abnormalities.
Carotid Artery Angioplasty and Stenting: Introduction of a New Technique Into an Established Vascular Surgery Center
Authors: Albacker Turki B. , Nouh Thamer A. , Alabbad Saleh I. , Corriveau Marc M. , MacKenzie Kent S. , Obrand Daniel I. , Steinmetz Oren K. , Abraham Cherrie Z.
Published: November 2008

Background: The aim of this study was to review our initial experience with the introduction of carotid artery angioplasty and stenting as a treatment for carotid stenosis in high-risk patients and compare clinical outcomes to carotid endarterectomy patients treated over the same time period at our center. Methods: A total of 265 carotid revascularization procedures (45 carotid artery angioplasty and stenting and 220 carotid endarterectomy) were performed over 3 years period. In the carotid artery angioplasty and stenting group, 93% were at high risk according to the current reporting standards. Death, neurological events, and restenosis rates were compared at 30 days and at most recent follow-up. Results: Mean follow-up for all patients was 18 months (range 0-48 months). Carotid artery angioplasty and stenting group had higher cardiac risk than carotid endarterectomy group (13% vs 2%, P < .05). High-risk carotid lesions were present in 67% of carotid artery angioplasty and stenting patients. There was a tendency toward higher restenosis rate in carotid artery angioplasty and stenting than in carotid endarterectomy patients (35% vs 15%, P = .06). Combined stroke and death was higher in the carotid stenting group (4% and 9%) compared to the carotid endarterectomy group (0.5% and 0.5%) at 30 days and at late follow-up, respectively (P = .04 and .00). Conclusion: Restenosis and stroke were observed more frequently in our initial experience in patients undergoing carotid artery angioplasty and stenting compared with carotid endarterectomy patients during the same time period. These differences disappeared in high-risk patients. Further studies, to evaluate the effect of the learning curve on early results as well as follow-up for intermediate and long-term durability of carotid artery angioplasty and stenting in high-risk patients, are required.
The Efficacy of a US-Based Medicine Recycling Program Delivering Antiretroviral Drugs Worldwide
Authors: Patrick Patricia A. , Jibilian Arek , Herasme Omarys , Valencia Jaime , Hernandez Eduardo C. , Jurado Samuel , Aguais Jesus
Published: November 2008

Since 1996, AID FOR AIDS International (AFAI) has collected unused antiretroviral drugs (ART) and ``recycled'' these medications to over 600 people living with human immunodeficiency virus/AIDS abroad under its AIDS Treatment Access Program. The investigators evaluated AIDS Treatment Access Program's efficacy using immunologic and virologic outcomes. Of the 404 eligible clients who had baseline and follow-up CD4 counts, mean baseline versus most recent measure was 230 + 222 cells/mm 3 versus 372 + 256 cells/mm3 (P < .01). Of the 216 eligible clients who had baseline (>400 copies/mL) and follow-up viral loads, 62% (134/ 216) had undetectable viral loads (<400 copies/mL) at their most recent measure. Median enrollment time in the recycling program was 3.1 years (range: 6 months to 9.5 years). AFAI's medication recycling program is efficacious in reaching and improving the clinical outcomes of people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA). Such programs should be considered a viable option among scale-up programs until governments provide universal access of ART to PLWHA.
Objective Analysis of the Accuracy and Efficacy of a Novel Fascial Closure Device
Authors: Williams Christina P. , Rosen Michael J. , Jin Judy , McGee Michael F. , Schomisch Steve J. , Ponsky Jeffery
Published: November 2008

Abdominal fascial closure after midline laparotomy can be time-consuming and inaccurate and is a common time for needle-stick injuries. The SuturTek 360° Fascial Closure Device (FCD) is designed to provide a secure fascial closure while reducing the risk of needle-stick injury. To date, the accuracy and efficacy of the fascial closure obtained with this device have never been objectively determined. Ten pigs averaging 18 kg were killed and underwent a midline laparotomy. Idealized suture locations were premarked through the fascia. The animals were then randomly assigned to either a traditional suture closure or the FCD for fascial closure. Surgeons were instructed to place sutures through the idealized markers. Surgeons were then evaluated based on the time to close fascia and distance from the markers. Abdominal bursting pressures were obtained using a manometric balloon. Accuracy was also tested on an ex vivo model on which the participants were again asked to place stitches as close as possible to idealized marks, and absolute distance from the idealized location was calculated. The FCD resulted in a faster closure time when compared with traditional closure (5.9 ± 0.6 vs 7.7 ± 1.0 minute, P = .012), with a similar accuracy of placement from the idealized markers (1.5 ± 1.4 mm vs 0.8 ± 1.1 mm). Bursting pressures were similar between the 2 groups: 470 ± 71 mm Hg for FCD versus 453 ± 94 mm Hg for traditional closure ( P = .76). The FCD resulted in a faster fascial closure with similar accuracy and strength when compared with traditional open techniques. The potential reduction in serious needle-stick injuries warrants prospective trials.
Can an Advanced Laparoscopic Fellowship Program be Established Without Compromising the Center's Outcomes?
Authors: Kothari Shanu N. , Boyd William C. , Lambert Pamela J. , Mathiason Michelle A.
Published: November 2008

The objective of this study is to assess the impact of establishing a fellowship training program on a center's laparoscopic gastric bypass (LGB) outcomes. The authors compare their prefellowship and postfellowship LGB outcomes by means of retrospective review of a prospectively maintained bariatric database. Theirs is an academic community hospital that instituted a minimally invasive bariatric program in 2001 and an advanced laparoscopic fellowship with emphasis in laparoscopic gastric bypass in 2003. Participants were patients undergoing LGB from the inception of the program. All prefellowship LGBs were performed and assisted by the same surgeon and assistant. Results show that prefellowship and postfellowship patient demographics were similar. The mean length of stay was 2.17 and 2.35 days, respectively. The percentage excess weight loss was 72% and 72%, respectively (p = 0.990). Major or minor complication rates were not significantly different between groups. The prefellowship operative time was 123 ± 22 minutes, compared with 154 ± 28 minutes postfellowship ( P = .001). In conclusion, a training-related increase in operative time was the only difference in the 2 groups. An advanced laparoscopic fellowship training program with emphasis in LGB can be safely established without compromising the center's LGB outcomes.
Small molecule XIAP inhibitors cooperate with TRAIL to induce apoptosis in childhood acute leukemia cells and overcome Bcl-2–mediated resistance
Authors: Fakler Melanie , Loeder Sandra , Vogler Meike , Schneider Katja , Jeremias Irmela , Debatin Klaus-Michael , Fulda Simone
Published: November 2008

Defects in apoptosis contribute to poor outcome in pediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), calling for novel strategies that counter apoptosis resistance. Here, we demonstrate for the first time that small molecule inhibitors of the antiapoptotic protein XIAP cooperate with TRAIL to induce apoptosis in childhood acute leukemia cells. XIAP inhibitors at subtoxic concentrations, but not a structurally related control compound, synergize with TRAIL to trigger apoptosis and to inhibit clonogenic survival of acute leukemia cells, whereas they do not affect viability of normal peripheral blood lymphocytes, suggesting some tumor selectivity. Analysis of signaling pathways reveals that XIAP inhibitors enhance TRAIL-induced activation of caspases, loss of mitochondrial membrane potential, and cytochrome c release in a caspase-dependent manner, indicating that they promote a caspase-dependent feedback mitochondrial amplification loop. Of note, XIAP inhibitors even overcome Bcl-2–mediated resistance to TRAIL by enhancing Bcl-2 cleavage and Bak conformational change. Importantly, XIAP inhibitors kill leukemic blasts from children with ALL ex vivo and cooperate with TRAIL to induce apoptosis. In vivo, they significantly reduce leukemic burden in a mouse model of pediatric ALL engrafted in non-obese diabetic/severe combined immunodeficient (NOD/SCID) mice. Thus, XIAP inhibitors present a promising novel approach for apoptosis-based therapy of childhood ALL.
Differential replication dynamics for large and small Vibrio chromosomes affect gene dosage, expression and location
Authors: Dryselius Rikard , Izutsu Kaori , Honda Takeshi , Iida Tetsuya
Published: November 2008

Background

Replication of bacterial chromosomes increases copy numbers of genes located near origins of replication relative to genes located near termini. Such differential gene dosage depends on replication rate, doubling time and chromosome size. Although little explored, differential gene dosage may influence both gene expression and location. For vibrios, a diverse family of fast growing gammaproteobacteria, gene dosage may be particularly important as they harbor two chromosomes of different size.

Results

Here we examined replication dynamics and gene dosage effects for the separate chromosomes of three Vibrio species. We also investigated locations for specific gene types within the genome. The results showed consistently larger gene dosage differences for the large chromosome which also initiated replication long before the small. Accordingly, large chromosome gene expression levels were generally higher and showed an influence from gene dosage. This was reflected by a higher abundance of growth essential and growth contributing genes of which many locate near the origin of replication. In contrast, small chromosome gene expression levels were low and appeared independent of gene dosage. Also, species specific genes are highly abundant and an over-representation of genes involved in transcription could explain its gene dosage independent expression.

Conclusion

Here we establish a link between replication dynamics and differential gene dosage on one hand and gene expression levels and the location of specific gene types on the other. For vibrios, this relationship appears connected to a polarisation of genetic content between its chromosomes, which may both contribute to and be enhanced by an improved adaptive capacity.
Immunohistochemical profiling of benign, low malignant potential and low grade serous epithelial ovarian tumors
Authors: Ouellet Véronique , Ling Tak Hay , Normandin Karine , Madore Jason , Lussier Christian , Barrès Véronique , Bachvarov Dimcho , Rancourt Claudine , Tonin Patricia N , Provencher Diane M , Mes-Masson Anne-Marie
Published: November 2008

Background

Serous epithelial ovarian tumors can be subdivided into benign (BOV), low malignant potential (LMP) or borderline and invasive (TOV) tumors. Although the molecular characteristics of serous BOV, LMP and low grade (LG) TOV tumors has been initiated, definitive immunohistochemical markers to distinguish between these tumor types have not been defined.

Methods

In the present study, we used a tissue array composed of 27 BOVs, 78 LMPs and 23 LG TOVs to evaluate the protein expression of a subset of selected candidates identified in our previous studies (Ape1, Set, Ran, Ccne1 and Trail) or known to be implicated in epithelial ovarian cancer disease (p21, Ccnb1, Ckd1).

Results

Statistically significant difference in protein expression was observed for Ccnb1 when BOV tumors were compared to LMP tumors (p = 0.003). When BOV were compared to LG TOV tumors, Trail was significantly expressed at a higher level in malignant tumors (p = 0.01). Expression of p21 was significantly lower in LG tumors when compared with either BOVs (p = 0.03) or LMPs (p = 0.001). We also observed that expression of p21 was higher in LMP tumors with no (p = 0.02) or non-invasive (p = 0.01) implants compared to the LMP associated with invasive implants.

Conclusion

This study represents an extensive analyse of the benign and highly differentiated ovarian disease from an immunohistochemical perspective.
The association between psychiatric diagnosis and violent re-offending in adult offenders in the community
Authors: Grann Martin , Danesh John , Fazel Seena
Published: November 2008

Background

High rates of repeat offending are common across nations that are socially and culturally different. Although psychiatric disorders are believed to be risk factors for violent reoffending, the available evidence is sparse and liable to bias.

Method

We conducted a historical cohort study in Sweden of a selected sample of 4828 offenders given community sentences who were assessed by a psychiatrist during 1988–2001, and followed up for an average of 5 years for first violent offence, death, or emigration, using information from national registers. Hazard ratios for violent offending were calculated by Cox regression models.

Results

Nearly a third of the sample (n = 1506 or 31.3%) offended violently during follow-up (mean duration: 4.8 years). After adjustment for socio-demographic and criminal history variables, substance use disorders (hazard ratio 1.97, 95% CI, 1.40–2.77) and personality disorders (hazard ratio 1.71, 1.20–2.44) were significantly associated with an increased risk of violent offending. No other diagnoses were related to recidivism risk. Adding information on diagnoses of substance use and personality disorders to data recorded on age, sex, and criminal history improved only minimally the prediction of violent offending.

Conclusion

Diagnoses of substance use and personality disorders are associated with the risk of subsequent violent offending in community offenders about as strongly as are its better documented demographic and criminal history risk factors. Despite this, assessment of such disorders in addition to demographic and criminal history factors enhances only minimally the prediction of violent offending in the community.
Effect of dexamethasone on quality of life in children with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia: a prospective observational study
Authors: de Vries Machteld AG , van Litsenburg Raphaële RL , Huisman Jaap , Grootenhuis Martha A , Versluys A Birgitta , Kaspers Gert Jan L , Gemke Reinoud JBJ
Published: November 2008

Background

Glucocorticoids are important in the treatment of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL). However, cyclic administration of high dose glucocorticoids may cause rapid and substantial changes in quality of life (QoL). The maintenance phase of the Dutch ALL-9 protocol consisted of alternating two weeks on and five weeks off dexamethasone (6 mg/m2/day). The present study was performed to assess the effect of dexamethasone on QoL during treatment for ALL according to this protocol.

Methods

In a multicentre prospective cohort study, QoL was assessed halfway (T1) and at the end of the two-year treatment (T2). A generic (Child Health Questionnaire) and disease specific (PedsQL™ cancer version) QoL questionnaire were used to assess QoL in two periods: on and off dexamethasone, respectively.

Results

41 children (56% males) were evaluated, mean age at diagnosis was 5.6 years. The CHQ physical and psychosocial summary scores were significantly lower than population norms. At T1 and T2, overall QoL showed no significant change. However, regarding specific domains (pain, cognitive functioning, emotion/behaviour and physical functioning) QoL decreased over time. QoL was significantly more impaired during periods on dexamethasone.

Conclusion

Dexamethasone was associated with decreased QoL. At the end of treatment, reported QoL during dexamethasone deteriorated even more on certain scales (pain, cognitive functioning, emotion/behaviour and physical functioning). Knowledge of the specific aspects of QoL is essential to improve counselling and coping in paediatric oncology. Adverse effects of specific drugs on QoL should be taken into account when designing treatment protocols.
Genetic and systems level analysis of Drosophila sticky/citron kinase and dFmr1 mutants reveals common regulation of genetic networks
Authors: Bauer Christopher R , Epstein Andrew M , Sweeney Sarah J , Zarnescu Daniela C , Bosco Giovanni
Published: November 2008

Background

In Drosophila, the genes sticky and dFmr1 have both been shown to regulate cytoskeletal dynamics and chromatin structure. These genes also genetically interact with Argonaute family microRNA regulators. Furthermore, in mammalian systems, both genes have been implicated in neuronal development. Given these genetic and functional similarities, we tested Drosophila sticky and dFmr1 for a genetic interaction and measured whole genome expression in both mutants to assess similarities in gene regulation.

Results

We found that sticky mutations can dominantly suppress a dFmr1 gain-of-function phenotype in the developing eye, while phenotypes produced by RNAi knock-down of sticky were enhanced by dFmr1 RNAi and a dFmr1 loss-of-function mutation. We also identified a large number of transcripts that were misexpressed in both mutants suggesting that sticky and dFmr1 gene products similarly regulate gene expression. By integrating gene expression data with a protein-protein interaction network, we found that mutations in sticky and dFmr1 resulted in misexpression of common gene networks, and consequently predicted additional specific phenotypes previously not known to be associated with either gene. Further phenotypic analyses validated these predictions.

Conclusion

These findings establish a functional link between two previously unrelated genes. Microarray analysis indicates that sticky and dFmr1 are both required for regulation of many developmental genes in a variety of cell types. The diversity of transcripts regulated by these two genes suggests a clear cause of the pleiotropy that sticky and dFmr1 mutants display and provides many novel, testable hypotheses about the functions of these genes. As both of these genes are implicated in the development and function of the mammalian brain, these results have relevance to human health as well as to understanding more general biological processes.