bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
‘Have you had the test?’ A discourse analysis of media presentation of prenatal screening in Iceland
Authors: Gottfreðsdóttir Helga , Björnsdóttir Kristín
Published: March 2010

Scand J Caring Sci; 2010; 24; 414–421
 
‘Have you had the test?’ A discourse analysis of media presentation of prenatal screening in Iceland

Nuchal translucency (NT) screening has come to be widely used in antenatal care in many countries. In the capital area of Iceland, which is the focus of this study, 84% of pregnant women underwent screening in 2005. At the time no official policy had been formulated regarding the use of this screening, and very limited public discussion had taken place on the ethical issues related to its use. Although screening has been widely welcomed as a scientific and technological improvement, it may also have unintended consequences, both for practitioners and prospective parents, and for particular groups such as the disabled, which have not been fully explored. The purpose of this study was to examine how NT screening was introduced as a new practice and came to be adopted in prenatal care in Iceland. Using a genealogical approach, we explored the way in which the value and potential drawbacks of NT screening were presented to the public. The data used in the analysis comprised material published from the beginning of 2000 until the end of 2005, such as television programmes, newspaper and magazine articles and booklets written for prospective parents. The findings reveal that the screening was mainly promoted by staff at the specialized clinic where the test was offered, and that soon after its initiation screening became widespread. In interviews, both practitioners and parents of children with Down’s syndrome questioned the eugenic implications of screening and its impact on the lives of the disabled and their relatives. However, the societal response was fairly muted and a critical debate regarding the routine use of NT screening can hardly be said to have taken place. These findings alert us to the importance of promoting critical discussion of new knowledge and technology in health care, particularly when serious ethical issues are involved.
Tax and the Crisis*
Authors: Keen Michael , Klemm Alexander , Perry Victoria
Published: March 2010

Did taxation play any role in precipitating the financial crisis? Are there lessons to be drawn for future tax reform priorities? This paper reviews the main channels by which tax effects might have been felt and which may require forceful attention. These include in particular the large tax biases favouring debt finance and, in some countries, investment in housing. The complexities of national tax codes, and the international interaction between them, have, moreover, encouraged the use of complicated financial instruments and international tax planning, reducing transparency. Tax distortions did not cause the crisis – in the sense that there are no obvious tax changes likely to have triggered it – but they may well have contributed by leading to higher leverage and more complexity than would otherwise have been the case. Most of these distortions have long been a source of concern, but dealing with them may be more important than previously supposed.
The Value of Teachers' Pensions in England and Wales*
Authors: Disney Richard , Emmerson Carl , Tetlow Gemma
Published: March 2010

The paper examines in detail the value of pension provision to teachers in the public sector in England and Wales, comparing pension accrual under both the pre‐ and the post‐2007 schemes. We find that, at the median, pension accruals under the old scheme rules were worth 14.7 per cent of current salary to members, while if the new scheme rules were applied to all current members this would fall to 11.2 per cent. We find that this reduction in generosity is more than sufficient to offset the increase in generosity implied by rising life expectancies over the last quarter of a century. In addition, we show how the estimates depend on both the shape of the underlying age–earnings profile and the headline pay award. We find that the value of the new scheme rules to Teachers' Pension Scheme (TPS) members is similar to the value of the defined contribution pension offered to civil servants, but worth more than a simple, example, private sector defined contribution scheme.
Nitric oxide, derived from inducible nitric oxide synthase, decreases hypoxia inducible factor‐1α in macrophages during aspirin‐induced mesenteric inflammation
Authors: Díez I , Calatayud S , Hernández C , Quintana E , O'Connor JE , Esplugues JV , Barrachina MD
Published: March 2010

Background and purpose:  Nitric oxide (NO) modulates expression of hypoxia inducible factor‐1 (HIF‐1), a transcription factor regulating function of myeloid cells. Here, we have assessed the role played by NO, formed by inducible NOS (iNOS), in the inflammation induced by aspirin in the gut, by modulating HIF‐1 activity.

Experimental approach:  The role of iNOS‐derived NO on leucocyte–endothelial interactions induced by aspirin was evaluated by intravital microscopy in mesenteric venules of rats pretreated with selective iNOS inhibitors, 1400W or l‐N6‐(1‐iminoethyl)‐lysine. NO was localized by fluorescence microscopy, using DAF‐FM. iNOS, HIF‐1α and CD36 were localized by immunohistochemistry.

Key results:  Leucocyte–endothelial interactions increased at 6 h and returned to normal levels 24 h after aspirin administration. Numbers of migrated leucocytes were similar between 6 and 24 h after aspirin. iNOS expression and iNOS‐derived NO synthesis were observed in leucocytes of the mesentery of aspirin‐treated rats. Blockade of iNOS activity in aspirin‐treated rats: (i) did not modify leucocyte infiltration at 6 h, but reduced the number of polymorphonuclear leucocyte and increased that of macrophages at 24 h; (ii) increased HIF‐1α immunostaining in macrophages of the mesentery; and (iii) prevented the decrease in CD36 immunostaining induced by aspirin in these cells.

Conclusions and implications:  NO, associated with acute gut inflammation induced by aspirin, diminished HIF‐1α stabilization in macrophages. Early inhibition of iNOS‐derived NO synthesis, by increasing the activity of HIF‐1 in these cells, may accelerate the clearance of leucocytes.
S‐nitrosothiols as selective antithrombotic agents – possible mechanisms
Authors: Gordge MP , Xiao F
Published: March 2010

S‐nitrosothiols have a number of potential clinical applications, among which their use as antithrombotic agents has been emphasized. This is largely because of their well‐documented platelet inhibitory effects, which show a degree of platelet selectivity, although the mechanism of this remains undefined. Recent progress in understanding how nitric oxide (NO)‐related signalling is delivered into cells from stable S‐nitrosothiol compounds has revealed a variety of pathways, in particular denitrosation by enzymes located at the cell surface, and transport of intact S‐nitrosocysteine via the amino acid transporter system‐L (L‐AT). Differences in the role of these pathways in platelets and vascular cells may in part explain the reported platelet‐selective action. In addition, emerging evidence that S‐nitrosothiols regulate key targets on the exofacial surfaces of cells involved in the thrombotic process (for example, protein disulphide isomerase, integrins and tissue factor) suggests novel antithrombotic actions, which may not even require transmembrane delivery of NO.
A multi‐dating approach applied to proglacial sediments attributed to the Most Extensive Glaciation of the Swiss Alps
Authors: DEHNERT ANDREAS , PREUSSER FRANK , KRAMERS JAN D. , AKÇAR NAKI , KUBIK PETER W. , REBER REGINA , SCHLÜCHTER CHRISTIAN
Published: March 2010

Dehnert, A., Preusser, F., Kramers, J. D., Akçar, N., Kubik, P. W., Reber, R. & Schlüchter, C. 2010: A multi‐dating approach applied to proglacial sediments attributed to the Most Extensive Glaciation of the Swiss Alps.Boreas, Vol. 39, pp. 620–632. 10.1111/j.1502‐3885.2010.00146.x. ISSN 0300‐9483.

The number and the timing of Quaternary glaciations of the Alps are poorly constrained and, in particular, the age of the Most Extensive Glaciation (MEG) in Switzerland remains controversial. This ice advance has previously been tentatively correlated with the Riss Glaciation of the classical alpine stratigraphy and with Marine Isotope Stage (MIS) 6 (186–127 ka). An alternative interpretation, based on pollen analysis and stratigraphic correlations, places the MEG further back in the Quaternary, with an age equivalent to MIS 12 (474–427 ka), or even older. To re‐evaluate this issue in the Swiss glaciation history, a multi‐dating approach was applied to proglacial deltaic ‘Höhenschotter’ deposits in locations outside the ice extent of the Last Glacial Maximum. Results of U/Th and luminescence dating suggest a correlation of the investigated deposits with MIS 6 and hence with the Riss Glaciation. Cosmogenic burial dating suffered from large measurement uncertainties and unusually high26Al/10Be ratios and did not provide robust age estimates.
The Political Psychology of Personal Narrative: The Case of Barack Obama
Authors: Hammack Phillip L.
Published: March 2010

Guided by theories of narrative identity, racial identity development, andFreire's (1970)notion of conscientização, this paper presents an interpretive analysis of Barack Obama's personal narrative. Obama's narrative represents a progressive story of self‐discovery in which he seeks to develop a configuration of identity (Erikson, 1959;Schachter, 2004) that reconciles his disparate contexts of development and the inherited legacy of racism and colonialism. A major theme of his story centers on his quest to discover an anchor for his identity in some community of shared practice. Ultimately, he settles on a distinctly cosmopolitan identity in which he can foster conversation across axes of difference both within himself and among diverse communities. I discuss the extent to which election of a candidate with this personal narrative of cosmopolitan identity reflects a shifting master narrative of identity politics within the United States, as well as implications for Obama's policy platform and governance style.
The Influence of Titania on Creep in Superplastic Zirconia
Authors: Kini Maya , Chokshi Atul H.
Published: March 2010

Detailed high‐temperature compression creep experiments on a pure 3 mol% yttria‐stabilized tetragonal zirconia (3YTZ) and 3YTZ doped with 4.8 wt% TiO2 revealed that both materials exhibit a similar transition in stress exponents from n∼1 to n∼2 with a decrease in stress. The stress exponent of 1 and the inverse grain size dependence p of ∼3 are consistent with the Coble diffusion creep at high stresses; the increase in stress exponent at low stresses is attributed to an interface‐controlled diffusion creep process. Measurements revealed that grain‐boundary sliding contributes to >∼50% of the total strain in both regions with n∼1 and n∼2, indicating the operation of the same fundamental deformation process in both regions. The creep data indicate that doping with TiO2 leads to an increase in the grain‐boundary diffusion coefficients. The increase observed in the dihedral angle with doping is also consistent with the increase in grain boundary diffusion coefficient and the reported enhanced ductility in such materials.
Use of bmimCl Ionic Liquid for Porous Rutile TiO2 Nanostructures with Different Morphologies
Authors: Feng Xian‐tao , Liu Chun‐yan
Published: March 2010

Porous rutile nanostructured TiO2 with different morphologies were prepared with 1‐Butyl‐3‐methylimidazolium chloride ionic liquid (bmimCl IL). The morphologies of the rutile nanostructures were tuned by changing the dosage ratio of TiCl4 aqueous solution to bmimCl IL. The as‐prepared nanoporous TiO2 samples were characterized by X‐ray diffraction and transmission electron microscope. It is believed that the porous nanostructures were induced by a reaction‐limited aggregation. The synthesis method may also be applicable in other hydrolysis reactions.
Microwave Dielectric Properties of Co2La4Ti3Si4O22 Ceramics
Authors: Chameswary Janardhanan , Thomas Sherin , Sebastian Mailadil Thomas
Published: March 2010

Co2La4Ti3Si4O22 ceramic was synthesized by the conventional solid‐state ceramic route. The structure and microstructure of the sintered ceramics were characterized by X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopic techniques. XRD study showed the presence of SiO2 as a secondary phase. Attempts were made to obtain phase‐pure material by preparing nonstoichiometric Co2La4Ti3Si(4−x)O(22−δ) (where x=0.02, 0.05, 0.1, 0.25, and 0.5) ceramics. The secondary phase of SiO2 could be effectively suppressed for x=0.1 with good microwave dielectric properties. The Co2La4Ti3Si3.9O(22−δ) has ɛr=17.4, Qu×f=48 700 GHz, and τf=−155 ppm/°C.
Preparation of Nanocrystalline BaTiO3 Powders, Fibers, and Thin Films From the Same Precursor Solution
Authors: Das Rabindra N. , Pramanik P.
Published: March 2010

This paper discusses a modified sol–gel process, which can prepare nanocrystalline BaTiO3 powders, fibers, and thin films. This process involved the preparation of stable precursor solutions containing the respective aqueous acetate solution of barium acetate and titanium isopropoxide where barium acetate and titanium isopropoxides were used as precursors and aqueous acetic acid was used as a solvent. The gel prepared using this precursor solution was calcined at 550°C/2 h to produce nanocrystalline BaTiO3 with the corresponding average X‐ray particle size of ∼15 nm. In case of thin film, precursor solution was directly deposited on silicon or glass substrates by spin coating. Nanocrystalline BaTiO3 powders were dispersed into the precursor solution to produce a thick, crack‐free particle film. We have also prepared BaTiO3 fibers by soaking plant fiber (Jute) in the precursor solution. Heat treatment of soaked and dried plant fiber produces BaTiO3 fibers. Particle, fiber, and film surfaces were characterized by transmission electron micrograph and scanning electron micrograph analysis. Altogether, this is a new direction for the development of multiple structures from the same precursor solution.
Hydrogen Gas Reaction with Eu3+‐Doped Al2O3–SiO2 Glasses
Authors: Nogami Masayuki , Watanabe Kazuhiro , Ito Yuta , Ito Hiromasa , Nakano Hiromi
Published: March 2010

In this paper, we report on fast permeation rate and reaction of hydrogen gas in alumino‐silicate glasses to provide new functional properties. Eu3+:Al2O3–SiO2 glass was prepared with high europium concentration and heat treated in hydrogen gas atmosphere. The approach involves the determination of diffusion coefficients by measuring both hydrogen gas permeation and the hydroxyl formation in addition to the reduction of Eu3+ into Eu2+. The diffusion coefficients, determined from the gas permeation experiment, were two orders of magnitude higher than those calculated from the formation of hydroxyl bonds. The high diffusion coefficient was discussed relating with the gas solubility and the number of reduction sites. It was also found that the present glass exhibits a permeation rate of hydrogen gas higher than that of SiO2 glass by 103 times.
Sintering, Phase Stability, and Properties of Calcium Phosphate‐Mullite Composites
Authors: Nath Shekhar , Biswas Krishanu , Wang Kaishi , Bordia Rajendra K. , Basu Bikramjit
Published: March 2010

In this contribution, we report the results of a study to probe into the combined effect of the sintering conditions and mullite (3Al2O3·2SiO2) addition (upto 30 wt%), on the densification mechanism, phase assemblage, and microstructure development in calcium phosphate (CaP)‐mullite composites. The experimental results reveal that close to 95% theoretical density can be achieved by sintering the compositions in the temperature range of 1300°–1350°C. Finer scale microstructural analysis using transmission electron microscopy reveals the presence of both β‐ and α‐TCP (Ca3(PO4)2–tricalcium phosphate) and a crystalline residue of gehlenite at triple junctions. The shrinkage kinetics of the composites have been analyzed to qualitatively understand the sintering mechanisms. For the composites, solid‐state sintering in the initial stage, followed by liquid‐phase sintering at or near the sintering temperature are postulated to explain the effect of temperature and volume fraction of the second phase. Some important features of the liquid‐phase sintering have been discussed using the CaO–Al2O3–SiO2 ternary phase diagram. A comparison with the earlier published results reveals that a better combination of long‐crack fracture toughness, compressive strength, and flexural strength can be obtained with the newly developed composites.
Effect of Potassium Sulfate on the Low‐Temperature Formation of Alpha Alumina Platelets from Bayerite
Authors: Su Xinghua , Li Suqiang , Li Jiangong
Published: March 2010

The effect of potassium sulfate (K2SO4) on the phase transformation from bayerite [α‐Al(OH)3] to α‐Al2O3 has been studied. K2SO4 and γ‐Al2O3 react and form K3Al(SO4)3. Decomposition of K3Al(SO4)3 can supply the α‐Al2O3 seeds for heterogeneous nucleation, accelerate the transformation from the γ‐Al2O3 to α‐Al2O3, and lower the formation temperature of α‐Al2O3. α‐Al2O3 particles grow into hexagonal platelets in the presence of the liquid phase K3Al(SO4)3. The α‐Al2O3 platelets obtained by a 900°C calcination of the bayerite and K2SO4 mixture have an average diameter of 1 μm and an average diameter/thickness ratio of 10.
Retracted : Actions of melatonin mixed with collagenized porcine bone versus porcine bone only on osteointegration of dental implants
Authors: Calvo‐Guirado José Luis , Gómez‐Moreno Gerardo , López‐Marí Laura , Guardia Javier , Marínez‐González José María , Barone Antonio , Tresguerres Isabel F. , Paredes Sergio D. , Fuentes‐Breto Lorena
Published: March 2010

Abstract:  This study evaluated the effect of the topical application of melatonin mixed with collagenized porcine bone on the osteointegration on the rough discrete calcium deposit (DCD) surface implants in Beagle dogs 3 months after their insertion. In preparation for subsequent insertion of dental implants, lower molars were extracted from 12 Beagle dogs. Each mandible received two parallel wall expanded platform implants with a DCD surface of 4 mm in diameter and 10 mm in length. The implants were randomly assigned to the distal sites on each mandible in the molar area and the gaps were filled with 5 mg lyophilized powdered melatonin and porcine bone and collagenized porcine bone alone. Ten histological sections per implant were obtained for histomorphometric studies. After a 4‐wk treatment period, melatonin plus porcine bone significantly increased the perimeter of bone that was in direct contact with the treated implants (P < 0.0001), bone density (P < 0.0001), and new bone formation (P < 0.0001) in comparison with porcine bone alone around the implants. Melatonin plus collagenized porcine bone on DCD surface may act as a biomimetic agent in the placement of endo‐osseous dental implants and enhance the osteointegration. Melatonin combined with porcine bone on DCD implants reveals more bone in implant contact at 12 wk (84.5 ± 1.5%) compared with porcine bone alone treated area (67.17 ± 1.2%).
Effect of anaesthetic agents administered to the mothers on transcutaneous bilirubin levels in the neonates
Authors: Alkan S , Tıraş Ü , Dallar Y , Sunay D
Published: March 2010

Aim:  To investigate the effect of anaesthetic agents on transcutaneous bilirubin levels during the first 24 h in neonates delivered by caesarean section.

Methods:  A total of 168 neonates delivered by caesarean section, during which sevoflurane was used for general anaesthesia (group A), bupivacaine for spinal anaesthesia (group B), levobupivacaine for epidural anaesthesia (group C) and 155 neonates delivered vaginally were included in the study. Transcutaneous bilirubin levels (TBLs) of infants were measured during the first 24 h and compared with each other.

Results:  The TBLs in neonates delivered vaginally were higher than those delivered by caesarean section, but the difference was not significant. TBLs were higher in groups A and C than in group B (p = 0.034, p = 0.011 respectively). TBLs were higher in group C than in group A, but the difference was not significant (p > 0.05). When the groups were compared with vaginal delivery group, TBLs in groups A and C were found higher (p = 0.03, p = 0.022 respectively).

Conclusion:  The route of delivery had no effect on TBL. While bupivacaine was found to have no effect on neonatal bilirubin levels, levobupivacaine increased neonatal biluribin levels, but further studies are needed for definite results.
Healthcare service use in adolescents with non‐specific musculoskeletal pain
Authors: Masiero Stefano , Carraro Elena , Sarto Diego , Bonaldo Lara , Ferraro Claudio
Published: March 2010

Aim:  To estimate occurrence of non‐specific musculoskeletal pain in a wide population sample of Italian adolescents, and to investigate their use of healthcare services (seeking of medical attention, referral for diagnostic tests and treatment use).

Methods:  We investigated 7542 high‐school adolescents (aged between 12 and 16 years) by a structured questionnaire and consisting of personal data, presence of pain, health provider consulted, referral for diagnostic tests and compliance with the prescribed treatments.

Results:  In 3399 (45.1%) reported musculoskeletal pain (the most affected sites being the spine and knees), 2525 (74.2%) of whom had sought medical attention. Of the 2525 subjects who had sought healthcare, 1061 (42.0%) had consulted more than one health provider, 2410 (95.4%) had been referred for diagnostic tests, and some form of treatment had been recommended for 2445 (96.8%), but only 1694 (69.2%) had complied with prescribed therapies. The most important factors linked to health seeking behaviour were pain intensity, pain lasting longer than 3 months, injury, interruption to or absence of physical activity and localization in the spine and knee.

Conclusion:  Non‐specific musculoskeletal pain is a frequent event in Italian adolescents and that a large number of these subjects consult a healthcare service.
Single‐port appendectomy in obese children: an optimal alternative?
Authors: Petnehazy T , Saxena AK , Ainoedhofer H , Hoellwarth Michael E , Schalamon J
Published: March 2010

Introduction:  The aim of this study was to evaluate our experience with single‐port appendectomy (SPA) in obese children.

Methods:  From January 2003 to June 2009, 94 SPA (65 women and 29 men, mean age of 12.4 years) were performed in children with appendicitis. Sixty‐five of these patients were found to have normal weight, whereas 29 were obese. Patients’ records were evaluated regarding operative time, intra‐ and post‐operative complications, initiation of oral intake and histopathological findings.

Results:  There was no significant difference in operative time between obese and normal weight patients. In the obese group, one wound healing disturbance was documented. In the normal weight group, there were one post‐operative bleeding and one wound infection. There was no difference with regards to the introduction of feeds following appendectomy between the groups. Histological examinations revealed 15 normal, 32 acute, 21 phlegmonous, 20 chronic and two perforated cases of appendicitis, three neurogenic appendicopathies and one case of enterobius vermicularis related appendicitis.

Conclusions:  Our results indicate that the advantages of single‐port appendectomy in the evaluation of the peritoneal cavity, the minimal rate of intra‐operative incidents with this technique and superior cosmetics validate this alternative approach of minimal access appendectomy in obese children.
Activation of MAP Kinase in Lumbar Spinothalamic Cells Is Required for Ejaculation
Authors: Staudt Michael D. , De Oliveira Cleusa V.R. , Lehman Michael N. , McKenna Kevin E. , Coolen Lique M.
Published: March 2010

Introduction

Ejaculation is a reflex controlled by a spinal ejaculation generator located in the lumbosacral spinal cord responsible for the coordination of genital sensory with autonomic and motor outputs that regulate ejaculation. In the male rat, a population of lumbar spinothalamic cells (LSt cells) comprises an essential component of the spinal ejaculation generator. LSt cells are activated with ejaculation, but the nature of the signal transduction pathways involved in this activation is unknown. Moreover, it is unknown if LSt cell activation is required for expression of ejaculation.

Aim

The current study tested the hypothesis that ejaculatory reflexes are triggered via activation of the mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase signaling pathway in the LSt cells.

Methods

Expression of phosphorylated extracellular signal-related kinases 1 and 2 (pERK) was investigated following mating behavior, or following ejaculation induced by electrical stimulation of the dorsal penile nerve (DPN) in anesthetized, spinalized male rats. Next, the effects of intrathecal or intraspinal delivery of Mitogen-activated protein/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (MEK) inhibitor U0126 on DPN stimulation-induced ejaculation was examined.

Main Outcome Measures

Expression of pERK in LSt cells and associated areas was analyzed. Electromyographic recordings of the bulbocavernosus muscle were recorded in anesthetized, spinalized rats.

Results

Results indicate that the MAP kinase signaling pathway is activated in LSt cells following ejaculation in mating animals or induced by DPN stimulation in anesthetized, spinalized animals. Moreover, ERK activation in LSt cells is an essential trigger for ejaculation, as DPN stimulation-induced reflexes were absent following administration of MEK inhibitor in the L3-L4 spinal area.

Conclusion

These data provide insight into the nature of the signal transduction pathways involved in the activation of ejaculation through LSt cells. The data demonstrate that ERK activation in LSt cells is essential for ejaculation and contribute to a more detailed understanding of the spinal generation of ejaculation.
Epidemics of Tomato torrado virus, Pepino mosaic virus and Tomato chlorosis virus in tomato crops: do mixed infections contribute to torrado disease epidemiology?
Authors: Gómez P. , Sempere R.N. , Amari K. , Gómez‐Aix C. , Aranda M.A.
Published: March 2010

Torrado disease was first observed in protected tomato crops in the Murcia province of Spain in spring 2001, causing serious concern to regional tomato producers. The disease‐causing agent was initially identified as a picorna‐like bipartite plant RNA virus, now known as Tomato torrado virus (ToTV), but several additional torradoviruses inducing similar disease symptoms have been described more recently. We studied the incidence of torradoviruses between 2005 and 2008 in two parts of Murcia (Spain) where tomato crops are grown commercially. We also analysed the potential association among ToTV, Pepino mosaic virus (PepMV) and Tomato chlorosis virus (ToCV) in samples showing torrado symptoms of varying severity. ToTV was the only torradovirus found in the samples (predominantly as single infections), but double and triple infections comprising ToTV, PepMV and/or ToCV were also detected. There was no evidence of a specific association among the viruses as the frequencies of mixed infections did not deviate from those expected to occur by chance. Statistical analysis of the potential association between torrado symptoms and the type of infection (single or multiple) was inconclusive. To determine whether co‐infections with ToTV and PepMV have any marked influence on the torrado disease, we analysed torrado symptom severity and virus accumulation in tomato plants experimentally infected with ToTV‐CE, PepMV‐Sp13 and PepMV‐PS5 in single and mixed infections. The severity of the torrado symptoms was not affected by the presence of PepMV. In single infections, the ToTV titre remained very low, reaching its maximum in the early stages of infection and declining rapidly thereafter, whereas the disease symptoms became more severe over the same timescale. In mixed infections, the accumulation of both ToTV and PepMV was altered with respect to single infections, and the magnitude of this alteration appeared to be virus and strain specific. Therefore, ToTV and PepMV mixed infections may modulate the epidemiology of both viruses in a complex way by altering virus fitness. The impact of our studies on efforts to track and prevent the spread of torrado disease is discussed.
MTHFR C677T, FII G20210A, FV Leiden G1691A, NOS3 Intron 4 Vntr, and APOE ε4 Gene Polymorphisms are Not Associated with Spontaneous Cervical Artery Dissection
Authors: Jara-Prado A. , Alonso M.E. , Ruano L. Martínez , Camacho J. Guerrero , Leyva A. , López M. , Gutierrez-Castrellon P. , Arauz A.
Published: March 2010

Aims

The pathogenesis of spontaneous cervical artery dissection remains unknown. We examined the association between different polymorphisms frequently found in young patients with cryptogenic stroke [methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase ( MTHFR) C677T, factor II (prothrombin) G20210A, factor V G1691A (Leiden), nitric oxide synthase 3 ( NOS3) intron 4 VNTR, and apolipoprotein E ( APOE) ε4 gene] in patients with a cerebral infarct caused by spontaneous cervical artery dissection.

Methods

Forty-eight patients (27 males) and 96 matching control subjects were recruited. Clinical history, including cardiovascular risk factors, was assessed in all subjects. Genotypes were determined by a polymerase chain reaction with and without a restriction fragment length polymorphism. The genotypes and allele frequencies of the five genetic variants studied were compared between spontaneous cervical artery dissection cases and controls. We also incorporated our data into a meta-analysis of the MTHFR/C677T variant.

Results

Of 48 patients with spontaneous cervical artery dissection (28 vertebral and 20 carotid), the mean age of the patients was 36·6 ± SD 9·9 years. There were no significant associations between the alleles of the five genetic polymorphisms studied and spontaneous cervical artery dissection. In the meta-analysis of the MTHFR/C677T variant, a total of 564 individuals (231 cases and 333 controls) were analysed; no significant association was observed. Conclusions The results from this exploratory case-control study show the lack of an association between MTHFR, factor II G20210A, factor V G1691A, NOS3, intron 4 VNTR, and APOE ε4 gene polymorphisms and the development of spontaneous cervical artery dissection. Our findings contribute towards a better understanding of the genetic risk factors associated with spontaneous cervical artery dissection.
Prevention of Stroke in Patients with Patent Foramen Ovale
Authors: Mattle H. P. , Meier B. , Nedeltchev K.
Published: March 2010

Patent foramen ovale is found in 24% of healthy adults and 38% of patients with cryptogenic stroke. This ratio and case reports indicate that patent foramen ovale and stroke are associated, probably because of paradoxical embolism. In healthy people with patent foramen ovale, embolic events are not more frequent than in controls, and therefore no primary prevention is needed. However, once ischaemic events occur, the risk of recurrence is substantial and prevention becomes an issue. Acetylsalicylic acid and warfarin reduce this risk to the same level as in patients without patent foramen ovale. Patent foramen ovale with a coinciding atrial septal aneurysm, spontaneous or large right-to-left shunt, or multiple ischaemic events potentiates the risk of recurrence. Transcatheter device closure has therefore become an intriguing addition to medical treatment, but its therapeutic value still needs to be confirmed by randomised-controlled trials.
The Levels of Inflammatory Markers in the Treatment of Stroke Study (Limits): Inflammatory Biomarkers as Risk Predictors after Lacunar Stroke
Authors: Elkind M. S. V. , Luna J. M. , Coffey C. S. , McClure L. A. , Liu K. M. , Spitalnik S. , Paik M. C. , Roldan A. , White C. , Hart R. , Benavente O.
Published: March 2010

Background

Inflammation is increasingly recognised as playing a central role in atherosclerosis, and peripheral blood markers of inflammation have been associated with incident and recurrent cardiac events. The relationship of these potentially modifiable risk markers to prognosis after ischaemic stroke is less clear. The Levels of Inflammatory Markers in the Treatment of Stroke (LIMITS) study will address hypotheses related to the role of inflammatory markers in secondary stroke prevention in an efficient manner using the well-established framework of the Secondary Prevention of Small Subcortical Strokes (SPS3) trial (NCT00059306).

Methods

SPS3 is an ongoing Phase III multicentre secondary prevention trial focused on preventing recurrent stroke in patients with small vessel ischaemic stroke, or lacunes. In SPS3, patients are assigned in a factorial design to aspirin vs. aspirin plus clopidogrel, and to usual vs. aggressive blood pressure targets. The purpose of LIMITS is to determine whether serum levels of inflammatory markers – including high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, serum amyloid A, CD40 ligand, and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 – predict recurrent stroke and other vascular events among lacunar stroke patients. The project will also determine whether these markers predict which people will respond best to dual antiplatelet therapy with clopidogrel and aspirin, as well the relationship to cognitive function.

Analysis plan

Multivariate Cox proportional hazard regression modeling will be used to estimate hazard ratios for the effect of marker levels on risk of recurrent stroke and other outcomes after adjusting for additional potential risk factors, including age, gender, ethnicity, treatment arm, and traditional stroke risk factors. Interactions between marker levels and treatment assignment for both arms of the SPS3 study will be assessed. Observations will be censored at the time of last follow-up visit.

Conclusions

LIMITS represents an efficient approach to the identification of novel inflammatory biomarkers for use in risk prediction and treatment selection in patients with small vessel disease.
Can the application of a multi‐objective evolutionary algorithm improve conveyance estimation?
Authors: Sharifi Soroosh , Sterling Mark , Knight Donald W.
Published: March 2010

The following work explores the possibility of applying an evolutionary algorithm (NSGA‐II) to automate the calibration procedure of a quasi 2‐D numerical model. Seven rivers are examined, with discharges and flow depths ranging from 6 to 450 m3/s and 0.49 to 3.69 m, respectively. The calibration procedure is based on matching lateral distributions of depth‐mean velocity, for which data exist. The results are compared with simulations undertaken by an expert user using traditional calibration techniques. The new approach compares favourably with the expert user and is able to provide an insight into the optimum calibration parameters, from which further scientific knowledge could be developed.
Density of Vibrios in Hemolymph and Hepatopancreas of Diseased Pacific White Shrimp, Litopenaeus vannamei, from Northwestern Mexico
Authors: Soto Rodriguez Sonia A. , Gomez Gil Bruno , Lozano Rodolfo , Roque Ana
Published: March 2010

Vibriosis is one of the most widespread infectious diseases of cultured shrimp in Mexico; as a result, the Research Centre for Food and Development (CIAD, for the Spanish wording) offers a diagnostic service to the shrimp farmers where they bring samples of diseased shrimp as judged by themselves. Hemolymph (HL) and hepatopancreas (HP) of diseased Litopenaeus vannamei were analyzed from five regions of Northwestern Mexico (from 2001 to 2006) in tiosulphate citrate bile sacharose (TCBS) agar; a total of 5912 shrimp were examined. The results showed a mean vibrios density of 6.45 × 103, SD = 6.90 × 104 CFU/mL for HL and 1.40 × 105, SD = 3.20 × 105 CFU/g for HP (n = 5912). HL samples had 12% (SD = 26%) of green colonies (GCs) in TCBS, and 23% (SD = 34%) of GCs in HP samples. Of the total shrimp analyzed, 46% were not found to possess vibrios in HL, whereas 60% of the shrimp examined contained more than 105 CFU/g of HP. More than 60 and 40% of the shrimp did not have GC in HL and HP, respectively. The highest Pearson coefficient correlation was observed between vibrios HL and GCs in HL for 2006 (r = 0.611, n = 712, P < 0.001).
Ontogenetic Variation in Ammonia Excretion during the Early Life Stages of the Amazon River Prawn, Macrobrachium amazonicum
Authors: De Arruda Hayd Liliam , Lemos Daniel , Valenti Wagner C.
Published: March 2010

Dry mass (DM) and total ammonia‐N (TAN) excretion were determined in embryos, larvae (ZI–ZIX, Z = zoea ), and postlarvae (PL) at 1, 7, and 14 d after metamorphosis (PL1, PL7, and PL14) of Macrobrachium amazonicum. Animals in postmolt–intermolt (A–C) stages were sorted according to their developmental stages, and placed into incubation chambers (∼ 30 mL) for 2 h to quantify TAN excretion. After this period, analyses were carried out using Koroleff's method for TAN determination. Individual TAN excretion generally increased throughout ontogenetic development and varied from 0.0090 ± 0.0039 µg TAN/individual/h in embryo to 1.041 ± 0.249 µg TAN/individual/h in PL14. There was no significant difference between embryo–ZIV and ZV–ZIX (P > 0.05), whereas PL1, PL7, and PL14 differed (P < 0.05) from each other. Higher increments in individual ammonia‐N excretion were observed between ZIV–ZV, PL1–PL7, and PL7–PL14. Mass‐specific excretion rates presented two groups, embryo–ZII (P > 0.05) and ZIII–PL14 (P > 0.05). The lowest value was found in embryo (0.17 ± 0.07 µg TAN/mg DM/h) and the maximum values in ZV and PL1 (0.65 ± 0.25 and 0.64 ± 0.27 µg TAN/mg DM/h, respectively). Results indicate that metabolic rate is proportional to the body mass in M. amazonicum, during early life stages. Variations in ammonia excretion during this phase may be associated mainly with body size. Data obtained in the present study may be useful in developing and optimizing rearing techniques of M. amazonicum, such as the proportions between biofilter and rearing tank size, and stocking density in culture tanks or in transport bags.
Enhanced Growth of Lactobacilli in Soymilk upon Immobilization on Agrowastes
Authors: Teh Sue‐Siang , Ahmad Rosma , Wan‐Abdullah Wan‐Nadiah , Liong Min‐Tze
Published: March 2010

ABSTRACT:  Cell immobilization is an alternative to microencapsulation for the maintenance of cells in a liquid medium. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of agrowastes from durian (Durio zibethinus), cempedak (Artocarpus champeden), and mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana) as immobilizers for lactobacilli grown in soymilk. Rinds from the agrowastes were separated from the skin, dried, and ground (150 μm) to form powders and used as immobilizers. Scanning electron microscopy revealed that lactobacilli cells were attached and bound to the surface of the immobilizers. Immobilized cells of Lactobacillus acidophilus FTDC 1331, L. acidophilus FTDC 2631, L. acidophilus FTDC 2333, L. acidophilus FTDC 1733, and L. bulgaricus FTCC 0411 were inoculated into soymilk, stored at room temperature (25 °C) and growth properties were evaluated over 168 h. Soymilk inoculated with nonimmobilized cells was used as the control. Utilization of substrates, concentrations of lactic and acetic acids, and changes in pH were evaluated in soymilk over 186 h. Immobilized lactobacilli showed significantly better growth (P < 0.05) compared to the control, accompanied by higher production of lactic and acetic acids in soymilk. Soymilk containing immobilized cells showed greater reduction of soy sugars such as stachyose, raffinose, sucrose, fructose, and glucose compared to the control (P < 0.05).
Blindness following soft tissue trauma in a child with haemophilia A
Authors: Chrcanovic B.R. , Souza L.N.
Published: March 2010

Traumatic retrobulbar haemorrhage, if not promptly recognised and treated, may result in acute vision loss because of compression of the optic nerve and its vascular supply. Bleeding disorders or anticoagulant therapy may contribute to the rapid onset of this phenomenon, thus making urgent diagnosis and treatment even more critical. This article reports a case of retrobulbar haemorrhage in an 8‐year‐old boy with factor VIII deficiency (haemophilia A or classic haemophilia) who delayed in seeking professional help and consequently developed permanent blindness. Minor injuries in patients with bleeding disorders or anticoagulant therapy were proven to result in severe complications, especially when these affect the eye.
Microsurgical repair of labial gingival tissues following excision of an epulis: a case report with 18‐month follow‐up
Authors: McCrea S.J.J.
Published: March 2010

The purpose of this study was to describe an alternative surgical approach to simply removing an epulis: The methodology was to both preserve and improve the mucogingival complex. After supportive periodontal therapy that included oral hygiene instruction, scaling and root planning, the patient underwent surgical treatment to remove the tumour. A subepithelial connective tissue graft together with a lateral mucogingival pedicle flap was used to repair the extensive defect.
A technique for exposure of the torus palatinus during reduction surgery
Authors: Christou J. , Gillan G. , Qureshi A. , Hardee P.
Published: March 2010

Exposure of the torus palatinus during reduction surgery often presents with some difficulties, namely, achieving adequate exposure while minimising trauma to the palatal mucosa. In this article, we describe a simple technique that provides generous access, and further reduces trauma, to the palatal mucosa.
A comparison of natural bone regeneration with that produced by the xenograft Bio‐Oss in the management of an unusual case of adjacent dentigerous cysts
Authors: McCrea S.J.J. , Makdissi J.
Published: March 2010

Multiple dentigerous cysts are typically in association with a developmental syndrome. We report the management of a rare case of adjacent cysts in association with a mandibular third molar and a supernumerary molar lying in the ramus, comparing natural bone regeneration with that produced by the xenograft Bio‐Oss (Geistlich Corp., Wolhusen, Switzerland).
Osteonecrosis of the mandible associated with bisphosphonate therapy: report of a case with surgical intervention
Authors: Mochizuki Y. , Omura K. , Kaneoya A. , Kayamori K. , Yamaguchi A.
Published: March 2010

Nitrogen‐containing bisphosphonates have been widely administered to patients with metastases because of their high efficacy in skeletal complications. Although the exact mechanism of bisphosphonate‐mediated osteoclast inhibition has not been completely elucidated, it was reported recently that nitrogen‐containing bisphosphonates could cause complications of osteomyelitis or osteonecrosis of the jaw. This article reports the long‐term results with an advanced breast cancer patient who suffered osteonecrosis of the mandible when receiving nitrogen‐containing intravenous bisphosphonates therapy. There were serious concerns about the possibility of pathological fracture resulting from the developing osteonecrosis, the patients' quality of life and ultimately their survival prognosis. After consultation with her oncologists about her physical condition and the general surgical risks, we provided positive surgical interventions. At present, the patient has no radiographic or clinical evidence of recurrence 34 months after the surgeries. This report provides information on the benefits of minimal surgical intervention on the quality of life, compared to a wide bone resection performed after pathological fracture has already occurred.
Growth and progression of melanoma and non‐melanoma skin cancers regulated by ubiquitination
Authors: Nakayama Koh
Published: March 2010

Basal cell carcinomas (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), and melanomas are the major types of skin tumors. Despite being skin cancers, the characteristics of each cancer are widely varied. BCCs often do not proliferate rapidly, and rarely metastasize. Squamous cell carcinomas are more malignant and a certain subtype of SCC is highly metastatic. Melanomas are highly proliferative and invasive, and are most frequently metastatic. Ubiquitin and ubiquitin‐related proteins post‐translationally modify proteins and thereby alter the functions of their target proteins. The ubiquitination process is involved in various physiological responses, including cell growth, cell death, and DNA damage repair. Accumulating evidence suggests that ubiquitin pathways are involved in different types of cancers, including skin cancers. This review describes the major ubiquitin pathways in BCC, SCC, and melanoma. The ubiquitin pathways that are activated among the skin cancers are highly diverse, which might reflect the various characteristics of these three cancer types. Meanwhile, there are also common pathways between BCC, SCC, and melanoma. Therefore, examining the ubiquitin pathways will reveal the mechanisms of these three major skin cancer types and will suggest treatment options.
Exposure keratopathy following silicone frontalis suspension in adult neuro‐ and myogenic ptosis
Authors: van Sorge Arlette J. , Devogelaere Thibaut , Sotodeh Mohammed , Wubbels Rene , Paridaens Dion
Published: March 2010

Purpose:  To evaluate the incidence of exposure keratopathy following silicone frontalis suspension in adult neuro‐ and myogenic blepharoptosis.

Method:  Retrospective noncomparative analysis of the charts of 69 cases (101 eyelids) of silicone frontalis suspension.

Results:  Sixty‐one patients (93 eyelids) had myogenic ptosis, and eight patients (eight eyelids) had neurogenic ptosis. Preoperative diagnoses included chronic progressive external ophthalmoplegia, myotonic dystrophy, oculopharyngeal dystrophy, third cranial nerve palsy because of trauma or other causes. Average age at the time of operation was 54. Mean interval between the intervention and the first and second postoperative control was 8 and 28 months, respectively. Thirty‐one patients (31 eyelids) needed a second follow‐up visit. Postoperative punctate epithelial erosions (PEE) were encountered most frequently in patients with Steinert’s disease (42% of eyes) and congenital ptosis (33% of eyes). Patients with oculopharyngeal dystrophy did not develop PEE. Corneal ulceration developed in three eyes (two patients): one eye was successfully treated with local antibiotic ointments and lubricants, a bilateral corneal ulceration in the second patient was successfully treated with partial conjunctival grafts.

Conclusion:  This study cohort demonstrated a 26% risk of exposure keratopathy following silicone frontalis suspension. The risk of major corneal complications, such as ulceration, was low (3%).
Regarder au cœur du sujet
Authors: Similä Katriina
Published: March 2010

L’auteur discute du legs des cours de l’ICCROM sur les principes scientifiques de la conservation (SPC), délivrés depuis longtemps, et des manières dont nous construisons une connaissance pertinente dans un effort collectif.
L’ICCROM et l’Afrique : le patrimoine immatériel et le changement du paysage culturel des musées
Authors: Abungu George
Published: March 2010

L’Afrique est un continent qui jouit d’un patrimoine naturel et culturel d’une grande richesse et d’une immense diversité. Des cinq grands mammifères sauvages aux hominidés fossiles et à la Grande Vallée du Rift, le continent est bel et bien le berceau de la vie. Son patrimoine immobilier inclut des biens façonnés tant par les hommes que par la nature et occupe des paysages répartis sur tout le continent. Comme dans d’autres parties du monde, les nations africaines – par le biais de l’influence coloniale – ont embrassé la notion et la pratique de la collection, de la conservation et de l’exposition en l’exprimant sous la forme de musées.