bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Meta-analysis of genome-wide expression patterns associated with behavioral maturation in honey bees
Authors: Adams Heather A , Southey Bruce R , Robinson Gene E , Rodriguez-Zas Sandra L
Published: November 2008

Background

The information from multiple microarray experiments can be integrated in an objective manner via meta-analysis. However, multiple meta-analysis approaches are available and their relative strengths have not been directly compared using experimental data in the context of different gene expression scenarios and studies with different degrees of relationship. This study investigates the complementary advantages of meta-analysis approaches to integrate information across studies, and further mine the transcriptome for genes that are associated with complex processes such as behavioral maturation in honey bees. Behavioral maturation and division of labor in honey bees are related to changes in the expression of hundreds of genes in the brain. The information from various microarray studies comparing the expression of genes at different maturation stages in honey bee brains was integrated using complementary meta-analysis approaches.

Results

Comparison of lists of genes with significant differential expression across studies failed to identify genes with consistent patterns of expression that were below the selected significance threshold, or identified genes with significant yet inconsistent patterns. The meta-analytical framework supported the identification of genes with consistent overall expression patterns and eliminated genes that exhibited contradictory expression patterns across studies. Sample-level meta-analysis of normalized gene-expression can detect more differentially expressed genes than the study-level meta-analysis of estimates for genes that were well described by similar model parameter estimates across studies and had small variation across studies. Furthermore, study-level meta-analysis was well suited for genes that exhibit consistent patterns across studies, genes that had substantial variation across studies, and genes that did not conform to the assumptions of the sample-level meta-analysis. Meta-analyses confirmed previously reported genes and helped identify genes (e.g. Tomosyn, Chitinase 5, Adar, Innexin 2, Transferrin 1, Sick, Oatp26F) and Gene Ontology categories (e.g. purine nucleotide binding) not previously associated with maturation in honey bees.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated that a combination of meta-analytical approaches best addresses the highly dimensional nature of genome-wide microarray studies. As expected, the integration of gene expression information from microarray studies using meta-analysis enhanced the characterization of the transcriptome of complex biological processes.
Comparative analysis of selected methods for the assessment of antimicrobial and membrane-permeabilizing activity: a case study for lactoferricin derived peptides
Authors: Sánchez-Gómez Susana , Lamata Marta , Leiva José , Blondelle Sylvie E , Jerala Roman , Andrä Jörg , Brandenburg Klaus , Lohner Karl , Moriyón Ignacio , Martínez-de-Tejada Guillermo
Published: November 2008

Background

Growing concerns about bacterial resistance to antibiotics have prompted the development of alternative therapies like those based on cationic antimicrobial peptides (APs). These compounds not only are bactericidal by themselves but also enhance the activity of antibiotics. Studies focused on the systematic characterization of APs are hampered by the lack of standard guidelines for testing these compounds. We investigated whether the information provided by methods commonly used for the biological characterization of APs is comparable, as it is often assumed. For this purpose, we determined the bacteriostatic, bactericidal, and permeability-increasing activity of synthetic peptides (n = 57; 9–13 amino acid residues in length) analogous to the lipopolysaccharide-binding region of human lactoferricin by a number of the most frequently used methods and carried out a comparative analysis.

Results

While the minimum inhibitory concentration determined by an automated turbidimetry-based system (Bioscreen) or by conventional broth microdilution methods did not differ significantly, bactericidal activity measured under static conditions in a low-ionic strength solvent resulted in a vast overestimation of antimicrobial activity. Under these conditions the degree of antagonism between the peptides and the divalent cations differed greatly depending on the bacterial strain tested. In contrast, the bioactivity of peptides was not affected by the type of plasticware (polypropylene vs. polystyrene). Susceptibility testing of APs using cation adjusted Mueller-Hinton was the most stringent screening method, although it may overlook potentially interesting peptides. Permeability assays based on sensitization to hydrophobic antibiotics provided overall information analogous – though not quantitatively comparable- to that of tests based on the uptake of hydrophobic fluorescent probes.

Conclusion

We demonstrate that subtle changes in methods for testing cationic peptides bring about marked differences in activity. Our results show that careful selection of the test strains for susceptibility testing and for screenings of antibiotic-sensitizing activity is of critical importance. A number of peptides proved to have potent permeability-increasing activity at subinhibitory concentrations and efficiently sensitized Pseudomonas aeruginosa both to hydrophilic and hydrophobic antibiotics.
Systemic resistance and lipoxygenase-related defence response induced in tomato by Pseudomonas putidastrain BTP1
Authors: Akram Adam , Ongena Marc , Duby Francéline , Dommes Jacques , Thonart Philippe
Published: November 2008

Background

Previous studies showed the ability ofPseudomonas putidastrain BTP1 to promote induced systemic resistance (ISR) in different host plants. Since ISR is long-lasting and not conducive for development of resistance of the targeted pathogen, this phenomenon can take part of disease control strategies. However, in spite of the numerous examples of ISR induced by PGPR in plants, only a few biochemical studies have associated the protective effect with specific host metabolic changes.

Results

In this study, we showed the protective effect of this bacterium in tomato againstBotrytis cinerea. Following treatment byP. putidaBTP1, analyses of acid-hydrolyzed leaf extracts showed an accumulation of antifungal material after pathogen infection. The fungitoxic compounds thus mainly accumulate as conjugates from which active aglycones may be liberated through the activity of hydrolytic enzymes. These results suggest that strain BTP1 can elicit systemic phytoalexin accumulation in tomato as one defence mechanism. On another hand, we have shown that key enzymes of the lipoxygenase pathway are stimulated in plants treated with the bacteria as compared with control plants. Interestingly, this stimulation is observed only after pathogen challenge in agreement with the priming concept almost invariably associated with the ISR phenomenon.

Conclusion

Through the demonstration of phytoalexin accumulation and LOX pathway stimulation in tomato, this work provides new insights into the diversity of defence mechanisms that are inducible by non-pathogenic bacteria in the context of ISR.
A novel HSF4gene mutation (p.R405X) causing autosomal recessive congenital cataracts in a large consanguineous family from Pakistan
Authors: Sajjad Naheed , Goebel Ingrid , Kakar Naseebullah , Cheema Abdul Majeed , Kubisch Christian , Ahmad Jamil
Published: November 2008

Background

Hereditary cataracts are most frequently inherited as autosomal dominant traits, but can also be inherited in an autosomal recessive or X-linked fashion. To date, 12 loci for autosomal recessive cataracts have been mapped including a locus on chromosome 16q22 containing the disease-causing gene HSF4 (Genbank accession number NM_001040667). Here, we describe a family from Pakistan with the first nonsense mutation in HSF4 thus expanding the mutational spectrum of this heat shock transcription factor gene.

Methods

A large consanguineous Pakistani family with autosomal recessive cataracts was collected from Quetta. Genetic linkage analysis was performed for the common known autosomal recessive cataracts loci and linkage to a locus containing HSF4 (OMIM 602438) was found. All exons and adjacent splice sites of the heat shock transcription factor 4 gene (HSF4) were sequenced. A mutation-specific restriction enzyme digest (HphI) was performed for all family members and unrelated controls.

Results

The disease phenotype perfectly co-segregated with markers flanking the known cataract gene HSF4, whereas other autosomal recessive loci were excluded. A maximum two-point LOD score with a Zmax = 5.6 at θ = 0 was obtained for D16S421. Direct sequencing of HSF4 revealed the nucleotide exchange c.1213C > T in this family predicting an arginine to stop codon exchange (p.R405X).

Conclusion

We identified the first nonsense mutation (p.R405X) in exon 11 of HSF4 in a large consanguineous Pakistani family with autosomal recessive cataract.
Long-term effects of STN DBS on mood: psychosocial profiles remain stable in a 3-year follow-up
Authors: Kaiser Iris , Kryspin-Exner Ilse , Brücke Thomas , Volc Dieter , Alesch François
Published: November 2008

Background

Deep brain stimulation of the subthalamic nucleus significantly improves motor function in patients with severe Parkinson's disease. However, the effects on nonmotor aspects remain uncertain. The present study investigated the effects of subthalamic nucleus deep brain stimulation on mood and psychosocial functions in 33 patients with advanced Parkinson's disease in a three year follow-up.

Methods

Self-rating questionnaires were administered to 33 patients prior to surgery as well as three, six, twelve and 36 months after surgery.

Results

In the long run, motor function significantly improved after surgery. Mood and psychosocial functions transiently improved at one year but returned to baseline at 36 months after surgery. In addition, we performed cluster and discriminant function analyses and revealed four distinct psychosocial profiles, which remained relatively stable in the course of time. Two profiles featured impaired psychosocial functioning while the other two of them were characterized by greater psychosocial stability.

Conclusion

Compared to baseline no worsening in mood and psychosocial functions was found three years after electrode implantation. Moreover, patients can be assigned to four distinct psychosocial profiles that are relatively stable in the time course. Since these subtypes already exist preoperatively the extent of psychosocial support can be anticipatory adjusted to the patients' needs in order to enhance coping strategies and compliance. This would allow early detection and even prevention of potential psychiatric adverse events after surgery. Given adequate psychosocial support, these findings imply that patients with mild psychiatric disturbances should not be excluded from surgery.
GOLPH2 expression in renal cell cancer
Authors: Fritzsche Florian Rudolf , Riener Mark-Oliver , Dietel Manfred , Moch Holger , Jung Klaus , Kristiansen Glen
Published: November 2008

Background

Renal cell carcinomas (RCC) are among the most common and most lethal genitourinary malignancies. GOLPH2 (golgi phosphoprotein 2, GOLM1) has recently been proposed as a biomarker for hepatocellular and prostate cancer. In this study we analysed the expression patterns and the prognostic and diagnostic value of GOLPH2 in RCC.

Methods

GOLPH2 protein expression was analysed by immunohistochemistry in 104 clinically well characterized RCC cases in comparison with matched normal kidney tissue and in association with clinico-pathological parameters. Statistical analyses including Kaplan Meier analyses were performed with SPSS version 15.0.

Results

GOLPH2 was highly expressed in normal renal tubules and in almost half of RCC with a statistically significant predominance in the papillary and chromophobe histological subtypes. No other associations with clinico-pathological parameters were detectable. The Kaplan-Meier curves showed a weak trend for unfavourable prognosis of tumours with high GOLPH2 expression, but failed significance.

Conclusion

GOLPH2 protein is expressed in normal renal tissue (especially in distal tubular epithelia) and is down-regulated in the majority of clear cell RCC. In papillary and chromophobe RCC GOLPH2 expression is consistently present. In contrast to its diagnostic value in hepatocellular and prostatic carcinomas, a prognostic or diagnostic value of GOLPH2 in RCC appears to be unlikely.
Systematic review of worldwide variations of the prevalence of wheezing symptoms in children
Authors: Patel Swatee P , Järvelin Marjo-Riitta , Little Mark P
Published: November 2008

Background

Considerable variation in the prevalence of childhood asthma and its symptoms (wheezing) has been observed in previous studies and there is evidence that the prevalence has been increasing over time.

Methods

We have systematically reviewed the reported prevalence and time trends of wheezing symptoms among children, worldwide and within the same country over time. All studies comprising more than 1000 persons and meeting certain other quality criteria published over a 16-year period, between January 1990 and December 2005, are reported and a comparison of ISAAC (International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood) and non-ISAAC studies is made, in part as a way of expanding the power to examine time trends (the older studies tend to be non-ISAAC), but also to examine possible methodological differences between ISAAC and non-ISAAC questions.

Results

A wide range of current prevalence of wheeze was observed between and within countries over time. The UK had the highest recorded prevalence of 32.2% in children aged 13–14 in 1994–5 and Ethiopia had the lowest prevalence, 1.7% in children aged 10–19 in 1996. All studies in Australia and the UK were compared using multiple logistic regression. ISAAC phase I and III studies reported significantly higher prevalence of current wheeze (OR = 1.638) compared with non-ISAAC studies, after adjusting for various other factors (country, survey year, age of child, parental vs child response to the survey). Australia showed a significantly higher prevalence of current wheezing (OR = 1.343) compared with the UK, there was a significant increase in the prevalence odds ratio per survey year (2.5% per year), a significant decrease per age of child (0.7% per year), and a significantly higher response in current wheezing if the response was self-completed by the child (OR = 1.290). These factors, when explored separately for ISAAC and non-ISAAC studies, showed very different results. In ISAAC studies, or non-ISAAC studies using ISAAC questions, there was a significant decrease in current wheezing prevalence over time (2.5% per year). In non-ISAAC studies, which tend to cover an earlier period, there was a significant increase (2.6% per year) in current wheezing prevalence over time. This is very likely to be a result of prevalence of wheezing increasing from the 1970s up to the early 1990s, but decreasing since then.

Conclusion

The UK has the highest recorded prevalence of wheezing and Ethiopia the lowest. Prevalence of wheezing in Australia and the UK has increased from the 1970s up to the early 1990s, but decreased since then and ISAAC studies report significantly higher prevalences than non-ISAAC studies.
Complex chromosome rearrangement in a child with microcephaly, dysmorphic facial features and mosaicism for a terminal deletion del(18)(q21.32-qter) investigated by FISH and array-CGH: Case report
Authors: Manolakos Emmanouil , Kosyakova Nadezda , Thomaidis Loreta , Neroutsou Rozita , Weise Anja , Mihalatos Markos , Orru Sandro , Kokotas Haris , Kitsos George , Liehr Thomas , Petersen Michael B
Published: November 2008

We report on a 7 years and 4 months old Greek boy with mild microcephaly and dysmorphic facial features. He was a sociable child with maxillary hypoplasia, epicanthal folds, upslanting palpebral fissures with long eyelashes, and hypertelorism. His ears were prominent and dysmorphic, he had a long philtrum and a high arched palate. His weight was 17 kg (25th percentile) and his height 120 cm (50th percentile). High resolution chromosome analysis identified in 50% of the cells a normal male karyotype, and in 50% of the cells one chromosome 18 showed a terminal deletion from 18q21.32. Molecular cytogenetic investigation confirmed a del(18)(q21.32-qter) in the one chromosome 18, but furthermore revealed the presence of a duplication in q21.2 in the other chromosome 18. The case is discussed concerning comparable previously reported cases and the possible mechanisms of formation.
Antitumor enhancement of celecoxib, a selective Cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitor, in a Lewis lung carcinoma expressing Cyclooxygenase-2
Authors: Park Won , Oh Young Taek , Han Jae Ho , Pyo Hongryull
Published: November 2008

Background

The goal of this study was to determine the effects of a selective Cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 inhibitor on the inhibition of tumor growth and pulmonary metastasis in a Lewis Lung Carcinoma (LLC) animal model.

Methods

For immunoblot analysis of COX-2 and PGE2, cells were treated with irradiation in the presence or absence of celecoxib. The right thighs of male, 6-week old C57/BL mice were subcutaneously injected with 1 × 106 LLC cells. The animals were randomized into one of six groups: (1) no treatment, (2) 25 mg/kg celecoxib daily, (3) 75 mg/kg celecoxib daily, (4) 10 Gy irradiation, (5) 10 Gy irradiation plus 25 mg/kg celecoxib daily, and (6) 10 Gy irradiation plus 75 mg/kg celecoxib daily. Mice were irradiated only once, and celecoxib was administered orally. Mice were irradiated with 4-MV photons once the tumor volume of the control group reached 500 mm3. All mice were sacrificed when the mean tumor volume of control animals grew to 4000 mm3. The left lobes of the lungs were extracted for the measurement of metastatic nodules.

Results

Irradiation resulted in a dose-dependent increase in PGE2 production. PGE2 synthesis decreased markedly after treatment with celecoxib alone or in combination with irradiation. Compared to mice treated with low dose celecoxib, mean tumor volume decreased significantly in mice treated with a high dose of celecoxib with or without irradiation. Mice treated with a high dose celecoxib alone, with irradiation alone, or with irradiation plus celecoxib had markedly fewer metastatic lung nodules than controls. The mean metastatic area was the smallest for mice treated with irradiation plus a high dose celecoxib.

Conclusion

Oral administration of high dose celecoxib significantly inhibited tumor growth, as compared to a low dose treatment. Radiotherapy in combination with high dose celecoxib delayed tumor growth and reduced the number of pulmonary metastases to a greater extent than celecoxib or radiotherapy alone.
Limited reliability of the indirect immunofluorescence technique for the detection of anti-Rib-P antibodies
Authors: Mahler Michael , Ngo Jennifer T , Schulte-Pelkum Johannes , Luettich Tanja , Fritzler Marvin J
Published: November 2008

Introduction

Autoantibodies to the ribosomal P proteins represent a highly specific marker for the diagnosis of systemic lupus erythematosus, where they have been associated with certain clinical manifestations. Historically, autoantibodies against ribosomal P proteins have been detected by indirect immunofluorescence, immunodiffusion, immunoblot, and other immunoassays. More recently, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays and line and addressable laser bead immunoassays have become more widely used. The primary goal of this study was to determine the sensitivity of indirect immunofluorescence using conventional HEp-2 substrates in the detection of sera with ribosomal P antibodies as detected by other immunoassays.

Methods

Anti-ribosomal P-positive sera (n = 345) as detected by an addressable laser bead immunoassay were collected between 2003 and 2007 and analysed by indirect immunofluorescence. Furthermore, 51 anti-ribosomal P-positive samples from an unselected systemic lupus erythematosus cohort (n = 100) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) anti-nuclear antibody (ANA) reference sera were tested for anti-ribosomal P reactivity.

Results

In the cohort of 345 anti-ribosomal P-positive samples identified by addressable laser bead immunoassay, a low sensitivity (<30%) of indirect immunofluorescence on HEp-2 cell substrates was observed. Although the degree of sensitivity varied among different manufacturers, all immunofluorescence substrates exhibited limited sensitivity and false-negative results were not restricted to samples with low anti-ribosomal P titers. Even the anti-ribosomal P reactivity of CDC ANA reference serum number 12 was not clearly predictable by indirect immunofluorescence. Comparison of five different methods for the detection of anti-ribosomal P found moderate qualitative agreements.

Conclusions

Based on our data, we conclude that indirect immunofluorescence on HEp-2 cells is not a reliable screening test for the prediction of ribosomal P antibodies. As this method is widely used as a first-line screening test for anti-nuclear and other autoantibodies, special considerations for the detection of ribosomal P antibodies are needed. As with many other autoantibodies, further effort is required for the standardisation of ribosomal P immunoassays.
Influence of Pre- and Post-Transplantation Responses on Outcome of Patients With Multiple Myeloma: Sequential Improvement of Response and Achievement of Complete Response Are Associated With Longer Survival
Authors: Lahuerta Juan José , Mateos Maria Victoria , Martínez-López Joaquin , Rosiñol Laura , Sureda Anna , de la Rubia Javier , García-Laraña José , Martínez-Martínez Rafael , Hernández-García Miguel T. , Carrera Dolores , Besalduch Joan , de Arriba Felipe , Ribera José María , Escoda Lourdes , Hernández-Ruiz Belén , García-Frade Javier , Rivas-González Concepción , Alegre Adrían , Bladé Joan , San Miguel Jesús F.
Published: November 2008

Purpose

Complete response (CR) is considered an important goal in most hematologic malignancies. However, in multiple myeloma (MM), there is no consensus regarding whether immunofixation (IF)-negative CR, IF-positive near-CR (nCR), and partial response (PR) are associated with different survivals. We evaluated the prognostic influence on event-free survival (EFS) and overall survival (OS) of these responses pre- and post-transplantation in newly diagnosed patients with MM.

Patients and Methods

We analyzed 632 patients from the prospective Grupo Español de Mieloma 2000 protocol who were uniformly treated with vincristine, carmustine, cyclophosphamide, melphalan, and predisone/vincristine, carmustine, adryamcine, and dexamethasone induction followed by high-dose therapy and autologous stem-cell transplantation.

Results

Post-transplantation response markedly influenced outcomes. Patients achieving CR had significantly longer EFS (median, 61 v 40 months; P < 10−5) and OS (medians not reached; P = .01) versus patients achieving nCR, who likewise had somewhat better outcomes compared with patients achieving PR (median EFS, 34 months, P = .07 v nCR; median OS, 61 months, P = .04). EFS and OS and influence of response were similar among older (age 65 to 70 years) and younger (age < 65 years) patients. Similar findings were observed with pretransplantation response, with trends toward EFS (P = .1; P = .05) and OS (P = .1; P = .07) benefit in patients achieving CR versus nCR and PR, respectively. Post-transplantation response was markedly influenced by pretransplantation response; improvements in response were associated with prolonged survival.

Conclusion

Quality of response post-transplantation, notably CR, is significantly associated with EFS and OS prolongation in newly diagnosed patients with MM. There were trends toward similar associations with pretransplantation response status.
Carcinoma of the Lower Uterine Segment: A Newly Described Association With Lynch Syndrome
Authors: Westin Shannon N. , Lacour Robin A. , Urbauer Diana L. , Luthra Rajyalakshmi , Bodurka Diane C. , Lu Karen H. , Broaddus Russell R.
Published: November 2008

Purpose

Endometrial carcinoma in the lower uterine segment (LUS) is a poorly described cancer that can be clinically confused with endocervical carcinoma. We performed a case-comparison study to document the clinicopathologic characteristics of LUS tumors and their association with risk factors for endometrial cancer.

Patients and Methods

The clinical records and pathology reports from women who underwent hysterectomy at our institution for endometrial or endocervical adenocarcinoma over an 11-year interval were reviewed. The LUS group consisted of women with endometrial tumors that clearly originated between the lower uterine corpus and the upper endocervix. Immunohistochemistry and microsatellite instability and MLH1 methylation assays were performed.

Results

Thirty-five (3.5%) of 1,009 women had endometrial carcinoma of the LUS. Compared with patients with corpus tumors, LUS patients were younger, had higher stage tumors, and had more invasive tumors. Preoperative diagnosis of the LUS tumors more frequently included the possibility of endocervical adenocarcinoma. Seventy-three percent of the LUS tumors had an immunohistochemical expression pattern typical of conventional endometrioid adenocarcinoma. Ten (29%) of 35 women with LUS tumors were confirmed to have Lynch syndrome or were strongly suspected to have Lynch syndrome on the basis of tissue-based molecular assays.

Conclusion

The prevalence of Lynch syndrome in patients with LUS endometrial carcinoma (29%) is much greater than that of the general endometrial cancer patient population (1.8%) or in endometrial cancer patients younger than age 50 years (8% to 9%). On the basis of our results, the possibility of Lynch syndrome should be considered in women with LUS tumors.
The Cultural Imperatives of Professionalism: Who's Protecting Whom?
Authors: Boland Carol
Published: November 2008

What does it mean to be a professional therapist? This paper explores some of the personal and cultural pressures that influence how we see ourselves as professional therapists. It then explores how these pressures impact upon our capacity to protect children and ourselves.
Exploring: An Essay
Authors: Relph Andrew
Published: November 2008

Exploring is the optimum mindset for the psychotherapist. From the outset, the project of Family Therapy offered both personal and theoretical support for this position. But have we lost the excitement of exploration in the conservative, correct and individually oriented world in which we practise? And does our style of communication hinder more than refresh us?
Fahrermodellierung im Kontext kognitiver Automobile Driver Modelling within the Context of Cognitive Automobiles
Authors: Deml Barbara , Neumann Hendrik , Müller André , Wünsche Hans Joachim
Published: November 2008

In dieser Arbeit werden vier Ansätze zur Fahrermodellierung vorgestellt und an einem Beispiel gezeigt, dass sich damit sowohl individuelle Unterschiede im Lenkverhalten als auch strategische Fahraufgaben abbilden lassen. Abschließend wird diskutiert, wie sich dies für die Entwicklung autonomer Fahrzeuge nutzen lässt.
Test- und Bewertungsmethoden für Sicherheitssysteme der Bahnführungsebene Test and Evaluation Methods for Safety Systems on the Guidance Level
Authors: Fecher Norbert , Regh Fabian , Habenicht Stefan , Hoffmann Jens , Winner Hermann
Published: November 2008

Im Rahmen dieses Artikels werden zwei methodische Ansätze vorgestellt, anhand derer die Frage nach dem bestehenden Prüfbedarf für Sicherheitssysteme der Bahnführungsebene einerseits aus System- und andererseits aus Manöversicht beantwortet wird. Basierend hierauf wird beispielhaft gezeigt, welche Bereiche mit bekannten Testverfahren bereits adressiert werden und wo noch Entwicklungsbedarf besteht. Am Beispiel des Darmstädter Verfahrens mit EVITA (Experimental Vehicle for Unexpected Target Approach) zur Bewertung von Frontalkollisionsgegenmaßnahmen werden Anforderungen, Umsetzung sowie die Validierung neuartiger Testverfahren gezeigt.
Ein Multiregler zur Erprobung vollautonomen Fahrens A Multi Controller for Testing Full-autonomous Driving
Authors: Werling Moritz , Gröll Lutz , Bretthauer Georg
Published: November 2008

Dieser Beitrag beschreibt ein Multireglerkonzept, welches verschiedene Quer- und Längsregler zur Erprobung vollautonomen Fahrens bereitstellt. Nach einer Beschreibung der praktischen Anforderungen an ein solches System, wird basierend auf der exakten Ein-/Ausgangslinearisierung eine Querregelungsstrategie beschrieben, der zwei Einspurmodelle mit unterschiedlichen Gültigkeitsbereichen zugrunde liegen. Der Querregler zeichnet sich durch Robustheit gegenüber Fehlern in der gemessenen GPS-Position und Bahnplanung sowie durch geringe Stetigkeitsanforderungen an die geplante Sollbahn aus, was für den prototypischen Einsatz in der Praxis von besonderer Bedeutung ist. Zur Realisierung einer Geschwindigkeits-, Abstands- und Anhalteregelung wird eine Ablösestrategie vorgestellt, welche zwischen verschiedenen Regelzielen stoßfrei wechselt. Der entworfene Multiregler wird in praktischen Fahrversuchen für verschiedene Szenarien erprobt und die Ergebnisse werden ausführlich dargestellt.
Political Expression in the Chinese Blogosphere: Below the Radar
Authors: Esarey Ashley , Qiang Xiao
Published: November 2008

This study examines subtle forms of political expression, including political satire and criticism of the state, in the writings of popular Chinese bloggers. It finds that the advent of blogging has provided citizens of the People's Republic with a medium for making sophisticated critiques of the regime without encountering harsh repression.
Dividing Seabed Hydrocarbon Resources in East Asia: A Comparative Analysis of the East China Sea and the Caspian Sea
Authors: Lee Yusin , Kim Sangjoon
Published: November 2008

This paper examines why there is no multinational regime governing resource extraction in the East China Sea. After comparing the East China Sea case with the partially successful regime governing Caspian Sea resources, we suggest two explanatory variables: relative power relations and trust factors.
Lithium-associated hyperparathyroidism: report of four cases and review of the literature
Authors: Szalat Auryan , Mazeh Haggi , Freund Herbert R
Published: November 2008

Context

Lithium-associated hyperparathyroidism (LAH) was first described in 1973 but many issues remain in question regarding the pathophysiology as well as the appropriate management of this condition.

Objective

Report of four new cases and review of the literature.

Results

We describe two males and two females, treated for more than 10 years with lithium due to bipolar disorder, who developed LAH. All underwent parathyroidectomy. In three cases (75%), pathology revealed multiglandular disease, with hyperplasia or two parathyroid adenomas. We observed a cure status in three (75%) of the operated patients. The fourth patient had a residual disease, but had controlled hypercalcemia under the calcimimetic drug cinacalcet. We also observed the association of LAH with incidental papillary thyroid carcinoma in two patients. Review of the literature identified a higher prevalence of LAH in women than men (four out of one) and a controversy in regard to the prevalence of multiglandular disease. As a result, there is no consensus regarding the preferred surgical procedure. The use of cinacalcet as an effective treatment of LAH was previously described in only five cases.

Conclusion

In our view, there are apparently two different mechanisms leading to LAH: exacerbation of a pre-existing state of hyperparathyroidism and multiglandular disease. For uncontrolled hypercalcemia, parathyroidectomy is recommended. The issue of routine four-gland exploration and subtotal parathyroidectomy versus intraoperative PTH-determination-guided excision of enlarged glands is still unresolved. The use of the recently developed calcimimetics may offer an alternative to patients who are not candidates for surgery.
Ancient Trans-specific Polymorphism at Pheromone Receptor Genes in Basidiomycetes
Authors: Devier Benjamin , Aguileta Gabriela , Hood Michael E , Giraud Tatiana
Published: November 2008

In the majority of sexual organisms, reproduction occurs almost exclusively through the combination of distinct and alternate forms, called sexes or mating types. In some fungi, there can be dozens to hundreds of alternate alleles that determine compatible mating types. Such extensive polymorphism is expected to be maintained by balancing selection, and in extreme cases may give rise to trans-specific polymorphism. Here, we analyzed sequences of two pheromone receptors in the Microbotryum fungal species complex (Basidiomycota), which has only two alternate mating types. Several lines of evidence strongly suggest that the pheromone receptors are two allelic sequences acting to determine the alternate A1 and A2 mating types required for mating in Microbotryum. Phylogenetic trees of pheromone receptors in the Microbotryum species complex indicated a trans-specific polymorphism: the Microbotryum sequences from a given mating type were all more similar to the pheromone receptors of distantly related classes of fungi than to the alternate pheromone receptor in the Microbotryum species. A phylogenetic tree built using other known pheromone receptors from basidiomycetes showed that trans-specific polymorphism is widespread. The pheromone receptor alleles from Microbotryum appeared as the oldest, being at least 370 million years old. This represents the oldest known trans-specific polymorphism known in any organism so far, which may be due to the existence of sex chromosomes, obligate sexuality, mitochondrial inheritance linked to the mating type, and a highly selfing mating system in Microbotryum.
On Spo16 and the Coefficient of Coincidence
Authors: Stahl Franklin W , Foss Henriette M
Published: November 2008

spo16 mutants in yeast were reported to have reduced map lengths, a high frequency of nondisjunction in the first meiotic division, and essentially unchanged coefficients of coincidence. Were all crossing over in yeast subject to interference, such data would suggest that the “designation” of recombination events to become crossovers is separable from the “implementation” of that crossing over. In the presence of coexisting interference and noninterference phases of crossing over, however, lack of change in the coefficient of coincidence may show only that spo16 reduces crossing over in the two phases by a similar factor.
The Effect of Thickened-Feed Interventions on Gastroesophageal Reflux in Infants: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized, Controlled Trials
Authors: Horvath Andrea , Dziechciarz Piotr , Szajewska Hania
Published: November 2008

CONTEXT. Currently, thickened feeds are increasingly being used to treat infants with gastroesophageal reflux, driven in large part by the baby food industry. Previous meta-analyses have shown that although thickened formulas do not seem to reduce measurable reflux, they may reduce vomiting. However, because data are limited, there is still uncertainty regarding the use of thickening agents.

OBJECTIVE. Our goal was to systematically evaluate and update data from randomized, controlled trials on the efficacy and safety of thickened feeds for the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux in healthy infants.

METHODS. The Cochrane Library, Medline, Embase, and CINAHL databases and proceedings of the European and North American pediatric gastroenterology conferences (from 2000) were searched in May 2008; additional references were obtained from reviewed articles. Only randomized, controlled trials that evaluated thickened feeds used in infants for at least several days for the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux were considered for inclusion. Three reviewers independently performed data extraction by using standard data-extraction forms. Discrepancies between reviewers were resolved by discussion between all authors. Only the consensus data were entered.

RESULTS. Fourteen randomized, controlled trials with a parallel or crossover design, some with methodologic limitations, were included. Use of thickened formulas compared with standard formula significantly increased the percentage of infants with no regurgitation, slightly reduced the number of episodes of regurgitation and vomiting per day (assessed jointly or separately), and increased weight gain per day; it had no effect on the reflux index, number of acid gastroesophageal reflux episodes per hour, or number of reflux episodes lasting >5 minutes but significantly reduced the duration of the longest reflux episode of pH < 4. No definitive data showed that one particular thickening agent is more effective than another. No serious adverse effects were noted.

CONCLUSIONS. This meta-analysis shows that thickened food is only moderately effective in treating gastroesophageal reflux in healthy infants.
Essay Marking on-Screen: Implications for Assessment Validity
Authors: Shaw Stuart
Published: November 2008

Computer-assisted assessment offers many benefits over traditional paper methods. However, in transferring from one medium to another, it is crucial to ascertain the extent to which the new medium may alter the nature of traditional assessment practice or affect marking reliability. Whilst there is a substantial body of research comparing marking and marker behaviour on-screen and on paper, only a paucity of the available literature relates to the marking of extended responses. Research into on-screen assessment of continuous writing and its impact upon markers' judgements is, therefore, both timely and important. This article reports on the insights drawn from a series of onscreen marking trials at Cambridge Assessment which attempt to investigate marker reliability of extended responses, construct validity and whether factors such as annotation and navigation differentially influence marker performance across marking modes. The findings described here seek to ascertain whether markers make qualitatively different assessments when marking the same piece of writing but through a different medium. The article explains how the trial influenced the decision to move to on-screen marking of Checkpoint English and highlights the challenge of maximising ease of marking without compromising assessment validity.
Recovery of Endogenous β-Cell Function in Nonhuman Primates After Chemical Diabetes Induction and Islet Transplantation
Authors: Bottino Rita , Criscimanna Angela , Casu Anna , He Jing , Van der Windt Dirk J. , Rudert William A. , Giordano Carla , Trucco Massimo
Published: November 2008

OBJECTIVE—To describe the ability of nonhuman primate endocrine pancreata to reestablish endogenous insulin production after chemical β-cell destruction.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS—Eleven monkeys (Macaca fascicularis) were rendered diabetic with streptozotocin. Eight diabetic monkeys received intraportal porcine islet transplantation.

RESULTS—Two monkeys transplanted after 75 days of type 1 diabetes showed recovery of endogenous C-peptide production a few weeks after transplantation, concomitant with graft failure. Histological analysis of the pancreas of these monkeys showed insulin-positive cells, single or in small aggregates, scattered in the pancreas and adjacent to ducts. Interestingly, numerous CK19+ cells costained with proinsulin and PDX-1 antibodies. Furthermore, the peculiar double phenotype glucagon-positive/GLUT2+ was observed. In these monkeys as well as in all others, the original islets showed no insulin staining.

CONCLUSIONS—Our data provide evidence that, in nonhuman primates, the pancreas can reestablish endogenous insulin production after chemical β-cell destruction. This seems to be a nongeneralizable event with only 2 out of 11 monkeys recovering β-cell function. In these two monkeys, younger age and islet graft behavior might have played a role in triggering endogenous β-cell recovery.
Medlicott Memorial Address
Authors: Hall Anne
Published: November 2008

I will be talking a little about my personal reminiscences of Professor Reg Medlicott, about his professional life and his philosophy. Towards the end I will be showing short excerpts of an interview Professor Basil James had with him in the 1980s.
Telepsychiatry in South Australia
Authors: Clarke Patrick , Hafner R. Julian
Published: November 2008

South Australia has a population of about 1.5 million, of whom one million live in Adelaide, the state capital. All except one of the state's 160 practising psychiatrists live in Adelaide or adjacent rural and semi-rural locations. Historically, professional and geographical isolation and lack of facilities have prevented psychiatrists from living and working outside the metropolitan environment.
Managing Scarcity: A Worked Example using Rurden and Efficacy
Authors: Andrews Gavin
Published: November 2008

Two thirds of people with a mental disorder now go untreated. All mental health professionals are busy and there is no prospect of an increase in the available labour force. So what should we do?
The Australasian Society for Psychiatric Research (ASPR)
Authors: Carr Vaughan J
Published: November 2008

In 1970, the late Professor Cecil Kidd and Scott Henderson discussed ways of strengthening psychiatric research in Australia. Being both from Aberdeen, the Scottish Society for Psychiatric Research was taken as a model. This model involved an annual forum for committed researchers, irrespective of discipline, and thus included psychologists, psychiatrists, statisticians, economists, basic scientists and so on. In Australia, the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists (RANZCP) was not regarded, at that time, as a suitable organisation for this purpose as it then had other priorities and included only psychiatrists within its membership. Thus, gathering together individuals from all relevant disciplines with an interest in psychiatric research would not have been possible under the auspices of the RANZCP.
President's Letter
Authors: Wilson Janice
Published: November 2008

I am writing this letter shortly after my first General Council meeting as President, held in mid-October. From my point of view this was a most productive meeting, the outcome of which should position us to meet more effectively some of the challenges before us in both our countries.
Biopsychosocial Perspectives on Psychological Trauma
Authors: Brown Paul
Published: November 2008

This College Special Interest Group on Psychological Trauma: Conference Report aims to focus interest and provide support for Fellows in their work with trauma. Specific goals include defining the role of the psychiatrist in trauma management, liaison within the College, and externally with other professional bodies, providing a forum for scientific debate; arranging educational updates and Cme activities; addressing strategic issues in training, march, and service provision &I Australasia and the Pac& Rim acknowledging ethical issues, and meeting forensic concerns.
Congress in Melbourne in 1998
Authors: Keks Nichola A
Published: November 2008

The 1998 College Congress will be held in Melbourne from 24-28 May. Its theme is Psyehiatry at the Interface.
Technical efficiency of wheat growers in some selected sites of Dinajpur District of Bangladesh
Authors: Kamruzzaman M , Islam Mohammad Hedayetul
Published: November 2008

The present study was undertaken to find out the technical efficiency and factors affecting inefficiency of wheat production in Dinajpur District of Bangladesh. The data were collected from 01 July to 30 September 2004. The range of technical efficiency varies from 40% to 99% and the average was 70.33%. Farmers with optimum sowing and optimum harvest were technically more efficient than the farmers with late sowing. In all farms technical efficiency was much higher for the farmers who use sandy loam soil for wheat production than the farmers who did not use sandy loam soil. There was a positive relationship between the educational level and technical efficiency of wheat practicing farmers. The farmers who contacted frequently with extension workers were technically more efficient than who contacted less with extension workers. Therefore, maintaining of optimum sowing and harvesting time, use of sandy loam soil, high level of farming experience and education are important factors for obtaining maximum achievable yield. Key Words: Technical efficiency, wheat growers, optimum sowing and harvest. doi:10.3329/bjar.v33i3.1595 Bangladesh J. Agril. Res. 33(3) : 363-373, September 2008
In vitro tuberization of potato influenced by benzyl adenine and chloro choline chloride
Authors: Zakaria M , Hossain MM , Mian MA Khaleque , Hossain T , Uddin MZ
Published: November 2008

In an experiment, six levels of benzyl adenine (0.2.5, 5.0, 7.5, 10.0, 12.5 and 15.0 mg/I) in combination with three levels of (CCC) chloro choline chloride (0,125, 250 and 500 mg/I) were evaluated against control treatment (0) in each case to find out their optimum levels for microtuberization in potato variety Diarnant. Microtuberization was the earliest by 13 days at 10 mg/I BA. The number and average weight of microtuber per flask vas increased with increasing rate of BA and reached maximum of 12.9 and 252.1 mg respectively at 10 mg/I BA and decreased onwards with further increase of BA concentration. The increase rate of CCC increased the number of microtuber but decreased average weight. The maximum number and average weight of microtuber were recorded at 500 mg/I CCC and in absence of CCC respectively. Key Words: BA, CCC, potato, microtuber. doi:10.3329/bjar.v33i3.1601 Bangladesh J. Agril. Res. 33(3) : 419-425, September 2008
Mango marketing system in selected areas of Bangladesh
Authors: Matin MA , Baset MA , Alam QM , Karim MR , Hasan MR
Published: November 2008

This study was carried out to identify the most efficient and suitable marketing channels of mango in some selected areas of Bangladesh by using primary data collected randomly from 90 farmers and 55 traders. Out of 55 traders, 15 were Bairals, 15 were Beparis. 9 Aratdar (local), 6 Aratdar (urban), 10 Retailers (both local and urban). According to the volume of mango handled and longevity or participation of the intermediaries in the channel, five major channels were identified as dominant in the study areas. The channel Farmer Bairal- Bepari-Aratdar (Dhaka)-Retailer (Dhaka)-Consumer ranked first. The results showed that channel V, Farmer-Retailer Consumer, possesses the highest marketing efficiency followed by channel IV, III, and II. The performance indicators revealed that the channel I and channel II were not relatively efficient in the mango producing regions. Unstable price of mango was the first rank problem in the study area. Establishment of mango processing plant in the intensive growing areas may be the remedy of the problem, which will ensure fair prices for the farmer. Key Words: Mango marketing, channels, problem. doi:10.3329/bjar.v33i3.1602 Bangladesh J. Agril. Res. 33(3) : 427-438, September 2008