bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Validation of RT‐PCR Assays for Molecular Characterization of Porcine Teschoviruses and Enteroviruses
Authors: La Rosa G. , Muscillo M. , Di Grazia A. , Fontana S. , Iaconelli M. , Tollis M.
Published: July 2006

Porcine enteroviruses (PEVs) and teschoviruses (PTVs) are described as causative agents of neurological disorders, fertility disorders and dermal lesions of swine. Difficulties in the serological detection of these viruses may lead to a significant underestimation of infections with clinical symptoms. With the recent availability of genome sequence data for all the serotypes, molecular diagnosis is a possibility. The present study describes a new approach to molecular ‘serotyping’ of PTVs and PEV‐B viruses, involving the amplification and sequencing of a genomic fragment of the VP1 coding region. A molecular characterization of Italian entero‐teschovirus isolates was performed using a set of previously published and newly designed polymerase chain reaction primers. A total of 33 porcine isolates and 10 reference strains were analysed. Porcine enterovirus‐B samples were first diagnosed as positive for enterovirus by amplification of the 5′‐non‐translated region. Samples were then typed by amplification and sequencing of a portion of the VP1 coding region. Porcine enterovirus‐A and PTVs were detected by a published assay in the 5′‐NC region that allows them to be differentiated according to the size of amplification product, using the same set of primers. For serotype characterization of PTV, we evaluated four different regions: the N terminus of the capsid protein VP2, the region encoding for RNA‐dependent RNA polymerase, and the capsid VP1 and VP4 regions. The newly designed primers in the VP1 region was proved to be broad in range and suitable for serotype assessment and therefore constitute a useful diagnostic tool for molecular diagnosis of porcine teschovirus/enterovirus strains and for the study of molecular epidemiology and evolution of these viruses.
Detection of Burkholderia cepacia DNA from Artificially Infected EDTA‐blood and Lung Tissue Comparing Different DNA Isolation Methods
Authors: Merk S. , Meyer H. , Greiser‐Wilke I. , Sprague L. D. , Neubauer H.
Published: July 2006

Bacterial DNA (Burkholderia cepacia) was prepared from artificially infected equine ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA)‐blood and lung tissue by using four standard methods (lysis buffer containing proteinase K, phenol/chloroform/isoamylalcohol‐extraction, microwave‐treatment, heat treatment) and six commercially available kits (Puregene®, High Pure PCR Template Preparation Kit®, InstaGene®, QiaAmp Tissue Kit®, DNAzol® and Elu‐Quik®). After a subsequent polymerase chain reaction (PCR), their efficacy and sensitivity were compared. Concerning the detection limits, the simple lysis with a proteinase K‐containing buffer led to the best results for EDTA‐blood as well as for artificially infected lung tissue.
Comparison of liver histopathology between chronic hepatitis C patients and chronic hepatitis B and C‐coinfected patients
Authors: Lee Li‐Po , Dai Chia‐Yen , Chuang Wan‐Long , Chang Wen‐Yu , Hou Nei‐Jen , Hsieh Ming‐Yen , Lin Zu‐Yau , Chen Shinn‐Cherng , Hsieh Ming‐Yuh , Wang Liang‐Yen , Chen Tong‐Jong , Yu Ming‐Lung
Published: July 2006

Background:  The aim of the present study was to compare the histological characteristics of livers between chronic hepatitis C (CHC) patients with and without hepatitis B virus (HBV) coinfection.

Methods:  A total of 336 CHC patients (male/female: 204/132, mean age: 46.1 ± 11.7 years) were enrolled in the study; 32 patients (9.8%) were positive for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg). The histological characteristics of livers were described according to the Knodell and Scheuer scoring system.

Results:  The proportion of non‐intralobular necrosis (score 0) was significantly lower and the mean intralobular necrosis score was higher among CHC patients with HBV coinfection than those without coinfection (43.8% vs 64.5%; 0.84 ± 1.05 vs 0.53 ± 0.89). The epidemiological and virological parameters, and other histological scores (periportal necrosis, portal inflammation, total necroinflammation and fibrosis) were not significantly different between these two groups.

Conclusion:  Chronic hepatitis C patients with HBV coinfection tend to have more severe intralobular necrosis than those with isolated HCV infection.
Weed flora in the Rift Valley sugarcane plantations of Ethiopia as influenced by soil types and agronomic practises
Authors: FIREHUN YIREFU , TAMADO TANA
Published: July 2006

A survey was carried out on 72 sugarcane fields in Wonji‐Shoa and Methara sugarcane plantations in the Rift Valley, Ethiopia, to determine the composition and distribution of weeds and to assess the influence of soil types and crop management practises on weed species composition and distribution. A total of 180 weed taxa belonging to 40 families was recorded. Poaceae, Asteraceae, Euphorbiaceae, Fabaceae, and Malvaceae were the most abundant families based on the number of species recorded. Annuals were more common (137 taxa) than perennials (43 taxa). The most frequent and problematic weed species in the plantations, irrespective of the soil types and crop types, were Cyperus spp., Sorghum spp., Euphorbia hirta, Ipomoea cordofana, Rhynchosia malacophylla, Datura stramonium, Launaea cornuta, Portulaca oleracea, and Amaranthus spp., with a frequency of > 65%. Perennial, rhizomatous Cyperus spp. were more dominant in ratoon crops than in plant crops. A partial canonical correspondence analysis (pCCA) showed that soil types, fertilizer application, and crop cycles were the major factors influencing the species distribution in the plantations among all the variables considered in the study. The first pCCA axis structured weed species associated with light‐textured soil in contrast to weeds on heavy soil. D. stramonium, Tagetes minuta, and Galinsoga parviflora were mostly associated with light‐textured soil, while Xanthium strumarium, Hibiscus trionum, Vigna fischeri, and Ipomoea eriocarpa were mostly associated with heavy‐textured soils. The second axis distinguished those species associated with fields receiving fertilizers versus those that were not fertilized. Rottboellia cochinchinensis and Phyllanthus tenellus were mainly associated with fertilized fields while E. hirta and L. cornuta were common on unfertilized fields.
Influence of sowing density and spatial pattern of spring wheat (Triticum aestivum) on the suppression of different weed species
Authors: OLSEN JANNIE , KRISTENSEN LARS , WEINER JACOB
Published: July 2006

To better understand the potential for improving weed management in cereal crops with increased crop density and spatial uniformity, we conducted field experiments over two years with spring wheat (Triticum aestivum) and four weed species: lambsquarters (Chenopodium album) , Italian ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum), white mustard (Sinapis alba), and chickweed (Stellaria media). The crops were sown at three densities (204, 449, and 721 seeds m−2) and in two spatial patterns (normal rows and a highly uniform pattern), and the weeds were sown in a random pattern at a high density. In most cases, the sown weeds dominated the weed community but, in other cases, naturally occurring weeds were also important. There were strong and significant effects regarding the weed species sown, the crop density, and the spatial distribution on the weed biomass in both years. The weed biomass decreased with increased crop density in 29 out of 30 cases. On average, the weed biomass was lower and the grain yield was higher in the uniform compared to the row pattern in both 2001 and 2002. Despite the differences in weed biomass, the responses of L. multiflorum, S. media, and C. album populations to crop density and spatial uniformity were very similar, as were their effects on the grain yield. Sinapis alba was by far the strongest competitor and it responded somewhat differently. Our results suggest that a combination of increased crop density and a more uniform spatial pattern can contribute to a reduction in weed biomass and yield loss, but the effects are smaller if the weeds are taller than the crop when crop–weed competition becomes intense.
Differential susceptibility of barnyard grass (Echinochloa crus‐galli var. crus‐galli) ecotypes to Exserohilum longirostratum
Authors: JURAIMI ABDUL SHUKOR , TASRIF ARIFIN , KADIR JUGAH , NAPIS SUHAIMI , SASTROUTOMO SOETIKNO SLAMET
Published: July 2006

Ten barnyard grass (Echinochloa crus‐galli var. crus‐galli) ecotypes collected from several locations in Malaysian and Indonesian granaries were tested for variation in their susceptibility to the leaf blight pathogen (Exserohilum longirostratum). Four phenological growth stages of the ecotypes were sprayed with E. longirostratum at the rate of 1 × 107 conidia mL−1 under glasshouse conditions. The results of the study showed that plants inoculated with 1 × 107 conidia mL−1 and exposed for 24 h dew periods were severely infected and the percentage dry weight reduction of all ecotypes significantly increased. The 1–2 and 2–3‐leaf stage plants were completely killed within 6 days after inoculation. However, susceptibility reactions among the ecotypes were observed at the 4–5‐leaf stage, while the 6–7‐leaf stage was resistant. The ecotypes, K‐02, PK‐04, KN‐02, CJ‐01, and L‐01, were the most susceptible ecotypes as indicated by a higher area under disease progress curve value. The apparent disease progress rates for these ecotypes were significantly faster compared to the other ecotypes. The dry weight reduction among the four growth stages was variable. These findings show that the 1–2 and 2–3‐leaf stages are the most susceptible, while the 6–7‐leaf stage was resistant. This study has confirmed that a variable response to the fungal pathogen occurred within an intraspecific barnyard grass collection.
The effects of calcitriol and nicotinamide on residual pancreatic β‐cell function in patients with recent‐onset Type 1 diabetes (IMDIAB XI)
Authors: Pitocco D. , Crinò A. , Di Stasio E. , Manfrini S. , Guglielmi C. , Spera S. , Anguissola G. Beretta , Visalli N. , Suraci C. , Matteoli M. C. , Patera I. P. , Cavallo M. G. , Bizzarri C. , Pozzilli P. ,   on behalf of the IMDIAB Group
Published: July 2006

Background  A number of recent studies underline the importance of vitamin D in the pathogenesis of Type 1 diabetes (T1D).

Aims  The aim of this study was to investigate whether supplementation with the active form of vitamin D (calcitriol) in subjects with recent‐onset T1D protects residual pancreatic β‐cell function and improves glycaemic control (HbA1c and insulin requirement).

Methods  In this open‐label randomized trial, 70 subjects with recent‐onset T1D, mean age 13.6 years ± 7.6 sd were randomized to calcitriol (0.25 µg on alternate days) or nicotinamide (25 mg/kg daily) and followed up for 1 year. Intensive insulin therapy was implemented with three daily injections of regular insulin + NPH insulin at bedtime.

Results  No significant differences were observed between calcitriol and nicotinamide groups in respect of baseline/stimulated C‐peptide or HbA1c 1 year after diagnosis, but the insulin dose at 3 and 6 months was significantly reduced in the calcitriol group.

Conclusions  At the dosage used, calcitriol has a modest effect on residual pancreatic β‐cell function and only temporarily reduces the insulin dose.
Long‐term benefits of continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion in children with Type 1 diabetes: a 4‐year follow‐up
Authors: Sulli N. , Shashaj B.
Published: July 2006

Aims  To determine the safety and effectiveness of continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) in attaining long‐term glycaemic control in paediatric patients with Type 1 diabetes and to compare the results with those previously recorded in the same patients taking multiple daily injections (MDI) (four injections a day).

Methods  Forty‐two patients (mean age 12.2 ± 3.4 years; range 4.5–17 years; 24 males; mean duration of Type 1 diabetes 5.1 ± 3.0 years) were studied. The following parameters were assessed in the year before starting CSII treatment (during MDI treatment) and during the 4 years of insulin pump treatment: annual mean HbA1c, insulin requirements (U/kg per day), annual mean of body mass index (BMI) z scores, and adverse events (severe hypoglycaemia and diabetic ketoacidosis/patient per year). Two patients discontinued pump therapy (after 1‐year and 2‐year follow‐up, respectively) because of non‐compliance with CSII therapy.

Results  Compared with the annual mean HbA1c observed prior to CSII therapy (8.9 ± 1.0%), the mean HbA1c levels were lower during the first (8.2 ± 0.9%; P = 0.00), second (8.6 ± 1.0%; P = 0.05), third (8.4 ± 0.9%; P = 0.01) and fourth (8.2 ± 1%; P = 0.00) year of CSII therapy. The insulin requirements (U/kg per day) decreased during CSII treatment compared with MDI treatment. Compared with the annual mean of BMI z scores prior to CSII therapy, BMI z scores were significantly lower during the third and fourth years of CSII therapy. Through the first, second, third and fourth years of follow‐up the number of episodes of severe hypoglycaemia (20.0, 20.0, 20.0 and 0 episodes/1000 patient‐years, respectively) and diabetic ketoacidosis (0.05, 0.00, 0.03 and 0.00 episodes/patient per year, respectively), events were similar to that in the year preceding CSII therapy (20.0 and 0.03, respectively).

Conclusion  In this population of selected patients in our clinic, CSII appears to be a safe and effective therapeutic alternative to MDI treatment. This therapy may ensure a stable improvement in long‐term glycaemic control in paediatric patients, with no increase in diabetic ketoacidosis and severe hypoglycaemic events and, on the other hand, with a trend of reduction in BMI z scores.
Convergence, Degeneracy, and Control
Authors: Green David W. , Crinion Jenny , Price Cathy J.
Published: July 2006

Understanding the neural representation and control of language in normal bilingual speakers provides insights into the factors that constrain the acquisition of another language, insights into the nature of language expertise, and an understanding of the brain as an adaptive system. We illustrate both functional and structural brain changes associated with acquiring other languages and discuss the value of neuroimaging data in identifying individual differences and different phenotypes. Understanding normal variety is vital too if we are to understand the consequences of brain damage in bilingual and polyglot speakers.
Executive Control in Bilingual Language Processing
Authors: Rodriguez‐Fornells A. , De Diego Balaguer R. , Münte T. F.
Published: July 2006

Little is known in cognitive neuroscience about the brain mechanisms and brain representations involved in bilingual language processing. On the basis of previous studies on switching and bilingualism, it has been proposed that executive functions are engaged in the control and regulation of the languages in use. Here, we review the existing evidence regarding the implication of executive functions in bilingual processing using event‐related brain potentials and functional magnetic resonance imaging. Several brain potential experiments have shown an increased negativity at frontocentral areas in bilinguals, probably related to the activation of medial prefrontal regions, for different tasks, languages, and populations. Enhanced cognitive control is required in bilinguals, which also involves the recruitment of the left dorso‐lateral prefrontal cortex. The degree of activation of this mechanism is also discussed considering the similarity of languages in use at the lexical, grammatical, and phonological levels. We propose that the prefrontal cortex probably mediates cognitive control in bilingual speakers through the interplay between a top‐down selection‐suppression mechanism and a local inhibitory mechanism in charge of changing the degree of selection‐suppression of the different lexicons.
Novice Learners, Longitudinal Designs, and Event‐Related Potentials: A Means for Exploring the Neurocognition of Second Language Processing
Authors: Osterhout Lee , McLaughlin Judith , Pitkänen Ilona , Frenck‐Mestre Cheryl , Molinaro Nicola
Published: July 2006

Research on the neurobiology of second language (L2) learning has historically focused on localization questions and relied on cross‐sectional designs. Here, we describe an alternative paradigm involving longitudinal studies of adult, novice learners who are progressing through an introductory sequence of classroom‐based L2 instruction. The goal of this paradigm is to determine how much L2 exposure is needed before learners incorporate L2 knowledge into their online comprehension processes, as reflected in scalp‐recorded event‐related brain potentials. Our preliminary studies show that some, but not all, aspects of the L2 (including lexical and morphosyntactic aspects) are incorporated into the comprehension system after remarkably little L2 instruction. We discuss the benefits of this paradigm while acknowledging the limitations and potential difficulties associated with it.
L2 in a Nutshell: The Investigation of Second Language Processing in the Miniature Language Model
Authors: Mueller Jutta L.
Published: July 2006

The present chapter bridges two lines of neurocognitive research, which are, despite being related, usually discussed separately from each other. The two fields, second language (L2) sentence comprehension and artificial grammar processing, both depend on the successful learning of complex sequential structures. The comparison of the two research directions will be taken as the starting point for the attempt to study L2 sentence comprehension using a miniature language model. The experiments that will be presented made use of the event‐related potential (ERP) method, which provides a sensitive tool for the fast and multidimensional processes that characterize online processing of sequential structures.The first part of the article provides an overview of ERP studies on first and second language sentence comprehension and compares these to findings from the field of artificial grammar processing. In the second part, two studies in which native and nonnative sentence processing in the model of a miniature version of Japanese was investigated is presented. The findings of these studies suggest that miniature languages can serve as useful tools for capturing the impressive degree of plasticity as well as certain limitations in language comprehension mechanisms applied by learners.
A Meta‐analysis of Hemodynamic Studies on First and Second Language Processing: Which Suggested Differences Can We Trust and What Do They Mean?
Authors: Indefrey Peter
Published: July 2006

This article presents the results of a meta‐analysis of 30 hemodynamic experiments comparing first language (L1) and second language (L2) processing in a range of tasks. The results suggest that reliably stronger activation during L2 processing is found (a) only for task‐specific subgroups of L2 speakers and (b) within some, but not all regions that are also typically activated in native language processing. A tentative interpretation based on the functional roles of frontal and temporal regions is suggested.
Increase in pore area, and not pore density, is the main determinant in the development of porosity in human cortical bone
Authors: Thomas C. David L. , Feik Sophie A. , Clement John G.
Published: July 2006

This study investigated the relative contributions of pore size and pore density (number of pores per mm2) to porosity in the midshaft of the human femur. Cross‐sections were obtained from 168 individuals from a modern Australian population (mostly Anglo‐Celtic). The study group comprised 73 females and 95 males, aged from 20 to 97 years. Microradiographs were made of 100‐µm sections and porosity, pore areas and pore densities determined using image processing software. The cortex was divided into three rings radially and into octants circumferentially, and the porosity, pore area and pore density of each segment were calculated. Results show that 81% of the variance in porosity can be explained by changes in mean pore area with only a further 12–16% explained by changes in pore density. These effects were found to be constant across all areas of the cortex and in both sexes. These results are significant in their consistency and ordered gradation and indicate a well‐regulated and systematic process of bone removal with ageing. The results show a regular progression from less porous to more porous bone; this is a uniform process that occurs in all individuals, and factors such as sex and rate of ageing determine where on this continuum any individual is at a particular time.
Histology of selected tissues of the leopard seal and implications for functional adaptations to an aquatic lifestyle
Authors: Gray Rachael , Canfield Paul , Rogers Tracey
Published: July 2006

The microscopic anatomy of the cardio‐respiratory system, digestive system, kidney, lymphatic system and integument was investigated in the leopard seal, Hydrurga leptonyx, by examining histological sections of tissues collected from leopard seals in Antarctica and New South Wales, Australia. The majority of the tissues had similar histological features to those described in terrestrial mammals and other pinniped species, particularly phocid seals. Differences noted included readily identifiable Purkinje cells within the endocardium, muscular rather than cartilaginous reinforcement of the smaller airways, a single capillary layer within the alveolar septa, limited and variable keratinization of the oesophageal epithelium, few lymphoid follicles within the lamina propria of the gastrointestinal tract, and an absence of a sporta perimedullaris musculosa described in the kidney of cetaceans and some pinniped species. Adaptations of the lung, spleen and integument, similar to those described in other pinnipeds, including reinforcement of the pulmonary terminal airways, prominent pulmonary interlobular septa, ample smooth muscle in the capsule and trabeculae of the spleen, increased thickness of the epidermis, well‐developed dermal sebaceous glands, and a thick blubber layer, appear to confer upon the leopard seal advantages related to its aquatic lifestyle.
Adaptive conditioning of skeletal muscle in a large animal model (Sus domesticus)
Authors: Sutherland Hazel , Salmons Stanley , Ramnarine Ian R. , Capoccia Massimo , Walsh Adrian A. , Jarvis Jonathan C.
Published: July 2006

Recognition of the adaptive capacity of mammalian skeletal muscle has opened the way to a number of clinical applications. For most of these, the fast, fatigue‐susceptible fibres need to be transformed stably to fast, fatigue‐resistant fibres that express the 2A myosin heavy chain isoform. The thresholds for activity‐induced change are size‐dependent, so although the requisite patterns of electrical stimulation are known for the rabbit, in humans these same patterns would produce type 1 fibre characteristics, with an undesirable loss of contractile speed and power. We have used histochemistry, immunohistochemistry and electrophoretic separations to evaluate a possible conditioning regime in a large animal model. Stimulation of the porcine latissimus dorsi muscle with a phasic 30‐Hz pattern for up to 41 days converted all type 2X and 2A/2X fibres to 2A with only a small increase in the type 1 population, from 17% to 22%. Stimulation for longer periods increased the proportion of type 1 fibres to 52%. Based on this model, stimulation regimes designed to achieve a stable 2A phenotype in humans should deliver fewer stimulating impulses, possibly by a factor of 2, than the pattern assessed here. Any such pattern needs to be tested for at least 8 weeks.
Connections of the zona incerta to the reticular nucleus of the thalamus in the rat
Authors: Çavdar Safiye , Onat Filiz , Çakmak Yusuf Özgür , Saka Erdinç , Yananli Hasan R. , Aker Rezzan
Published: July 2006

This study demonstrated that there is a pathway from the zona incerta to the thalamic reticular nucleus. Injections of horseradish peroxidase or Fluorogold were made, using stereotaxic coordinates, into the rostral, intermediate or caudal regions of the thalamic reticular nucleus of adult Sprague–Dawley rats. The results show that the different regions of the thalamic reticular nucleus have distinct patterns of connections with the sectors of the zona incerta. In terms of the relative strength of the connections, injections made into the rostral regions of the thalamic reticular nucleus showed the highest number of labelled cells within the rostral and ventral sectors of the zona incerta; injections made into the intermediate regions of the thalamic reticular nucleus showed labelled cells in the dorsal and ventral sectors; while injections to the caudal regions of the thalamic reticular nucleus showed only a few labelled cells in the caudal sector of the zona incerta. Previous studies have shown that the zona incerta projects to the higher order thalamic nuclei but not first order thalamic nuclei. The labelling observed in the present study may represent collaterals of zona incerta to higher order thalamic nuclei projections.
Morphogenesis of the human excretory lacrimal system
Authors: De La Cuadra‐Blanco C. , Peces‐Peña M. D. , Jáñez‐Escalada L. , Mérida‐Velasco J. R.
Published: July 2006

The aim of this study was to determine the principal developmental stages in the formation of the excretory lacrimal system in humans and to establish its morphogenetic period. The study was performed using light microscopy on serial sections of 51 human specimens: 33 embryos and 18 fetuses ranging from 8 to 137 mm crown–rump length (CR; 5–16 weeks of development). Three stages were identified in the morphogenesis of the excretory lacrimal system: (1) the formative stage of the lacrimal lamina (Carnegie stages 16–18); (2) the formative stage of the lacrimal cord (Carnegie stages 19–23); and (3) the maturative stage of the excretory lacrimal system, from the 9th week of development onward. A three‐dimensional reconstruction of the excretory lacrimal system was performed from serial sections of an embryo at the end of the embryonic period (27 mm CR).
Developmentally‐regulated expression of tissue‐specific splice variant of rat vesicular glutamate transporter 1 in retina and pineal gland
Authors: Nogami Haruo , Ogasawara Kiyomoto , Mimura Yuka , Mogi Koichi , Shutoh Fumihiro , Hisano Setsuji
Published: July 2006

Three distinct subtypes of vesicular glutamate transporters (VGLUTs) have been identified to date that are expressed basically in a cell type‐specific manner. We have found a splice variant of VGLUT1 mRNA that is expressed almost exclusively in photosensitive tissues, i.e. the retina and the pineal gland. The variant mRNA, termed VGLUT1v, contains an additional 75 base pair sequence derived from part of a second intron (designated as exon IIa) between exons 2 and 3. The variant accounted for approximately 70% and 25%of VGLUT1 mRNA in the adult retina and pineal gland, respectively. The expression of VGLUT1v was developmentally regulated in both tissues. Organ culture showed that expression of the variant in the retina increased in association with the development of rod cells, suggesting that VGLUT1v is expressed in rod cells. In situ hybridization with variant‐specific probes showed expression of VGLUT1v in the inner segment layer of photoreceptor cells. On the other hand, variant expression did not parallel the development of rhodopsin‐positive cells in the pineal gland. As rod cells and pinealocytes are known to release glutamate continuously at ribbon synapses, it is possible that the variant has some functional advantage over the wild‐type transporter in such a specialized manner of glutamate release.
Cannabinoid–serotonin interactions in alcohol‐preferring vs. alcohol‐avoiding mice
Authors: Kelaï Sabah , Hanoun Naïma , Aufrère Gilles , Beaugé Françoise , Hamon Michel , Lanfumey Laurence
Published: July 2006

Because cannabinoid and serotonin (5‐HT) systems have been proposed to play an important role in drug craving, we investigated whether cannabinoid 1 (CB1) and 5‐HT1Areceptor ligands could affect voluntary alcohol intake in two mouse strains, C57BL/6 J and DBA/2 J, with marked differences in native alcohol preference. When offered progressively (3–10% ethanol) in drinking water, in a free‐choice procedure, alcohol intake was markedly lower (∼ 70%) in DBA/2 J than in C57BL/6 J mice. In DBA/2 J mice, chronic treatment with the cannabinoid receptor agonist WIN 55,212–2 increased alcohol intake. WIN 55,212–2 effect was prevented by concomitant, chronic CB1 receptor blockade by rimonabant or chronic 5‐HT1Areceptor stimulation by 8‐hydroxy‐2‐(di‐n‐propylamino)‐tetralin, which, on their own, did not affect alcohol intake. In C57BL/6 J mice, chronic treatment with WIN 55,212–2 had no effect but chronic CB1 receptor blockade or chronic 5‐HT1Areceptor stimulation significantly decreased alcohol intake. Parallel autoradiographic investigations showed that chronic treatment with WIN 55,212–2 significantly decreased 5‐HT1A‐mediated [35S]guanosine triphosphate‐γ‐S binding in the hippocampus of both mouse strains. Conversely, chronic rimonabant increased this binding in C57BL/6 J mice. These results show that cannabinoid neurotransmission can exert a permissive control on alcohol intake, possibly through CB1–5–HT1Ainteractions. However, the differences between C57BL/6 J and DBA/2 J mice indicate that such modulations of alcohol intake are under genetic control.
Mortality Following Defibrillator Implantation in Patients with Renal Insufficiency
Authors: ECKART ROBERT E. , GULA LORNE J. , REYNOLDS MATTHEW R. , SHRY ERIC A. , MAISEL WILLIAM H.
Published: July 2006

Introduction: Patients with renal insufficiency have an increased risk of atherosclerotic coronary artery disease, cardiovascular events, and sudden cardiac death. Due to under‐representation of patients with renal disease in large clinical trials, outcomes of implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) implantation in this group remain unclear.

Methods and Results: Inpatient and ambulatory records were reviewed for 741 consecutive patients undergoing 947 defibrillator implants or replacements at Department of Defense Medical Facilities. Demographics, medical history, and mortality were reviewed. The mean age of the cohort was 64 ± 14 years and 599 (80.8%) were male. There were 173 patients (23.3%) with chronic renal insufficiency, 22 (3.0%) undergoing hemodialysis, and 546 (73.7%) without reported renal disease. The mean number of annual hospital admissions for heart failure among patients with and without renal failure was 3.8 ± 4.0 versus 1.2 ± 1.9 (P < 0.0001), respectively. The 1‐year survival for those without renal insufficiency was 96.6%, compared to 87.8% for those with chronic renal insufficiency, and 88.7% for those undergoing hemodialysis. Multivariate analysis demonstrated a significant association between mortality among ICD patients and renal insufficiency, independent of coexisting congestive heart failure, ischemic cardiomyopathy, and diabetes mellitus (P < 0.0001).

Conclusions: Among ICD recipients, those with renal insufficiency have a significantly higher mortality rate than those without renal insufficiency. Among a cohort of patients with ICDs, those with known renal insufficiency have higher rates of health care resource utilization and more heart failure admissions. Development of a national registry for ICDs should include data with regard to renal function.
Real Time Three‐Dimensional Echocardiography in Assessing Ventricular Septal Defects: An Echocardiographic‐Surgical Correlative Study
Authors: Chen Fong Lin , Hsiung Ming Chon , Nanda Navin , Hsieh Kai Sheng , Chou Ming Chih
Published: July 2006

Background: Two‐dimensional echocardiography (2DE) enhanced by combining with color Doppler technology has significant limitations in providing precise quantitative information, geometric assumptions to calculate chamber volume, mass, and ejection fraction. Reconstructed three‐dimensional echocardiographic (3DE) systems (from multiple cross‐sectional echocardiographic scans) are still cumbersome and time‐consuming. Real time 3DE (RT‐3DE) with shorter imaging time than with 3D reconstruction techniques can obtain qualitative and quantitative information on heart disorders. Our purpose was to investigate the feasibility and potential value of RT‐3DE as a means of accurately and quantitatively estimating the size of VSD to correlate with the surgical findings. Materials and methods: 38 patients with VSD were examined with RT‐3DE. 3D image database was postprocessed using TomTec echo 3D workstation. The results were compared with the results measured by 2 DE and surgical findings. RT‐3DE produced novel views of VSD and improved quantification of the size of the defect. The sizes obtained from 3DE have equivalent correlation with surgical findings as diameter measured by 2DE (r = 0.89 vs r = 0.90). Good agreement between blinded observers was achieved by little interobserver variability. Conclusion: RT‐3DE offers intraoperative visualization of VSD to generate a “virtual sense of depth” without extending examining time. From an LV en face projection, the positions, sizes, and shapes of VSDs can be accurately determined to permit quantitative recording of VSD dynamics. It is a potentially valuable clinical tool to provide precise imaging for surgical and catheter‐based closure of difficult perimembranous and singular or multiple muscular VSD
Updating reionization scenarios after recent data
Authors: Choudhury T. Roy , Ferrara A.
Published: July 2006

The recent release of data on (i) high-redshift source counts from the Near Infrared Camera and Multi-Object Spectrometer (NICMOS) Hubble Ultra Deep Field (HUDF) and (ii) electron scattering optical depth from the Wilkinson Microwave Anisotropy Probe (WMAP) requires a re-examination of reionization scenarios. Using an improved self-consistent reionization model, based on Choudhury & Ferrara, we determine the range of reionization histories which can match a wide variety of data sets simultaneously. The updated constraints from our analysis imply that hydrogen reionization starts at around z≈ 15, driven by the metal-free Population III (PopIII) stars (with normal Salpeter-like initial mass functions), and it is 90 per cent complete by z≈ 10. The photoionizing power of the PopIII stars fades for z≲ 10 because of concomitant action radiative and chemical feedbacks, which causes the reionization process to stretch considerably and to end only by z≈ 6. The combination of different data sets still favours a non-zero contribution from metal-free stars, with star-forming efficiencies larger than 2 per cent.
Elastic or magnetic? A toy model for global magnetar oscillations with implications for quasi-periodic oscillations during flares
Authors: Glampedakis Kostas , Samuelsson Lars , Andersson Nils
Published: July 2006

We use a simple toy-model to discuss global magnetohydrodynamic modes of a neutron star, taking into account the magnetic coupling between the elastic crust and the fluid core. Our results suggest that the notion of pure torsional crust modes is not useful for the coupled system. All modes excite Alfvén waves in the core. However, we also show that the modes that are most likely to be excited by a fractured crust, e.g. during a magnetar flare, are such that the crust and the core oscillate in concert. For our simple model, the frequencies of these modes are similar to the ‘pure crustal’ frequencies. In addition, our model provides a natural explanation for the presence of lower frequency (<30 Hz) quasi-periodic oscillations seen in the 2004 December giant flare of SGR 1806–20.
Drainage spacing regularity on a fault‐block: A case study from the eastern Ruahine Range
Authors: Purdie Heather , Brook Martin
Published: July 2006

Abstract:  Recent research has indicated river basin outlets draining linear sections of large, uplifting mountain belts often show a regularity of spacing, transverse to the main structural trend. A morphometric analysis of part of the Ruahine Range, on the North Island was undertaken to test whether drainage regularity may exist in smaller, younger mountain ranges. The ratio, R, of the half‐width of the mountain belt, W, and the outlet spacing, S, was used to characterize drainage networks on the eastern side of the range. The spacing ratio for the range of 1.31 is lower than R results from studies of larger mountain belts (R = 1.91–2.23). We suggest the cause of this lower ratio is related to eastward migration of the Ruahine drainage divide.
Building a sustainable urban future: An Auckland experience
Authors: Papprill Jocelyn
Published: July 2006

Abstract:  The Untouched World Sustainable Cities Youth pilot project was held in Auckland in July 2005. This article outlines the activities that school students were involved in during the week and reflects on the nature of the learning experience. Whilst not specifically targeted at geography students or teachers, the project does support the outcomes of senior high school geography programmes.
The search for uranium in ‘nuclear‐free’ New Zealand: Prospecting on the West Coast, 1940s to 1970s
Authors: Priestley Rebecca
Published: July 2006

Abstract:  In a government search for uranium in 1944–1946, uneconomic deposits of radioactive minerals were found concentrated in dredge tailings on the West Coast. In 1954 a new search was initiated, leading to the 1955 discovery of uranium in the Buller Gorge. In the 25‐year investigation programme that followed, prospectors were assisted by staff from the Mines Department and the Geological Survey and were funded by grants from the New Zealand and UK governments. The prospecting continued unchallenged by the media or peace or environmental movements until 1979 when it ended for economic rather than philosophical reasons.
Providing the evidence: Geographic accessibility of maternity units in New Zealand
Authors: Beere Paul , Brabyn Lars
Published: July 2006

Abstract:  Public health planners should be providing evidence to the public that maternity units are fairly distributed. This research demonstrates how a Geographical Information System (GIS) can be used to provide information on travel time to the closest maternity unit from the 38 000 population census enumeration districts in New Zealand. The distribution of accessibility is mapped and regions and population groups that appear under‐serviced are highlighted. We conclude by stating that GIS accessibility models provide important evidence for health policy and that the information generated from these models should be routinely produced for a wide range of health services and communicated to the public.
China's Current Real Estate Cycle and Potential Financial Risks
Authors: Zhang Xiaojing , Sun Tao
Published: July 2006

The real estate cycle and financial stability are closely correlated. In light of global real estate bubbles, China's real estate cycle has attracted wide attention since 1998. The present paper analyzes three driving factors in the context of the current real estate cycle; namely, economic growth, macroeconomic environment and institutional establishment. Supported by econometric analysis using quarterly data from 1992–2004, the present paper indicates that real estate will develop steadily and that housing prices will consistently rise in the relative long run. Based on quantitative analysis, it is concluded that the implications of the current real estate cycle for financial stability include risks of real estate credit exposure, government guarantees and maturity mismatch. Some corresponding policy implications are discussed, such as advancing banking reform, encouraging the rational behavior of local governments and strengthening the regulation of foreign capital flows in and out of China's real estate industry.

(Edited by Xinyu Fan)
China and India: An Era of Escalating Economic Interaction
Authors: Das Dilip K.
Published: July 2006

As ancient civilizations China and India had close cultural and commercial ties, but they drifted apart after eleventh century until the mid‐twentieth century. In the 1990s, the two emerging‐market economies once again began to interact and become economically close. The bilateral relationship was strengthened by political initiatives and determination from both sides. Their mutual trade and investment are on the rise and their new relationship has been evolving in accordance with the new diplomatic stance of conciliation. The bilateral economic bonds are likely to involve both competitive and collaborative dimensions. The two neighbors have determined to develop more extensive cooperation in regional and international affairs.

(Edited by Zhinan Zhang)
How we do it: Cost–benefit analysis of implementing a telephone review system in an ENT outpatient setting
Authors: Anari S. , Arullendran P. , Reilly J.
Published: July 2006

Keypoints

• There is an increasing pressure on the National Health Service (NHS) hospital consultants to reduce the waiting times.

• We have used an optional telephone review for a certain number of our outpatients so as to reduce the need for their in‐person attendance.

• The result of our study, which was conducted in two phases, showed that almost half of the telephone follow‐up patients (48%) were discharged over the phone. There was a direct saving of approximately £30 per patient having a telephone follow‐up.
Human papillomavirus and head and neck cancer: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Hobbs C.G.L. , Sterne J.A.C. , Bailey M. , Heyderman R.S. , Birchall M.A. , Thomas S.J.
Published: July 2006

Keypoints

•It has been suggested that the link between human papillomavirus (HPV) and head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is specific to carcinoma of the tonsil.

• We systematically reviewed studies that tested for HPV16 exposure in anatomically defined sites in the head and neck and a control group.

• The association between HPV16 and cancer was strongest for tonsil (OR: 15.1, 95% CI: 6.8–33.7), intermediate for oropharynx (OR: 4.3, 95% CI: 2.1–8.9) and weakest for oral (OR: 2.0, 95% CI: 1.2–3.4) and larynx (OR: 2.0, 95% CI: 1.0–4.2).

• To investigate heterogeneity, further stratification by method of HPV16 detection, suggested that variation in the magnitude of the HPV‐cancer association with cancer site was restricted to studies using ELISA: among studies using PCR, the magnitude of the summary odds ratios was similar across the four sites.

• The association between HPV16 infection and HNSCC in specific sites suggests the strongest and most consistent association is with tonsil cancer, and the magnitude of this association is consistent with an infectious aetiology.

• However, the method of viral detection may be an important source of heterogeneity. Resolution of this issue will require further studies using both methods, examining associations separately in different sites.
Order Reduction of Parametrically Excited Linear and Nonlinear Structural Systems
Authors: Deshmukh Venkatesh , Butcher Eric A. , Sinha S. C.
Published: July 2006

Order reduction of parametrically excited linear and nonlinear structural systems represented by a set of second order equations is considered. First, the system is converted into a second order system with time invariant linear system matrices and (for nonlinear systems) periodically modulated nonlinearities via the Lyapunov-Floquet transformation. Then a master-slave separation of degrees of freedom is used and a relation between the slave coordinates and the master coordinates is constructed. Two possible order reduction techniques are suggested. In the first approach a constant Guyan-like linear kernel which accounts for both stiffness and inertia is employed with a possible periodically modulated nonlinear part for nonlinear systems. The second method for nonlinear systems reduces to finding a time-periodic nonlinear invariant manifold relation in the modal coordinates. In the process, closed form expressions for “true internal” and “true combination” resonances are obtained for various nonlinearities which are generalizations of those previously reported for time-invariant systems. No limits are placed on the size of the time-periodic terms thus making this method extremely general even for strongly excited systems. A four degree-of-freedom mass- spring-damper system with periodic stiffness and damping as well as two and five degree-of-freedom inverted pendula with periodic follower forces are used as illustrative examples. The nonlinear-based reduced models are compared with linear-based reduced models in the presence and absence of nonlinear resonances.
On the Control of Axially Moving Material Systems
Authors: Zhao Haiyu , Rahn Christopher D.
Published: July 2006

Vibration control can improve the performance of many axially moving material systems (e.g., web handling machines and tape drives). Researchers have used Lyapunov analysis to develop vibration stabilizing controllers for distributed parameter models of axially moving material systems. Both the material and regular time derivatives have been used in these analyses despite the fact that they give different results. This paper proves that for a pinned axially moving string model: (i) Lyapunov stability analysis using the material derivative incorrectly predicts that a time-varying functional is constant and (ii) neglect of the coupled domain in boundary control analysis is ill posed and incorrectly predicts bounded forced response and exponentially decaying transients.
A Method for Liquid Level Detection Under Complicated Boundary Conditions
Authors: May Frank , Dual Jürg
Published: July 2006

In this paper a method of liquid level detection by mechanical resonant vibrations is presented which is based on longitudinal vibrations of a steel capillary and is able to detect a liquid surface even if covered with foam, as well as if the fluid container is shut by a cap. The behavior of the vibrating system is calculated by a simple model and compared with experimental results.
A Spectral Finite Element Model for Wave Propagation Analysis in Laminated Composite Plate
Authors: Chakraborty A. , Gopalakrishnan S.
Published: July 2006

A new spectral plate element (SPE) is developed to analyze wave propagation in anisotropic laminated composite media. The element is based on the first-order laminated plate theory, which takes shear deformation into consideration. The element is formulated using the recently developed methodology of spectral finite element formulation based on the solution of a polynomial eigenvalue problem. By virtue of its frequency-wave number domain formulation, single element is sufficient to model large structures, where conventional finite element method will incur heavy cost of computation. The variation of the wave numbers with frequency is shown, which illustrates the inhomogeneous nature of the wave. The element is used to demonstrate the nature of the wave propagating in laminated composite due to mechanical impact and the effect of shear deformation on the mechanical response is demonstrated. The element is also upgraded to an active spectral plate clement for modeling open and closed loop vibration control of plate structures. Further, delamination is introduced in the SPE and scattered wave is captured for both broadband and modulated pulse loading.