bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Surgical Technique, Postoperative Complications and Outcome in 14 Dogs Treated for Hydrocephalus by Ventriculoperitoneal Shunting
Authors: de Stefani Alberta , de Risio Luisa , Platt Simon R. , Matiasek Lara , Lujan‐Feliu‐Pascual Alejandro , Garosi Laurent S.
Published: January 2011

Objective:To report frequency and type of complications, and outcome in dogs with severe neurologic signs secondary to internal, suspected obstructive hydrocephalus treated by ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunting.

Study Design:Case series.

Animals:Dogs (n=14).

Methods:Medical records (2001–2006) was reviewed for dogs that had VP shunting. Inclusion criteria were complete medical record, progressive forebrain signs unresponsive to medical treatment, normal metabolic profile, negative antibody titers and/or cerebrospinal PCR forToxoplasma gondii, Neospora caninum, andcanine distemper virus, magnetic resonance images of the brain, confirmed diagnosis of VP shunting, and follow‐up information.

Results:Hydrocephalus was idiopathic in 5 dogs and acquired (interventricular tumors, intraventricular hemorrhage, inflammatory disease) in 9 dogs. Four dogs developed complications 1 week to 18 months postoperatively, including ventricular catheter migration, infection, shunt under‐drainage, kinking of the peritoneal catheter, valve fracture, and abdominal skin necrosis. Three of these dogs had 1 or more successful revision surgeries and 1 dog was successfully treated with antibiotics. All, but 1 dog, were discharged within 1 week of surgery, and had substantial neurologic improvement. Median survival time for all dogs was 320 days (1–2340 days), for dogs with idiopathic hydrocephalus, 274 (60–420) days and for dogs with secondary hydrocephalus, 365 (1–2340) days.

Conclusions:VP shunting was successful in relieving neurologic signs in most dogs and postoperative complications occurred in 29%, but were resolved medically or surgically.
Arthrodesis of the Equine Proximal Interphalangeal Joint: A Biomechanical Comparison of 3‐Hole 4.5 mm Locking Compression Plate and 3‐Hole 4.5 mm Narrow Dynamic Compression Plate, with Two Transarticular 5.5 mm Cortex Screws
Authors: Zoppa André L. V. , Santoni Brandon , Puttlitz Christian M. , Cochran Kayla , Hendrickson Dean A.
Published: January 2011

Objectives: To compare the biomechanical characteristics of 2 arthrodesis techniques for the equine proximal interphalangeal joint (PIP) using either a 3‐hole 4.5 mm locking compression plate (LCP) or 3‐hole 4.5 mm narrow dynamic compression plate (DCP), both with 2 transarticular 5.5 mm cortex screws.

Study Design: Experimental.

Sample Population: Cadaveric adult equine forelimbs (*n=6 pairs).

Methods: For each forelimb pair, 1 limb was randomly assigned to 1 of 2 treatment groups and the contralateral limb by default to the other treatment group. Construct stiffness, gap formation across the PIP joint, and rotation about the PIP joint were determined for each construct before cyclic axial loading and after each of four, 5000 cycle loading regimens. After the 20,000 cycle axial loading regimen, each construct was loaded to failure.

Results: There were no significant differences in construct stiffness, gap formation, or sagittal plane rotation between the LCP and DCP treatment groups at any of the measured time points.

Conclusion: Biomechanically, fixation of the equine PIP joint with a 3‐hole 4.5 mm LCP is equivalent to fixation with a 3‐hole 4.5 mm narrow DCP under the test conditions used.
Deconstructing School Choice: Problem Schools or Problem Students?
Authors: Rabovsky Thomas
Published: January 2011

School choice has developed into one of the most contentious policy debates in K–12 education. Proponents argue that choice leads to competition among schools, thereby raising school quality for all students, while opponents claim that school choice often results in racial segregation and worsens inequity. The findings of this study, collected from qualitative interviews with school administrators and quantitative analysis of school performance and enrollment data, suggest that a common form of school choice, intradistrict transfer, may not always have the desired impacts on administrators, particularly with regard to intradistrict transfer programs. In addition, the author finds important differences in criteria that shape transfer decisions at different grade levels, and in the factors that shape the decision to transfer away from a school versus those that influence decisions about which school to transfer into.
Grappling with the Unbearable Elusiveness of Entrepreneurial Opportunities
Authors: Dimov Dimo
Published: January 2011

The notion of opportunity, as currently discussed in entrepreneurship research, is theoretically exciting but empirically elusive. This article seeks to stimulate a new conversation about entrepreneurial opportunities by distinguishing two conceptions of entrepreneurial behavior—formal and substantive—and situating the construct of opportunity within the latter. It discusses three substantive premises for studying opportunities empirically: (1) opportunity as happening; (2) opportunity as expressed in actions; and (3) opportunity as instituted in market structures. These premises stimulate research questions that can invigorate and expand the study of entrepreneurial opportunities. They invite a continuous dialogue between qualitative and quantitative methodologies in behalf of understanding how opportunities emerge and evolve at the level of individual entrepreneurs.
The New Field of Sustainable Entrepreneurship: Studying Entrepreneurial Action Linking “What is to be Sustained” with “What is to be Developed”
Authors: Shepherd Dean A. , Patzelt Holger
Published: January 2011

Informed by the sustainable development and entrepreneurship literatures we offer the following definition: Sustainable entrepreneurship is focused on the preservation of nature, life support, and community in the pursuit of perceived opportunities to bring into existence future products, processes, and services for gain, where gain is broadly construed to include economic and non–economic gains to individuals, the economy, and society. To illustrate the diversity of potential research avenues that will advance this field, we offer a research agenda derived from an economics, an institutional, and a psychology perspective. We suggest research questions exploring “what is to be sustained” and “what is to be developed” in sustainable entrepreneurship research.
People‐to‐People Dialogue between North and South Korea: Looking Ahead
Authors: Bae Imho
Published: January 2011

The division in the Korean peninsula has lasted more than a half century, and the people on both sides have become quite different in their values, beliefs, behaviors, and lifestyles. As the two sides have increased their exchanges and communications for the last several years, the biggest challenge Korea and its people face is: “How should human relationships be rebuilt after suffering from chronic conflicts between adversary states?” This article considers track two diplomacy/people‐to‐people dialogue as a response to this question and reviews the issues and obstacles related to initiating such a dialogue.
Developing Superior Negotiation Case Studies
Authors: Sebenius James K.
Published: January 2011

While a great deal of excellent advice exists for producing case studies on managerially relevant topics in general, negotiation cases have distinctive aspects that merit explicit treatment. This article offers tailored advice for producing cases on negotiation and related topics (such as mediation and diplomacy) that are primarily intended for classroom discussion. It describes how to decide whether a negotiation‐related case lead is worth developing and how to choose the perspective and case type most suited to one's objectives. Finally, in by far the longest part of the discussion, it offers ten “nuts and bolts” suggestions for structuring and producing an excellent negotiation case study.
Location of posterior superior alveolar artery and evaluation of maxillary sinus anatomy with computerized tomography: a clinical study
Authors: Güncü Güliz N. , Yildirim Yagmur D. , Wang Hom‐Lay , Tözüm Tolga F.
Published: January 2011

Objectives: Knowledge and evaluation of the maxillary sinus anatomy before sinus augmentation are essential for avoiding surgical complications. Posterior superior alveolar artery (PSAA) is the branch of maxillary artery that supplies lateral sinus wall and overlying membrane. The aims of this study were to examine the prevalence, diameter, and location of the PSAA and its relationship to the alveolar ridge and to study the prevalence of the sinus pathology and septum using computerized tomography (CT) scans.

Materials and methods: One hundred and twenty‐one CT scans (242 sinuses) from patients undergoing sinus augmentation procedure and/or implant therapy were included. Lower border of the artery to the alveolar crest, bone height below the sinus floor to the ridge crest, distance of the artery to the medial sinus wall, diameter of the artery, and position of the artery were measured; presence of septa and pathology were recorded from CT sections.

Results: Prevalence of sinus septa and sinus pathology was 16.1% and 24.8%, respectively. Artery was seen in 64.5% of all sinuses and was mostly intraosseous (68.2%). Mean diameter of PSAA was found 1.3 ± 0.5 mm. No significant correlation between the diameter of the artery and age was observed.

Conclusions: The results from this study suggested that CT scan is a valuable tool in evaluating presence of sinus pathology, septa, and arteries before maxillary sinus surgery. Although variations exist in every patient, the findings from this study suggest limiting the superior border of the lateral window up to 18 mm from the ridge to avoid any potential vascular damage.

To cite this article:
 Güncü GN, Yildirim YD, Wang H‐L, Tözüm TF. Location of posterior superior alveolar artery and evaluation of maxillary sinus anatomy with computerized tomography: a clinical study. Clin. Oral Impl. Res. 22, 2011; 1164–1167. doi: 10.1111/j.1600‐0501.2010.02071.x
Intradermal tacrolimus prevent scar hypertrophy in a rabbit ear model: a clinical, histological and spectroscopical analysis
Authors: Gisquet Heloise , Liu Honghui , Blondel W. C. P. M. , Leroux Agnes , Latarche Clothilde , Merlin J. L. , Chassagne J. F. , Peiffert Didier , Guillemin François
Published: January 2011

Background: Keloids and hypertrophic scars (HSc) affect 4.5–16% of the population. Thus far, the different approaches of keloid treatment are not very efficient, with a 50% relapse rate and many ongoing researches are looking for simple, safe and more efficient therapeutic methods. Tacrolimus is an immunomodulator that could be useful in treating keloid.

Objectives: The objective of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of Tacrolimus in inhibiting HSc formation on rabbits' ears model and to check optical skin spectroscopy in tissue characterization.

Methods: Our study was carried out on 20 New‐Zealand female white rabbits. HSc were obtained by wounding rabbits' ear. These wounds were treated with intradermal injections of tacrolimus (0.2–0.5 mg/cm2) or a vehicule. The assessment of treatment efficacy was performed by clinical examinations, histological assay and skin spectrometry.

Results: Tacrolimus did not induce general or local side‐effects. The scar elevation index in treated subjects was half less than that of the untreated ones. Furthermore, dermal thickness and inflammatory cellular density were both significantly smaller for treated scars than for the control ones. In vivo optical skin spectroscopy can characterize hypertrophic and normal skin with high sensibility and specificity.

Conclusion: Intradermal injection of tacrolimus at 0.5 mg/cm2 is an efficient way to prevent HSc in our experiment model and its tolerance is correct. Optical spectroscopy could be a good non‐invasive tool to evaluate HSc treatment. These promising results might be proposed for patients suffering from keloid.
Predictive value of body mass index and waist circumference for metabolic syndrome in 6–12‐year‐olds
Authors: Barzin Maryam , Hosseinpanah Farhad , Fekri Sahba , Azizi Fereidoun
Published: January 2011

Aim:  To determine the predictive value of body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference (WC) and their optimal cut‐off points for metabolic syndrome (MetS), and also the incidence of MetS.

Methods:  This study included 888 children, aged 6–12 years, who were followed for a mean of 6.6 years. BMI, WC and their optimal cut‐off points to predict MetS were investigated.

Results:  The cumulative incidence of MetS was 10.7%. The adjusted ORs for age, sex and family history to predict MetS for BMI and WC z‐scores were 2.6 (95% CI, 2.0–3.5) and 2.6 (95% CI, 1.9–3.5), respectively. In their correspondent models, area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was 0.73 (95% CI, 0.68–0.79) for BMI z‐scores and 0.72 (95% CI, 0.67–0.78) for WC z‐scores with no statistically significant difference. The optimal cut‐off values for BMI were 16.5 kg/m2 for boys and 16.3 kg/m2 for girls and those for WC were 57.5 cm for boys and 56.5 cm for girls.

Conclusions:  Our findings suggest that both BMI and WC have the same power to predict MetS and also children with higher BMI or WC are more susceptible to MetS. Moreover, a high incidence of MetS in children highlights the importance of interventional strategies during early childhood.
Intracellular calcium transients evoked by pulsed infrared radiation in neonatal cardiomyocytes
Authors: Dittami Gregory M. , Rajguru Suhrud M. , Lasher Richard A. , Hitchcock Robert W. , Rabbitt Richard D.
Published: January 2011

Non‐technical summary We have investigated the mechanisms underlying the response of cells to pulsed infrared radiation (IR, ∼1862 nm) using the neonatal rat ventricular cardiomyocyte as a model. Fluorescence monitoring of the intracellular free calcium (Ca2+) demonstrated that infrared irradiation induced rapid (millisecond time scale) intracellular Ca2+transients in the cells. The results showed that the Ca2+transients were sufficient to elicit contractile responses from the cardiomyocytes and could be ‘paced’ or entrained to the pulsing frequency of the IR. Pharmacological results strongly implicate mitochondria as the primary intracellular organelles contributing to the IR‐evoked Ca2+cycling.
Altered sympathetic reflexes and vascular reactivity in rats after exposure to chronic intermittent hypoxia
Authors: Silva Ana Q. , Schreihofer Ann M.
Published: January 2011

Non‐technical summary  Exposure to chronic intermittent hypoxia (CIH) leads to chronically elevated sympathetic nerve activity (SNA) and mean arterial pressure (MAP) with exaggerated rises in SNA and MAP to activation of peripheral chemoreceptors. We show that CIH leads to augmented rises in SNA by stimulation of reflexes from other sensory nerves, suggesting a global change in how the brain processes sensory information. Furthermore, the ability of glutamate in the rostral ventrolateral medulla to increase SNA and MAP is enhanced after CIH, providing a potential brain mechanism for CIH‐induced exaggeration of sympathetic reflexes. Paradoxically, exaggerated sympathetic reflexes were accompanied by normal rises in MAP. In agreement, activation of adrenergic vascular receptors yields blunted rises in MAP in rats after CIH. These data suggest that exposure to CIH facilitates rises in SNA, potentially by changes in the brainstem, which are buffered by a reduction in the ability of sympathetic nerves to raise MAP.
The Kinase SGK1 in the Endoderm and Mesoderm Promotes Ectodermal Survival by Down-Regulating Components of the Death-Inducing Signaling Complex
Authors: Endo Tatsuya , Kusakabe Morioh , Sunadome Kazunori , Yamamoto Takuya , Nishida Eisuke
Published: January 2011

The kinase SGK1 participates in an intertissue survival pathway during the early stages of development.
Dating ductile deformation using U–Pb geochronology: examples from the Gilbert River Belt, Grenville Province, Labrador, Canada
Authors: Scott D. J. , Machado N. , Hanmer S. , Gariépy C.
Published: January 2011

The Gilbert River Belt, in the Grenville Province in southeastern Labrador, is a distinctive, west–northwest-trending zone of locally intense deformation and voluminous granitoid plutonism, up to 30 km in width. In an attempt to directly quantify the timing of deformation in ductile shear zones within the belt, rocks interpreted as having been intruded synchronously with ongoing deformation were sampled for U–Pb isotopic analysis. Three of these samples are <2 m wide granitic veins that have sharp intrusive contacts that truncate ductile deformation fabrics, but are themselves deformed at metamorphic conditions similar to their host rocks and are therefore interpreted as having intruded after the initiation of deformation and fabric development, but prior to cessation of this deformation. The first vein is syntectonic with respect to amphibolite-facies deformation and yielded a zircon age of [Formula: see text]. The second vein intruded synchronously with the development of a zone of amphibolite-facies straight gneisses, which defines the southern limit of the Gilbert River belt at [Formula: see text]. The third vein is syntectonic with respect to greenschist-facies deformation and yielded a zircon age of [Formula: see text] and a monazite age of 1078 ± 2 Ma. A sample of the K-feldspar megacrystic granite that underlies much of the belt and is interpreted as having intruded during ongoing amphibolite-facies deformation yielded a zircon age of [Formula: see text]; a mildly deformed granitic vein that crosscuts the megacrystic granite at the same location contained zircon that indicate a [Formula: see text] crystallization age. Monazite from a granodioritic gneiss yielded a concordant age of 1077 ± 3 Ma, interpreted as the time of final cooling during gneiss formation. These results indicate that much of the amphibolite-facies deformation (1664 – 1644 Ma) in the Gilbert River Belt is correlative with the regionally extensive Labradorian orogenic event, whereas greenschist-facies deformation (1113 – 1062 Ma) and monazite growth (1078 Ma) are the result of renewed tectonomagmatic activity during Grenvillian orogenesis.
Stelckiceras and other Gastroplitinae (Ammonitina), from the Albian (Lower Cretaceous) Fort St. John Group, Peace River area, northeastern British Columbia
Authors: Stelck C.R.
Published: January 2011

Stelckiceras Jeletzky, 1980 and Pseudopulchellia Imlay, 1961 emend. (J.A. Jeletzky in 1980) are illustrated from the Ammobaculites wenonahae Subzone of the Albian (Lower Cretaceous) Hasler Formation of the Fort St. John Group, on the Peace River in northeastern British Columbia. Species of Gastroplites McLearn, 1930, Pseudopulchellia Imlay, 1961, Pseudogastroplites Jeletzky, 1980, and Stotticeras Jeletzky, 1980 are illustrated from the Ammobaculites sp. and Haplophragmoides multiplum subzones of the subjacent Cadotte Member of the Boulder Creek Formation and the underlying Hulcross Formation. Two new species, Gastroplites bahani and Gastroplites jeletzkyi, are described. The presence of several Arctic exotic ammonites suggests that the middle Albian interior seaway was not entirely isolated from the Arctic basin. Numerous foraminifera are known to be common to both basins, and current inflow may have prevented endemic Gastroplites s.st. and Stelckiceras from migrating northward. Biostratigraphic conclusions by J.A. Jeletzky are supported by this study.
Geometry of the allochthonous Daly Bay Complex, Northwest Territories: a model constrained by geology and a three-dimensional gravity interpretation
Authors: Gordon Terence M. , Lawton Donald C.
Published: January 2011

The Daly Bay Complex is one of several metamorphic complexes making up the Aqxarneq gneisses north of Chesterfield Inlet in central District of Keewatin. Granulite-facies metamorphism (0.55 GPa, 750 °C) and ductile deformation have affected all of the rocks in the complex. A 1–15 km wide, inward-dipping, ductile shear zone forms the outer part of the complex and contains strongly deformed equivalents of rocks in the core. Mesoscopic structures and metamorphic mineralogy suggest the Daly Bay Complex was emplaced into the surrounding lower grade rocks by northward-directed thrusting. A three-dimensional gravity model, constrained by structural observations and 1091 surface density measurements, shows that the relatively dense rocks of the complex form a spoon-shaped structure with a long axis trending northwest–southeast. It is approximately 50 km by 120 km in lateral extent and reaches a maximum depth of about 9 km. The thin-skinned geometry of the Daly Bay Complex supports the notion that the crust in central Keewatin between the Daly Bay Complex and Baker Lake comprises a series of undulating imbricated gneiss sheets of middle and lower crustal material, which were juxtaposed by a major tectonic event sometime between 2.5 and 1.9 Ga. The interpreted basal décollement is comparable to seismic features in many orogens, and a predictable consequence of increased ductility with depth in the crust.
U–Pb age of the Seal Lake Group, Labrador: relationship to Mesoproterozoic extension-related magmatism of Laurasia
Authors: Romer R. L. , Schärer U. , Wardle R. J. , Wilton D. H. C.
Published: January 2011

The Seal Lake Group of eastern Labrador unconformably overlies the 1273 ± 1 Ma (2σ) Harp Dyke Swarm. In its lower parts, the Seal Lake Group includes conglomerates, quartzites, and red-bed sediments, and both the lower and middle parts are intruded by olivine gabbro sills. This magmatism was coeval with the emplacement of basaltic volcanic rocks in the middle and upper sections of the Seal Lake Group. Two different gabbro varieties yield baddeleyite and zircon U–Pb ages of [Formula: see text] Ma and [Formula: see text] Ma, respectively. The older age corresponds to the emplacement of a fine- to medium-grained voluminous olivine gabbro, whereas the younger age was obtained on a coarse-grained gabbro that intrudes the fine-grained gabbro. These ages place magmatism in the Seal Lake area in the ca. 1270–1220 Ma phase of extension-related magmatism of Laurentia and Baltica that was associated with voluminous mafic dyke swarms. Such extension-related mafic Mesoproterozoic magmatism occurs on both cratons during three distinct intervals at 1460–1420, 1270–1220, and 1180–1070 Ma, respectively, suggesting that Laurentia and Baltica formed a coherent unit until at least 1180 Ma.
BIFURCATIONS OF AVERAGED IMMUNOFLUORESCENCE DISTRIBUTIONS DUE TO OXIDATIVE ACTIVITY OF DNA IN MEDICAL DIAGNOSTICS
Authors: GALICH N. E.
Published: January 2011

In this paper, novel nonlinear statistical methods of immunofluorescence analysis are presented. We investigated the experimental data of DNA fluorescence in neutrophils nuclei of peripheral blood. DNA fluorescence is triggered by biochemical reactions of respiratory oxidative burst. Histograms of photon counts statistics are generated by flow cytometry method. The histograms represent distributions of fluorescence flash frequency as functions of fluorescence intensity. Large-scale averaging of initial histograms gives bifurcations of immunofluorescence statistical distributions for healthy and unhealthy donors. The statistical signs of transcritical bifurcation provide the classification of all available immunofluorescence histograms into three large groups. The first group corresponds to oncology and autoimmune diseases; the second group corresponds to inflammatory diseases; the third group corresponds to healthy donors. The fluorescence histograms for pregnant women on the other hand show two groups of health status. The immunofluorescence analysis supplements a well-known biochemical analyses. Some discussions on biophysical and biomedical analogies for the proposed approaches with another physical classifications, such as bronchial tree, pathology of heart rhythms, different bistabilities switching and others, are presented.
Treatment of Growth Hormone-Deficient Infants with Recombinant Human Growth Hormone to Near-Adult Height: Patterns of Growth
Authors: Root Allen W. , Dana Kenneth , Lippe Barbara
Published: January 2011

Background/Aims: To determine adult statures and linear growth patterns of children with growth hormone deficiency (GHD) who began treatment with recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH) in infancy. Methods: Forty-seven patients with GHD in whom administration of rhGH was initiated at or before 2 years of age and who had achieved near-adult heights (NAH) were identified in the database of the Genentech National Cooperative Growth Study. Results: After beginning treatment at a mean age of 0.9 years and height of –2.3 SD, these subjects achieved mean statures of –0.6, –0.3, and –0.4 SD at 5 and 10 years of age and at NAH, respectively. In 23 patients whose parental heights were known, mean NAH was comparable to the target height. Patients with uncomplicated courses whose heights were normal or tall when spontaneous puberty occurred or was induced realized the tallest NAHs. Patients with severe prenatal or perinatal, congenital and acquired neurologic insults, sexual precocity, or associated illnesses achieved less optimal NAHs. Conclusion: A normal pattern of linear growth during childhood and adolescence and satisfactory NAHs can be achieved in the majority of patients when treatment of the GHD subject is begun during infancy.
Angiotensin II Type 1A Receptors in Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells Do Not Influence Aortic Remodeling in Hypertension
Authors: Sparks Matthew A. , Parsons Kelly K. , Stegbauer Johannes , Gurley Susan B. , Vivekanandan-Giri Anuradha , Fortner Christopher N. , Snouwaert Jay , Raasch Eric W. , Griffiths Robert C. , Haystead Timothy A.J. , Le Thu H. , Pennathur Subramaniam , Koller Beverly , Coffman Thomas M.
Published: January 2011

Vascular injury and remodeling are common pathological sequelae of hypertension. Previous studies have suggested that the renin-angiotensin system acting through the type 1 angiotensin II (AT
1
) receptor promotes vascular pathology in hypertension. To study the role of AT
1
receptors in this process, we generated mice with cell-specific deletion of AT
1
receptors in vascular smooth muscle cells using
Cre/Loxp
technology. We crossed the
SM22
α-
Cre
transgenic mouse line expressing
Cre
recombinase in smooth muscle cells with a mouse line bearing a conditional allele of the
Agtr1a
gene (
Agtr1a

flox

), encoding the major murine AT
1
receptor isoform (AT
1A
). In
SM22
α-
Cre
+
Agtr1a

flox/flox

(SMKO) mice, AT
1A
receptors were efficiently deleted from vascular smooth muscle cells in larger vessels but not from resistance vessels such as preglomerular arterioles. Thus, vasoconstrictor responses to angiotensin II were preserved in SMKO mice. To induce hypertensive vascular remodeling, mice were continuously infused with angiotensin II for 4 weeks. During infusion of angiotensin II, blood pressures increased significantly and to a similar extent in SMKO and control mice. In control mice, there was evidence of vascular oxidative stress indicated by enhanced nitrated tyrosine residues in segments of aorta; this was significantly attenuated in SMKO mice. Despite these differences in oxidative stress, the extent of aortic medial expansion induced by angiotensin II infusion was virtually identical in both groups. Thus, vascular AT
1A
receptors promote oxidative stress in the aortic wall but are not required for remodeling in angiotensin II–dependent hypertension.
Children, adolescents and their carers’ expectations of child and adolescent mental health services (CAMHS)
Authors: Ronzoni Pablo , Dogra Nisha
Published: January 2011

Background: The use of service users’ views as performance indicators highlights the trend to make services more responsive to patients’ needs. However, recent research indicates that there is a lack of clear understanding about specialist CAMHS and the outcomes that children, adolescents and their parents hope to achieve from treatment differ.

Aims: To explore children/young people’s and parents/carers’ expectations of CAMHS in Leicestershire, England.

Methods: Sixty children/young people and their parents/carers were asked to identify goals they want to achieve following contact with CAMHS. Qualitative thematic analysis in relation to Hoagwood’s SFCES model (Symptoms, Functional, Consumer perspectives, Environment and Systems) was used.

Results: The question was answered by 46.7% of children and young people and 60% of carers. Overall, children, young people and parents/carers agreed that symptomatic modification and functional aspects were the most important goals. However, internalising items seemed more important for parents/carers than children and adolescents, who in contrast hoped for improvement in externalising factors. Goals outside the scope of CAMHS were also noted for both groups.

Conclusion: Attention to children/young people and their parents/carers’ expectations of services is needed to improve therapeutic relationships and engagement. Improvement in mental health literacy and practitioners’ guidance is required to allow service users to set realistic and achievable treatment goals.
A Disequilibrium Model of the Market for Houses: Implicit Selling Time as a Signal of Optimal Holding Periods and Buyer Valuation
Authors: Levin Eric , Pryce Gwilym
Published: January 2011

A theoretical model is developed of house market disequilibrium. Price and quantity adjustments occur as the consequence of inventory adjustment in the absence of a market-maker. This approach reveals a process of dynamic adjustment whereby sellers alter their reservation prices in response to implicit time on the market as a signal of excess demand. Unobservable equilibrium house prices are estimated using time on the market and house price data for Glasgow between 1999 and 2007. Empirical estimation models sellers’ reservation price response to the overhang of unsold houses and the excess demand curve within an econometric framework.
Splintering Urbanism or Split Agendas? Examining the Spatial Distribution of Technology Access in Relation to ICT Policy in Durban, South Africa
Authors: Odendaal Nancy
Published: January 2011

Changes in the composition, distribution and availability of information and communication technology (ICT) have taken place in the past two decades. Digital technology is now a ubiquitous business requirement, whilst the availability of mobile/cellular telephones has ensured on-going connectivity. Little has been published on the distribution of ICT and other networked infrastructure in developing countries. This paper seeks to address that by examining Durban, South Africa. The spatial distribution of new technology access is examined in relation to urban change and the city’s ICT policy. It becomes evident that current spatial patterns mirror overall investment patterns. Whilst the city’s policy claims to address distribution and access, its innovations are focused on the business sector, rather than last-mile access, essentially reflecting spatial inequalities.
Information and Communication Technologies and the Geographical Concentration of Manufacturing Industries
Authors: Hong Junjie , Fu Shihe
Published: January 2011

Using the 2004 China economic census database, this paper examines the impact of information and communication technologies (ICT) on the geographical concentration of manufacturing industries, controlling for a broad set of other determinants of industrial agglomeration. Contrary to the argument that ICT leads to more dispersion, it is found that ICT promotes geographical concentration of industries. The results are robust to different measures of ICT, at different geographical levels and to the consideration of endogeneity.
Federalism as State Formation in India: A Theory of Shared and Negotiated Sovereignty
Authors: Rudolph Lloyd I. , Hoeber Rudolph Susanne
Published: January 2011

In the master narrative of the formation of the modern state, its unified, monopoly sovereignty is presented as universal, the natural culmination of a teleological process. We challenge the naturalness and universality of that claim by historicizing the sovereignty concept. We do so by examining the history of state formation in late medieval and early modern Europe. When, why and how were sovereignty concepts constructed and contested are questions that engage the politics of category formation. After historicizing the sovereignty concept, we turn to the study of federalism in India as state formation process rather than studying it constitutionally or comparatively.
Democracy and Political Action
Authors: Kaase Max
Published: January 2011

'Is democracy working?' was the theme of the International Political Science Association’s s 20th Political Science World Congress held in Fukuoka, Japan, in 2006, and it remains a fundamental theme for political science around the globe. In this article,1 I will discuss the historical development of the study of democracy through public opinion and behavior research. The article starts with a brief sketch of developments in Western democracies after World War II. With a general emphasis on comparative micro-survey research, it then traces major trends in the empirical study of political participation, with a particular emphasis on the Political Action Study (Barnes et al., 1979; Jennings et al., 1990). The significance of this study resides in its opening the way for political science to consider non-institutionalized acts of political participation not as a threat to pluralist democracies, but rather as an extension of the political repertory of democratic citizens. The article then discusses potential reasons for the observed unexpected decline of political support in Western democracies after the demise of totalitarian communism through the ‘velvet revolution’ in Central and Eastern Europe. In the conclusion, the article speculates about future developments in democratic governance in the light of encompassing social, economic and technological developments such as globalization and the Internet revolution.
Appraisal of domestic solid waste generation, components, and the feasibility of recycling in Erbil, Iraq
Authors: Shuokr Qarani Aziz  , Hamidi Abdul Aziz  , Mohammed JK Bashir  , Mohd Suffian Yusoff
Published: January 2011

Solid waste collection and disposal are among the most vital services provided to about 700 770 residents of the city of Erbil in northern Iraq. As such, proper waste management systems that consider both the quantity and composition of domestic solid waste are strongly required to address the increasing amount of solid waste. Unfortunately, these essential data are not easily available. The present study sought to gather data on the quantity and composition of domestic solid waste collected from different quarters in Erbil, and the feasibility of recycling these wastes. The solid waste generation rate ( GR), uncompacted density, and weight percentages of combustible and incombustible materials were determined based on the collected materials (i.e., food, plastic, paper, metal, glass and cloth). The results show that the average GR and uncompacted density were 0.654 kg capita-1 day-1 and 175.72 kg m-3, respectively. The weight percentages of food, plastic, paper, metal, glass, and cloth as components of domestic solid waste were 79.34, 6.28, 5.9, 3.6, 3.42 and 1.45%, respectively.
Positive Effects of Experience in Terminal Care on Nursing Home Staff in Japan
Authors: Abe Koji , Ohashi Akira
Published: January 2011

This study aimed to examine the psychological effects of terminal care experience on nursing home staff and analyze the differences between staff who are experienced and those who are inexperienced in providing terminal care. A mailed survey was conducted in 2007.A total of 37% (N = 72) of the participants had experience in terminal care in nursing homes. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) revealed that the professional efficacy (a subscale of the Maslach Burnout Inventory–General Survey [MBI-GS]) and tenure (duration of service) of the experienced staff were significantly higher than those of the inexperienced staff. The high professional efficacy noted among the experienced staff suggests that the provision of terminal care in nursing homes does not necessarily lead to burnout among caregivers and may in fact serve as an important motivational factor.
Utility of the APACHE IV, PPI, and Combined APACHE IV With PPI for Predicting Overall and Disease-Specific ICU and ACU Mortality
Authors: Burkmar Jennifer A. , Iyengar Rajesh
Published: January 2011

Background: The Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE) IV and Palliative Performance Index (PPI) are scales commonly used to assess prognosis in intensive care units (ICUs) and acute care units (ACUs). Objective: To compare the utility of APACHE IV, PPI, and combined APACHE IV with PPI for predicting overall and disease-specific mortality. Design: This is a prospective cohort study using admission data during the first 24 hours. Chi-square contingency tables were used to analyze mortality data for each scale. Setting: This study was conducted at a community hospital. Patients: Participants were admitted between December 24, 2008 and April 2, 2010. Results: The APACHE IV, PPI, and APACHE IV plus PPI (n = 599) were significant for predicting overall mortality (P < .0001 each). The APACHE IV was also significant in predicting mortality in patients with congestive heart failure (CHF), pulmonary edema (PULEDEM), stroke (cerebrovascular accident [CVA]), terminal or metastatic cancer (CA), and dementia. The PPI was significant for predicting mortality in PULEDEM, CA, and dementia but not CVA or CHF, while the APACHE IV with PPI was significant for all diseases but CVA. The APACHE IV was the most robust in predicting ICU/ACU mortality. The combined APACHE IV and PPI improved the specificity of the PPI to predict mortality but caused a decline in sensitivity. Limitations: Limitations are due to the subjective nature of the PPI and Glasgow Coma scale (GCS), differences in illness trajectories, and a lack of reliable follow-up of all participants. Conclusion: The benefits of combining scales were best exemplified in participants with dementia. Inconsistencies in the predictive value of specific participant populations are likely due to difference in the illness trajectories of disease processes.
Increasing Liquid Chromatography–Tandem Mass Spectrometry Throughput by Mass Tagging: A Sample-Multiplexed High-Throughput Assay for 25-Hydroxyvitamin D2 and D3
Authors: Netzel Brian C , Cradic Kendall W , Bro Eric T , Girtman Adam B , Cyr Richard C , Singh Ravinder J , Grebe Stefan KG
Published: January 2011

BACKGROUND

The limits of chromatographic speed and mechanical frontend capabilities have been reached for many high-volume liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) tests, curtailing the maximal achievable sample throughput. To overcome these boundaries, we developed and validated a derivatization-based sample-multiplex LC-MS/MS assay for detection of 25-hydroxyvitamins D2 and D3 [25(OH)D2 and 25(OH)D3], which increased sample throughput 5-fold.

METHODS

After separate derivatization with 1 of 5 different triazoline-diones (TADs), 5 calibrators, controls, or patient specimens were combined and injected together into an LC-MS/MS. On the basis of mass differences between TADs, the MS/MS quantified analyte and stable isotope internal standards for 25(OH)D2 and 25(OH)D3 for each respective multiplexed sample within the injection. Limits of detection and quantification, spiked recovery, linearity, imprecision, and patient results were determined and compared against our standard LC-MS/MS assay.

RESULTS

TAD multiplexing increased throughput on an LC-quadruplexed LC-MS/MS system from 60 samples/h to 300 samples/h. Limits of detection and quantification were 4.9 nmol/L [2 μg/L, 25(OH)D2], 2.2 nmol/L [0.9 μg/L, 25(OH)D3], and 10 nmol/L [4 μg/L, 25(OH)D2], 5 nmol/L [2 μg/L, 25(OH)D3], respectively. The assay was linear to 250 nmol/L (100 μg/L). Interassay CVs across the reportable range were 3.7%–15.2%. Spiked recoveries were 94%–119%. The method comparison with the standard LC-MS/MS method showed slopes of 0.96 and 0.97 (Deming regression) for 25(OH)D2 (n = 1733) and 25(OH)D3 (n = 7614) (R2=0.96 and 0.97), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Multiplexing samples by differential mass tagging in LC-MS/MS measurement of 25(OH)D2 and 25(OH)D3 allows for reliable quantification, with throughput increased over standard methods by the multiplexing factor.
Toeplitz matrices, ergodicity and Fréchet spaces
Authors: Ramanujan M. S.
Published: January 2011

Yosida´s version of the mean ergodic theorem is extended to positive Toeplitz matrices and locally convex spaces. This is used to provide extensions of the results of Albanese, Bonet and Ricker on the structure of Fréchet spaces and also Köthe echelon spaces.
Selenium status, thyroid volume, and multiple nodule formation in an area with mild iodine deficiency
Authors: Rasmussen Lone Banke , Schomburg Lutz , Köhrle Josef , Pedersen Inge Bülow , Hollenbach Birgit , Hög Antonia , Ovesen Lars , Perrild Hans , Laurberg Peter
Published: January 2011

Objective

The objective was to study the associations between serum selenium concentration and thyroid volume, as well as the association between serum selenium concentration and risk for an enlarged thyroid gland in an area with mild iodine deficiency before and after iodine fortification was introduced. Another objective was to examine the association between serum selenium concentration and prevalence of thyroid nodules.

Design

Cross-sectional study.

Methods

We studied participants of two similar cross-sectional studies carried out before (1997–1998, n=405) and after (2004–2005, n=400) introduction of iodine fortification. Serum selenium concentration and urinary iodine were measured, and the thyroid gland was examined by ultrasonography in the same subjects. Associations between serum selenium concentration and thyroid parameters were examined in multiple linear regression models or logistic regression models.

Results

Serum selenium concentration was found to be significantly, negatively associated with thyroid volume (P=0.006), and a low selenium status significantly increased the risk for thyroid enlargement (P=0.007). Furthermore, low serum selenium status had a tendency to increase the risk for development of multiple nodules (P=0.087).

Conclusions

Low serum selenium concentration was associated with a larger thyroid volume and a higher prevalence of thyroid enlargement.
Effects of endogenous glucocorticoid secretion on the interleukin-6 response to bacterial endotoxin in pregnant and non-pregnant rats
Authors: Cui Ke , Luheshi Giamal N , Boksa Patricia
Published: January 2011

Glucocorticoids (GCs) are released in response to immune activation by the bacterial endotoxin, lipopolysaccharide (LPS). However, GC secretion in response to immune activation and other stressors is attenuated at term of pregnancy. GCs are important modulators of the immune response, and both pro- and anti-inflammatory effects are described. Here, we examined whether GC secretion in response to LPS is maintained in earlier pregnancy before term, and investigated the role of endogenous GCs in modulating LPS-induced circulating cytokines, interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), in pregnant compared to non-pregnant female rats. Plasma corticosterone (Cort) and ACTH responses to LPS were well maintained in pregnant rats at embryonic days 15/16 (E15/16) and E18/19 compared to non-pregnant rats. At E19, maternal LPS administration increased fetal plasma Cort and decreased testosterone in male fetuses. In non-pregnant animals, pretreatment with the GC synthesis inhibitor, metyrapone, inhibited the LPS-induced increase in IL-6, and the IL-6 response was restored by Cort replacement, indicating that LPS induction of IL-6 is Cort-dependent. In E15 pregnant animals, metyrapone had no effect on LPS-induced IL-6 levels, indicating that LPS-induction of IL-6 is not dependent on Cort. These contrasting patterns of IL-6 induction in non-pregnant and pregnant animals were reflected in levels of hypothalamic Socs3 mRNA, an indicator of IL-6 signaling pathway activation. In both non-pregnant and pregnant rats, LPS-induced plasma TNF-α responses were inhibited by metyrapone but not re-instated by Cort replacement. It is suggested that altered GC regulation of IL-6 may be required to sustain specialized functions of IL-6 during pregnancy.
Fulminant Hepatitis After 10 Days of Acetaminophen Treatment at Recommended Dosage in an Infant
Authors: Savino Francesco , Lupica Maria Maddalena , Tarasco Valentina , Locatelli Emanuela , Garazzino Silvia , Tovo Pier-Angelo
Published: January 2011

Acetaminophen is considered a safe drug for children, although hepatotoxicity may develop after overdosing. Reports of liver failure after repeated therapeutic doses of the drug have been rare. Here we describe the case of an infant who developed acute liver failure after administration of acetaminophen for 10 days at a total dose of 720 mg/day (72 mg/kg per day). The patient had high levels of aspartate aminotransferase (11 735 U/L) and alanine aminotransferase (6611 U/L) accompanied by encephalopathy and an increased ammonium level (266 μg/dL). Intravenous N-acetylcysteine therapy resulted in rapid improvement of the child's clinical condition and laboratory test results. Health care providers should be aware that multiple doses of acetaminophen in infants may lead to acute hepatic failure. N-acetylcysteine therapy should be initiated in cases of drug-induced acute liver failure.
Orbital dermoid and epidermoid cysts: Case study
Authors: Veselinovic Dragan , Krasic Dragan , Stefanovic Ivan , Veselinovic Aleksandar , Radovanovic Zoran , Kostic Aleksandar , Cvetanovic Marija
Published: January 2011

Introduction. Dermoid and epidermoid cysts of the orbit belong to
choristomas, tumours that originate from the aberrant primordial tissue.
Clinically, they manifest as cystic movable formations mostly localized in
the upper temporal quadrant of the orbit. They are described as both
superficial and deep formations with most frequently slow intermittent
growth. Apart from aesthetic effects, during their growth, dermoid and
epidermoid cysts can cause disturbances in the eye motility, and in rare
cases, also an optical nerve compression syndrome. Case Outline. In this
paper, we described a child with a congenital orbital dermoid cyst localized
in the upper-nasal quadrant that was showing signs of a gradual enlargement
and progression. The computerized tomography revealed a cyst of 1.5-2.0 cm
in size. At the Maxillofacial Surgery Hospital in Nis, the dermoid cyst was
extirpated in toto after orbitotomy performed by superciliary approach.
Postoperative course was uneventful, without inflammation signs, and after
two weeks excellent functional and aesthetic effects were achieved.
Conclusion. Before the decision to treat the dermoid and epidermoid cysts
operatively, a detailed diagnostic procedure was necessary to be done in
order to locate the cyst precisely and determine its size and possible
propagation into the surrounding periorbital structures. Apart from cosmetic
indications, operative procedures are recommended in the case of cysts with
constant progressions, which cause the pressure to the eye lobe, lead to
motility disturbances and indirectly compress the optical nerve and branches
of the cranial nerves III, IV and VI.