bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Differing Roles of Inhibition in Hierarchical Processing of Species-Specific Calls in Auditory Brainstem Nuclei
Authors: Xie Ruili , Meitzen John , Pollak George D.
Published: September 2005

Here we report on response properties and the roles of inhibition in three brain stem nuclei of Mexican-free tailed bats: the inferior colliculus (IC), the dorsal nucleus of the lateral lemniscus (DNLL) and the intermediate nucleus of the lateral lemniscus (INLL). In each nucleus, we documented the response properties evoked by both tonal and species-specific signals and evaluated the same features when inhibition was blocked. There are three main findings. First, DNLL cells have little or no surround inhibition and are unselective for communication calls, in that they responded to ∼97% of the calls that were presented. Second, most INLL neurons are characterized by wide tuning curves and are unselective for species-specific calls. The third finding is that the IC population is strikingly different from the neuronal populations in the INLL and DNLL. Where DNLL and INLL neurons are unselective and respond to most or all of the calls in the suite we presented, most IC cells are selective for calls and, on average, responded to ∼50% of the calls we presented. Additionally, the selectivity for calls in the majority of IC cells, as well as their tuning and other response properties, are strongly shaped by inhibitory innervation. Thus we show that inhibition plays only limited roles in the DNLL and INLL but dominates in the IC, where the various patterns of inhibition sculpt a wide variety of emergent response properties from the backdrop of more expansive and far less specific excitatory innervation.
A Multicoefficient Slip‐Corrected Reynolds Equation for Micro‐Thin Film Gas Lubrication
Authors: Ng Eddie Yin-Kwee , Liu Ningyu
Published: August 2005

This work investigates and analyzes the performance of
conventional slip models among various regimes of Knudsen number
and developes a new multicoefficient slip‐velocity model, by using
Taguchi quality control techniques and numerical analysis. A
modified Reynolds equation is also derived based on the new
slip‐flow model. The multicoefficient slip model and its
slip‐corrected Reynolds equation are suitable to a wide Knudsen
range from slip to transition regime. In comparison with other
conventional slip models, it is found that the current results
have a better agreement with the solution obtained from the
linearized Boltzmann equation and direct simulation of Monte Carlo
method (DSMC).
Performance Prediction of Cross‐Flow Fans Using Mean Streamline Analysis
Authors: Kim Jae-Won , Ahn Eun Young , Oh Hyoung Woo
Published: August 2005

This paper presents the mean streamline analysis using
the empirical loss correlations for performance prediction of
cross‐flow fans. Comparison of overall performance predictions
with test data of a cross‐flow fan system with a simplified vortex
wall scroll casing and with the published experimental
characteristics for a cross‐flow fan has been carried out to
demonstrate the accuracy of the proposed method. Predicted
performance curves by the present mean streamline analysis agree
well with experimental data for two different cross‐flow fans over
the normal operating conditions. The prediction method presented
herein can be used efficiently as a tool for the preliminary
design and performance analysis of general‐purpose cross‐flow
fans.
An Improved Integral Method for Predictionof Distorted Inlet Flow Propagation in Axial Compressor
Authors: Ng Eddie Yin-Kwee , Liu Ningyu , Lim Hong Ngiap , Tan Daniel
Published: August 2005

An improved integral method is proposed and developed
for the quantitative prediction of distorted inlet flow
propagation through axial compressor. The novel integral method is
formulated using more appropriate and practical airfoil
characteristics, with less assumptions needed for
derivation. The results indicate that the original integral method
(Kim et al., 1996) underestimated the propagation of inlet flow
distortion. The effects of inlet flow parameters on the
propagation of inlet distortions as well as on the compressor
performance and characteristic are simulated and analyzed. From
the viewpoint of compressor efficiency, the propagation of inlet
flow distortion is further described using a compressor critical
performance and its associated critical characteristic. The
results present a realistic physical insight to an axial‐flow
compressor behavior with a propagation of inlet distortion.
Numerical Simulation of Turbopump Inducer Cavitating Behavior
Authors: Coutier-Delgosha O. , Morel P. , Fortes-Patella R. , Reboud JL.
Published: August 2005

In the present study a numerical model of 3D cavitating
flows is proposed. It is applied to investigate the behavior of a
spatial turbopump inducer in noncavitating and cavitating
conditions. Experimental and numerical results concerning inducer
characteristics and performance breakdown are compared at
different flow conditions. The cavitation development and the
spatial distribution of vapor structures within the inducer are
also analyzed. The results show the ability of the code to
simulate the quasi‐steady cavitating behavior of such a complex
geometry. Discrepancies concerning the breakdown prediction are
also discussed.
Application of Evolutionary Algorithms and Statistical Analysis in theNumerical Optimization of an Axial Compressor
Authors: Clarich Alberto , Mosetti Giovanni , Pediroda Valentino , Poloni Carlo
Published: August 2005

The purpose of this work is to optimize the stator shape
of an axial compressor, in order to maximize the global efficiency
of the machine, fixing the rotor shape. We have used a 3D
parametric mesh and the CFX‐Tascflow code for the flow simulation.
To find out the most important variables in this problem, we have
run a preliminary series of designs, whose results have been
analyzed by a statistic tool. This analysis has helped us to
choose the most appropriate variables and their ranges in order to
implement the optimization algorithm more efficiently and rapidly.
For the simulation of the fluid flow through the machine, we have
used a cluster of 12 processors.
Numerical Simulation of Turbulent Fluid Flow and Heat Transferin a Ribbed Rotating Two‐Pass Square Duct
Authors: Liou Tong-Miin , Chen Shih-Hui , Li Yi-Chen
Published: August 2005

The local turbulent fluid flow and heat transfer in a
rotating two‐pass square duct with 19 pairs of in‐line
90∘ ribs have been investigated computationally. A Reynolds‐averaged Navier‐Stokes equation (RANS) with a two‐layer k − ε turbulence model was solved. The in‐line 90∘ ribs were arranged on the leading and trailing walls with rib height‐to‐hydraulic diameter ratio and pitch‐to‐height ratio of 0.136 and 10, respectively. The Reynolds number, based on duct hydraulic diameter and bulk mean velocity, was fixed at 1.0 × 104 whereas the rotational number varied from 0 to 0.2. Results are validated with previous measured velocity field and heat transfer coefficient distributions. The validation shows that the effect of rotation on the passage‐averaged Nusselt number ratio can be predicted reasonably well; nevertheless, the transverse mean velocity and, in turn, the distribution of regional‐averaged Nusselt number ratio are markedly underpredicted in the regions toward which the
Coriolis force is directed. Further CFD studies are needed.
Optimization of Hydraulic Machinery Bladings by Multilevel CFD Techniques
Authors: Thum Susanne , Schilling Rudolf
Published: August 2005

The numerical design optimization for complex hydraulic machinery bladings requires a high number of design parameters and the use of a precise CFD solver yielding high computational costs. To reduce the CPU time needed, a multilevel CFD method has been developed. First of all, the 3D blade geometry is parametrized by
means of a geometric design tool to reduce the number of design parameters. To keep geometric accuracy, a special B‐spline modification technique has been developed. On the first optimization level, a quasi‐3D Euler code (EQ3D) is applied. To guarantee a sufficiently accurate result, the code is calibrated by a Navier‐Stokes recalculation of the initial design and can be recalibrated after a number of optimization steps by another Navier‐Stokes computation. After having got a convergent solution, the optimization process is repeated on the second level using a full 3D Euler code yielding a more accurate flow
prediction. Finally, a 3D Navier‐Stokes code is applied on the third level to search for the optimum optimorum by means of a fine‐tuning of the geometrical parameters. To show the potential of the developed optimization system, the runner blading of a water turbine having a specific speed nq = 411/min was optimized applying the multilevel approach.
Numerical Simulation of Multiplicity and Stability of Mixed Convection in Rotating Curved Ducts
Authors: Wang Liqiu , Yang Tianliang
Published: August 2005

A numerical study is made on the fully developed
bifurcation structure and stability of the mixed convection in
rotating curved ducts of square cross‐section with the emphasis on
the effect of buoyancy force. The rotation can be positive or
negative. The fluid can be heated or cooled. The study reveals the
rich solution and flow structures and complicated stability
features. One symmetric and two symmetric/asymmetric solution
branches are found with seventy five limit points and fourteen
bifurcation points. The flows on these branches can be symmetric,
asymmetric, 2‐cell, and up to 14‐cell structures. Dynamic
responses of the multiple solutions to finite random disturbances
are examined by the direct transient computation. It is found that
possible physically realizable fully developed flows evolve, as
the variation of buoyancy force, from a stable steady multicell
state at a large buoyancy force of cooling to the coexistence of
three stable steady multicell states, a temporal periodic
oscillation state, the coexistence of periodic oscillation and
chaotic oscillation, a chaotic temporal oscillation, a
subharmonic‐bifurcation‐driven asymmetric oscillating state, and a
stable steady 2‐cell state at large buoyancy force of heating.
Ozone Therapy on Rats Submitted to Subtotal Nephrectomy: Role of Antioxidant System
Authors: Calunga José Luis , Zamora Zullyt B. , Borrego Aluet , Río Sarahí del , Barber Ernesto , Menéndez Silvia , Hernández Frank , Montero Teresita , Taboada Dunia
Published: August 2005

Chronic renal failure (CRF) represents a world health problem. Ozone increases the endogenous antioxidant defense system, preserving the cell redox state. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of ozone/oxygen mixture in the renal function, morphology, and biochemical parameters, in an experimental model of CRF (subtotal nephrectomy). Ozone/oxygen mixture was applied daily, by rectal insufflation (0.5 mg/kg) for 15 sessions after the nephrectomy. Renal function was evaluated, as well as different biochemical parameters, at the beginning and at the end of the study (10 weeks). Renal plasmatic flow (RPF), glomerular filtration rate (GFR), the urine excretion index, and the sodium and potassium excretions (as a measurement of tubular function) in the ozone group were similar to those in Sham group. Nevertheless, nephrectomized rats without ozone (positive control group) showed the lowest RPF, GFR, and urine excretion figures, as well as tubular function. Animals treated with ozone showed systolic arterial pressure (SAP) figures lower than those in the positive control group, but higher values compared to Sham group. Serum creatinine values and protein excretion in 24 hours in the ozone group were decreased compared with nephrectomized rats, but were still higher than normal values. Histological study demonstrated that animals treated with ozone showed less number of lesions in comparison with nephrectomized rats. Thiobarbituric acid reactive substances were significantly increased in nephrectomized and ozone‐treated nephrectomized rats in comparison with Sham group. In the positive control group, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) showed the lowest figures in comparison with the other groups. However, ozone/oxygen mixture induced a significant stimulation in the enzymatic activity of CAT, SOD, and glutathione peroxidase, as well as reduced glutathione in relation with Sham and positive control groups. In this animal model of CRF, ozone rectal administrations produced a delay in the advance of the disease, protecting the kidneys against vascular, hemorheological, and oxidative mechanisms. This behavior suggests ozone therapy has a protective effect on renal tissue by downregulation of the oxidative stress shown in CRF.
Antiinflammatory Efficacy of Extracts of Latex of Calotropis procera Against Different Mediators of Inflammation
Authors: Arya Soneera , Kumar Vijay L.
Published: August 2005

The latex of the plant Calotropis procera has been reported to exhibit potent antiinflammatory activity against carrageenin and formalin that are known to release various mediators. In the present study, we have evaluated the efficacy of extracts prepared from the latex of C procera against inflammation induced by histamine, serotonin, compound 48/80, bradykinin (BK), and prostaglandin E 2(PGE 2) in the rat paw oedema model. The paw oedema was induced by the subplantar injection of various inflammagens and oedema volume was recorded using a plethysmometer. The aqueous and methanol extracts of the dried latex (DL) and standard antiinflammatory drugs were administered orally 1 hour before inducing inflammation. The inhibitory effect of the extracts was also evaluated against cellular influx induced by carrageenin. The antiinflammatory effect of aqueous and methanolic extracts of DL was more pronounced than phenylbutazone (PBZ) against carrageenin while it was comparable to chlorpheniramine and PBZ against histamine and PGE 2, respectively. Both extracts produced about 80%, 40%, and 30% inhibition of inflammation induced by BK, compound 48/80, and serotonin. The histological analysis revealed that the extracts were more potent than PBZ in inhibiting cellular infiltration and subcutaneous oedema induced by carrageenin. The extracts of DL exert their antiinflammatory effects mainly by inhibiting histamine and BK and partly by inhibiting PGE 2.
Oxidative Stress in Patients With Nongenital Warts
Authors: Sasmaz Sezai , Arican Ozer , Kurutas Ergul Belge
Published: August 2005

Comparison of oxidative stress status between subjects with or without warts is absent in the literature. In this study, we evaluated 31 consecutive patients with warts (15 female, 16 male) and 36 control cases with no evidence of disease to determine the effects of oxidative stress in patients with warts. The patients were classified according to the wart type, duration, number, and location of lesions. We measured the indicators of oxidative stress such as catalase (CAT), glucose‐6‐phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and malondialdehyde (MDA) in the venous blood by spectrophotometry. There was a statistically significant increase in levels of CAT, G6PD, SOD activities and MDA in the patients with warts compared to the control group (P < .05). However, we could not define a statistically significant correlation between these increased enzyme activities and MDA levels and the type, the duration, the number, and the location of lesions. We determined possible suppression of T cells during oxidative stress that might have a negative effect on the prognosis of the disease. Therefore, we propose an argument for the appropriateness to give priority to immunomodulatory treatment alternatives instead of destructive methods in patients with demonstrated oxidative stress.
The Effects of Oxidative Stress in Urinary Tract Infection
Authors: Kurutas Ergul Belge , Ciragil Pınar , Gul Mustafa , Kilinc Metin
Published: August 2005

We aimed to determine the effects of oxidative stress in urinary tract infection (UTI). One hundred sixty‐four urine samples obtained from patients with the prediagnosis of acute UTI admitted to the Faculty of Medicine, Kahramanmaras Sutcu Imam University, were included in this study. Urine cultures were performed according to standard techniques. Urinary isolates were identified by using API ID 32E. The catalase and superoxide dismutase activity and the lipid peroxidation levels known as oxidative stress markers were measured in all urine samples. Thirty‐six pathogen microorganisms were identified in positive urine cultures. These microorganisms were as follows: 23 (63.8%) E coli, 5 (13.8%) P mirabilis, 4 (11.1%) K pneumoniae, 2 (5.5%) Candida spp, 1 (2.7%) S saprophyticus, and 1 (2.7%) P aeruginosa. It was observed that lipid peroxidation levels were increased while catalase and superoxide dismutase activities were decreased in positive urine cultures, compared to negative cultures. We conclude that urinary tract infection causes oxidative stress, increases lipid peroxidation level, and leads to insufficiency of antioxidant enzymes.
Age‐Related Modifications in Circulating IL‐15 Levels in Humans
Authors: Gangemi Sebastiano , Basile Giorgio , Monti Daniela , Merendino Rosaria Alba , Pasquale Giuseppe Di , Bisignano Ursula , Nicita-Mauro Vittorio , Franceschi Claudio
Published: August 2005

Aging is associated to a progressive establishing of a chronic inflammatory state linked to a continuous long exposure to antigens. Since IL‐15 stimulates the proliferation of memory T cells and the immunosenescence is characterized by accumulation of memory T cells and exhaustion of naive T cells, we analyzed IL‐15 levels in sera from 30 ultralongeval subjects with respect to those from young and old adults. IL‐15 levels were assayed by immunoenzymatic methods. Ultralongeval subjects displayed significantly higher IL‐15 levels with respect to both young and old controls. No statistical difference was found between old and young controls. These findings may explain, at least in part, the characteristic increase of memory cells in immunosenescence and the capacity of the immune system of centenarians to defend itself from infections through immune‐inflammatory responses.
Empirical Bayes Method for Incorporating Data from Multiple Genome Scans
Authors: Beasley T. Mark , Wiener Howard , Zhang Kui , Bartolucci Alfred A. , Amos Christopher I. , Allison David
Published: September 2005

Individual genome scans tend to have low power and can produce markedly biased estimates of QTL effects. Further, the confidence interval for their location is often prohibitively large for subsequent fine mapping and positional cloning. Given that a large number of genome scans have been conducted, not to mention the large number of variables and subsets tested, it is difficult to confidently rule out type 1 error as an explanation for significant effects even when there is apparent replication in a separate data set. We adapted Empirical Bayes (EB) methods [1] to analyze data from multiple genome scans simultaneously and alleviate each of these problems while still allowing for different QTL population effects across studies. We investigated the effects of using the EB method to include data from background studies to update the results of a single study of interest via simulation and demonstrated that it has a stable confidence level over a wide range of parameters defining the background studies and increased the power to detect linkage, even when some of the background studies were null or had QTL effect at other markers. This EB method for incorporating data from multiple studies into genome scan analyses seems promising.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Clinical Patterns of Patients with ‘Spectacular Shrinking Deficit’ after Acute Middle Cerebral Artery Stroke
Authors: Kraemer Nils , Thomalla Goetz , Soennichsen Jan , Fiehler Jens , Knab René , Kucinski Thomas , Zeumer Hermann , Röther Joachim
Published: September 2005

Background: Rapid resolution of neurological deficits after severe middle cerebral artery (MCA) stroke has been coined spectacular shrinking deficit (SSD). We studied clinical and MRI patterns in patients with SSD. Methods: Patients with acute MCA stroke <6 h were examined by stroke MRI (perfusion- and diffusion-weighted imaging (PWI, DWI), MR angiography (MRA)) at admission, day 1 and day 7. SSD was defined as a ≧8-point-reduction of neurological deficit in the National Institute of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) to a score of ≤4 within 24 h. PWI and DWI lesion volumes were measured on ADC (ADC < 80%) and time to peak maps (TTP > +4 s). Recanalization was assessed by MRA after 24 h. Final infarct volumes were defined on T2 weighted images at day seven. Outcome was assessed after 90 days using modified Rankin Scale (mRS) and Barthel Index (BI). Results: SSD was present in 14 of 104 patients. Initial DWI and PWI lesion volumes were smaller in SSD patients – ADC < 80%: 8.9 (4.3–20.5) vs. 30 (0–266.7) ml; TTP > +4 s: 91.6 (29.7–205.8) vs. 131.5 (0–311.5) ml. Early recanalization was associated with SSD resulted in smaller final infarct volumes (11.9 (2.4–25.9) vs. 47.7 (1.2–288.5)). All SSD patients were independent at day 90 (mRS 0 (0–2); BI 100). Conclusion: The clinical syndrome of SSD is reflected by a typical MRI pattern with small initial DWI and PWI lesion volumes, timely recanalization and small final infarct volumes.
APOE Genotype and Serum Cholesterol in Predicting Risk for Early Death from Ischemic Stroke in Men and Women
Authors: Gromadzka Grażyna , Barańska-Gieruszczak Maria , Ciesielska Agnieszka , Sarzyńska-Dlugosz Iwona , Członkowska Anna
Published: September 2005

Background: We recently discovered that APOE ε3/ε4 genotype in men and APOE ε2/ε3 genotype in women are associated with increased risk of death from ischemic stroke (IS). One of the main physiological roles of apolipoprotein E is participation in cholesterol metabolism. A significant association of low serum cholesterol level with increased risk of death from stroke was documented. So, we aimed to establish if an association exists between APOE genotype, serum cholesterol and 1-month mortality in IS. Methods: We studied 666 patients (330 men, 336 women) with a diagnosis of IS. Total serum cholesterol (TC) was measured with the method of Abbott Spectrum (USA). APOE genotyping was performed by PCR-RFLP method. Results:The highest frequency of low serum TC was associated with APOE ε2/ε3 genotype (both in men and in women). Low serum TC was associated with increased mortality rate only in women; this effect was evident only in females not possessing APOE ε2/ε3. Female patients with APOE ε2/ε3 genotype had high 1-month mortality rate independently from serum TC. In multiple regression analyses APOE ε3/ε4 genotype in men and APOE ε2/ε3 genotype in women predicted risk of death independently from serum TC and also from other potential pre- and post-stroke prognostic factors. Conclusion:APOE ε3/ε4 genotype in men and APOE ε2/ε3 in women are associated with increased 30-day mortality in stroke. This effect seems be independent from serum cholesterol.
The Effect of Weekends and Holidays on Stroke Outcome in Acute Stroke Units
Authors: Hasegawa Yasuhiro , Yoneda Yukihiro , Okuda Satoshi , Hamada Ryuzo , Toyota Akihiro , Gotoh Jun , Watanabe Manabu , Okada Yasushi , Ikeda Kiyonobu , Ibayashi Seturo
Published: September 2005

Background and Purpose: In almost all acute stroke units in Japan, staffing level is lower on weekends and holidays and rehabilitative services are provided only on weekdays. We sought to investigate the effects of low-volume care early after stroke resulting from weekends and holidays on the outcome of stroke. Methods: Patients with completed stroke within 72 h of onset were prospectively registered by 10 acute stroke units in Japan. Main outcome measures were favorable outcomes as indicated by a score of 0–1 on the modified Rankin scale (mRS01) on their 21st hospital day and at discharge and case fatality during the hospital stay. Cox proportional hazardsmodels were used to identify the effects of weekday admission and a weekday ratio (a number of weekdays / total length of hospital stay, or 21 days if hospitalization was longer than 21 days) on the main outcome measures. Results: In a total of 1,134 patients, Cox proportional hazards regression analyses demonstrated that the weekday admission was significantly associated with mRS01 at discharge (hazard ratio, HR: 1.385, 95% CI: 1.087–1.764) and case fatality (HR: 0.477, 95% CI: 0.285–0.798). In 858 patients with rehabilitative therapy, the weekday ratio was significantly associated with mRS01 at discharge (p = 0.014). Compared with the lowest tertile of weekday ratio (<66.6%), the highest tertile (>71.4%) was significantly positively associated with mRS01 at discharge (HR: 1.524, 95% CI: 1.053–2.206; p < 0.026). Conclusions: Weekday admission was an independent negative predictor of case fatality and a positive predictor of favorable outcome (mRS01) at discharge from acute stroke units. In patients with rehabilitative therapy, a reduction in the weekday ratio was also associated with unfavorable outcome, probably due to a reduction in multidisciplinary care.
Motor-Related Intracortical Steal Phenomenon Detected by Multichannel Functional Near-Infrared Spectroscopy Imaging
Authors: Akiyama Takenori , Ohira Takayuki , Kato Toshinori , Toda Yasuo , Orii Maaya , Hiraga Kenji , Fukunaga Atsushi , Kobayashi Masahito , Onozuka Satoshi , Kawase Takeshi
Published: September 2005

Background: Patients with severe cerebral ischemia may lose autoregulation to increase cerebral blood flow following neural activity. Although the steal phenomenon under conventional cerebral blood flow study has been known as a high-risk factor for stroke, the cerebral oxygen hemodynamics in ischemic patients during functional activation has not been thoroughly investigated. In this study, we present rare cases with intracortical steal phenomenon during motor tasks detected by multichannel functional near-infrared spectroscopy before and after surgery. Methods: The relative concentration change of oxygenated, deoxygenated and total hemoglobin in and around the primary sensorimotor cortex during contralateral hand grasping was investigated in 11 patients with severe internal carotid artery stenosis. Results: In 3 patients, the concentration of total hemoglobin around the primary sensorimotor cortex significantly decreased in response to motor stimulation and returned to baseline soon after termination of the motor task. This phenomenon partially disappeared postoperatively in all patients who underwent surgery. The remaining 8 patients showed no signs of total hemoglobin decrease in and around the sensorimotor cortex. In 9 patients, lack of decrease in deoxygenated hemoglobin in the center of the primary motor cortex during the motor task was observed and 3 of them showed significant increase in deoxygenated hemoglobin. Conclusions: We have demonstrated that in some patients with severe ischemia, an abnormal motor-related steal phenomenon can be observed. This phenomenon can be modulated by surgical intervention and might imply the severity of ischemia.
5-HT3-Receptor Antagonists in the Management of Nausea and Vomiting in Cancer and Cancer Treatment
Authors: Aapro Matti
Published: September 2005

The 5-HT3-receptor antagonists, considered as ‘gold standard’ therapy for cancer patients, are generally perceived to have similar efficacy and safety profiles, andmost antiemetic guidelines do not distinguish between agents. However, important pharmacological differences exist between agents, which may translate into potential benefits for some patients. In particular, 5-HT3-receptor antagonists vary in the nature of their receptor antagonism and plasma half-lives, possibly leading to differences in duration of action. Agents with a longer duration of action provide antiemetic protection throughout the acute emetic period (24 h) with a single daily dose, whereas shorter-acting agents, e.g. ondansetron, may require multiple dosing for full efficacy. Differences also exist between agents in their hepatic metabolism and cardiovascular safety, which may present particular problems for elderly patients who often receive additional medications for comorbid conditions, increasing the risk of drug-drug interaction. Recent antiemetic guidelines from the National Comprehensive Cancer Network recommend preferential use of palonosetron for moderately emetogenic chemotherapy; however, this agent is newly approved and key clinical questions remain unanswered by clinical trial data. Selection of an appropriate 5-HT3-receptor antagonist should be based on proven efficacy and safety, as well as on the individual characteristics of the patient.
Phase I Study of a Combination of S-1 and Weekly Paclitaxel in Patients with Advanced or Recurrent Gastric Cancer
Authors: Ueda Yuji , Yamagishi Hisakazu , Ichikawa Daisuke , Morii Jun , Koizumi Kinya , Kakihara Naoki , Shimotsuma Masataka , Takenaka Atsushi , Yamashita Tetsuro , Kurioka Hideaki , Nishiyama Masahiko , Morita Satoshi , Nakamura Kanae , Sakamoto Junichi
Published: September 2005

Objective: A phase I study of weekly intravenous paclitaxel combined with a fixed dose of S-1, a dihydropyrimidine-dehydrogenase-inhibitory oral fluoropyrimidine, was conducted for patients with advanced or recurrent gastric cancer (ARGC). Endpoints of this study were to examine the toxicity profile of this regimen and to determine the recommended dose (RD) of paclitaxel. Methods: S-1 was fixed at a dose of 80 mg/m2 per day and was administered for 2 weeks (days 1–14) followed by a 2-week rest. Two dose levels of paclitaxel (level 1: 60 mg/m2, level 0: 50 mg/m2) were studied. Paclitaxel was infused over 1 h on days 1, 8, and 15. Plasma sampling was performed to characterize the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of paclitaxel in some patients. Fifteen patients were enrolled (6 patients in level 1, and 9 patients in level 0). Dose-limiting toxicities were defined as grade 4 hematological (including grade 3 febrile neutropenia) and grade 3 non-hematological (except anorexia, nausea, vomiting and depilation) toxicities. Results: Three of 6 patients in level 1 developed grade 4 neutropenia or grade 3 febrile neutropenia, and 1 of them also showed grade 3 diarrhea, which settled the maximum-tolerated dose at this level. At level 0, 2 of 9 patients developed grade 4 neutropenia or grade 3 febrile neutropenia, and the RD of paclitaxel for this protocol was set at this level. Pharmacologic studies demonstrated the persistence of significant serum paclitaxel levels over 24 h after drug administration at both levels. Objective responses according to Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors were observed in 3 of 6 patients who had measurable disease. Conclusion: A combination of S-1 and weekly paclitaxel was feasible and well tolerated, and is suggested to produce a worthwhile response in ARGC. These results warrant further investigation, and a phase II study has already been started.
A molecular diagnostic method for detecting Nacobbus in soil and in potato tubers
Authors: Kerry Brian , Peteira Belkis , Atkins Simon , Franco Javier , Manzanilla-López Rosa
Published: August 2005

Species of the genus Nacobbus have the potential to reduce yields of major food crops such as potato, sugar beet and tomato in many parts of the world, thus warranting a quarantine effort to avoid their introduction. Molecular studies offer a new method for routine quarantine diagnostics for this nematode that will be faster and more sensitive than previous methods. A primer set was designed from Nacobbus ITS sequences and their specificity confirmed. DNA was extracted from nematodes, soil and potato tubers for use in PCR. Optimised PCR conditions were established and the PCR products were separated on 2% agarose gels, showing that specific ITS primers for the detection of Nacobbus generated a single PCR product, although band size varied slightly between species and soil isolates. The product was generated from DNA extracted from all the Nacobbus samples but not from other nematodes tested (Pratylenchus, Radopholus, Meloidogyne, Globodera, Heterodera). No bands were generated from the uninfested control soil and control tuber DNA samples, thus demonstrating the specificity of the primers. For the first time, Nacobbus was detected in soil and tuber samples using molecular approaches. These results have important applications not only in analysing advisory samples but also in the screening of material for quarantine purposes.
Identification and histopathology of the foliar nematode Aphelenchoides ritzemabosi (Nematoda: Aphelenchoididae) on basil in Italy
Authors: Vovlas Nicola , Troccoli Alberto , Lamberti Franco , Minuto Andrea , Garibaldi Angelo
Published: August 2005

The foliar nematode species Aphelenchoides ritzemabosi is reported attacking sweet basil in glasshouses in the province of Imperia, northwest Italy. The nematode colonised and reproduced within the leaf, petiole and stem tissues. The epidermis and mesophyll were invaded by the nematode which caused internerval discoloration and necrosis and collapse of the palisade and spongy parenchyma. All nematode developmental stages, including eggs, were observed in the leaf tissues. Morphology and morphometrics of A. ritzemabosi from chlorotic and necrotic leaf tissues are presented. Possible control measures, which are complicated by the short life cycle of the nematode, the broad host range, and the short productive cycle of basil, are also discussed, together with the risk of an erroneous field diagnosis caused by difficulty in differentiating the symptoms of basil downy mildew and basil black spot from those of the foliar nematode.
Multiple displacement amplification (MDA) of total genomic DNA from Meloidogyne spp. and comparison to crude DNA extracts in PCR of ITS1, 28S D2-D3 rDNA and Hsp90
Authors: Skantar Andrea , Carta Lynn
Published: August 2005

Because the quantity of nematode specimens available for molecular analysis is often limited, the number of analyses possible is constrained by the availability of DNA. Multiple displacement amplification (MDA) was assessed for whole genome amplification of crude DNA from several Meloidogyne species. MDA produced microgram quantities of template that resulted in successful amplification of the ribosomal internal transcribed spacer (ITS1) and 28S D2-D3 expansion regions, producing PCR results that were comparable to template generated by the single nematode smash method. MDA greatly improved degenerate primer PCR of single-copy Hsp90, a gene which is more sensitive than multi-copy ribosomal genes to limited DNA template. MDA should expand the number of molecular analyses possible for single nematodes. MDA will also be useful for archiving DNA from valuable specimens and provide a way for laboratories to share identical genetic material for nematode diagnosis.
Genital organ anomalies in Xiphinema dentatum (Nematoda: Longidoridae)
Authors: Radivojević Milan
Published: August 2005

Seven specimens of Xiphinema dentatum with abnormal genital organs were found in the same population. Normal females are amphidelphic with the vulva located slightly anterior to the mid-body. Of some 24 000 females examined, six were found to be abnormal. One has a normally developed genital tract, but located in an abnormally posterior position. Two females have two complete systems each, one system in the normal position, and the other well posterior. Another female has a normal posterior branch, while the anterior one is abnormally branched at the pars dilatata uteri into two oviducts and ovaries, one ovary being degenerate. Another two females lack central parts of the system, the remaining distal parts being fused proximally. Males are rare in this species, sometimes having a fully developed diorchic genital tract, but usually with only the copulatory apparatus developed. Of the 137 males examined, one has a normal copulatory apparatus, lacks the seminal duct and has two abnormal masses of tissue corresponding to the position where the testes would normally be located.
Evaluation of the mosquitoes Aedes aegypti and Culex pipiens (Diptera: Culicidae) as alternative hosts for laboratory mass-rearing of Strelkovimermis spiculatus (Nematoda: Mermithidae)
Authors: Achinelly María , Camino Nora
Published: August 2005

The effect of the number of pre-parasitic juveniles of Strelkovimermis spiculatus on infection rate in larvae of the culicid mosquitoes Aedes aegypti and Culex pipiens, and the susceptibility of different larval instars of the culicids to the parasite, was studied in order to facilitate laboratory mass production of the nematode. The infection rate in each mosquito species varied between 72 and 100% for the different concentrations of pre-parasites used per host. Infection percentages in 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th instar larvae exposed to S. spiculatus varied from 11 to 98%. Significant differences in percentage infection were observed between 4th instar larvae and the earlier instars. The results obtained in this study demonstrate the feasibility of mass-rearing S. spiculatus in A. aegypti and C. pipiens under laboratory conditions.
Competition between endoparasitic nematodes and effect on biomass of Ammophila arenaria (marram grass) as affected by timing of inoculation and plant age
Authors: van der Putten Wim , Duyts Henk , Brinkman E. Pernilla
Published: August 2005

We studied the effects of intra- and interspecific competition on the abundance of endoparasitic nematodes and assessed the consequences for biomass production of the natural dune grass Ammophila arenaria. Pratylenchus penetrans was limited by intraspecific competition and it suppressed the abundance of Heterodera arenaria, whilst the interaction between H. arenaria and Meloidogyne maritima was neutral. Pratylenchus penetrans and H. arenaria reduced plant biomass, whereas M. maritima did not. Plant biomass was not differently affected by adding one or two nematode species. When added to older plants, numbers of H. arenaria and M. maritima were higher but numbers of P. penetrans were lower, resulting in less reduction of plant biomass. We discuss our results on this natural system with respect to patterns of interspecific nematode competition observed in agricultural systems.
Reproductive fitness of Meloidogyne artiellia populations on chickpea and durum wheat
Authors: Barbarroja Jorge Martín , Jiménez Díaz Rafael , Fernández Víctor Hernández , Castillo Pablo
Published: August 2005

The influence of chickpea and durum wheat, as crops widely used in rotations in the Mediterranean Basin, on the reproductive fitness of five Meloidogyne artiellia populations from Italy, Spain and Syria, was investigated under controlled conditions. The reproductive fitness of the M. artiellia populations, determined as the number of eggs per mature egg mass, was significantly greater in durum wheat cv. Simeto than in chickpea cv. UC 27 for all five nematode populations. Similarly, both in chickpea and durum wheat the reproductive fitness differed among nematode populations, with populations of M. artiellia from Castel del Monte (southern Italy) and CL5 (northern Spain) producing the greatest number of eggs per egg mass. The fewest number of eggs per egg mass of M. artiellia occurred for populations from Alhama 6 (southern Spain) and Tel-Hadya (northern Syria).
Towards a Pragmatist-Inspired Philosophy of Social Science
Authors: Baert Patrick
Published: August 2005

The article reflects on the possibility of a social science that aims at self-referential knowledge-acquisition. This form of social research explores and questions deep-seated presuppositions prevalent in contemporary culture and strives to become aware of other forms of life. This view of social sciences, therefore, is perfectly in line with the pragmatist perspective that language and knowledge, rather than acts of representation, allow people to increase the scope of human possibilities. Various forms of social research, in a wide range of disciplines, have already explored this self-referential knowledge: for instance, genealogical history and sociology, post-processual archaeology and the critical turn in anthropology. The article locates this self-referential knowledge within the context of contemporary American pragmatism (e.g. Rorty, Bernstein). It is argued that this type of knowledge ties in with the radical tradition in neo-pragmatism, in particular its anti-foundationalist notion of critique.
Configuring the Urban Traveler
Authors: Sundqvist Göran , Letell Martin
Published: August 2005

Today, two trends in European societies are often referred to as being strong and growing. The first is about centralization, i.e. governmental use of scientific recommendations as a universal tool guiding policy and advising citizens on how to behave. The second is about increasing self-reliance among ordinary citizens who claim personal-autonomy while contesting central state power decisions and universally framed scientific advice. Both these trends concern public involvement in decision-making about technical issues, but also comprise a possible paradox. The European Union (EU) characterizes this as being a growing conflict. In the article, the conflict is analyzed in a case study on air quality initiatives in the city of Gothenburg, part of the aim being to create integrative and standardized European air quality. The ways in which the city applies the EU Air Quality Framework Directive for local implementation are studied, and the question is raised of what local involvement is needed for the city to successfully implement the directive. By studying how policy-makers try to define future traveling behavior in order to support an air policy action plan, three different configurations of the agency of the urban traveler are found. The most neglected of these is found to be the one most important for closing the gap in the conflict mentioned above.
Citizen Projects and Consensus-Building at the Danish Board of Technology
Authors: Jensen Casper Bruun
Published: August 2005

The Danish Board of Technology is famous for its work with citizen participation and consensus conferences. This article is based on an empirical investigation of a citizen project on electronic patient records. It investigates the concrete, situated interactions through which the production of a consensus took place. According to the Board of Technology, the democratic relevance of this citizen perspective is validated by their consensus-creating methods. In contrast with this suggestion, the article proposes to view citizen projects as risky, experimental encounters. This view suggests that consensus methods cannot guarantee that learning will occur and that a relevant democratic outcome will be reached. This viewpoint also allows the formulation of specific challenges for citizen projects as currently conceived.
When Scientists Meet Film-Makers
Authors: Elam Mark
Published: August 2005

The new interest in staging public engagements with science, and the biosciences in particular, has been widely associated with a 'democratic turn' in the public understanding of science movement. This article seeks to bring this association under closer scrutiny by focusing on the development of public engagement with biotechnology in Sweden. It analyses the production and dramatic composition of a two-part film documentary entitled Life at Stake, financed by the Swedish research community and broadcast on public service television. Particular attention is paid to the actions of the new non-profit organization Scientists Meet Film-Makers, and the crucial mediating role this organization played in creating the conditions of possibility for Life at Staketo be financed, produced and broadcast. In conclusion, rather than supporting a new logic of deliberation, Life at Stakeis discussed as more concerned with symbolization and spectacle in its use of images of suffering and hope as the touchstone of truth about biotechnology in society. In this way, science communicators appear to be displaying a willingness to learn from the media practices of environmental organizations and other protest groups, who have long appreciated the importance of contesting symbolic codes and schemes of meaning in society.
Returning the Kingdom to the King
Authors: Asdal Kristin
Published: August 2005

Crying out for more science does not solve all problems; rather, it makes it easy to shrug off responsibility for them. This is rightly pointed out by the influential Norwegian philosopher Hans Skjervheim in his critique of positivist science. The critique of positivism in itself is to steer clear of problems that we all ought to be addressing. In confronting Skjervheim's critique of positivism with post-constructivism, this article deals with social science's circumvention of the nature–culture relationship.
Models of Time Use in Paid and Unpaid Work
Authors: Beaujot Roderic , Liu Jianye
Published: September 2005

Models of time use need to consider especially the reproductive and productive activities of women and men. For husband-wife families, the breadwinner, one-earner, or complementary-roles model has advantages in terms of efficiency or specialization and stability; however, it is a high-risk model for women and children. The alternate model has been called two-earner, companionship, “new families,” or collaborative in the sense of spouses collaborating in the paid and unpaid work needed to provide for and care for the family. Adopting the common metric of time use to study paid and unpaid work, we find that the complementary-roles model remains the most common, and the “double burden” is the second most frequent; however, there is some evidence of change in the direction of shared-roles arrangements, especially for younger couples with children, when both are employed full-time.
Boundary Ambiguity in Stepfamilies
Authors: Stewart Susan D.
Published: September 2005

Family boundary ambiguity refers to a lack of clarity as to who is in and who is out of the family system. Few studies have examined this concept in the stepfamily context, which is problematic because such definitional problems hinder our understanding of close relationships in stepfamilies. Based on a nationally representative sample of first-married, remarried, and cohabiting couples with minor children, this study investigates the prevalence and nature of boundary ambiguity in stepfamilies (families that include children from previous unions) and the relationship between boundary ambiguity and couples’ relationship quality and stability. Results suggest that boundary ambiguity is much more prevalent in stepfamilies than original two-parent families and that boundary ambiguity is associated with the structure of the stepfamily. Boundary ambiguity is negatively associated with the quality of the couple’s relationship and stability of the union, but only from the perspective of wives and female partners.
Size matters: Constructing accountable bodies in NSPCC helpline interaction
Authors: Hepburn Alexa , Wiggins Sally
Published: August 2005

The focus on body size or weight has become an increasing source of concern in western society, yet few studies have looked at how people invoke body size in various settings, and the practices to which such talk might be related. Hence this study examines instances in everyday and institutional interaction in which body size is treated as a relevant concern for speakers. A discursive psychological approach is used to examine five extracts from telephone calls to a National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC) helpline. The analysis focuses on how the weight or body size of others is constructed and managed, and how these descriptions can be involved in various activities. Three analytic themes emerge – the focus on how formulations of size and embodiment are drawn upon in practice; the relationship between issues of size and issues of knowledge; and the activities in which different size descriptions are enrolled, in particular, the way these activities relate to the institutional practices of the NSPCC helpline. The empirical claims about the data are also related back to basic theoretical questions, raising profound issues about the way traditional psychology has constructed eating and embodiment.