bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nice guys finish last
Authors: King William R. , Sanders Beth A.
Published: July 2006

In 1992, the FBI published the report Killed in the Line of Duty: A Study of Selected Felonious Killings of Law Enforcement Officers. This study of 51 incidents in which law enforcement officers were killed, reported on the personality and characteristics of those who murder law enforcement officers, the types of officers who were killed and factors which contribute to officer deaths. Unfortunately, this study suffers from methodological shortcomings in sample selection and the method of data collection that make the findings suspect. By comparing the results of the FBI study to previous research and other data on police homicides, it appears that some of the FBI’s findings are methodological artifacts and not accurate depictions of law enforcement officer homicides.
Construction of offender profiles using fuzzy logic
Authors: Verma Arvind
Published: July 2006

Although fuzzy logic is being extensively used in electronics and mathematical sciences, it has found little or no application in the social sciences, especially criminology. As a mathematical system, fuzzy logic generalizes the Boolean logic and can be a very useful tool for the social sciences where concepts and terms involve shades of meanings. Outlines the essential mathematics behind this approach and develops a technique that could be useful in building offender profiles from fuzzy descriptions provided by witnesses. Also suggests several other possible areas of applications of this mathematical system.
Plasma cholesteryl ester transfer protein concentrations predict cardiovascular events in patients with coronary artery disease treated with pravastatin
Authors: MARSCHANG P. , SANDHOFER A. , RITSCH A. , FIŜER I. , KVAS E. , PATSCH J. R.
Published: July 2006

Objective.  The B1B1 variant of the cholesteryl ester transfer protein (CETP) TaqIB polymorphism and high plasma CETP concentrations are associated with favourable angiographic outcomes in pravastatin‐treated patients suffering from coronary artery disease (CAD). The purpose of the present study was to test whether CETP TaqIB genotypes and/or plasma CETP concentrations at baseline also predict clinical end‐points in patients with CAD.

Design.  Prospective longitudinal observational study.

Setting.  Primary care doctors (n = 88) and hospitals (n = 7) in Austria.

Subjects.  A total of 1620 men and women with preexisting CAD were recruited and plasma lipids were determined at study entry. 1389 hypercholesterolaemic patients were included and 1002 patients completed the follow‐up.

Interventions.  In all patients treatment with pravastatin was started and patients were followed up for 2 years.

Main outcome measures.  Cardiovascular events.

Results.  One hundred patients suffered at least one cardiovascular event. We observed significantly more events in patients within the lowest compared with the highest quartile of plasma CETP concentrations (odds ratio 3.20, CI95 1.65–6.23; P = 0.001, adjusted for known risk factors of CAD). No significantly different numbers of cardiovascular events were found between CETP TaqIB genotypes.

Conclusions.  Plasma CETP concentrations, but not CETP TaqIB genotypes, predict cardiovascular events in patients with CAD treated with pravastatin. Despite higher LDL cholesterol concentrations, high plasma CETP concentrations at baseline are associated with fewer cardiovascular events compared with low plasma CETP concentrations in CAD patients treated with pravastatin.
Interpreting trends in cancer patient survival
Authors: DICKMAN P. W. , ADAMI H.‐O.
Published: July 2006

Data on cancer patient survival are an invaluable tool in the evaluation of therapeutic progress against cancer as well as other lethal diseases. As with all quantitative information routinely used in evidence‐based clinical management – including diagnostic tests, prognostic markers and comparisons of therapeutic interventions – data on patient survival require evaluation based on an understanding of the underlying statistical methodology, methods of data collection and classification, and, most notably, clinical and biologic insight. This article contains an introduction to the methods used for estimating cancer patient survival, including cause‐specific survival, relative survival and period analysis. The methods, and their interpretation, are illustrated through presentation of trends in incidence, mortality and patient survival for a range of different cancers. Our aim was to lay out the strengths and limitations of survival analysis as a tool in the evaluation of progress in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer.
A prospective observational study of a cohort of outpatients with an acute medical event and reduced mobility: incidence of symptomatic thromboembolism and description of thromboprophylaxis practices
Authors: BOSSON J.‐L. , POUCHAIN D. , BERGMANN J.‐F. ,   FOR THE ETAPE STUDY GROUP
Published: July 2006

Objectives.  The study was performed to determine the incidence of symptomatic venous thromboembolism in outpatients with an acute medical event causing temporary reduced mobility. Risk factors for venous thromboembolism and thromboprophylaxis practices were also studied.

Design.  This was a prospective, observational, multicentre, cohort study.

Setting.  General practitioners randomly selected from a registry of 25 000 active representative doctors in France included eligible outpatients

Subjects.  Outpatients aged at least 40 years anticipated to have reduced mobility for at least 48 h due to an acute medical event were eligible.

Interventions.  None required.

Main outcome measures.  Symptomatic deep‐vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism at 3 weeks were the main study end‐points.

Results.  Overall, 16 532 evaluable patients of mean age 71 years were recruited between October 2002 and June 2003 by 2895 doctors. The main acute medical events leading to reduced mobility were infection, acute rheumatism and falls without fracture. The incidence rates (95% confidence interval) of symptomatic deep‐vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism were 1% (0.84–1.14) and 0.20% (0.13–0.27) respectively. Venous insufficiency in legs, cancer, and a personal or family history of venous thromboembolism were independent risk factors for venous thromboembolism. Pharmacological thromboprophylaxis was initiated in 35.0% (n = 5782) of the patients. The principal driver of prescription was a personal history of venous thromboembolism.

Conclusions.  The risk of symptomatic venous thromboembolism in outpatients with reduced mobility for medical reasons is close to that reported in medical and surgical inpatients. This risk and the potential need for thromboprophylaxis should be taken into account by primary care doctors.
Normalization of serum calcium by cinacalcet in a patient with hypercalcaemia due to ade novoinactivating mutation of the calcium‐sensing receptor
Authors: TIMMERS H. J. L. M. , KARPERIEN M. , HAMDY N. A. T. , DE BOER H. , HERMUS A. R. M. M.
Published: July 2006

Familial benign hypocalciuric hypercalcaemia (FHH) results from a heterozygous inactivating mutation of the calcium‐sensing receptor (CaR) and is characterized by hypercalcaemia, hypocalciuria and inappropriately normal plasma levels of parathyroid hormone. In a minority of patients, a loss of function mutation of the CaR results in severe hypercalcaemia associated with complications for which no effective surgical or medical treatment is available. We investigated the effects of the calcimimetic agent cinacalcet, an allosteric modulator of the CaR, in a 26‐year‐old man presenting with hypercalcaemia due to ade novoinactivating mutation of the CaR. Complicating features were recurrent psychosis and progressive severe osteoporosis. A single dose of either 30 or 60 mg of cinacalcet resulted in a 63–88% decline in plasma parathyroid hormone levels within 2 h of administration of the agent, reverting to baseline levels after 12 h. Normalization of serum calcium was more gradual but sustained for up to 12 months of treatment with a maintenance twice‐daily oral dose of 60 + 30 mg cinacalcet. In addition to its beneficial effects in primary and secondary hyperparathyroidism, cinacalcet may open new therapeutic avenues in the management of a subset of patients with severe hypercalcaemia due to inactivating mutations of the CaR.
Methotrexate: Improving safety profile
Authors: Grills Claire , Burge Susan
Published: July 2006

Over the past 10 years, there have been 137 patient safety incidents in England associated with methotrexate prescribing. Recent reports show that Australia has similar concerns. Using the valuable tool of an audit, we reviewed our departmental prescribing practices for 49 patients with psoriasis on methotrexate. Results highlighted poor documentation that patients were receiving appropriate information sheets detailing complications of the drug. Inconsistencies between prescribers were also noted, particularly in regards to haematological monitoring. A review of the current published work and the guidelines of other leading centres was performed and consistent, evidence‐based guidelines were produced for the department. Such guidelines are essential in order to minimize the recognized complications of methotrexate. Recent studies highlight procollagen peptide III as a valuable adjunct for monitoring hepatotoxicity, while there is no longer a significant role for routine recording of cumulative dose. It would be valuable to repeat the audit to ensure a change in practice and an improved adherence to common guidelines.
Segmental haemangioma of infancy of the lower limb with skeletal overgrowth
Authors: Opie Jacinta M , Chow Chung Wo , Ditchfield Michael , Bekhor Philip S
Published: July 2006

A female infant presented at 3 months of age with vascular lesions involving the left lower limb and left side of the vulva. At birth, the left leg was thinner than the right, but equal in length. She had macular, reticulate, bluish discolouration covering most of the skin of the involved leg with superimposed cherry‐red papules, most dense over the proximal portion. The macular component showed evidence of improvement within the first few months of life. Papular and nodular components over the leg and the vulva progressively increased in size and thickness until the age of 10 months. These elements had the appearance and behaviour typical of haemangioma of infancy. Regression of these lesions started at the age of 15 months. By the age of 6.5 months, the involved leg was no longer thinner than the right, but the left leg and foot had grown longer. Leg length discrepancy peaked at 2.4 cm at the age of 2 years. The most rapid phase of relative growth discrepancy of left and right leg bones was contemporaneous with the growth phase of the haemangioma. Radiological investigations and histopathology have been consistent with haemangioma of infancy. GLUT‐1 immunostaining of the lesion was positive.
Rudimentary polydactyly in an adult: An unusual presentation to a dermatological surgery unit
Authors: Upjohn Edward , Barlow Richard , Robson Alistair
Published: July 2006

Accessory digits or polydactyly present uncommonly to dermatologists. Usually they are treated by ligature in the neonatal period or by surgery in childhood. We report a 38‐year‐old man who presented to a dermatological surgery unit for treatment of a lifelong lesion on the ulnar aspect of his right fifth finger. Clinically this appeared to be a miniature accessory digit and this was discussed with the patient. Subsequent histological examination of the excision specimen confirmed the clinical diagnosis. Further questioning of the patient revealed a strong family history of polydactyly.
Assessing latitudinal gradients in speciation rates and biodiversity at the global scale
Authors: Allen Andrew P. , Gillooly James F.
Published: July 2006

The mechanisms responsible for latitudinal biodiversity gradients have fascinated and perplexed biologists since the time of Darwin. Ecological theory has yielded two general classes of mechanisms to account for variation in biodiversity: dispersal–assembly mechanisms that invoke differences in stochastic rates of speciation, extinction and dispersal; and niche–assembly mechanisms that invoke species differences, species interactions and environmental heterogeneity. Distinguishing between these two classes of mechanisms requires explicit consideration of macroevolutionary dynamics. Here, we assess the importance of dispersal–assembly mechanisms in the origin and maintenance of biodiversity using fossil data that encompass 30 million years of macroevolution for three distinct groups of ocean plankton: foraminifera, nannoplankton and radiolaria. Applying new methods of analysis to these fossil data, we show here for the first time that latitudinal biodiversity gradients exhibit strong positive correlations with speciation rates even after explicitly controlling for variation in sampling effort and for increases in habitat area towards the equator. These findings provide compelling evidence that geographical variation in macroevolutionary dynamics is a primary determinant of contemporary biodiversity gradients, as predicted by dispersal–assembly theory.
Efficacy and Safety of Rabeprazole, Amoxicillin, and Gatifloxacin After Treatment Failure of Initial Helicobacter pylori Eradication
Authors: Sharara Ala I. , Chaar Hani F. , Aoun Elie , Abdul‐Baki Heitham , Araj George F. , Kanj Souha S.
Published: July 2006

Objectives:  To evaluate the efficacy of a 7‐day regimen of gatifloxacin (400 mg daily), amoxicillin (1 g twice a day), and rabeprazole (20 mg twice a day) in the secondary eradication of Helicobacter pylori infection.

Methods:  Eligible patients with persistent infection following one or more conventional clarithromycin‐containing triple therapies were enrolled in this open‐label trial. Eradication of infection was documented by 14C‐urea breath test a minimum of 4 weeks after therapy and 2 weeks off any acid suppressive therapy. Culture of H. pylori and in vitro susceptibility testing to amoxicillin, clarithromycin, and gatifloxacin was done in cases of failed eradication.

Results:  A total of 45 patients (22 females:23 males; mean age 44.5 ± 13 years) were enrolled. Eradication occurred in 38 patients [both per‐protocol (PP) and intention‐to‐treat analysis: 84.4%; 95% CI: 74–95%]. No significant adverse effects were reported. In vitro susceptibility testing showed no secondary resistance to gatifloxacin or amoxicillin in any of the seven nonresponders. Smoking, age, and sex were not predictors of potential eradication failure.

Conclusions:  A 7‐day regimen of gatifloxacin, rabeprazole, and amoxicillin is effective after failed eradication therapy for H. pylori and does not appear to result in secondary resistance. This combination is simple, well tolerated, and may lead to higher compliance and lower costs.
External invasive resorption in a three‐rooted lower first molar*
Authors: Jensen Arna‐Lee
Published: July 2006

Several pathoses can be present concurrently in one tooth, and if that tooth has an unusual anatomical variation, the diagnosis and treatment can be further complicated. This case stresses the importance of accurate assessment and diagnosis prior to intervention and their role in identifying cases for referral to a specialist in today's increasingly litigious environment.
Case assessment and treatment planning: What governs your decision to treat, refer or replace a tooth that potentially requires endodontic treatment?*
Authors: Pothukuchi Kiran
Published: July 2006

Several factors determine whether a tooth will require treatment by a general dentist, treatment by an endodontist or whether prosthodontic care is necessary after the tooth in question is extracted. This paper will present and discuss those factors, which govern the decisions made by the general dentist, and the resultant treatment options ranging from conservative endodontic therapy to the extraction of the offending tooth and its prosthodontic replacement. The impact of prognosis during endodontic therapy will also be discussed.
Endodontics versus implantology: To extirpate or integrate?
Authors: Dawson Anthony S. , Cardaci Santo C.
Published: July 2006

An increasingly frequent dilemma in restorative dentistry is the question of whether to retain a badly damaged tooth and restore it, or to remove and possibly replace it. Given the ethical difficulties inherent in testing this question, it is unlikely that we will ever see a properly designed clinical trial that will provide an answer. One of the most strongly debated components of this question is whether endodontic treatment and restoration can compete with a dental implant‐borne prosthesis in terms of longevity and success. In the current paper, the authors will attempt to: (i) answer this question based on our current understanding of the dental literature; and (ii) provide practitioners with guidelines that might be applied to their daily practices.
Accuracy of three different electronic apex locators in detecting simulated horizontal and vertical root fractures
Authors: Ebrahim Aqeel K. , Wadachi Reiko , Suda Hideaki
Published: July 2006

The aim of this in vitro study was to evaluate the accuracy of three electronic apex locators (EALs): Root ZX, Foramatron D10 and Apex NRG, in the detection of fractures in teeth having simulated horizontal and vertical root fractures. A total of 90 extracted intact, straight, single‐rooted teeth were divided into six groups of 15 teeth each. In Groups A, B and C, an incomplete horizontal fracture was simulated by preparing a horizontal incision in the coronal, middle or apical portion of the root until the circumferential half of the canal was exposed in the horizontal plane respectively. In Groups D, E and F, an incomplete vertical root fracture was simulated by preparing a vertical straight incision to expose the canal in the coronal, middle or apical portion of the root all the way in the longitudinal plane respectively. The simulated fractures were 0.25 mm in thickness in all groups. The teeth were embedded in 1% agar and the canals were irrigated with saline solution during electronic measurement. Detection of the simulated root fractures was established with a size 10 K‐file when the meter value reached ‘APEX’ on each EAL. In Groups A, B and C, Kruskal–Wallis tests revealed that there were no statistically significant differences between the three EALs. However, statistically significant differences were found among the EALs in Groups D, E and F (P < 0.0001, one‐way anova and Tukey’s post‐hoc test). In conclusion, the three EALs tested were accurate and acceptable clinical tools in the detection of horizontal root fractures. However, the three EALs were unreliable in detecting the position of vertical root fractures.
DEVELOPMENT OF DISPLAY BEHAVIOR IN YOUNG CAPTIVE BEARDED SEALS
Authors: Davies Caroline E. , Kovacs Kit M. , Lydersen Christian , Van Parijs Sofie M.
Published: July 2006

Abstract

In this study of the ontogeny of vocal behavior in captive bearded seals, Erignathus barbatus, (three males and three females), only males exhibited vocal displays. The onset of display behavior coincided with sexual maturity. Males exhibited three types of dive displays associated with the performance of vocalizations. Vocalizing individuals were frequently attended by another male that maintained passive muzzle contact with the vocalizing male. These interactions were non‐aggressive and might play a role in the establishment of a social hierarchy or they might allow the attendee to obtain “near‐field” vocal information from the displaying male. Captive males’ vocalizations resembled those of males in the wild. However, display dives were shorter, and fewer vocalization types were documented among the captive males compared to bearded seals in the wild. The capacity of the captive males for producing well‐formed, long calls with large frequency changes was also significantly less than for wild males. These capacities will likely develop further as the males grow older. Individual capacity for vocal production appears to develop gradually, showing plasticity in form development over time.
Losses of adult sheep due to ovine Johne's disease in 12 infected flocks over a 3‐year period
Authors: BUSH RD , WINDSOR PA , TORIBIO J‐ALML
Published: July 2006

Objective  To measure the biological and financial impact of ovine Johne's disease (OJD) mortalities on 12 infected flocks within the endemic area of southern New South Wales over a 3‐year period.

Design and population  An observational study was conducted over a 3‐year period from 2002 to 2004 on sheep from 12 OJD‐infected flocks from southern NSW. Flocks ranged from between 3,500 and 20,000 sheep. At the start of the study owner estimates of OJD mortality were 5% or greater.

Method  Annual mortality rates were estimated from farm records provided by owners. The proportion of OJD mortalities was assessed after histological examination of tissues collected from dead and moribund sheep during 5‐day necropsy inspections conducted in autumn, winter, spring and summer in 2002. The financial impact was estimated using a gross margin analysis for each of the three study years and by placing a financial value on the necropsied sheep.

Results  On the 12 farms, the average OJD mortality rate was 6.2% (range 2.1% to 17.5%) in 2002, 7.8% (range 1.8% to 14.6%) in 2003 and 6.4% (range 2% to 11.9%) in 2004. The average decrease in gross margin due to OJD infection on a farm in 2002 was 6.4% (range 2.2% to 15.4%), 8.5% (range 3.1% to 15.8%) in 2003 and 7.4% (range 1.5% to 15.4%) in 2004. This equates to an average reduction in annual income of $13,715 per farm per year. OJD losses accounted on average for two thirds of the total estimated financial loss associated with sheep deaths.

Conclusion  This study demonstrates the significant biological and financial impact of OJD on sheep flocks. These findings are of relevance to all Australian sheep flocks infected or at risk of OJD infection.
The impact of malnutrition and other causes of losses of adult sheep in 12 flocks during drought
Authors: BUSH RD , TORIBIO J‐ALML , WINDSOR PA
Published: July 2006

Objective  To establish the range and cost of losses in Merino flocks in southern New South Wales during drought conditions by determining the cause of death, morbidity or wasting in adult sheep.

Design and population  Pathological studies were performed on 392 dead or moribund adult sheep from 12 Ovine Johne's disease (OJD)‐infected flocks during 2002 and a further 58 sheep culled due to wasting from one of these flocks in 2003. Flocks ranged between 3,500 and 20,000 sheep.

Method  The most likely cause of death, morbidity or wasting was determined following consideration of the environment in which the animal was found, clinical and gross pathological findings, plus histopathology of tissues collected during necropsy.

Results  A most likely cause of death, morbidity or wasting was determined for 362 sheep in 2002 and 58 sheep in 2003. OJD contributed to the death of 250 sheep in 2002, and wasting of 48 sheep in 2003. Of the sheep that died or were euthanased due to other causes, malnutrition was a contributing factor in the death of 70 sheep (63%) in 2002 and 2 sheep (20%) in 2003. Losses were not evenly distributed across flocks, with 57% of mortalities caused by malnutrition in 2002 occurring in one flock. Malnutrition accounted for 18% of the annual cost of all deaths among adult sheep in 2002 with an average cost of $16,882 per farm. Losses not attributed to malnutrition included a range of infectious and non‐infectious disorders. These included balanoposthitis, clostridial enterotoxaemia, cutaneous myiasis, endoparasitism, enteritis, intestinal adenocarcinoma, misadventure, peritonitis, periparturient death of ewes, photosensitisation, pneumonia, post‐shearing stress and squamous cell carcinoma of the perineum.

Conclusion  Almost one third of mortalities in OJD‐infected flocks during drought were unrelated to OJD and could be reduced by improving nutritional and disease management practices. The importance of close supervision of the flock is highlighted so that early management intervention can be instituted, including the culling of cases of welfare concern.
Chronic shoulder osteoarthritis in a loggerhead turtle (Caretta caretta)
Authors: RAIDAL SR , SHEARER PL , PRINCE RIT
Published: July 2006

This report describes the lesions seen in an extremely weak and emaciated adult male loggerhead turtle (Caretta caretta) found stranded near Perth, Western Australia. Blood collected from a dorsal cervical sinus immediately prior to euthanasia demonstrated severe anaemia, markedly elevated plasma concentrations of creatinine kinase (2263 U/L), alkaline phosphatase (58 U/L), urea (18.1 mmol/L) and hypoglycaemia (glucose 0.7 mmol/L). Necropsy examination demonstrated a severe chronic osteoarthritis of the right shoulder joint with marked remodelling of the glenoid fossa, coracoid, scapula and humerus. There was marked synovial effusion and periarticular fibrosis. Cytological examination and culture of synovial fluid failed to demonstrate an infectious agent. Other findings were low numbers of trypanorhynch cysts present on the surface of the liver and numerous spirorchid eggs in the attached mesentery. Several large and small spirorchid flukes were present in the heart and there was a localised endarteritis in the left aortic arch associated with this infection. Numerous nematode eggs and at least three species of spirorchid eggs were seen microscopically in faeces collected from the terminal colon. The pathogenesis and significance of these lesions is discussed.
Nocardiainfections in cats: a retrospective multi‐institutional study of 17 cases
Authors: MALIK R , KROCKENBERGER MB , O’BRIEN CR , WHITE JD , FOSTER D , TISDALL PLC , GUNEW M , CARR PD , BODELL L , MCCOWAN C , HOWE J , OAKLEY C , GRIFFIN C , WIGNEY DI , MARTIN P , NORRIS J , HUNT G , MITCHELL DH , GILPIN C
Published: July 2006

Objective To record 17 cases of nocardiosis in cats from eastern Australia and to compare this series with cases previously reported.

Design Retrospective/prospective study.

Results Nocardiaspp infections were diagnosed in 17 cats over 14 years from the three eastern states of Australia. There were no isolates from dogs during this period, but one isolate from a koala and two from dairy cows. The majority of cats presented with spreading lesions of the subcutis and skin associated with draining sinus tract(s). Early cutaneous lesions consisted of circumscribed abscesses. Infections spread at a variable rate, generally by extension to adjacent tissues. Lesions were generally located in regions subjected to cat bite or scratch injuries, including limbs, body wall, inguinal panniculus and nasal bridge. In some other cases, lesions were situated on distal extremities. The clinical course was variable, from chronic, indolent, initially localised infections to acute fulminating disease. Of the 17 cats, 14 were domestic crossbreds and three were purebreds. There was a preponderance of male cats (12 castrated, 1 entire young adult, 1 entire kitten). Nine of 17 cats were 10 years or older. Interestingly, the majority of infections were attributable toN nova. Immediate and/or predisposing causes could be identified in all cases, and included: renal transplantation [one cat]; chronic corticosteroid administration [three cats]; catabolic state following chylothorax surgery [one cat]; fight injuries [seven cats]; FIV infections [three of seven cats tested]. Of the 17 cats, three were apparently cured. Four were thought to be cured, but infection recurred after several months. Three cats responded partially but were euthanased, while another was improving when it died of unrelated complications. Two died despite treatment and two were euthanased without an attempt at therapy. For two cats there were either insufficient records or the patient was lost to follow up.

Conclusion Nocardiosis is a rare, serious disease. Currently it is more common in cats than dogs. Nocardial panniculitis may be clinically indistinguishable from the syndrome caused by rapidly growing mycobacteria. Although the prognosis is guarded, patients with localised infections caused byN novaoften respond to appropriate therapy. If definitive treatment is delayed because of misdiagnosis, the disease tends to become chronic, extensive and refractory. Insufficient duration of therapy leads to disease recurrence.
Effects of single‐lung inflation on inspiratory muscle function in dogs
Authors: De Troyer André , Leduc Dimitri
Published: July 2006

After single‐lung transplantation (SLT) for emphysema, a hyperinflated (native) lung operates in parallel with a normal (transplanted) lung. The interpulmonary distribution of the changes in pleural pressure (ΔPpl) during breathing, however, is unknown. To approach the problem, two endotracheal tubes were inserted in the right and left main stem bronchi of anaesthetized dogs, one lung was passively inflated, and the values of inspiratory ΔPpl over the two lungs were assessed by measuring the changes in airway opening pressure (ΔPao) in the two tubes during occluded breaths. With single‐lung inflation, ΔPao decreased in both lungs, but the decrease in the inflated lung was invariably larger than in the non‐inflated lung; when transrespiratory pressure in the inflated lung was set at 30 cmH2O, ΔPao in this lung was 27.7 ± 2.0% of the value of functional residual capacity (FRC), whereas ΔPao in the non‐inflated lung was 74.4 ± 4.5% (P < 0.001). This difference was abolished after the ventral mediastinal pleura was severed. The ribs in both hemithoraces were displaced cranially with inflation, such that the displacement in the contralateral hemithorax was 75% of that in the ipsilateral hemithorax, and parasternal intercostal activity remained unchanged. These observations suggest that in patients with SLT for emphysema (1) the inspiratory ΔPpl over the transplanted lung are greater than those over the native lung and (2) this difference results primarily from the greater pressure‐generating ability of the inspiratory muscles, in particular the diaphragm, on the transplanted side.
N‐acetylcysteine attenuates the decline in muscle Na+,K+‐pump activity and delays fatigue during prolonged exercise in humans
Authors: McKenna Michael J. , Medved Ivan , Goodman Craig A. , Brown Malcolm J. , Bjorksten Andrew R. , Murphy Kate T. , Petersen Aaron C. , Sostaric Simon , Gong Xiaofei
Published: July 2006

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) have been linked with both depressed Na+,K+‐pump activity and skeletal muscle fatigue. This study investigated N‐acetylcysteine (NAC) effects on muscle Na+,K+‐pump activity and potassium (K+) regulation during prolonged, submaximal endurance exercise. Eight well‐trained subjects participated in a double‐blind, randomised, crossover design, receiving either NAC or saline (CON) intravenous infusion at 125 mg kg−1 h−1 for 15 min, then 25 mg kg−1 h−1 for 20 min prior to and throughout exercise. Subjects cycled for 45 min at 71%, then continued at 92% until fatigue. Vastus lateralis muscle biopsies were taken before exercise, at 45 min and fatigue and analysed for maximal in vitro Na+,K+‐pump activity (K+‐stimulated 3‐O‐methyfluorescein phosphatase; 3‐O‐MFPase). Arterialized venous blood was sampled throughout exercise and analysed for plasma K+ and other electrolytes. Time to fatigue at 92% was reproducible in preliminary trials (c.v. 5.6 ± 0.6%) and was prolonged with NAC by 23.8 ± 8.3% (NAC 6.3 ± 0.5 versus CON 5.2 ± 0.6 min, P < 0.05). Maximal 3‐O‐MFPase activity decreased from rest by 21.6 ± 2.8% at 45 min and by 23.9 ± 2.3% at fatigue (P < 0.05). NAC attenuated the percentage decline in maximal 3‐O‐MFPase activity (%Δactivity) at 45 min (P < 0.05) but not at fatigue. When expressed relative to work done, the %Δactivity‐to‐work ratio was attenuated by NAC at 45 min and fatigue (P < 0.005). The rise in plasma [K+] during exercise and the Δ[K+]‐to‐work ratio at fatigue were attenuated by NAC (P < 0.05). These results confirm that the antioxidant NAC attenuates muscle fatigue, in part via improved K+ regulation, and point to a role for ROS in muscle fatigue.
Protein–protein interactions in the mammalian brain
Authors: Suzuki Harukazu
Published: July 2006

Recent genome‐wide high‐throughput (HTS) analyses of protein–protein interactions (PPIs) provide molecular‐based information to uncover functions of cells and tissues, such as those of the mammalian brain. However, the HTS PPI data contain much false‐negatives and false‐positives, which should be primarily addressed in experiments. Integrating PPI data sets with other genome‐wide data, such as expression profiles and phenotype data sets, provides novel biological insights. Such integration analysis is valuable for addressing the complexity of the mammalian brain. Discovery of novel interactions followed by a detailed analysis is a successful approach to uncover the function of proteins. For example, extensive PPI screens for parkin, a hereditary Parkinson's disease gene, elucidated the function of parkin as an E3 ubiquitin ligase, with localization and activity regulated by contact with its interaction partners, uncovering at least a part of the molecular pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease.
Spitzer Spectral Observations of the Deep Impact Ejecta
Authors: Lisse C. M. , VanCleve J. , Adams A. C. , A'Hearn M. F. , Fernández Y. R. , Farnham T. L. , Armus L. , Grillmair C. J. , Ingalls J. , Belton M. J. S. , Groussin O. , McFadden L. A. , Meech K. J. , Schultz P. H. , Clark B. C. , Feaga L. M. , Sunshine J. M.
Published: July 2006

Spitzer Space Telescope imaging spectrometer observations of comet 9P/Tempel 1 during the Deep Impact encounter returned detailed, highly structured, 5- to 35-micrometer spectra of the ejecta. Emission signatures due to amorphous and crystalline silicates, amorphous carbon, carbonates, phyllosilicates, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, water gas and ice, and sulfides were found. Good agreement is seen between the ejecta spectra and the material emitted from comet C/1995 O1 (Hale-Bopp) and the circumstellar material around the young stellar object HD100546. The atomic abundance of the observed material is consistent with solar and C1 chondritic abundances, and the dust-to-gas ratio was determined to be greater than or equal to 1.3. The presence of the observed mix of materials requires efficient methods of annealing amorphous silicates and mixing of high- and low-temperature phases over large distances in the early protosolar nebula.
Smoke and Pollution Aerosol Effect on Cloud Cover
Authors: Kaufman Yoram J. , Koren Ilan
Published: July 2006

Pollution and smoke aerosols can increase or decrease the cloud cover. This duality in the effects of aerosols forms one of the largest uncertainties in climate research. Using solar measurements from Aerosol Robotic Network sites around the globe, we show an increase in cloud cover with an increase in the aerosol column concentration and an inverse dependence on the aerosol absorption of sunlight. The emerging rule appears to be independent of geographical location or aerosol type, thus increasing our confidence in the understanding of these aerosol effects on the clouds and climate. Preliminary estimates suggest an increase of 5% in cloud cover.
Violation of Kirchhoff's Laws for a Coherent
RC
Circuit
Authors: Gabelli J. , Fève G. , Berroir J.-M. , Plaçais B. , Cavanna A. , Etienne B. , Jin Y. , Glattli D. C.
Published: July 2006

What is the complex impedance of a fully coherent quantum resistance-capacitance (
RC
) circuit at gigahertz frequencies in which a resistor and a capacitor are connected in series? While Kirchhoff's laws predict addition of capacitor and resistor impedances, we report on observation of a different behavior. The resistance, here associated with charge relaxation, differs from the usual transport resistance given by the Landauer formula. In particular, for a single-mode conductor, the charge-relaxation resistance is half the resistance quantum, regardless of the transmission of the mode. The new mesoscopic effect reported here is relevant for the dynamical regime of all quantum devices.
Why Are There So Many Species of Herbivorous Insects in Tropical Rainforests?
Authors: Novotny Vojtech , Drozd Pavel , Miller Scott E. , Kulfan Miroslav , Janda Milan , Basset Yves , Weiblen George D.
Published: July 2006

Despite recent progress in understanding mechanisms of tree species coexistence in tropical forests, a simple explanation for the even more extensive diversity of insects feeding on these plants has been missing. We compared folivorous insects from temperate and tropical trees to test the hypothesis that herbivore species coexistence in more diverse communities could reflect narrow host specificity relative to less diverse communities. Temperate and tropical tree species of comparable phylogenetic distribution supported similar numbers of folivorous insect species, 29.0 ± 2.2 and 23.5 ± 1.8 per 100 square meters of foliage, respectively. Host specificity did not differ significantly between community samples, indicating that food resources are not more finely partitioned among folivorous insects in tropical than in temperate forests. These findings suggest that the latitudinal gradient in insect species richness could be a direct function of plant diversity, which increased sevenfold from our temperate to tropical study sites.
The Structure of G4, the Poxvirus Disulfide Oxidoreductase Essential for Virus Maturation and Infectivity
Authors: Su Hua-Poo , Lin David Yin-wei , Garboczi David N.
Published: July 2006

The possibility of the release of smallpox virus into a predominantly nonimmunized population highlights the importance of understanding poxvirus biology. Poxviruses encode a conserved pathway that is required to oxidize disulfide bonds in nascent viral proteins that fold in the reducing environment of the eukaryotic host cytoplasm. We present the structure of the last enzyme of the vaccinia virus pathway, G4, which is almost identical in smallpox virus. G4 catalyzes the formation of disulfide bonds in proteins that are critical for virus maturation and host cell infection. G4 contains a thioredoxin fold and a Cys-X-X-Cys active site. In solution, G4 monomers and dimers are observed. In the crystal, G4 is found as a dimer that buries 4,500 Å
2
in the interface and occludes the active site, which could protect the reactive disulfide from reduction in the cytoplasm. The structure serves as a model for drug design targeting viral disulfide bond formation.
STABILITY OF QUANTUM FLUIDS: WAVY INTERFACE EFFECT
Authors: CHU A. KWANG-HUA
Published: July 2006

A numerical investigation for the stability of the incompressible slip flow of normal quantum fluids (above the critical phase transition temperature) inside a microslab where surface acoustic waves propagate along the walls is presented. Governing equations and associated slip velocity and wavy interface boundary conditions for the flow of normal fluids confined between elastic wavy interfaces are obtained. The numerical approach is an extension (with a complex matrix pre-conditioning) of the spectral method. We found that the critical Reynolds number ( Re cr or the critical velocity) decreases significantly once the slip velocity and wavy interface effects are present and the latter is dominated ( Re cr mainly depends on the wavy interfaces).
BOUND POLARON IN A POLAR SEMICONDUCTOR HETEROJUNCTION IN STATIC ELECTRIC FIELD
Authors: LIU JIA , XIAO JING-LIN
Published: July 2006

The binding energy of the ground state of a bound polaron near the interface of a polar-polar semiconductor heterojunction is investigated by using the Lee–Low–Pines intermediate coupling method. The influence of a triangular potential approximation of the interface, the electron-phonon and impurity-phonon interactions as well as the half-space bulk longitudinal and interface-optical phonon modes are all taken into account. We have performed numerical calculations on the GaAs / Al x Ga 1-x As (0.2 ≤ x ≤ 0.4) heterojunction system and studied the relations between the ground state binding energy of the polaron and the impurity position, electric field strength and electron area density, respectively. It is found that with the increase in the distance between the impurity and the interface, the binding energy and the contribution of phonons reach the maximum. It is also found that the binding energy of the bound polaron increases slowly with the increase in an electric field while the total polaronic correction decreases the binding energy. When the electron area density is increased, the contribution of the interface-optical (IO) modes is greater than that of the bulk longitudinal optical (LO) mode.
EFFECT OF SINTERING TEMPERATURE ON DENSIFICATION AND DIELECTRIC PROPERTIES OF Pb(Zr0.44Ti0.56)O3 CERAMICS
Authors: YIMNIRUN R. , TIPAKONTITIKUL R. , ANANTA S.
Published: July 2006

In this study, lead zirconate titanate ( Pb ( Zr 0.44 Ti 0.56) O 3) ceramics were fabricated with a mixed oxide synthetic route of lead oxide ( PbO ) and zirconium titanate ( ZrTiO 4) precursors. The effects of sintering temperature on phase formation, densification and dielectric responses of the ceramics have been investigated using XRD, SEM, EDX and dielectric measurement techniques. The densification of the PZT ceramics with density of 97% theoretical density can be achieved with appropriate sintering condition without any sintering additives. The optimized sintering condition has been identified as 1225°C for 4 h. More importantly, the dielectric properties are found to improve with increasing sintering temperature and grain size. However, when sintered over 1250°C, the dielectric properties of the ceramics are seen to deteriorate as a result of PbO vaporization, ZrO 2 segregations and porosity.
SIMPLIFIED THERMAL LATTICE BOLTZMANN IN INCOMPRESSIBLE LIMIT
Authors: NOR AZWADI C. S. , TANAHASHI T.
Published: July 2006

In this paper, an incompressible thermohydrodynamics for the lattice Boltzmann scheme is developed. The basic idea is to solve the velocity field and the temperature field using two different distribution functions. A derivation of the lattice Boltzmann scheme from the continuous Boltzmann equation is discussed in detail. By using the same procedure as in the derivation of the discretised density distribution function, we found that a new lattice of four-velocity model for internal energy density distribution function can be developed where the viscous and compressive heating effects are negligible. This model is validated by the numerical simulation of the porous plate couette flow problem where the analytical solution exists and the natural convection flows in a square cavity.
ORDERING BEHAVIOR OF FCC AND HCP ALLOYS IN Ni-Hf AND Re-Ti SYSTEMS
Authors: ABBAS TAHIR , ARIF KHALIL RANA M. , RANA ANWAR MANZOOR , MAHTAB-ULLAH
Published: July 2006

The concentration dependence of atomic short range order (SRO) has been studied in Ni 100-x Hf x and Re 100-x Ti x alloys (where x = 2, 5, 10, 15, 20 at.%) using the framework of transition metal model pseudopotential (TMMP). The ordering energies and Warren–Cowley SRO parameters were calculated for the Ni-Hf and Re-Ti alloys. It was found that this model predicted the correct sign of SRO for Ni 100-x Hf x system but failed in the case of Re 100-x Ti x alloys.
THREE-SPIN INTERACTIONS AND ENTANGLEMENT IN OPTICAL LATTICES
Authors: PACHOS JIANNIS K.
Published: July 2006

The entanglement properties of some novel quantum systems are studied that are inspired by recent developments in cold-atom technology. A triangular optical lattice of two atomic species can be employed to generate a variety of spin-1/2 Hamiltonians including effective three-spin interactions. A variety of one- or two-dimensional systems can thus be realized that possess multi-degenerate ground states or non-vanishing chirality. The properties of these ground states and their phase transitions are probed with appropriate measures such as the entropic entanglement and the spin chirality.
The Sublethal Effects of Pesticides on Beneficial Arthropods
Authors: Desneux Nicolas , Decourtye Axel , Delpuech Jean-Marie
Published: July 2006

Traditionally, measurement of the acute toxicity of pesticides to beneficial arthropods has relied largely on the determination of an acute median lethal dose or concentration. However, the estimated lethal dose during acute toxicity tests may only be a partial measure of the deleterious effects. In addition to direct mortality induced by pesticides, their sublethal effects on arthropod physiology and behavior must be considered for a complete analysis of their impact. An increasing number of studies and methods related to the identification and characterization of these effects have been published in the past 15 years. Review of sublethal effects reported in published literature, taking into account recent data, has revealed new insights into the sublethal effects of pesticides including effects on learning performance, behavior, and neurophysiology. We characterize the different types of sublethal effects on beneficial arthropods, focusing mainly on honey bees and natural enemies, and we describe the methods used in these studies. Finally, we discuss the potential for developing experimental approaches that take into account these sublethal effects in integrated pest management and the possibility of integrating their evaluation in pesticide registration procedures.
Sympathetic nervous system contributes to the age-related impairment of flow-mediated dilation of the superficial femoral artery
Authors: Thijssen Dick H. J. , de Groot Patricia , Kooijman Miriam , Smits Paul , Hopman Maria T. E.
Published: July 2006

The physiological aging process is associated with endothelial dysfunction, as assessed by flow-mediated dilation (FMD). Aging is also characterized by increased sympathetic tone. Therefore, the aim of the present study is to assess whether acute changes in sympathetic activity alter FMD in the leg. For this purpose, the FMD of the superficial femoral artery was determined in 10 healthy young (22 ± 1 yr) and 8 healthy older (69 ± 1 yr) men in three different conditions: 1) at baseline, 2) during reduction of sympathetic activity, and 3) during sympathetic stimulation. Reduction of sympathetic activity was achieved by performing a maximal cycling exercise, leading to postexercise attenuation of the sympathetic responsiveness in the exercised limb. A cold pressor test was used to increase sympathetic activity. Nitroglycerin (NTG) was used to assess endothelium-independent vasodilation in all three conditions. Our results showed that, in older men, the FMD and NTG responses were significantly lower compared with young men ( P = 0.001 and P = 0.02, respectively). In older men, sympathetic activity significantly affected the FMD response [repeated-measures (RM) ANOVA: P = 0.01], with a negative correlation between the level of sympathetic activity and FMD ( R = −0.41, P = 0.049). This was not the case for NTG responses (ANOVA; P = 0.48). FMD and NTG responses in young men did not differ among the three conditions (RM-ANOVA: P = 0.32 and P = 0.31, respectively). In conclusion, in older men, FMD of the femoral artery is impaired. Local attenuation of the sympathetic responsiveness partly restores the FMD in these subjects. In contrast, in young subjects, acute modulation of the sympathetic nervous system activity does not alter flow-mediated vasodilation in the leg.