bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Middle-ear endoscopy and trans-tympanic drug delivery using an interventional sialendoscope: feasibility study in human cadaveric temporal bones
Authors: Peters G , Lin J , Arriaga M A , Nuss D W , Schaitkin B , Walvekar R R
Published: June 2010

Objective:

This study aimed to assess the feasibility of using a 1.3 mm, semi-rigid, interventional salivary endoscope for middle-ear endoscopy, and as a trans-tympanic route for delivery of medication, in human cadaveric temporal bones.

Study design:

Human cadaveric study.

Methods:

Five temporal bones harvested from human cadavers were examined. A 1.3 mm, interventional sialendoscope was used to make endoscopy-assisted myringotomy incisions in the postero-inferior quadrant (n = 5) and the antero-inferior quadrant (n = 3).

Results:

Middle-ear examination was successful in all specimens (n = 5). Access to the round window niche and adequate visualisation of the round window were achieved in all five temporal bones (100 per cent). A guide wire could be navigated to the round window niche without difficulty. Other structures identified in all specimens included the incudostapedial joint, stapedius tendon, pyramidal eminence and facial nerve via an extended myringotomy incision. The anterior middle-ear space was also successfully examined through an endoscope-guided anterior myringotomy. The opening to the eustachian tube was visualised and cannulated with a guide wire in all preparations in which this was attempted (n = 3).

Conclusions:

The 1.3 mm, interventional sialendoscope allowed adequate visualisation of the eustachian tube, middle-ear space and round window niche, with interventional capabilities, in a cadaveric model. Our result validates the feasibility of its use for trans-tympanic drug delivery.
Patients' perceptions of doctors' clothing: should we really be ‘bare below the elbow’?
Authors: Bond L , Clamp P J , Gray K , Van Dam V
Published: June 2010

Introduction:

In September 2007, the Department of Health published Uniforms and Workwear: an Evidence Base for Guiding Local Policy. Following this, most National Health Service trusts imposed a ‘bare below the elbow’ dress code policy, with clinical staff asked to remove ties, wristwatches and hand jewellery and to wear short-sleeved tops. There is currently no evidence linking dress code to the transmission of hospital-acquired infection. We designed the current survey to assess patients' perceptions of doctors' appearance, with specific reference to the ‘bare below the elbow’ policy.

Materials and methods:

A questionnaire showing photographs of a doctor in three different types of attire (‘scrubs’, formal attire and ‘bare below the elbow’) were used to gather responses from 80 in-patients and 80 out-patients in the ENT department. Patients were asked which outfit they felt was the most hygienic, the most professional and the easiest identification of the person as a doctor. They were also asked to indicate their overall preference.

Results and analysis:

Formal attire was considered most professional and the easiest identification that the person was a doctor. Scrubs were considered most hygienic. Respondents' overall preference was divided between scrubs and formal clothes. ‘Bare below the elbow’ attire received the lowest votes in all categories.

Discussion:

This finding raises significant questions about the Department of Health policy in question. The authors suggest that an alternative policy should be considered, with scrubs worn for in-patient situations and formal attire during out-patient encounters.
Vestibular evoked myogenic potentials: review
Authors: Mudduwa R , Kara N , Whelan D , Banerjee Anirvan
Published: June 2010

Background:

Disorders of balance often pose a diagnostic conundrum for clinicians, and a multitude of investigations have emerged over the years. Vestibular evoked myogenic potential testing is a diagnostic tool which can be used to assess vestibular function. Over recent years, extensive study has begun to establish a broader clinical role for vestibular evoked myogenic potential testing.

Objectives:

To provide an overview of vestibular evoked myogenic potential testing, and to present the evidence for its clinical application.

Review type:

Structured literature search according to evidence-based medicine guidelines, performed between November 2008 and April 2009. No restrictions were applied to the dates searched.

Conclusion:

The benefits of vestibular evoked myogenic potential testing have already been established as regards the diagnosis and monitoring of several clinical conditions. Researchers continue to delve deeper into potential new clinical applications, with early results suggesting promising future developments.
Efficiency and selectivity of the Anomalocardia brasiliana (Mollusca: Veneridae) hand dredge used in southern Brazil
Authors: Pezzuto Paulo R. , Schio Caroline , Almeida Tito C.M.
Published: June 2010

In Florianópolis, southern Brazil, the venerid clam Anomalocardia brasiliana has supported subsistence and small-scale commercial fisheries for decades. The introduction of a hand dredge (gancho) since 1987 led to the development of a significant fishery supplying both local and regional shellfish markets. In 1992 one of the main fishing areas in the region was designated as the first Brazilian Marine Extractive Reserve (Pirajubaé RESEX), a federal form of governance intended to promote sustainable exploitation of natural resources by assigning exclusive fishing rights to traditional users. However, excessive fishing effort, institutional shortcomings and lack of a negotiated management plan have resulted in the overexploitation of the species since 2000. This study was aimed at evaluating the efficiency and selectivity of the hand dredge currently in use at the RESEX, through a field experiment conducted in October 2006. Quantitative samples of A. brasiliana were collected before and after dredging 15 experimental plots. Additional samples were obtained inside the dredge (catch) and respective cover cod-end (discard) for selectivity analysis. A single haul of the hand dredge can dislocate up to 76% of the individuals present in the sediment irrespective of their size, and retain up to 69% of the commercial-sized organisms. The gear has a knife-edge selection pattern, which enables the use of the minimum spacing between the iron bars of the dredge's basket as an effective management tool.
Encounter rates of cetaceans in the Mediterranean Sea and contiguous Atlantic area
Authors: Boisseau Oliver , Lacey Claire , Lewis Tim , Moscrop Anna , Danbolt Magnus , McLanaghan Richard
Published: June 2010

A series of visual–acoustic surveys were carried out in the Mediterranean Sea between 2003 and 2007 from RV ‘Song of the Whale’. Almost 21,000 km of trackline were surveyed between the longitudes of 14°W and 36°E with an emphasis on regions with low survey effort. Survey tracklines were designed to provide even coverage probability with random start points. Ten cetacean species were positively identified (sperm whale, fin whale, Cuvier's beaked whale, false killer whale, long-finned pilot whale, Risso's dolphin, common bottlenose dolphin, rough-toothed dolphin, striped dolphin and short-beaked common dolphin). Several of these species, plus sei whale and harbour porpoise, were also encountered in the Atlantic contiguous area (the entrance waters of the Mediterranean between the Iberian Peninsula and north-west Morocco). These surveys expand and clarify the known distributions of cetaceans within the Mediterranean basin. New species documented from Libyan waters include sperm whale, striped dolphin and rough-toothed dolphin. False killer whales and rough-toothed dolphins were documented for the first time off Cyprus. Live harbour porpoises were seen for the first time on Morocco's Atlantic seaboard. It is suggested that the status of rough-toothed dolphins in the Mediterranean be revised from visitor to regular species. Substantial new information on encounter rates is now available for the planning of a basin-wide systematic survey of cetaceans within the Mediterranean Sea and contiguous Atlantic waters.
Studies on reproductive biology and ecology of blue swimming crabPortunus pelagicusfrom Chilika Lagoon, Orissa, India
Authors: Sahoo D. , Panda S. , Guru B.C.
Published: June 2010

Portunus pelagicusa commercially important crab species found in Chilika lagoon constitutes about 20% of the total crab production. The carapace width (CW) ranges from 4.5–10.5 cm in both the sexes during the study period. The maximum abundance of male was at 6.6 to 7.5 cm CW whereas the females predominate from 6.6 to 9.5 cm CW. The relationship between carapace length (CL) and CW is linear in both sexes which indicates isometric growth. However, the relationship between CL, CW with total body weight (TW) is exponential. The food habit from gut content analysis shows that the species is highly carnivorous and the main food items include prawn carapace and appendages (27.58%), molluscan remaining (21.55%), fish bone (7.75%), seagrass (1.72%), unidentified materials (4.31%) and the mixed food (37.06%). The feeding index was found highest (80.95%) in February whereas it is lowest (60.9%) in June. The mature females are observed from May to July with a peak in July in the lagoon. The highest gonadosomatic index is found in July with an average CW of 10.5 cm. No berried females are found in the study period, which indicates that it did not spawn inside the lagoon and migrates to the sea during the rainy season.
Community structure and biodiversity of shallow water macrobenthic fauna at Noor coast, South Caspian Sea, Iran
Authors: Taheri Mehrshad , Foshtomi Maryam Yazdani
Published: June 2010

For studying community structure and biodiversity of macrofauna, seasonal samplings were carried out along three different depths (5, 15 and 30 m) in four transects (12 stations) at Noor coast during 2005. Four higher taxa were determined. Polychaeta was the dominant group comprising 96.61 of the total individuals, followed by Bivalvia 1.35%, Oligochaeta 1.15% and Amphipoda 0.87%. Of the six encountered species, the polychaete, Streblospio gynobranchiata accounted for 84.95 of the total population. Also, Tubificoides fraseri was observed in the Caspian Sea for the first time. During this study, density of macrofauna increased with depths, total organic matter and percentage of silt–clay. The highest density was obtained in winter and the lowest was observed in summer. Maximum diversity, richness, and evenness were obtained, 0.91, 1.05 and 0.88, respectively. Also, multivariate analysis separated differences of density between seasons and depths.
First record of two lessepsian amphipods in Tunisia: Elasmopus pectenicrus and Stenothoe gallensis
Authors: Zakhama-Sraieb Rym , Charfi-Cheikhrouha Faouzia
Published: June 2010

The marine amphipod fauna of Tunisian shallow water was studied during 2003 to 2009. In this paper, we report—for the first time—the presence of two lessepsian amphipod species Elasmopus pectenicrus and Stenothoe gallensis from the south-east Tunisian coast.
Anti-inflammatory effects of the Mediterranean diet: the experience of the PREDIMED study
Authors: Estruch Ramon
Published: June 2010

Several epidemiological and clinical studies have evaluated the effects of a Mediterranean diet (Med-Diet) on total cardiovascular mortality, and all concluded that adherence to the traditional Med-Diet is associated with reduced cardiovascular risk. However, the molecular mechanisms involved are not fully understood. Since atherosclerosis is nowadays considered a low-grade inflammatory disease, recent studies have explored the anti-inflammatory effects of a Med-Diet intervention on serum and cellular biomarkers related to atherosclerosis. In a pilot study of the PREvencion con DIeta MEDiterranea (PREDIMED) trial, we analysed the short-term effects of two Med-Diet interventions, one supplemented with virgin olive oil and another with nuts, on vascular risk factors in 772 subjects at high risk for CVD, and in a second study we evaluated the effects of these interventions on cellular and serum inflammatory biomarkers in 106 high-risk subjects. Compared to a low-fat diet, the Med-Diet produced favourable changes in all risk factors. Thus, participants in both Med-Diet groups reduced blood pressure, improved lipid profile and diminished insulin resistance compared to those allocated a low-fat diet. In addition, the Med-Diet supplemented with virgin olive oil or nuts showed an anti-inflammatory effect reducing serum C-reactive protein, IL-6 and endothelial and monocytary adhesion molecules and chemokines, whereas these parameters increased after the low-fat diet intervention. In conclusion, Med-Diets down-regulate cellular and circulating inflammatory biomarkers related to atherogenesis in subjects at high cardiovascular risk. These results support the recommendation of the Med-Diet as a useful tool against CVD.
Mechanisms underlying the effect of vitamin D on the immune system
Authors: Cantorna Margherita T.
Published: June 2010

Vitamin D and the vitamin D receptor (VDR) have been shown to be important regulators of the immune system. In particular, vitamin D and VDR deficiency exacerbates experimental autoimmune diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). IBD develops due to an immune-mediated attack by pathogenic T-cells that overproduce IL-17 and IFN-γ and a few regulatory cells. VDR knockout mice have twice as many T-cells making IL-17 and IFN-γ than wild-type mice. In addition, vitamin D and the VDR are required for normal numbers of regulatory T-cells (iNKT and CD8αα) that have been shown to suppress experimental IBD. In the absence of vitamin D and the VDR, autoimmunity occurs in the gastrointestinal tract due to increased numbers of IL-17 and IFN-γ secreting T-cells and a concomitant reduction in regulatory T-cells.
Editorial
Authors: BURNARD PAMELA , SPRUCE GARY
Published: June 2010

Traditionally, and perhaps inevitably, a person's journey to becoming a teacher is a complex one. Concerns about how music teachers are prepared raise questions about the quality of programmes that prepare pre-service teachers to teach. Within this context we are invited in this issue to reflect upon all phases and experiences of music teaching.
Singapore International Schools: Best practice in culturally diverse music education
Authors: Cain Melissa Anne
Published: June 2010

This paper explores the preliminary outcomes of research into the place and role of cultural diversity in primary music classes at five International Schools in Singapore. It highlights the ways in which school philosophy, policy, curriculum and in-service training influence teacher practice. The research provides insights into the challenges teachers face when diversifying their music programmes in addition to the areas of support that allow a programme based on cultural diversity to flourish and remain successful. The results of interviews with music specialists at these schools suggest that music programmes at International Schools in Singapore provide examples of best practice in culturally diverse music education. The success of these programmes is due to several identifiable factors such as strong philosophical and curricula foundations, quality in-service training and the regular involvement of culture bearers and visiting artists.
Musical involvement outside school: How important is it for student-teachers in secondary education?
Authors: Kokotsaki Dimitra
Published: June 2010

This study aims to assess the perceived impact of Post-Graduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) music students' engagement in music making outside school on their teaching. Fifty-one students training to become secondary school music teachers in England were asked to report on the perceived impact that their participation in music making outside school had on their lives during their training and on its expected impact as a qualified music teacher. They believed that being musically involved outside school has both personal and professional benefits for them as it has the potential to increase their anticipated job satisfaction as qualified teachers and help them become better teachers. They all expressed a desire to be involved in such musical activities as qualified music teachers because they felt that these can help them maintain their enthusiasm, be more confident and motivated, and keep their technique and performance standards to a high level.
Thinking and Making: Selections from the Writings of John Paynter on Music in Education by John Paynter & Janet Mills. Oxford: Oxford University Press, 2008. 214 pp., £15.95, paperback. ISBN: 9780193355910. – CORRIGENDUM
Authors: Finney John
Published: June 2010

The Editors wish to apologise for the misspelling of Wilfrid Mellers's name and for typographical errors in citing, in this review, the section heading of Part II of the book.
The Evolution of Evolutionary Theory
Authors: Bateson Patrick
Published: June 2010

Charles Darwin has had an extraordinary impact on many aspects of human affairs apart from revolutionizing biology. On the 200th anniversary of his birth, the Cambridge Darwin Festival in July 2009 celebrated these contributions to the humanities, philosophy and religion and the approach to medicine, economics and the social sciences. He is a man to revere. It is no discredit to him that the science of evolutionary biology should continue to evolve. In this article I shall consider some of the ways in which this has happened since his day.
Genetic and Cultural Evolution: From Fossils to Proteins, and from Behaviour to Ethics
Authors: Lachmann Peter
Published: June 2010

At the end of the Darwin bicentenary year it may be thought that there is little more left to say on the subject of evolution, but there are some aspects that still deserve further elaboration. There are several, largely non-overlapping, sets of evolutionary scientists – for example, the palaeontologists who are particularly interested in fossils and in the evolution of structure; the biochemists and molecular biologists who are interested in the molecular aspects of evolution; and the sociobiologists who include cultural evolution in their field of interest. The Darwin celebrations, reflecting his own scientific interests, have been dominated by the palaeontological approach and other approaches may have been somewhat neglected.
Special issue on future time reference in English
Authors: DEPRAETERE ILSE , WILLIAMS CHRISTOPHER
Published: June 2010

The idea of devoting a special issue to the question of future time reference in English began with the seminar we jointly convened on ‘What Future for the Future Tense in English?’ for the ESSE-8 conference held at the Institute of English Studies, University of London, between 29 August and 2 September 2006. This in turn raises the question as to why we should have thought of future time reference in English as a topic of interest in the first place. We had in fact both been interested in questions relating to tense, aspect and modality for several years, and we had long been struck by the fact that (much to the despair of many non-native speakers) English is particularly well endowed with ways of expressing future time reference by comparison with many other European languages.
Beyond aspect:will be -ingandshall be -ing
Authors: CELLE AGNÈS , SMITH NICHOLAS
Published: June 2010

This article discusses the synchronic status and diachronic development ofwill be -ingandshall be -ing(as inI'll be leaving at noon).2Although available since at least Middle English, the constructions did not establish a significant foothold in standard English until the twentieth century. Both types are also more prevalent in British English (BrE) than American English (AmE).

We argue that in present-day usagewill/shall be -ingare aspectually underspecified: instances that clearly construe a situation as future-in-progress are in the minority. Similarly, although volition-neutrality has been identified as a key feature ofwill/shall be -ing, it is important to take account of other, generally richer meanings and associations, notably ‘future-as-matter-of-course’ (Leech 2004), ‘already-decided future’ (Huddleston & Pullum et al. 2002) and non-agentivity. Like volition-neutrality, these characteristics appear to be relevant not only in contemporary use, but also in their historical expansion. We show that the construction has evolved from progressive aspect towards more subjectivised evidential meaning.
Something fishy? News media presentation of complex health issues related to fish consumption guidelines
Authors: Greiner Amelia , Clegg Smith Katherine , Guallar Eliseo
Published: June 2010

Objective

The news media are an important source of dietary information. Understanding news content, particularly the portrayal of risks and benefits of certain foods, is relevant for effective public health communication. Fish consumption may reduce risk for CVD and aid neonatal development, but recent work shows public confusion about the benefits of fish, challenged by the evidence of mercury and other contaminants in fish. We present an analysis of the messages about fish in US news media over 15 years, identifying trends in coverage and highlighting implications of current messaging.

Design

We conducted a descriptive text analysis and coded for manifest content: locality of focus, story frame, reference to studies, inclusion of government guidelines and portrayal of uncertainty. We identified chronological patterns and analysed the data for statistically significant relationships between media source and content.

Setting

News stories were selected from five daily newspapers and five television networks (1993–2007).

Subjects

We analysed 310 health-related news stories on fish.

Results

Risk messages outweighed benefit messages four to one, and health benefits only became prominent after 2002. No difference existed in coverage topic by news source. Fish consumption has increasingly become a national issue.

Conclusions

With the bulk of messages about fish consumption focused on risk, the benefits may be lost to consumers. This gap creates a need for public health to work with news media to more effectively communicate benefits and risks around fish consumption and health and to consider options for communicating tailored information where it can be more readily utilised.
OPTIMAL EXERCISE PRICE OF AMERICAN OPTIONS NEAR EXPIRY
Authors: CHEN WEN-TING , ZHU SONG-PING
Published: June 2010

This paper investigates American puts on a dividend-paying underlying whose volatility is a function of both time and underlying asset price. The asymptotic behaviour of the critical price near expiry is deduced by means of singular perturbation methods. It turns out that if the underlying dividend is greater than the risk-free interest rate, the behaviour of the critical price is parabolic, otherwise an extra logarithmic factor appears, which is similar to the constant volatility case. The results of this paper complement numerical approaches used to calculate the option values and the optimal exercise price at times that are not close to expiry.
Delivering Legal Information Skills via a VLE
Authors: Donaldson Angela
Published: June 2010

Angela Donaldson describes the process of developing an online environment in which to deliver legal information skills to undergraduate LLB students.
Building Proficiency: Approaches to Teaching Legal Research at the College of Law
Authors: Simmonds Tony
Published: June 2010

Tony Simmonds describes the initiatives taken at the College of Law to assist students to perform effective practical legal research including a Legal Method foundation course; a vocational course for the Legal Practice Course and additional in house learning activities devised by the information professionals.
“What do you Mean, Look it up in the Library? Isn't it on the Internet”?
Authors: Mawson Maria
Published: June 2010

Maria Mawson explores the extent to which universities still teach undergraduates how to use print legal research sources. It also examines the level to which these sources are still provided, in the light of increasing costs, shrinking budgets and the convenience of online access.
Teaching Legal Research in Canadian Law Schools: Are We Meeting the Needs of the Profession?
Authors: Eaton John
Published: June 2010

In this philosophical article John Eaton from the University of Manitoba recounts the current legal education system in Canada and reflects on the issues involved in teaching legal research skills, including problems with where to base the training within the curriculum, and difficulties encountered in the migration from hard copy research, to current students' predilections for using electronic sources. Whilst based on the Canadian process his article has a wider application in relation to the “Google-generation” of students.
Research and Resources for Financial Services Lawyers
Authors: Lofthouse Shirley
Published: June 2010

The Financial Services and Markets Department is one of 11 main departments at City law firm Travers Smith LLP. Shirley Lofthouse, Head of Information at Travers Smith, considers the work of the financial services lawyer and the resources needed to support the research requirements of the department.
Satellite glial cells express IL-6 and corresponding signal-transducing receptors in the dorsal root ganglia of rat neuropathic pain model
Authors: Dubový Petr , Klusáková Ilona , Svíženská Ivana , Brázda Václav
Published: June 2010

There is a growing body of evidence that cytokines contribute to both induction and maintenance of neuropathic pain derived from changes in dorsal root ganglia (DRG), including the activity of the primary sensory neurons and their satellite glial cells (SGC). We used immunofluorescence andin situhybridization methods to provide evidence that chronic constriction injury (CCI) of the sciatic nerve induces synthesis of interleukin-6 (IL-6) in SGC, elevation of IL-6 receptor (IL-6R) and activation of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) signalling. Unilateral CCI of the rat sciatic nerve induced mechanoallodynia and thermal hyperalgesia in ipsilateral hind paws, but contralateral paws exhibited only temporal changes of sensitivity. We demonstrated that IL-6 mRNA and protein, which were expressed at very low levels in naïve DRG, were bilaterally increased not only in L4-L5 DRG neurons but also in SGC activated by unilateral CCI. Besides IL-6, substantial increase of IL-6R and pSTAT3 expression occurred in SGC following CCI, however, IL-6R associated protein, gp130 levels did not change. The results may suggest that unilateral CCI of the sciatic nerve induces bilateral activation of SGC in L4-L5 DRG to transduce IL-6 signalling during neuroinflammation.
Energy cascade processes in rotating stratified turbulence with application to the atmospheric mesoscale
Authors: Kitamura Y. , Matsuda Y.
Published: June 2010

Numerical experiments of rotating stratified turbulence are conducted in order to investigate the mesoscale energy cascade process in the free atmosphere. We examine the downscale energy cascade process originated by energy injection at large scales. The energy spectrum created by this injection follows a power law, and its slope depends on planetary rotation rate and static stability. While the spectral slope tends to be steeper with increased static stability in cases without planetary rotation, it becomes insensitive to the planetary rotation rate and static stability and converges to the range from −1.9 to −2.1 in cases with an increased rotation rate. The roles of geostrophic and gravity modes in the cascade processes are discussed. It is shown that nonlinear interactions between geostrophic and gravity modes play a crucial role in the downscale energy cascades. In particular, the effect of the planetary rotation mainly influences the triad interaction composed of one geostrophic and two gravity modes in the energy cascade process. Energy flux to smaller scales is intensified by this type of triad interaction with increased planetary rotation rate.
The realities of storing carbon dioxide - A response to CO2 storage capacity issues raised by Ehlig-Economides & Economides
Authors: Chadwick Andy , Smith Dan , Hodrien Chris , Hovorka Sue , Mackay Eric , Mathias Simon , Lovell Bryan , Kalaydjian Francois , Sweeney Graeme , Benson Sally , Dooley Jim , Davidson Casie
Published: June 2010

In a recent publication, Ehlig-Economides & Economides (2010) have sought to demonstrate that carbon dioxide capture and storage (CCS) is not technically or economically feasible, based on a supposed lack of underground storage capacity. We consider this to be a serious misrepresentation of the scientific, engineering and operational facts surrounding CCS. Ehlig-Economides & Economides raise a number of storage related issues: reservoir boundaries, capacity, pressure management, storage integrity, dissolution and storage in depleted reservoirs. We take each one in turn, highlighting specific errors in the paper but also drawing attention to more general background issues. Finally, we discuss in more detail some inconsistencies in the paper surrounding the reservoir engineering calculations.
Ratio of HCV structural antigens in protein‐based vaccine formulations is critical for functional immune response induction
Authors: Martínez‐Donato Gillian , Musacchio Alexis , Alvarez‐Lajonchere Liz , Acosta‐Rivero Nelson , Amador Yalena , Guerra Ivis , Peña Dilver , Pérez Angel , Castro Jorge , Puentes Pedro , Soria Yordanka , Cosme Karelia , Sanchez Jorge , Dueñas‐Carrera Santiago
Published: June 2010

HCV (hepatitis C virus) infection is among the leading causes of chronic liver disease, but currently there is no vaccine available. Data have accumulated about the importance of targeting different HCV antigens in vaccine candidate preparations. Here, a surface response study to select the optimal ratio of recombinant HCV structural antigens in a vaccine preparation, capable of generating in vivo functional cellular immune response in mice, was performed. The immunogenicity of the selected HCV structural protein mixture (Co–E1–E2) in mice and African green monkeys, after five doses of immunization, was also demonstrated. Specific T‐cell proliferative response against HCV structural antigens was induced in vaccinated mice. Moreover, on challenge with recombinant HCV VV (vaccinia virus), all mice controlled the viraemia and 80% were protected. On the other hand, monkeys immunized with Co–E1–E2 developed antibodies, specifically directed to region 412–438 of E2 protein, that include an epitope implicated in HCV neutralization, in addition to a specific proliferative response against HCV Core and E2 proteins. These results indicated that the optimal amount and ratio of HCV recombinant proteins should be taken into account to elicit a successful immune response against HCV and therefore have important implications for vaccine design.
Glycyrrhetinic acid attenuates vascular smooth muscle vasodilatory function in healthy humans
Authors: Sobieszczyk Piotr , Borlaug Barry A. , Gornik Heather L. , Knauft Wesley D. , Beckman Joshua A.
Published: June 2010

Abnormal glucocorticoid metabolism contributes to vascular dysfunction and cardiovascular disease. Cortisol activation of vascular mineralocorticoid and glucocorticoid receptors is regulated by two types of 11β-HSD (11-β hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase), namely 11β-HSD2 and 11β-HSD1 (type 2 and type 1 11β-HSD respectively). We hypothesized that inhibition of 11β-HSD would attenuate vascular function in healthy humans. A total of 15 healthy subjects were treated with the selective 11β-HSD inhibitor GA (glycyrrhetinic acid) or matching placebo in a randomized double-blinded cross-over trial. 11β-HSD activity was assessed by the urinary cortisol/cortisone ratio, and vascular function was measured using strain-gauge plethysmography. Endothelial function was measured through incremental brachial artery administration of methacholine (0.3–10 μg/min) and vascular smooth muscle function with incremental verapamil (10–300 μg/min). GA increased the 24-h urinary cortisol/cortisone ratio compared with placebo (P=0.008). GA tended to reduce the FBF (forearm blood flow) response to methacholine (P=0.09) and significantly reduced the FBF response to verapamil compared with placebo (P=0.04). MAP (mean arterial pressure) did not differ between the study conditions. 11β-HSD inhibition attenuated vascular smooth muscle vasodilatory function in healthy humans. Disturbances in cortisol activity resulting from 11β-HSD inactivation is therefore a second plausible mechanism for mineralocorticoid-mediated hypertension in humans.
Woman With Speech Disability Achieves Dream: Goes to College
Authors: Luciani Beth Anne
Published: June 2010

College is the dream of many high school students; however, it poses special challenges for individuals with complex communication needs. In this paper, the author describes her work both while in high school as well as during college in order to promote success in a post-secondary setting. She also describes the importance of a team approach to promoting positive transition outcomes.
Audiology: Purdue University and the Indiana University School of Medicine Joint Doctor of Audiology Program: Administration of the 4th Year Clinical Experience
Authors: Simpson Jennifer M. , Corbin Kathleen R.
Published: June 2010

Purdue University and the Indiana University (IU) School of Medicine, Department of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery formed a joint Doctor of Audiology (AuD) program approved in 2002. Students gain foundational academic knowledge and clinical experience during the first 3 years of the program at Purdue University. During the 4th year of the program, students are placed at the IU Medical Center in Indianapolis and continue to gain experience in diagnostics, hearing aids, and cochlear implants. Sixteen to 18 audiologists are involved in clinical teaching of these 4th-year students. Two administrative positions have been created in order to manage this clinical program. The Medical Center Liaison at Purdue University and the Coordinator of Medical Center Clinical Audiology Education at the IU Medical Center have specific responsibilities that create an organizational structure for both the audiologists and the students. These positions provide continued, clear communication between the faculty and audiologists at both campuses. These positions are critical in the success of the administration of the fourth year clinical experience of the joint AuD program.
Speech and Cognitive-Linguistic Function in Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Spencer Kristie , Sanchez Janelle , McAllen Audra , Weir Phillip
Published: June 2010

Purpose: Parkinson's disease is among the most common of the motor-based progressive neurologic disorders. This article provides a review of the motor, cognitive, sensory-perceptual, and linguistic deficits that may occur as a result of the loss of dopaminergic neurons, which causes Parkinson's disease.

Method: A review of the literature regarding the nature of Parkinson's disease points out the primary triad of symptoms, which are tremor, rigidity, and bradykinesia. Descriptions of these cardinal symptoms are discussed, as are the non-motor symptoms frequently seen in this disorder, including cognitive changes, sensory-perceptual deficits, and occasionally, linguistic deficits. Dysarthria and dysphagia are frequently seen as a result of the motor deficits associated with Parkinson's disease.

Conclusions: Much has been learned about the pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease, which has led to improved pharmacologic, surgical, and behavioral management. Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) need to be aware of these advances in order to better assess and treat patients and educate families.
Hearing Aid Health Plan Benefits–A Warning
Authors: White Steven C. , McCarty Janet
Published: June 2010

Audiologists must carefully review a contract before enrolling with a preferred provider organization (PPO) or a health maintenance organization (HMO). Although health plans have covered hearing evaluations for many years, in response to demand, more MCOs are adding hearing aids as a benefit. Audiologists should be familiar with the various approaches to deriving reimbursement from managed care organizations (MCOs) and their obligation as network providers, or they may end up losing money if the reimbursement rate is lower than the cost of the dispensed product(s) and services that are provided.
The Speech-Language Pathologist in the Public Schools: Preparation for Real Life Practices From the Perspective of a Speech-Language Pathology Program Coordinator
Authors: Wenhardt Francine
Published: June 2010

The speech-language pathologist (SLP) working in the public schools has a wide variety of tasks. Educational preparation is not all that is needed to be an effective school-based SLP. As a SLP currently working in the capacity of a program coordinator, the author describes the skills required to fulfill the job requirements and responsibilities of the SLP in the school setting and advises the new graduate regarding the interview process and beginning a career in the public schools.
La chirurgie orthognathique est un travail d’équipe
!
Authors: Bouletreau Pierre , Raberin Monique , Freidel Maurice , Breton Pierre
Published: June 2010

La mise en œuvre d’un protocole orthodontico-chirurgical requiert l’intervention
éventuelle de nombreux acteurs, et de la coordination de ces différents praticiens dépend
souvent la qualité du résultat final. Si l’essor de la chirurgie orthognathique doit
historiquement beaucoup au couple orthodontiste-chirurgien maxillo-facial, c’est la
collaboration de multiples spécialistes tout au long du processus diagnostique et
thérapeutique qui a permis d’atteindre l’exceptionnel niveau de qualité, de fiabilité et
de sécurité qui est celui de la chirurgie orthognathique actuellement. Nous voulons ici
discuter la place des différents intervenants potentiels dans la prise en charge d’un
patient bénéficiant d’un protocole orthodontico-chirurgical, tel que nous le concevons au
sein du Département de Chirurgie Maxillo-Faciale du Centre Hospitalier Lyon-Sud.
Intérêt d’une approche téléradiographique basée sur les entités
trigéminales dans l’étude de la morphologie sagittale de sujets sénégalais
Authors: Diouf Joseph Samba , Crocquet Max , Ngom Papa Ibrahima , Danguy Michel , Diagne Falou , Diop-Ba Khady , Badiane Alpha
Published: June 2010

Introduction : l’objectif de ce travail était de déterminer les
caractéristiques morphologiques d’une population sénégalaise en se basant sur une analyse
céphalométrique originale utilisant comme repères les points d’entrées ou d’émergences
osseuses des fibres sensitives du nerf trijumeau. Matériel et méthodes : il
s’agit d’une étude descriptive transversale portant sur 105 téléradiographies sagittales
de patients sénégalais. Les points de référence pour l’analyse céphalométrique sont basés
sur les orifices d’entrées ou d’émergences osseuses des trois branches sensitives du nerf
trijumeau (analyse trigéminale). Ce sont les points trou ovale (TO), trou grand rond
(TGR), échancrure sus-orbitaire (ESO), trou sous-orbitaire (TSO), canal palatin antérieur
(CPA), canal palatin postérieur (CPP), infundibulum mandibulaire ou épine de Spix (IM) et
trou mentonnier (TM). Ces points ont permis le tracé de sept lignes desquelles sept
mesures angulaires ont été déterminées. Un test t de Student a été
réalisé pour la comparaison de ces variables céphalométriques trigéminales selon le sexe
et la tranche d’âge (< 12 ans et ≥ 12 ans). Une matrice de corrélation de Pearson a
été utilisée pour rechercher l’association entre les variables de l’analyse trigéminale et
celles issues d’analyses dimensionnelles non spécifiques réalisées chez les mêmes sujets.
Résultats : les sujets d’étude (garçons et filles) avaient un âge moyen de
12,24 ± 4,17 ans. Il ressort de la présente investigation que la mésoface sénégalaise est
plus rétrusive et plus divergente que celle des français. Le dimorphisme sexuel n’apparaît
qu’au niveau de l’angle TRG-ESO-CPA, les garçons ayant un angle plus élevé
(p = 0,04). Le prognathisme mésofacial est
significativement plus important chez le sous-groupe de sujets âgés de 12 ans et plus
alors que la divergence mésofaciale suit une tendance inverse, mais la différence avec les
sujets de moins de 12 ans n’est pas significative. Le prognathisme maxillaire mésofacial
est positivement et significativement corrélé à l’angle SNA (r =
0,22 ; p = 0,021). Il en est de même
pour le prognathisme mandibulaire mésofacial qui est positivement corrélé à l’angle SNB
(r = 0,28; p =
0,004) mais négativement corrélé à l’angle mandibulaire Ar-Go-Me
(r = − 0,20; p =
0,041). Enfin, l’angle de la divergence mésofaciale totale est corrélé
positivement à l’angle mandibulaire (r = 0,20;
p = 0,044) et négativement corrélé à l’angle SNB
(r = − 0,22 ; p =
0,027). Conclusion : l’analyse trigéminale basée sur
des points incontestablement squelettiques, donne une bonne appréciation des structures
squelettiques faciales et pourrait permettre d’évaluer l’importance des phénomènes de
compensations dento-alvéolaires complétant ainsi les analyses exo-faciales couramment
utilisées.
Design of an injectable synthetic and biodegradable surgical biomaterial
Authors: Zawaneh Peter N. , Singh Sunil P. , Padera Robert F. , Henderson Peter W. , Spector Jason A. , Putnam David
Published: June 2010

We report the design of an injectable synthetic and biodegradable polymeric biomaterial comprised of polyethylene glycol and a polycarbonate of dihydroxyacetone (MPEG-pDHA). MPEG-pDHA is a thixotropic physically cross-linked hydrogel, displays rapid chain relaxation, is easily extruded through narrow-gauge needles, biodegrades into inert products, and is well tolerated by soft tissues. We demonstrate the clinical utility of MPEG-pDHA in the prevention of seroma, a common postoperative complication following ablative and reconstructive surgeries, in an animal model of radical breast mastectomy. This polymer holds significant promise for clinical applicability in a host of surgical procedures ranging from cosmetic surgery to cancer resection.
Shifting carbon flow from roots into associated microbial communities in response to elevated atmospheric CO
2
Authors: Drigo Barbara , Pijl Agata S. , Duyts Henk , Kielak Anna M. , Gamper Hannes A. , Houtekamer Marco J. , Boschker Henricus T. S. , Bodelier Paul L. E. , Whiteley Andrew S. , Veen Johannes A. van , Kowalchuk George A.
Published: June 2010

Rising atmospheric CO
2
levels are predicted to have major consequences on carbon cycling and the functioning of terrestrial ecosystems. Increased photosynthetic activity is expected, especially for C-3 plants, thereby influencing vegetation dynamics; however, little is known about the path of fixed carbon into soil-borne communities and resulting feedbacks on ecosystem function. Here, we examine how arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) act as a major conduit in the transfer of carbon between plants and soil and how elevated atmospheric CO
2
modulates the belowground translocation pathway of plant-fixed carbon. Shifts in active AMF species under elevated atmospheric CO
2
conditions are coupled to changes within active rhizosphere bacterial and fungal communities. Thus, as opposed to simply increasing the activity of soil-borne microbes through enhanced rhizodeposition, elevated atmospheric CO
2
clearly evokes the emergence of distinct opportunistic plant-associated microbial communities. Analyses involving RNA-based stable isotope probing, neutral/phosphate lipid fatty acids stable isotope probing, community fingerprinting, and real-time PCR allowed us to trace plant-fixed carbon to the affected soil-borne microorganisms. Based on our data, we present a conceptual model in which plant-assimilated carbon is rapidly transferred to AMF, followed by a slower release from AMF to the bacterial and fungal populations well-adapted to the prevailing (myco-)rhizosphere conditions. This model provides a general framework for reappraising carbon-flow paths in soils, facilitating predictions of future interactions between rising atmospheric CO
2
concentrations and terrestrial ecosystems.
CXCR4 blockade augments bone marrow progenitor cell recruitment to the neovasculature and reduces mortality after myocardial infarction
Authors: Jujo Kentaro , Hamada Hiromichi , Iwakura Atsushi , Thorne Tina , Sekiguchi Haruki , Clarke Trevor , Ito Aiko , Misener Sol , Tanaka Toshikazu , Klyachko Ekaterina , Kobayashi Koichi , Tongers Jörn , Roncalli Jérôme , Tsurumi Yukio , Hagiwara Nobuhisa , Losordo Douglas W.
Published: June 2010

We hypothesized that a small molecule CXCR4 antagonist, AMD3100 (AMD), could augment the mobilization of bone marrow (BM)-derived endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs), thereby enhancing neovascularization and functional recovery after myocardial infarction. Single-dose AMD injection administered after the onset of myocardial infarction increased circulating EPC counts and myocardial vascularity, reduced fibrosis, and improved cardiac function and survival. In mice transplanted with traceable BM cells, AMD increased BM-derived cell incorporation in the ischemic border zone. In contrast, continuous infusion of AMD, although increasing EPCs in the circulation, worsened outcome by blocking EPC incorporation. In addition to its effects as a CXCR4 antagonist, AMD also up-regulated VEGF and matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9) expression, and the benefits of AMD were not observed in the absence of MMP-9 expression in the BM. These findings suggest that AMD3100 preserves cardiac function after myocardial infarction by enhancing BM-EPC–mediated neovascularization, and that these benefits require MMP-9 expression in the BM, but not in the ischemic region. Our results indicate that AMD3100 could be a potentially useful therapy for the treatment of myocardial infarction.
Cα-trace model of the transmembrane domain of human copper transporter 1, motion and functional implications
Authors: Schushan Maya , Barkan Yariv , Haliloglu Turkan , Ben-Tal Nir
Published: June 2010

The trimeric human copper transporter 1 (hCTR1) is essential for copper uptake and is implicated in sensitivity to chemotherapy drugs. Using the cryoelectron microscopy (cryoEM) map of hCTR1 and evolutionary data, we constructed a Cα-trace model of the membrane region. The model structure, supported by mutagenesis data, was used to investigate global dynamics through elastic network models. Identified as dominant hinge regions, hCTR1’s MxxxM and GxxxG motifs were shown to have significant roles in functional movements characterized by the two slowest modes of motion. Both modes predicted significant changes at the wide cytoplasmic pore region; the slowest mode introduced a rotational motion around the pore central axis, whereas in the following mode the cytoplasmic parts of the helices approached and moved away from the pore center. In the most cooperative mode, the MxxxM motif in the extracellular narrow region remained static. The second mode of motion, however, predicted a cooperative rotational motion of this copper-binding motif, possibly reflecting activation at the pore’s extracellular entrance. We suggest a molecular mechanism of copper transport in which this motif serves both as a gate and as a selectivity filter. We also suggest residues that are responsible for pH activation.