bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CONSTRUCTIVE ALIGNMENT: A JOURNEY FOR NEW EYES
Authors: JONES COLIN
Published: March 2007

The needs of students engaged in enterprise education programs are of ever growing importance. This paper considers the pedagogical challenges that confront the designers of such-programs. It is argued that it is the designer's mindset that will most likely determine the program's outcomes. That, regardless of where such programs reside, their development should be guided by a learner-centred approach. The recently developed hic et nunc framework, provides an example of such a student-centred approach. The process through which student learning outcomes occur is argued to be essentially Darwinian in nature. Taking into account both knowledge and skills, it is also argued that assessment of desirable learning outcomes should occur in visible interaction spaces. That the failure to eliminate invisible interaction spaces from such programs is an invitation for criticism from those who favour a more traditional lecturer-centred approach to teaching and learning.
THE ROLE OF GEOGRAPHY AND TRAFFIC IN THE STRUCTURE OF COMPLEX NETWORKS
Authors: BARTHÉLEMY MARC , BARRAT ALAIN , VESPIGNANI ALESSANDRO
Published: March 2007

We report a study of the correlations among topological, weighted and spatial properties of large infrastructure networks. We review the empirical results obtained for the air-transportation infrastructure that motivates a network modeling approach which integrates the various attributes of this network. In particular, we describe a class of models which include a weight-topology coupling and the introduction of geographical attributes during the network evolution. The inclusion of spatial features is able to capture the appearance of non-trivial correlations between the traffic flows, the connectivity pattern and the actual distances of vertices. The anomalous fluctuations in the betweenness-degree correlation function observed in empirical studies are also recovered in the model. The presented results suggest that the interplay between topology, weights and geographical constraints is a key ingredient in order to understand the structure and evolution of many real-world networks.
THE NETWORK OF INTER-REGIONAL DIRECT INVESTMENT STOCKS ACROSS EUROPE
Authors: BATTISTON STEFANO , RODRIGUES JOAO F. , ZEYTINOGLU HAMZA
Published: March 2007

We present an analysis of inter-regional investment stocks within Europe from a complex networks perspective. We consider two different levels: first, we compute the inward–outward investment stocks at the level of firms, based on ownership shares and number of employees; then we estimate the inward–outward investment stock at the level of regions in Europe, by aggregating the ownership network of firms, based on their headquarter location. To our knowledge, there is no similar approach in the literature so far, and we believe that it may lead to important applications for policy making. In the present paper, we focus on the statistical distributions and the scaling laws, while in further studies we will analyze the structure of the network and its relation to geographical space. We find that while outward investment and activity of firms are power law distributed with a similar exponent, for regions these quantities are better described by a log-normal distribution. At both levels we also find scaling laws relating investment to activity and connectivity. In particular, we find that investment stock scales as a power law of the connectivity, as previously found for stock market data.
Mechanisms that Regulate Establishment, Maintenance, and Remodeling of Dendritic Fields
Authors: Parrish Jay Z. , Emoto Kazuo , Kim Michael D. , Jan Yuh Nung
Published: March 2007

Although dendrite arborization patterns are hallmarks of neuronal type and critical determinants of neuronal function, how dendritic arbors take shape is still largely unknown. Transcription factors play important roles in specifying neuronal types and have a profound influence on dendritic arbor size and complexity. The space that a dendritic arbor occupies is determined largely by a combination of growth-promoting signals that regulate arbor size, chemotropic cues that steer dendrites into the appropriate space, and neurite-neurite contacts that ensure proper representation of the dendritic field and appropriate synaptic contacts. Dendritic arbors are largely maintained over the neuron's lifetime, but in some cases, dendritic arbors are refined, in large part as a result of neuronal activity. In this review, we summarize our current understanding of the cellular and molecular mechanisms that regulate dendritic field formation and influence the shaping of dendritic arbors.
Renal ischemia-reperfusion injury is prevented by the mineralocorticoid receptor blocker spironolactone
Authors: Mejía-Vilet Juan M. , Ramírez Victoria , Cruz Cristino , Uribe Norma , Gamba Gerardo , Bobadilla Norma A.
Published: March 2007

Renal ischemia and reperfusion (I/R) injury is the major cause of acute renal failure and may also be involved in the development and progression of some forms of chronic kidney disease. We previously showed that a mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) blockade prevents renal vasoconstriction induced by cyclosporine that leads to acute and chronic renal failure (Feria I, Pichardo I, Juarez P, Ramirez V, Gonzalez MA, Uribe N, Garcia-Torres R, Lopez-Casillas F, Gamba G, Bobadilla NA. Kidney Int 63: 43–52, 2003; Perez-Rojas JM, Derive S, Blanco JA, Cruz C, Martinez de la Maza L, Gamba G, Bobadilla NA. Am J Physiol Renal Physiol 289: F1020–F1030, 2005). Thus we investigated whether spironolactone administration prevents the functional and structural damage induced by renal ischemia-reperfusion (I/R). Five groups were studied: sham-operated animals, rats that underwent 20 min of ischemia and 24 h of reperfusion, and three groups that received spironolactone 1, 2, or 3 days before I/R, respectively. Renal I/R produced significant renal dysfunction and tubular damage. Spironolactone administration completely prevented a decrease in renal blood flow, the development of acute renal failure, and tubular apoptosis. The protection conferred by spironolactone was characterized by decreasing oxidative stress, as evidenced by a reduction in kidney lipoperoxidation, increasing expression of antioxidant enzymes, and restoration of urinary NO2/NO3 excretion. Endothelial nitric oxide synthase expression was upregulated by a mineralocorticoid receptor blockade in I/R groups; in addition, an increase in activating phosphorylation of this enzyme at residue S1177 and a decrease in inactivating phosphorylation at T497 were observed. In conclusion, our study shows that spironolactone administration prevents the renal injury induced by I/R, suggesting that aldosterone plays a central role in this model of renal injury.
ANG II and calmodulin/CaMKII regulate surface expression and functional activity of NBCe1 via separate means
Authors: Perry Clint , Le Hong , Grichtchenko Irina I.
Published: March 2007

We recently reported that ANG II inhibits NBCe1 current and surface expression in Xenopus laevis oocytes (Perry C, Blaine J, Le H, and Grichtchenko II. Am J Physiol Renal Physiol 290: F417–F427, 2006). Here, we investigated mechanisms of ANG II-induced changes in NBCe1 surface expression. We showed that the PKC inhibitor GF109203X blocks and EGTA reduces surface cotransporter loss in ANG II-treated oocytes, suggesting roles for PKC and Ca2+. Using the endosomal marker FM 4-64 and enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP)-tagged NBCe1, we showed that ANG II stimulates endocytosis of NBCe1. To eliminate the possibility that ANG II inhibits NBCe1 recycling, we demonstrated that the recycling inhibitor monensin decreases surface expression, accumulates NBCe1-EGFP in endosomes, and inhibits NBCe1 current. Monensin and ANG II applied together produce greater inhibition of NBCe1 current than either did alone. This additive effect of monensin and ANG II suggests that ANG II stimulates internalization of NBCe1. We used the calmodulin (CaM) antagonist W13, which controls recycling by blocking the exit of the endocytosed cargo from early endosomes, to determine the role of CaM in NBCe1 trafficking. We demonstrated that W13 decreases surface expression of NBCe1, accumulates NBCe1-EGFP in endosomal-like formations, and inhibits NBCe1 current. W13 and ANG II applied together produce greater inhibition of NBCe1 current than either does alone, while W13 and monensin applied together do not. The additive effect of ANG II and W13 and lack of additive effect of monensin and W13 suggest that CaM is not involved in ANG II stimulation of internalization but controls recycling of endocytosed NBCe1. The CaM-activated enzyme CaM kinase II (CaMKII) applied with ANG II also gives an additive inhibitory effect, suggesting a role for CaMKII in NBCe1 recycling.
Aldosterone receptor antagonism exacerbates intrarenal angiotensin II augmentation in ANG II-dependent hypertension
Authors: Ortiz Rudy M. , Graciano Miguel L. , Seth Dale , Awayda Mouhamed S. , Navar L. Gabriel
Published: March 2007

Effects of aldosterone receptor (AR) blockade with eplerenone (epl) on renal Na+ excretion, arterial blood pressure, intra-adrenal and renal ANG II, and plasma aldosterone levels during ANG II-dependent hypertension were evaluated. Rats from one cohort ( n = 10/group) 1) control, 2) control + epl (25 mg/day), 3) ANG II (60 ng/min), and 4) ANG II + epl were maintained in metabolic cages for 28 days for daily urine collections. Systolic blood pressure (SBP) was measured weekly by tail-cuff. In a second cohort ( n = 12/group), daily SBP was measured by telemetry ( n = 6 rats/group) 1) control, 2) ANG II, and 3) ANG II + epl. A diet containing epl (0.1%) was provided after 1 wk of ANG II infusion. Direct monitoring of BP by telemetry showed that epl delayed the onset of the increase in SBP by 2 days and slightly reduced SBP (186 ± 6 vs. 177 ± 8 mmHg). Epl transiently increased Na+ excretion within 24 h of treatment in both normo- and hypertensive rats; however, balance was reestablished within 5 days suggesting that alternative mechanisms for conserving Na+ are activated. Cortical α-epithelial Na+ channel content (α-ENaC) was not altered after 21 days of epl treatment. Epl exacerbated the ANG II-mediated increases in intrarenal ANG II (226 ± 16 vs. 365 ± 38 fmol/g) and further increased intra-adrenal ANG II (3.9 ± 0.3 vs. 8.2 ± 0.9 fmol/mg) and aldosterone (255 ± 55 vs. 710 ± 87 pmol/mg) content. Exacerbation of intrarenal ANG II levels likely contributes to the maintenance of α-ENaC protein content and thus Na+ reabsorption, which helps explain the ineffectiveness of AR blockade in reducing SBP in ANG II-infused models of hypertension.
TNF-α, but not IFN-γ, regulates CCN2 (CTGF), collagen type I, and proliferation in mesangial cells: possible roles in the progression of renal fibrosis
Authors: Cooker Laurinda A. , Peterson Darryl , Rambow Joann , Riser Melisa L. , Riser Rebecca E. , Najmabadi Feridoon , Brigstock David , Riser Bruce L.
Published: March 2007

Connective tissue growth factor (CCN2) is a profibrotic factor acting downstream and independently of TGF-β to mediate renal fibrosis. Although inflammation is often involved in the initiation and/or progression of fibrosis, the role of inflammatory cytokines in regulation of glomerular CCN2 expression, cellular proliferation, and extracellular matrix accumulation is unknown. We studied two such cytokines, TNF-α and IFN-γ, for their effects on cultured mesangial cells in the presence or absence of TGF-β, as a model for progressive renal fibrosis. Short-term treatment with TNF-α, like TGF-β, significantly increased secreted CCN2 per cell, but unlike TGF-β inhibited cellular replication. TNF-α combined with TGF-β further increased CCN2 secretion and mRNA levels and reduced proliferation. Surprisingly, however, TNF-α treatment decreased baseline collagen type I protein and mRNA levels and largely blocked their stimulation by TGF-β. Long-term treatment with TGF-β or TNF-α alone no longer increased CCN2 protein levels. However, the combination synergistically increased CCN2. IFN-γ had no effect on either CCN2 or collagen activity and produced a mild inhibition of TGF-β-induced collagen only at a high concentration (500 U/ml). In summary, we report a strong positive regulatory role for TNF-α, but not IFN-γ, in CCN2 production and secretion, including that driven by TGF-β. The stimulation of CCN2 release by TNF-α, unlike TGF-β, is independent of cellular proliferation and not linked to increased collagen type I accumulation. This suggests that the paradigm of TGF-β-driven CCN2 with subsequent collagen production may be overridden by an as yet undefined inhibitory mechanism acting either directly or indirectly on matrix metabolism.
Comparison of Direction and Object Selectivity of Local Field Potentials and Single Units in Macaque Posterior Parietal Cortex During Prehension
Authors: Asher Itay , Stark Eran , Abeles Moshe , Prut Yifat
Published: March 2007

Recent studies have shown that the local field potential (LFP) can provide a simple method for obtaining an accurate measure of reaching and saccade behaviors. However, it is not clear whether this signal is equally informative with respect to more complex movements. Here we recorded LFPs and single units (SUs) from different areas in the posterior parietal cortex of macaques during a prehension task and compared LFP selectivity with SU selectivity. We found that parietal LFPs were often selective to target direction or object and that percentages of selective LFPs were similar to percentages of selective SUs. Nevertheless, SUs were more informative than LFPs in several respects. Preferred directions and objects of LFPs usually deviated from a uniform distribution, unlike preferences of SUs. Furthermore, preferences of LFPs did not reflect preferences of SUs even when the two signals were recorded simultaneously via the same electrode. Additionally, selectivity of movement-evoked LFPs appeared only after movement onset, whereas SUs frequently showed premovement selectivity. Spectral analysis revealed a lower signal-to-noise ratio of the LFP signal. Different frequency bands derived from a single LFP site showed inconsistent preferences. Significant relations with target parameters were found for all tested bands of LFP, but effects in the fast (gamma) band exhibited properties that were consistent with contamination of the LFP by residual spiking activity. Taken together, our results suggest that the LFP provides a simple method for extracting ample movement-related information. However, some of its properties make it less adequate for predicting rapidly changing movements.
Different Neural Adjustments Improve Endpoint Accuracy With Practice in Young and Old Adults
Authors: Christou Evangelos A. , Poston Brach , Enoka Joel A. , Enoka Roger M.
Published: March 2007

The purpose of the study was to determine the practice-induced adjustments in the motor-output variability and the agonist–antagonist activity that accompanied improvements in endpoint accuracy of goal-directed isometric contractions in young and old adults. Young and old adults performed 100 trials that involved accurately matching the peak of a force trajectory (25% maximum) to a target force in 150 ms. Endpoint accuracy was quantified as the absolute difference between the target and the peak force and time-to-peak force. Motor-output variability was expressed as the SDs of the force trajectory, peak force, and time-to-peak force. The force and time errors differed between the two groups initially, but after 35 practice trials the errors were similar for the two groups. Reductions in force endpoint error were predicted by decreases in the variability of the force trajectory for both groups, adaptations in the agonist (first dorsal interosseus) and antagonist (second palmar interosseus) EMG for young adults, and adaptations only for the agonist EMG for old adults. Reductions in time endpoint error were predicted by increases in the SD of time-to-peak force and a longer delay to the peak EMG of the antagonist muscle for young adults, but by decreases in the SDs of time-to-peak force and force trajectory and a shorter delay to the peak EMG of the antagonist muscle for the old adults. The findings indicate that the neural adjustments underlying the improvement in endpoint accuracy with practice differed for young and old adults.
Multiparametric Corticofugal Modulation of Collicular Duration-Tuned Neurons: Modulation in the Amplitude Domain
Authors: Ma Xiaofeng , Suga Nobuo
Published: March 2007

The subcortical auditory nuclei contain not only neurons tuned to a specific frequency but also those tuned to multiple parameters characterizing a sound. All these neurons are potentially subject to modulation by descending fibers from the auditory cortex (corticofugal modulation). In the past, we electrically stimulated cortical duration-tuned neurons of the big brown bat, Eptesicus fuscus, and found that its collicular duration-tuned neurons were corticofugally modulated in the frequency and time (duration) domains. In the current paper, we report that they were also corticofugally modulated in the amplitude (intensity) domain. We found the following collicular changes evoked by focal cortical electric stimulation. 1) Corticofugal modulation in the amplitude domain differed depending on whether recorded collicular neurons matched in best frequency (BF) with stimulated cortical neurons. BF-matched neurons decreased their thresholds, whereas BF-unmatched neurons increased their thresholds: the larger the BF difference between the recorded collicular and stimulated cortical neurons, the larger the threshold increase. 2) In general, the dynamic range for amplitude coding was larger in the inferior colliculus than in the auditory cortex. BF-matched neurons increased their dynamic ranges and response magnitude, whereas BF-unmatched neurons decreased them. 3) Single duration-tuned neurons were simultaneously modulated by cortical electric stimulation in the amplitude, frequency and time domains. 4) Corticofugal modulation in these three domains indicates that the contrast of the neural representation of repeatedly delivered sound stimuli is increased.
Singlemagegene in the chicken genome encodes CMage, a protein with functional similarities to mammalian type II Mage proteins
Authors: López-Sánchez Noelia , González-Fernández Zaira , Niinobe Michio , Yoshikawa Kazuaki , Frade José María
Published: March 2007

In mammals, the type II melanoma antigen (Mage) protein family is constituted by at least 10 closely related members that are expressed in different tissues, including the nervous system. These proteins are believed to regulate cell cycle withdrawal, neuronal differentiation, and apoptosis. However, the analysis of their specific function has been complicated by functional redundancy. In accordance with previous studies in teleosts and Drosophila, we present evidence that only one mage gene exists in genomes from protists, fungi, plants, nematodes, insects, and nonmammalian vertebrates. We have identified the chicken mage gene and cloned the cDNA encoding the chick Mage protein (CMage). CMage shares close homology with the type II Mage protein family, and, as previously shown for the type II Mage proteins Necdin and Mage-G1, it can interact with the transcription factor E2F-1. CMage is expressed in specific regions of the developing nervous system including the retinal ganglion cell layer, the ventral horn of the spinal cord, and the dorsal root ganglia, coinciding with the expression of the neurotrophin receptor p75 (p75NTR) in these regions. We show that the intracellular domain of p75NTRcan interact with both CMage and Necdin, thus preventing the binding of the latter proteins to the transcription factor E2F-1, and facilitating the proapoptotic activity of E2F-1 in N1E-115 differentiating neurons. The presence of a single mage gene in the chicken genome, together with the close functional resemblance between CMage and Necdin, makes this species ideal to further analyze signal transduction through type II Mage proteins.
CD4+CD25high Regulatory T Cells Are Markedly Decreased in Blood of Patients with Pemphigus Vulgaris
Authors: Sugiyama H. , Matsue H. , Nagasaka A. , Nakamura Y. , Tsukamoto K. , Shibagaki N. , Kawamura T. , Kitamura R. , Ando N. , Shimada S.
Published: March 2007

Background: It remains to be determined whether pemphigus vulgaris (PV), an autoimmune blistering disease, has a reduction and/or dysfunction of CD4+CD25high regulatory T (Treg) cells. Objectives: To evaluate the frequency and phenotypes of Treg cells in blood of patients with PV. Methods: Peripheral blood mononuclear cells were prepared from PV patients as well as normal and disease control volunteers, and the frequency and phenotypes of Treg cells were determined by flow cytometry. CD4+CD25+ and CD4+CD25– T cells isolated from peripheral blood mononuclear cells of PV patients and normal controls were subjected to real-time semiquantitative RT-PCR for the expression of Foxp3 gene. Results: The proportion of Treg cells in all PV patients was severely reduced, approximately ten times less than controls. These observations were further confirmed by both diminished gene and protein expression of Foxp3 in the CD4+CD25+ T cell population in PV patients. Conclusions: Numerical impairment of Treg cells may be involved in the pathogenesis of PV.
Reduced Salivary Flow Induced by Systemic Isotretinoin May Lead to Dental Decay. A Prospective Clinical Study
Authors: Lupi-Pégurier L. , Muller-Bolla M. , Fontas E. , Ortonne J.P.
Published: March 2007

Background: The adverse effects of isotretinoin have been well documented, but dental side effects over the course of treatment have never been studied. Objectives: To prospectively document the oral side effects experienced by a group of patients taking isotretinoin and to compare the changes in oral health and salivary parameters with a control group. Methods: A cohort study was conducted within the dermatology department at the University Hospital in collaboration with two private dermatology practices in Nice, France. Patients were treated at a dose of 0.5 mg/kg/day. The control group was made up of students from the University of Nice-Sophia-Antipolis. The salivary flow, the buffer capacity of saliva, the number of pathogen bacteria and the DMFT index (number of decayed, missing and filled teeth) were assessed at each visit. Results: Eighteen patients and 99 controls were available for evaluation. None of the oral parameters varied with time in the control group, whereas the DMFT significantly increased in the treated group (3.07 ± 3.85 vs. 3.41 ± 4.36; p < 0.036). The salivary flow gradually decreased with time (p < 0.004), but the patients recovered their baseline salivary flow 2 months after the end of the treatment. Conclusions: This study clearly showed that patients treated with isotretinoin experienced oral side effects.
Clinical Epidemiology of Invasive Cutaneous Malignant Melanoma in the Austrian Province Styria in the Years 2001–2003 and Its Relationship with Local Geographical, Meteorological and Economic Data
Authors: Richtig Erika , Berghold Andrea , Schwantzer Gerold , Ott Arthur , Wölfelmaier Friedrich , Karner Beatrix , Ludwig Ralf , Denk Helmut , Stering Reinhold , Leitner Gerhard , Lax Sigurd , Okcu Murat , Gerger Armin , Kerl Helmut , Smolle Josef
Published: March 2007

Background:Melanoma incidence rates vary within Europe. The highest incidences are reported in Scandinavia, the lowest in the southern parts, but incidences themselves also vary within the different countries. Objective:We investigated the incidence of invasive cutaneous melanoma in Styria, a province of Austria, in the years 2001–2003. Methods:Data from 1,082 patients, 511 males and 571 females (mean age 58.2 years) with primary melanoma were collected. For each patient, information regarding residence was available, and therefore the geographic distribution of melanoma on district level was investigated with particular reference to the mean number of sun hours, mean altitude, number of companies with more than 200 employees and median income. Results:The mean annual incidence (age-standardized rate) was 24.5 per 100,000 (95% CI: 22.4–26.6), lifetime risk 1 in 52. Districts with a higher number of sun hours and higher altitude showed lower melanoma incidences. Higher median income was associated with higher melanoma incidence (p < 0.001). Conclusion:The high incidence of invasive melanoma in Styria is unclear and a causal relationship between higher income and melanoma incidence remains speculative. Further investigations, especially concerning lifestyle and environmental factors, may unravel additional causative factors.
Pimecrolimus Cream in Repigmentation of Vitiligo
Authors: Seirafi Hassan , Farnaghi Farshad , Firooz Alireza , Vasheghani-Farahani Amir , Alirezaie Najmeh-Sadaat , Dowlati Yahya
Published: March 2007

Background: Vitiligo is a chronic disease that mostly affects children and young adults. Nowadays many treatment options are available; however, most of them have limited efficacy and in most cases would result in undesirable complications. Objective: To determine the extent of repigmentation according to the location of the lesions after applying topical cream pimecrolimus 1% in vitiligo patients. Materials and Methods: Thirty consecutive patients with vitiligo lesions affecting less than 20% of body surface area without any previous history of spontaneous repigmentation were treated with pimecrolimus cream 1% twice daily for 12 weeks. The extent of repigmentation in vitiligo lesions was determined in each patient after 6 and 12 weeks. Results: Moderate to excellent response (repigmentation >26%) was observed in 6.6 and 25.9% of vitiligo lesions 6 and 12 weeks after treatment, respectively. More responsive lesions were located on the trunk, face and elbow (85.7, 75 and 70%). Conclusion: Pimecrolimus cream 1% results in repigmentation in vitiligo in different extents according to the location of the lesion; however, to clearly prove its efficacy as monotherapy or in combination with other available treatment options, double-blind placebo-controlled studies are essential.
Combined 0.1% Retinaldehyde/ 6% Glycolic Acid Cream in Prophylaxis and Treatment of Acne Scarring
Authors: Dreno Brigitte , Katsambas Andreas , Pelfini Carlo , Plantier Daniel , Jancovici Eliane , Ribet Virginie , Nocera Thérèse , Morinet Pierre , Khammari Amir
Published: March 2007

Background: Acne often results in permanent, badly tolerated, difficult to treat scars. Objective: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of a 0.1% retinaldehyde/6% glycolic acid (RALGA) cream at preventing and treating acne scarring in patients previously treated for moderate acne. Methods: A double-blind vehicle-controlled study was conducted in 145 patients randomized to apply RALGAor vehicle cream every evening for 3 months. Global scarring score and patient’s assessment of global efficacy, then residual acne lesions, quality of life and tolerance were evaluated at inclusion and each month until study completion. Results: Global scarring score, number of inflammatory lesions and comedones significantly improved in each group from day 28 (p < 0.0001). Number of inflammatory lesions were significantly decreased only in the RALGA group. RALGA cream was more efficient than vehicle on scarring after 3 months in compliant patients (p = 0.007) due to erythema and hyperpigmentation improvement. Conclusion: RALGA cream is efficient at preventing and treating acne scarring in patients with moderate acne.
Multicentric Reticulohistiocytosis-Mimicking Dermatomyositis
Authors: Muñoz-Santos Carlos , Sàbat Mireia , Sáez Amparo , Gratacós Jordi , Luelmo Jesús
Published: March 2007

Multicentric reticulohistiocytosis is a rare disorder of unknown etiology, characterized by skin and mucosal papulonodular eruptions and destructive polyarthritis. Histopathological study of these lesions shows a nodular infiltrate composed of histiocytes and multinucleated giant cells, with an eosinophilic, granular, ‘ground-glass’ cytoplasm. We report a case of multicentric reticulohistiocytosis with skin lesions mimicking dermatomyositis and we also review previously reported cases describing such a clinical situation. Our case further emphasizes that multicentric reticulohistiocytosis can mimic clinical features of dermatomyositis. A macular or patch-like erythema in a photodistributed fashion, in addition to other clinical manifestations, can be mistaken for dermatomyositis. However, skin biopsies from these areas may early differentiate both conditions with different treatment options and morbidity.
Protective Effect of Adenosine Reuptake Inhibitors in Haloperidol-Induced Orofacial Dyskinesia and Associated Behavioural, Biochemical and Neurochemical Changes
Authors: Bishnoi Mahendra , Chopra Kanwaljit , Kulkarni Shrinivas K.
Published: March 2007

Chronic administration of typical neuroleptics is known to cause persistent oral dyskinesia in rats, an alleged animal model of tardive dyskinesia (TD). The pathophysiology of the syndrome remains unclear. Adenosine is now widely accepted as the major inhibitory neuromodulators in the central nervous system besides γ-aminobutyric acid. Based on the hypothesis that adenosinergic receptor system may involve in the pathogenesis of TD, we investigated the effect of dipyridamole (5 and 10 mg/kg, i.p.), an adenosine reuptake inhibitor and nimodipine (10 and 20 mg/kg, i.p.) an adenosine transport inhibitor in haloperidol-induced TD by using different behavioural, biochemical and neurochemical parameters in rats. Chronic administration of haloperidol (1 mg/kg, i.p., for 21 days) significantly increased vacuous chewing movements, tongue protrusion, facial jerking which was prevented by adenosine reuptake inhibitors. Chronic administration of haloperidol also resulted in the development of dopamine sensitivity as suggested by increased locomotor activity and stereotypy and decreased % retention time on elevated plus maze paradigm. Pretreatment with adenosine reuptake/transport inhibitors, dipyridamole and nimodipine prevented all these behavioural changes. Chronic administration of haloperidol also resulted in increased oxidative damage in all brain regions which was prevented dose-dependently by both dipyridamole and nimodipine in different brain regions. Chronic administration of haloperidol resulted in decreased turnover of dopamine and norepinephrine in both cortex and subcortical regions which was dose-dependently prevented by adenosine reuptake/transport inhibitors. The major findings of the present study suggested that adenosine reuptake inhibitors dipyridamole and nimodipine could be a possible therapeutic option in neuroleptic induced TD.
Different Degrees of Fetal Oxidative Stress in Elective and Emergent Cesarean Section
Authors: Lurie Samuel , Matas Zippora , Boaz Mona , Fux Asora , Golan Abraham , Sadan Oscar
Published: March 2007

Background: Several studies have addressed the influence of labor and mode of delivery on oxidative stress. Still it is unclear whether oxidative stress is related to delivery itself or whether it reflects a pre-existing fetal oxidative status. Objective: To investigate whether the degree of fetal oxidative stress is different between distressed fetuses that were delivered by emergent cesarean section and non-distressed fetuses that were delivered by elective cesarean section. Methods: The protocol of this prospective study was approved by the Institutional Review Board Committee. Amniotic fluid and umbilical artery blood were prospectively collected from 21 parturients who were delivered by an emergent cesarean section for non-reassuring fetal heart rate pattern and from 21 parturients who were delivered by an elective cesarean section in a tertiary care center. Oxidative stress was evaluated in amniotic fluid, umbilical cord plasma and erythrocytes by determining malondialdehyde concentration and glutathione peroxidase (GPX) activity. Results: Malondialdehyde concentration was higher in amniotic fluid (mean ± SEM) (2.2 ± 0.7 nmol/l vs. 0.6 ± 0.02 nmol/l, p < 0.05), in umbilical cord plasma (1.2 ± 0.2 nmol/l vs. 0.7 ± 0.3 nmol/l, p < 0.05) and in umbilical cord erythrocytes (159.6 ± 48.6 nmol/g Hb vs. 85.8 ± 5.2 nmol/g Hb, p < 0.05) in women delivering by emergent cesarean compared to those delivering by elective cesarean. GPX activity was enhanced in amniotic fluid (12.4 ± 2.2 U/l vs. 5.1 ± 0.6 U/l, p < 0.05) and GPX activity/hemoglobin ratio was higher in cord blood (22.0 ± 0.8 U/g Hb vs. 18.7 ± 0.9 U/g Hb, p < 0.05) in women delivering by emergent cesarean compared to those delivering by elective cesarean. Conclusion: Distressed fetuses delivered by emergency cesarean exhibited increased malondialdehyde concentrations, an indicative parameter for oxidative damage, and enhanced GPX activity an antioxidant enzyme, in amniotic fluid and umbilical cord blood compared to non-distressed fetuses delivered by elective cesarean section. This is probably an indication of higher fetal oxidative stress.
Preferential Myosin Heavy Chain Isoform B Expression May Contribute to the Faster Velocity of Contraction in Veins versus Arteries
Authors: Rondelli Catherine M. , Szasz Irina T. , Kayal Anas , Thakali Keshari , Watson Ralph E. , Rovner Arthur S. , Eddinger Thomas J. , Fink Gregory D. , Watts Stephanie W.
Published: March 2007

Smooth muscle myosin heavy chains occur in 2 isoforms, SMA (slow) and SMB (fast). We hypothesized that the SMB isoform is predominant in the faster-contracting rat vena cava compared to thoracic aorta. We compared the time to half maximal contraction in response to a maximal concentration of endothelin-1 (ET-1; 100 nM), potassium chloride (KCl; 100 mM) and norepinephrine (NE; 10 µM). The time to half maximal contraction was shorter in the vena cava compared to aorta (aorta: ET-1 = 235.8 ± 13.8 s, KCl = 140.0 ± 33.3 s, NE = 19.8 ± 2.7 s; vena cava: ET-1 = 121.8 ± 15.6 s, KCl = 49.5 ± 6.7 s, NE = 9.0 ± 3.3 s). Reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction supported the greater expression of SMB in the vena cava compared to aorta. SMB was expressed to a greater extent than SMA in the vessel wall of the vena cava. Western analysis determined that expression of SMB, relative to total smooth muscle myosin heavy chains, was 12.5 ± 4.9-fold higher in the vena cava compared to aorta, while SMA was 4.9 ± 1.2-fold higher in the aorta than vena cava. Thus, the SMB isoform is the predominant form expressed in rat veins, providing one possible mechanism for the faster response of veins to vasoconstrictors.
Controversies in Renal Artery Stenosis: A Review by the American Society of Nephrology Advisory Group on Hypertension
Authors: Levin Adeera , Linas Stuart , Luft Friedrich C. , Chapman Arlene B. , Textor Stephen
Published: March 2007

Renovascular hypertension is a recognized secondary potentially curable cause of hypertension since the work of Harry Goldblatt. Operative treatments for renal artery stenosis (RAS) have been offered for decades and percutaneous interventions have been widely available for 20 years. Stenting has largely obviated recurrence and modern techniques have contributed greatly to the safety of the procedure. Nevertheless, controversy abounds and prospective randomized trials have not successfully documented the value of intervention in patients with atherosclerotic RAS. The patient population has also changed remarkably. Whereas earlier patients with RAS were identified on clinical grounds, RAS is now commonly found serendipitously during angiography for other reasons. Whether or not these patients benefit from ‘drive by’ stenting is unknown. The practice may be hazardous and should be critically examined. A dialog and closer cooperation between cardiologists and nephrologists is warranted and organized programs should be formulated to address this problem.
High-Frequency Radar Mapping of Surface Currents Using WERA
Authors: Shay Lynn K. , Martinez-Pedraja Jorge , Cook Thomas M. , Haus Brian K. , Weisberg Robert H.
Published: March 2007

A dual-station high-frequency Wellen Radar (WERA), transmitting at 16.045 MHz, was deployed along the west Florida shelf in phased array mode during the summer of 2003. A 33-day, continuous time series of radial and vector surface current fields was acquired starting on 23 August ending 25 September 2003. Over a 30-min sample interval, WERA mapped coastal ocean currents over an ≈40 km × 80 km footprint with a 1.2-km horizontal resolution. A total of 1628 snapshots of the vector surface currents was acquired, with only 70 samples (4.3%) missing from the vector time series. Comparisons to subsurface measurements from two moored acoustic Doppler current profilers revealed RMS differences of 1 to 5 cm s−1 for both radial and Cartesian current components. Regression analyses indicated slopes close to unity with small biases between surface and subsurface measurements at 4-m depth in the east–west (u) and north–south (υ) components, respectively. Vector correlation coefficients were 0.9 with complex phases of −3° and 5° at EC4 (20-m isobath) and NA2 (25-m isobath) moorings, respectively.

Complex surface circulation patterns were observed that included tidal and wind-driven currents over the west Florida shelf. Tidal current amplitudes were 4 to 5 cm s−1 for the diurnal and semidiurnal constituents. Vertical structure of these tidal currents indicated that the semidiurnal components were predominantly barotropic whereas diurnal tidal currents had more of a baroclinic component. Tidal currents were removed from the observed current time series and were compared to the 10-m adjusted winds at a surface mooring. Based on these time series comparisons, regression slopes were 0.02 to 0.03 in the east–west and north–south directions, respectively. During Tropical Storm Henri’s passage on 5 September 2003, cyclonically rotating surface winds forced surface velocities of more than 35 cm s−1 as Henri made landfall north of Tampa Bay, Florida. These results suggest that the WERA measured the surface velocity well under weak to tropical storm wind conditions.
Accuracy of Megargee's Criminal Offender Infrequency (Fc) Scale in Detecting Malingering Among Forensic Examinees
Authors: Gassen Michael D. , Pietz Christina A. , Spray Beverly J. , Denney Robert L.
Published: March 2007

E. I. Megargee (2004) developed a Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI-2) Infrequency scale for use in criminal settings called the Criminal Offender Infrequency (Fc) scale. This study compared Fc with 7 other MMPI-2 validity scales in detecting malingering by obtaining archival data from evaluations of male inmates that used the MMPI-2 and the Structured Interview of Reported Symptoms (SIRS). Participants were placed into groups based on the SIRS results: feigning, honest, or indeterminate. Prediction accuracy analyses were conducted for the MMPI-2 scales in differentiating honest from feigning participants. A cutoff of Fc > 14 produced the highest hit rate of any cutoff on all of the scales examined. Results from this study suggest Fc may be a useful addition to the MMPI-2 for detecting malingering in criminal settings.
A Novel Cellulose-Based Hydrophilic Wafer Matrix for Rapid Bioactive Delivery
Authors: Patel Rupal , Pillay Viness , Choonara Yahya E. , Govender Thirumala
Published: March 2007

A lyophilized polymeric wafer matrix was developed for rapid drug delivery via the oramucosal route. Lyophilization produced a porous wafer matrix that allowed simulated saliva (SS) to be rapidly absorbed into the hydrophilic structure. This surge of SS led to rapid disintegration of the wafer matrix. Hydroxypropylcellulose (HPC) was selected as the polymeric material based on its low gelatin potential. Other excipients incorporated into the system were lactose and mannitol as diluents, and glycine was utilized as a collapse inhibitor. A face-centered central composite design was employed to establish the significant effects of the independent formulation variables on the physico-chemical and physico-mechanical properties of the wafer matrix. The formulation variables investigated were, HPC concentration, diluent type and concentration, glycine concentration and fill volume. An analysis of these variables elucidated the influential factors that may be used to form an effective wafer matrix. HPC concentration significantly affected the wafer matrix disintegration rate ( P = 0.003), influx rate of SS ( P = 0.011) and wafer matrix friability ( P = 0.023). Diluent concentration had a significant effect on the wafer matrix tolerance ( P = 0.029) and wafer matrix friability ( P = 0.032). Statistical optimization was performed using constrained and artificial neural network techniques to predict ideal wafer formulation. Karl Fischer titrations revealed the reliability of the wafer matrices when small quantities of moisture were absorbed while being stored under ambient conditions.
Preliminary Studies on Peripheral Nerve Regeneration using a New Polyurethane Conduit
Authors: Dezhznz Yin  , Xiao Hong Wang  , Yongnian Yan  , Renji Zhang
Published: March 2007

There is currently interest in the use of tube-shaped nerve guides to induce regeneration of severed peripheral nerve axons, to assist nerve growth in the correct directions and to provide protection for the regenerating nerves. In the present paper, preliminary studies on the degradation and biocompatibility of a new elastomeric polyurethane (PU), based on polycaprolactone, polyethylene glycol and 1,6-hexamethyl diisocyanate. The PU elastomer was evaluated in vivo for the repair of a 12-mm femoral nerve gap in rabbits. Histological and scanning electron microscope observations were carried out at three days and then 4, 8, 10 and 12 weeks postoperation. Electrophysiological recording was performed six months postoperation. Myelinated axon regeneration was observed from four weeks after implantation. Polymer degradation was observed over the duration of the study. The results suggest that PU channels can be used for the regeneration of peripheral nerves and are suitable for tissue engineering.
Inhibition of Staphylococcus Epidermidis Colonization with Fusidic Acid-Impregnated Catheters
Authors: Agalar Canan , Kilic Dilek , Ceken Sabahat , Ozdogan Mehmet , Yaşar Erdem , Özturk Eylem , Baki DenkbaŞ Emir
Published: March 2007

The aim of this study was the preparation and characterization of fusidic acid-impregnated peripheral catheters. In the first part of the study, in vitro drug release studies were performed, and the effect of fusidic acid impregnation on adherence of slime positive Staphylococcus epidermidis to catheters was evaluated as in vitro studies. Fusidic acid-impregnated and naïve catheters were incubated with 108 colony forming unit/mL (cfu/mL) slime positive S. epidermidis during the in vitro experiment. After incubation for 2, 4, 6, 8, 12, 24, 48, and 72 h, the number of colonies were determined in an aliquot and adhered to the catheter. During the in vivo experiment, contaminated naïve and fusidic acid-impregnated catheters ( n = 10 rats in both groups) were implanted subcutaneously in the back of the rats. Rats were killed at the end of the seventh day and catheters were removed. Microbiologic assessments from the explanted catheter segments were performed. Fusidic acid impregnation decreased the number of adherent bacteria to the catheters and the number of free bacteria within the liquid medium significantly. There were 3 positive catheter cultures out of 10 in rats implanted with fusidic acid-impregnated catheters, whereas all explanted catheters from naïve group yielded bacterial growth. The mean cfu counts were significantly less in the fusidic acid-impregnated catheter group. In vitro release studies and antibacterial activity studies correlated well. Additionally, morphological evaluations by scanning electron microscopy showed that fewer bacteria were evident on the fusidic acid-impregnated catheters compared with naïve catheters. As a conclusion, catheter impregnation with fusidic acid is effective in preventing colonization in these in vitro and in vivo sets of experiments, with slime-producing S. epidermidis.
Information and Communication Technologies: assessing public attitude and local government resolve
Authors: Isaac-Henry K. , Barnes Chris
Published: March 2007

The present government's agenda for modernising local government presumes that Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) will play an important role in achieving the objectives set out. Evidence so far suggests that local authorities have been inward looking in their use of ICTs by concentrating on service efficiency and quality as opposed to looking outwards to citizens’ need for information and communication. However present emphasis on democratic renewal, public access, joined up government and social inclusion is likely to concentrate more attention on citizens’ use of ICTs to interact with their councils. Drawing on a research project across the seven metropolitan authorities of the West Midlands, the article explores the disposition and ability of citizens to use ICTs to interact with their local authorities; their expectations from such interactions and the impediments they face. The article suggests that although citizens are generally disenchanted and highly critical of their local authorities, they are favourably disposed to using the new technologies to communicate and interact with them. In conclusion, the article suggests some strategies local authorities might use to bring about more effective citizen/council interaction through the use of ICTs.
Quangos: UK Ministerial Responsibility in Theory and Practice
Authors: Cole Michael
Published: March 2007

This article considers the theory and practice of accountability arrangements for quangos in the UK. Theoretical notions of accountability are discussed and the practice of parliamentary accountability evaluated in the context of the traditional notion of ministerial responsibility. The study outlines the results obtained through an empirical analysis of parliamentary questions, M.P.s’ replies to a questionnaire and several interviews with M.P.s. The analysis suggests that ministerial oversight over these bodies is more extensive than scholars have traditionally assumed. In addition, the study draws attention to the role of members’ constituencies in raising concerns about quangos and the extent to which M.P.s collaborate with quangos rather than scrutinise their activities.
Partners in Name Only? The Involvement of Black/Minority Ethnic Voluntary Organisations in Coordinated Approaches to Tackling Racial Harassment
Authors: Netto Gina
Published: March 2007

Studies into multi-agency approaches to tackling racial harassment have found that one of the weaknesses of the approach resides in the lack of effective involvement of black and minority ethnic organisations. This article examines the policy and procedural responses of key statutory and voluntary organisations, including black/minority ethnic agencies and considers the ways in which the particular expertise and experience of the latter may be maximised in a strategic, coordinated approach to the problem. It argues that while there is much to be gained from the participation of black/minority ethnic organisations, their ability to contribute to change depends on the extent to which statutory organisations are willing to consider them as equal partners in the process.