bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mudanças nos relacionamentos com os amigos, cônjuge e família após o diagnóstico de câncer na mulher
Authors: Molina Maria Aparecida Salci , Marconi Sônia Silva
Published: April 2008

A proposta deste estudo foi identificar mudanças ocorridas nos relacionamentos após o diagnóstico de câncer na mulher. Como estratégia teórico-metodológica foi utilizado respectivamente o Interacionismo Simbólico e a Teoria Fundamentada nos Dados. Fizeram parte da pesquisa 10 mulheres portadoras de câncer e um familiar. Identificamos que ocorreu mudanças nos relacionamentos com amigos, em que as relações que já eram íntimas consolidaram-se ainda mais e as superficiais inexistiram. Com os cônjuges, alguns relacionamentos tornaram-se melhores e outros, que já eram conflituosos, passaram por vários problemas chegando até à separação. Com a família, os relacionamentos tornaram-se mais fortes. O estudo nos permite compreender um contexto particular da mulher com câncer e repensar algumas estratégias de cuidados a partir dessas relações.
Laringocele: uma causa de obstrução de vias aéreas superiores
Authors: Felix Jose Antonio de Paula , Felix Felippe , Mello Luiz Fernando Pires de
Published: April 2008

Laringoceles são dilatações anormais do sáculo do ventrículo de Morgani da laringe, localizando-se entre a falsa prega vocal e a face interna da cartilagem tireóide. Relevância clínica é rara, sendo o achado de laringoceles assintomáticas em necropsia muito alto. Algumas vezes, pode se apresentar já como uma grande massa cervical, levando à obstrução de vias aéreas e necessitando de intervenção de urgência. Neste trabalho, os autores relatam um caso de laringocele levando à obstrução de vias aéreas superiores, necessitando de traqueostomia de urgência e fazem uma revisão da literatura sobre o tema. Complicações de laringocele incluem infecção (formação de piocele), aspiração de patógenos e subseqüente bronquite e pneumonia, infecção do espaço lateral da faringe (depois de ruptura) e obstrução de vias aéreas superiores, como no caso apresentado. A laringocele, apesar de ser uma doença benigna, é uma causa potencial de obstrução respiratória que pode ameaçar a vida do paciente. O correto diagnóstico e manejo adequado precoce podem evitar que situações de emergência, como a do paciente do caso relatado, levem à morte.
Apreciación histórica y estética de la fotografía: un gran reto entre lo analógico y lo digital
Authors: Nasr Rebeca Monroy
Published: April 2008

El ensayo tiene por finalidad acercar a los que se inician en el camino del análisis visual a detenerse frente a la imagen o grupo de fotografías desde diferentes posturas teórico metodológicas de análisis. Se insiste en la necesidad de valorar las imágenes desde diferentes perspectivas técnico, formales, temático, ideológicas, que dan pie a comprender el discurso fotográfico intrínseco. De tal suerte que la lectura se realice con seriedad, profundidad y encontrando los diversos discursos que contiene la imagen desde la perspectiva histórica, social, estética, cultural, y sobre todo se subraya la necesidad de tomar en cuenta la perspectiva del creador de la imagen. Valorar la imagen desde el momento en que se creó, verla con los ojos de la época, del fotógrafo, de las dificultades técnicas, formales, de su postura ideológica, del uso social primigenio de la imagen en su momento, son algunos de los elementos a analizar y a desmontar de las fotografías para su análisis. Es necesario, que el estudioso se instale en el momento de la producción para valorar el imaginario de la época, los otros grupos documentales creados en ese momento y devele la importancia documental y estética de la imagen o imágenes en estudio. Con ejemplos claros de fotógrafos se desarrolla el análisis para comprender el cambio que ha sufrido la fotografía de su perspectiva analógica y digital, elemento que tiene que ser considerado en las fotografías de fin del siglo XX y principios del XXI. El reto del estudioso de las imágenes no es fácil, pues tiene ante sí nuevas metodologías de análisis que tendrá que desarrollar conforme de acerque a los nuevos modos de producción digital de esta nueva era fotográfica. Para ello, los recursos que nos proveen los estudiosos como Boris Kossoy, Peter Burke, Vilhem Flusser, Roland Barthes o Phillipe Duboise, entre otros, son parte de esa metodología de análisis que nos proveerá herramientas más certeras para acercarnos al maravilloso mundo de la fotografía entre lo analógico y lo digital.
A construção do feminino e do masculino no processo de cuidar crianças em pré-escolas
Authors: Gomes Vera Lúcia de Oliveira
Published: April 2008

Objetivou-se investigar como se constrói o feminino e o masculino no processo de cuidar crianças em uma pré-escola do município de Rio Grande - RS. Adotou-se a hermenêutica dialética e a concepção de habitus de Bourdieu como referenciais metodológico e teórico-filosófico, respectivamente. Utilizou-se, para coleta de dados, a observação registrada em diário de campo e entrevista semi-estruturada com as cuidadoras, pois são elas que mais interagem com as crianças. Respeitaram-se os princípios éticos constantes da Resolução 196/96. Pela análise de conteúdo, apreendeu-se que as cuidadoras são solícitas, atenciosas e carinhosas com todas as crianças. No entanto, cuidam, de forma natural e culturalmente diferenciada, meninos e meninas. Àqueles permitem brincadeiras mais arriscadas, inovadoras, espetaculares, enquanto que as meninas devem seguir a norma do jogo. Nos primeiros anos, as crianças já têm interiorizado um padrão de comportamento típico de cada sexo tendo dificuldade, pela própria pressão do grupo, em transgredi-lo.
Illness care at home or in health institutions: the decision process in a low income community
Authors: Hoga Luiza Akiko Komura
Published: April 2008

The aim of this research was to describe the experiences of a group of women about the decision making process related to illness care at home or in health care institutions. The thematic oral history method was applied. The descriptive categories were: a) The poor have their own way of taking care of health and illness; b) The main support to fight the illness is belief in God; c) Medical care is the last resource, when healing resources are not enough and the illness is dangerous. In low income families, the cultural background, associated to the socioeconomic conditions, permeate the decision with regard to taking care of the illness at home or to seek institutionalized medical care. This knowledge is essential for meaningful health care from the perspective of individuals and families.
Opposition to the American leadership by Brazilian nurses (1934-1938)
Authors: Santos Tânia Cristina Franco , Lopes Gertrudes Teixeira , Porto Fernando , Fonte Aline Silva da
Published: April 2008

A historical social descriptive study whose objective is to describe the circumstances where Bertha Pullen assumes as the din of Anna Nery Nursing School, to assess the strategies undertaken by Pullen to assure her position of power and prestige in the space of the school and Brazilian nursing; and to discuss about the resistance to the presence and authority of the American din, for the nurses and students, in the struggle for a national identity. Corpus analysis was made by putting photographs into context base don written documents and secondary sources. Results: The second management of Pullen was the reiteration of the American presence in the leadership of the School, despite the resistance of the nurses and students. Thus, we may assume that the second tenure of Pullen did not represent a real need that was felt by the school.
Local Delivery of Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor-Mobilized CD34-Positive Progenitor Cells Using Bioscaffold for Modality of Unhealing Bone Fracture
Authors: Mifune Yutaka , Matsumoto Tomoyuki , Kawamoto Atsuhiko , Kuroda Ryosuke , Shoji Taro , Iwasaki Hiroto , Kwon Sang-Mo , Miwa Masahiko , Kurosaka Masahiro , Asahara Takayuki
Published: April 2008

We recently reported that i.v. transplantation of adult human circulating CD34+ cells, an endothelial/hematopoietic progenitor-enriched cell population, contributes to fracture healing through the enhancement of vasculogenesis and osteogenesis. However, the scarcity of CD34+ cells in the adult human is a critical issue for the future clinical application of this method. To overcome this issue, we assessed in vitro and in vivo capacity of granulocyte colony-stimulating factor-mobilized peripheral blood (GM-PB) human CD34+ cells for vasculogenesis and osteogenesis. First, we confirmed the differentiation capability of GM-PB CD34+ cells into osteoblasts in vitro. Second, local transplantation of GM-PB CD34+ cells on atelocollagen scaffold was performed in nude rats in a model of unhealing fractures. Immunostaining for human leukocyte antigen-ABC of tissue samples 1 week after fracture and cell therapy showed the superior incorporation after local transplantation compared with systemic infusion. Third, the effects of local transplantation of 105 (Hi), 104 (Mid), or 103 (Lo) doses of GM-PB CD34+ cells or phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) on fracture healing were compared. Extrinsic vasculogenic and osteogenic differentiation of GM-PB CD34+ cells, enhancement of the intrinsic angio-osteogenesis by recipient cells, augmentation of blood flow recovery at the fracture sites, and radiological and histological confirmation of fracture healing were observed only in the Hi and Mid groups but not in the Lo and PBS groups. These results strongly suggest that local transplantation of GM-PB CD34+ cells with atelocollagen scaffold is a feasible strategy for therapeutic vasculogenesis and osteogenesis needed for fracture healing.

Disclosure of potential conflicts of interest is found at the end of this article.
Embryonic Stem Cell-Derived Pitx3-Enhanced Green Fluorescent Protein Midbrain Dopamine Neurons Survive Enrichment by Fluorescence-Activated Cell Sorting and Function in an Animal Model of Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Hedlund Eva , Pruszak Jan , Lardaro Thomas , Ludwig Wesley , Viñuela Angel , Kim Kwang-Soo , Isacson Ole
Published: April 2008

Both fetal ventral mesencephalic (VM) and embryonic stem (ES) cell-derived dopamine neurons have been used successfully to correct behavioral responses in animal models of Parkinson's disease. However, grafts derived from fetal VM cells or from ES cells contain multiple cell types, and the majority of these cells are not dopamine neurons. Isolation of ES cell-derived dopamine neurons and subsequent transplantation would both elucidate the capacity of these neurons to provide functional input and also further explore an efficient and safer use of ES cells for the treatment of Parkinson's disease. Toward this goal, we used a Pitx3-enhanced green fluorescent protein (Pitx3-eGFP) knock-in mouse blastocyst-derived embryonic stem (mES) cell line and fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) to select and purify midbrain dopamine neurons. Initially, the dopaminergic marker profile of intact Pitx3-eGFP mES cultures was evaluated after differentiation in vitro. eGFP expression overlapped closely with that of Pitx3, Nurr1, Engrailed-1, Lmx1a, tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), l-aromatic amino acid decarboxylase (AADC), and vesicular monoamine transporter 2 (VMAT2), demonstrating that these cells were of a midbrain dopamine neuron character. Furthermore, postmitotic Pitx3-eGFP+ dopamine neurons, which constituted 2%–5% of all live cells in the culture after dissociation, could be highly enriched to >90% purity by FACS, and these isolated neurons were viable, extended neurites, and maintained a dopaminergic profile in vitro. Transplantation to 6-hydroxydopamine-lesioned rats showed that an enriched dopaminergic population could survive and restore both amphetamine- and apomorphine-induced functions, and the grafts contained large numbers of midbrain dopamine neurons, which innervated the host striatum.

Disclosure of potential conflicts of interest is found at the end of this article.
The Neuronal Differentiation Potential of Ldb1-Null Mutant Embryonic Stem Cells Is Dependent on Extrinsic Influences
Authors: Hwang Minyoung , Gorivodsky Marat , Kim Minjung , Westphal Heiner , Geum Dongho
Published: April 2008

LIM-domain binding protein 1 (Ldb1) is a multiadaptor protein that mediates the action of transcription factors, including LIM-homeodomain proteins. To elucidate the functional role of Ldb1 in the neuronal differentiation of embryonic stem (ES) cells, we have generated Ldb1-null mutant (Ldb1−/−) ES cells and examined neuronal differentiation potentials in vitro using two different neuronal differentiation protocols. When subjected to a five-stage protocol that recapitulates in vivo conditions of neuronal differentiation, wild-type ES cells differentiated into a wide spectrum of neuronal cell types. However, Ldb1−/− ES cells did not differentiate into neuronal cells; instead, they differentiated into sarcomeric α-actinin-positive muscle cells. In contrast, when an adherent monolayer culture procedure (which is based on the default mechanism of neural induction and eliminates environmental influences) was applied, both wild-type and Ldb1−/− ES cells differentiated into MAP2-positive mature neurons. Comparison of the results obtained when two different neuronal differentiation protocols were used suggests that Ldb1−/− ES cells have an innate potential to differentiate into neuronal cells, but this potential can be inhibited by environmental influences.

Disclosure of potential conflicts of interest is found at the end of this article.
Human Bone Marrow Adipocytes Block Granulopoiesis Through Neuropilin-1-Induced Granulocyte Colony-Stimulating Factor Inhibition
Authors: Belaid-Choucair Zakia , Lepelletier Yves , Poncin Géraldine , Thiry Albert , Humblet Chantal , Maachi Mustapha , Beaulieu Aurore , Schneider Elke , Briquet Alexandra , Mineur Pierre , Lambert Charles , Mendes-Da-Cruz Daniella , Ahui Marie Louise , Asnafi Vahid , Dy Michel , Boniver Jacques , Nusgens Betty V. , Hermine Olivier , Defresne Marie Paule
Published: April 2008

Adipocytes are part of hematopoietic microenvironment, even though up to now in humans, their role in hematopoiesis is still questioned. We have previously shown that accumulation of fat cells in femoral bone marrow (BM) coincides with increased expression of neuropilin-1 (NP-1), while it is weakly expressed in hematopoietic iliac crest BM. Starting from this observation, we postulated that adipocytes might exert a negative effect on hematopoiesis mediated through NP-1. To test this hypothesis, we set up BM adipocytes differentiated into fibroblast-like fat cells (FLFC), which share the major characteristics of primitive unilocular fat cells, as an experimental model. As expected, FLFCs constitutively produced macrophage colony stimulating factor and induced CD34+ differentiation into macrophages independently of cell-to-cell contact. By contrast, granulopoiesis was hampered by cell-to-cell contact but could be restored in transwell culture conditions, together with granulocyte colony stimulating factor production. Both functions were also recovered when FLFCs cultured in contact with CD34+ cells were treated with an antibody neutralizing NP-1, which proved its critical implication in contact inhibition. An inflammatory cytokine such as interleukin-1 β or dexamethasone modulates FLFC properties to restore granulopoiesis. Our data provide the first evidence that primary adipocytes exert regulatory functions during hematopoiesis that might be implicated in some pathological processes.

Disclosure of potential conflicts of interest is found at the end of this article.
Accessible and total lead in low-cost jewelry items
Authors: Yost Jamie L , Weidenhamer Jeffrey D
Published: April 2008

The US Consumer Product Safety Commission has proposed a ban on children's metal jewelry containing more than 0.06% lead by weight. This ban would replace the current interim enforcement standard, which also includes a measurement of accessible lead. Under current guidelines, accessible lead for any component of a jewelry item must not exceed 175 μg. Critics argue that lead in jewelry is inaccessible if items are properly plated. The objective of this study was to determine whether highly leaded jewelry also has high accessible lead content. Sixty-four inexpensive, leaded jewelry items with a wide range of total lead content (all above the 0.06% threshold) were tested first for accessible lead and then for total lead, with analysis by atomic absorption spectrometry. Fifty of the items exceeded the 175-μg maximum allowed for accessible lead. Thirty-one of these items exceeded 1000 μg accessible lead, and 18 items exceeded 3000 μg accessible lead. The finding that a majority of tested items had both accessible and total lead content above current standards provides support for the rationale of simplifying the current standard by basing regulations on total lead content.
A multitrophic approach to monitoring the effects of metal mining in otherwise pristine and ecologically sensitive rivers in Northern Canada
Authors: Spencer Paula , Bowman Michelle F , Dubé Monique G
Published: April 2008

It is not known if current chemical and biological monitoring methods are appropriate for assessing the impacts of growing industrial development on ecologically sensitive northern waters. We used a multitrophic level approach to evaluate current monitoring methods and to determine whether metal-mining activities had affected 2 otherwise pristine rivers that flow into the South Nahanni River, Northwest Territories, a World Heritage Site. We compared upstream reference conditions in the rivers to sites downstream and further downstream of mines. The endpoints we evaluated included concentrations of metals in river water, sediments, and liver and flesh of slimy sculpin (Cottus cognatus); benthic algal and macroinvertebrate abundance, richness, diversity, and community composition; and various slimy sculpin measures, our sentinel forage fish species. Elevated concentrations of copper and iron in liver tissue of sculpin from the Flat River were associated with high concentrations of mine-derived iron in river water and copper in sediments that were above national guidelines. In addition, sites downstream of the mine on the Flat River had increased algal abundances and altered benthic macroinvertebrate communities, whereas the sites downstream of the mine on Prairie Creek had increased benthic macroinvertebrate taxa richness and improved sculpin condition. Biological differences in both rivers were consistent with mild enrichment of the rivers downstream of current and historical mining activity. We recommend that monitoring in these northern rivers focus on indicators in epilithon and benthic macroinvertebrate communities due to their responsiveness and as alternatives to lethal fish sampling in habitats with low fish abundance. We also recommend monitoring of metal burdens in periphyton and benthic invertebrates for assessment of exposure to mine effluent and causal association. Although the effects of mining activities on riverine biota currently are limited, our results show that there is potential for effects to occur with proposed growth in mining activities.
Diet composition and prey selection of vendace Coregonus albula in the mesotrophic, temperate Lake Ostrowite (Northern Poland)
Authors: Kakareko Tomasz , Napiórkowski Paweł , Kozłowski Jacek
Published: April 2008

Lake Ostrowite is a mesotrophic lake in Northern Poland 280.7 ha in area and 43 m deep at its deepest point. To study vendace (Coregonus albula L.) diet in the lake, fish and zooplankton were sampled at two stations on 28-29 April, 15-16 May (fish only), 28-29 July and 15-16 August 2004. Fish were caught by gill netting, while zooplankton was collected from the whole water column by means of a Ruttner sampler (5 x 2 dm3). In total 91 vendace specimens were analysed, of which 64.8% had non-empty alimentary tracts. In the April and May samples Copepoda were the most numerous prey, while Daphnidae dominated the diet in the July- and September-caught fish. Planktonic Chironomidae pupae were also an important dietary item in the April-caught fish. Cladocerans, especially from Daphnidae family, were positively selected by vendace whilst copepods were not. Large predatory cladocerans, Leptodora kindtii, and the non-indigenous Bythotrephes longimanus were consumed in substantial quantities by the July- and September-sampled fish, with the vendace feeding more intensively on the L. kindtii than on the B. longimanus.
The formation of water beetle fauna in anthropogenic water bodies
Authors: Pakulnicka Joanna
Published: April 2008

Studies on the fauna of water beetles inhabiting anthropogenic water bodies were conducted on 44 clay-pit and gravel-pit ponds. A total of 125 water beetle species were identified. The dominant species were Scarodytes halensis and Laccobius minutus, representing the argillophilous component. Eurytopic, lake and riverine, and peatland species were also identified. Among the environmental factors determining the diversity of the water beetle fauna in particular types of habitats, the most significant role was played by the substratum and succession stage.
Bone Mineral Density of the Tarsals and Metatarsals With Reloading
Authors: Hastings Mary Kent , Gelber Judy , Commean Paul K , Prior Fred , Sinacore David R
Published: April 2008

Background and Purpose

Bone mineral density (BMD) decreases rapidly with prolonged non–weight bearing. Maximizing the BMD response to reloading activities after NWB is critical to minimizing fracture risk. Methods for measuring individual tarsal and metatarsal BMD have not been available. This case report describes tarsal and metatarsal BMD with a reloading program, as revealed by quantitative computed tomography (QCT).

Case Description

A 24-year-old woman was non–weight bearing for 6 weeks after right talocrural arthroscopy. Tarsal and metatarsal BMD were measured with QCT 9 weeks (before reloading) and 32 weeks (after reloading) after surgery. A 26-week progressive reloading program was completed. Change scores were calculated for BMD before reloading and BMD after reloading for the total foot (average of all tarsals and metatarsals), tarsals, metatarsals, bones of the medial column (calcaneus, navicular, cuneiforms 1 and 2, and metatarsal 1), and bones of the lateral column (calcaneus, cuboid, cuneiform 3, and metatarsals 2–5). The percent differences in BMD between the involved side and the uninvolved side were calculated.

Outcomes

Before reloading, BMD of the involved total foot was 9% lower than that on the uninvolved side. After reloading, BMD increased 22% and 21% for the total foot, 16% and 14% for the tarsals, 29% and 30% for the metatarsals, 14% and 15% for the medial column bones, and 28% and 26% for the lateral column bones on the involved and uninvolved sides, respectively. After reloading, BMD of the involved total foot remained 8% lower than that on the uninvolved side.

Discussion

The increase in BMD with reloading was not uniform across all pedal bones; the metatarsals showed a greater increase than the tarsals, and the lateral column bones showed a greater increase than the medial column bones.
Wavelength dependence of polarimetric and phase-shift characterization of a liquid crystal on silicon display
Authors: Lizana A. , Márquez A. , Moreno I. , Iemmi C. , Campos J. , Yzuel M. J.
Published: April 2008

We present a full characterization of a liquid-crystal-on-silicon (LCoS) display, including a polarimetric analysis based on the Mueller-Stokes formalism, and a phase shift modulation calibration. Results for different wavelengths are compared. The goal of this work is two fold. On one side, previous papers dealing with the illumination wavelength 633 nm have shown that LCoS produce a non negligible amount of depolarized light. This may have a negative impact in certain applications. Here we want to establish how this depolarization varies with the wavelength. Diattenuation is also evaluated. On the other side, to use the LCoS as a spatial light modulator (SLM) we need to obtain optimal configurations enabling for phase-only or for amplitude-only modulation. Here we show how phase-only modulation is obtained, and how it evolves with the wavelength. In principle, the phase modulation depth increases and the energy throughput may also be increased for shorter wavelengths. However, these phase-only configurations may be partially degraded by the presence of depolarization at certain gray levels. Thus, the Mueller-Stokes formalism is necessary to get a full picture of the performance exhibited by the LCoS at each wavelength.
Transmission coefficient of a one-dimensional multi-layer medium from a sum over all light-rays
Authors: Uitham Rudolf , Hoenders Bernhard
Published: April 2008

The transmission coefficient of a one-dimensional multi-layer medium is obtained by summing the amplitude coefficients of all individual transmitted light-rays. As compared to the transfer-matrix method, the sum-over-all-light-rays derivation results in a very intelligible expression, which is interesting from a theoretical point of view. Exactly as in the case of a single-layer medium, the sum of all light-rays through the multi-layer medium is obtained from a geometric series. The system does not have to be periodic; the layers have arbitrary physical lengths and each layer has an arbitrary electromagnetic response.
New Teachers and the Massachusetts Signing Bonus: The Limits of Inducements
Authors: Liu Edward , Johnson Susan Moore , Peske Heather G.
Published: April 2008

In 1998, Massachusetts instituted a $20,000 Signing Bonus to address concerns about the supply of quality teachers. This article reports on a longitudinal, qualitative study of the experiences of 13 of the original 59 recipients of the Signing Bonus, and analyzes their responses to various incentives embedded within the Massachusetts Signing Bonus Program (MSBP). Interviews revealed that the bonus money had very little influence on recipients’ decisions to enter teaching. Far more important was the alternate certification program created to implement the policy. Findings suggest that the MSBP: (a) relied too much on inducements and not enough on capacity-building; (b) focused too narrowly on recruitment and not enough on retention, and (c) centered too much on individuals and not enough on schools.
Additive effects of a potentially invasive grass and water stress on the performance of seedlings of gypsum specialists
Authors: Matesanz Silvia , Escudero Adrián , Valladares Fernando
Published: April 2008

Question: What is the combined effect of two drivers of local biodiversity changes (presence of a potentially invasive species and seasonal drought) on the performance of seedlings of plants from gypsum habitats under experimental conditions?

Location: A controlled microcosm reconstruction of natural assemblages of gypsum plant communities from central Spain.

Methods: We evaluated the effects of a potentially invasive grass (Lolium rigidum) and water stress on the survival, height growth and biomass of five woody species (Colutea hispanica, Gypsophila struthium, Thymus lacaitae, Lepidium subulatum and Helianthemum squamatum) from semi‐arid gypsum ecosystems. Seedlings of the five species were grown with or without the potential invader and under three watering regimes: early stress — simulating an advanced summer, late stress — simulating the characteristic timing of current summer drought and well‐watered.

Results: Seedling survival and performance were negatively affected by the presence of the potential invader. Early stress had larger impacts on the gypsum species than late stress. No interactions were found between factors for any of the study variables, and responses to both factors were found to be species‐specific.

Conclusions: The lack of interactions between factors indicates that the presence of the potentially invasive grass and water stress had additive effects in our study system. The negative impact of early water stress draws attention to the possible consequences of the advances of summer drought predicted for Mediterranean ecosystems. Finally, the differential responses found for the study species suggest that plant communities will not respond as a unit to global change, leading to significant changes in species composition and dominance.
Lack of Cytomegalovirus Transmission after Pancreatic Islet Transplantation
Authors: Barshes Neal R. , Lee Timothy C. , Brunicardi F. Charles , Mote Amy , Schock A. Paige , Alejandro Rodolfo , Ricordi Camillo , Goss John A.
Published: April 2008

In spite of antiviral prophylaxis, the transmission rate of cytomegalovirus (CMV) after solid organ transplantation remains high. In contrast, CMV transmission has never been reported following pancreatic islet transplantation (PIT). Eleven (seven CMV seronegative, four CMV seropositive) recipients underwent a total of 26 PITs. Following PIT recipients were monitored clinically and tested monthly for CMV antigenemia. Valganciclovir was given to all patients for 100 days after each PIT. Follow-up ranged from 6 to 24 months (median 14.5 months). Pancreatic islet grafts were procured from 18 CMV seropositive and 8 seronegative donors (69% and 31% of donors, respectively). In total there were 6 R+D+, 3 R+D-, 12 R-D+, and 5 R-D-PITs. No patient developed CMV antigenemia or symptoms consistent with CMV infection at any time following PIT. Routine posttransplant testing of PIT recipients demonstrated that neither CMV transmission nor CMV infection occurred after PIT.
Effective Islet Isolation Method with Extremely High Islet Yields from Adult Pigs
Authors: Yonekawa Yukihide , Matsumoto Shinichi , Okitsu Teru , Arata Takashi , Iwanaga Yasuhiro , Noguchi Hirofumi , Nagata Hideo , O'neil John J. , Tanaka Koichi
Published: April 2008

Achieving good islet isolation is one of the most important factors for successful islet transplantation. Porcine pancreas is suitable for islet isolation research due to its anatomical and physiological similarities to human pancreas. In this study, we evaluated a new porcine islet isolation method designed to maximize islet yield and compared it with our previous open pan method and the standard method using a Ricordi chamber (Ricordi method). We performed 15 porcine islet isolations, five each with the new method, the open pan method, and the Ricordi method. The new method features several important improvements. Pancreata remain uncut and are kept intact during collagenase intraductal injection, a large filtration chamber to handle whole pancreata, low concentration of collagenase (Liberase™ HI) for digestion, and large plastic containers for large-scale islet purification. All isolated islets were assessed for yield, purity, viability and in vitro function. Islets isolated with this new method were transplanted under the kidney capsules of SCID mice with chemically induced diabetes for in vivo functional assessment (n = 8). With the new method, we obtained on average more than 1,000,000 islet equivalents (IE) (1,236,266 ± 213,486 IE) (mean ± SE) before purification and 800,000 IE (879,815 ± 222,729 IE) after purification from one adult pig. Islet yield per pancreas was significantly higher compared with our previous open pan method (30,666 ± 11,532 IE, p < 0.01) and the Ricordi method (317,073 ± 86,093 IE, p < 0.05). All mice, transplanted with 1000 islets from the new method, returned to normoglycemia within 4 days after transplantation. Our new method makes it possible to obtain extremely high porcine islet yield with good function. It should produce useful information for human islet isolation and transplantation, and might be applied to single donor clinical xenogeneic transplantation.
Stem Cell Therapy for Ischemic Heart Disease: Beginning or End of the Road?
Authors: Stamm Christof , Liebold Andreas , Steinhoff Gustav , Strunk Dirk
Published: April 2008

Despite improvements in emergency treatment, myocardial infarction is often the beginning of a downward spiral leading to congestive heart failure. Other than heart transplantation, current therapeutic means aim at enabling the organism to survive with a heart that is working at a fraction of its original capacity. It is therefore no surprise that cardiac stem cell therapy has raised many hopes. However, neither the ideal source and type of stem cell nor the critical cell number and mode of application have been defined so far. Early reports on myocardial repair by adult bone marrow stem cells from rodent models promoted an unparalleled boost of clinical and experimental cell therapy studies. The phenomenon of stem/progenitor cell-induced angiogenesis in ischemic myocardium has ever since been reproduced by numerous groups in a variety of small and large animal models. Myogenesis, however, is an altogether different matter. Many of the initial clinical studies were fueled by the suggestion that early hematopoietic stem cells have a plasticity high enough to enable cross-lineage differentiation into cells of cardiomyocyte phenotype, but the initial enthusiasm has largely faded. The myogenic potential of stroma cell-derived mesenchymal stem cells is much better documented in animal models, but transfer to the clinical setting faces a variety of obstacles. In clinical pilot trials, we and others have demonstrated the feasibility and safety of administering progenitor cells derived from autologous bone marrow to the myocardium of patients with ischemic heart disease. Clinical efficacy data are still rare, but the few controlled trials that have been completed uniformly show a tendency towards better heart function in cell-treated patients. This review is an attempt to describe the scientific basis for cardiac cell therapy from the point of view of the clinician, focusing on problems that arise with beginning translation into the clinical setting.
Is Facilitating Pancreatic Beta Cell Regeneration a Valid Option for Clinical Therapy?
Authors: Trucco Massimo
Published: April 2008

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is an autoimmune disease in which the clinical onset most frequently presents in adolescents who are genetically predisposed. There is accumulating evidence that the endocrine pancreas has regenerative properties, that hematopoietic chimerism can abrogate destruction of beta cells in autoimmune diabetes, and that, in this manner, physiologically sufficient endogenous insulin production can be restored in clinically diabetic NOD mice. Recapitulating what also has been seen sporadically in humans, we set out to test reliable and clinically translatable alternatives able to achieve these same goals. Recently, Tian and colleagues demonstrated that T1D can be prevented in genetically susceptible mice by substituting a “diabetes-susceptible” class II MHC beta chain with a “diabetes-resistant” allelic transgene on their hematopoietic stem cells through gene supplantation. The expression of the newly formed diabetes-resistant molecule in the reinfused hematopoietic cells was sufficient to prevent T1D onset even in the presence of the native, diabetogenic molecule. If this approach to obtain autoimmunity abrogation could facilitate a possible recovery of autologous insulin production in diabetic patients, safe induction of an autoimmunity-free status might become a new promising therapy for T1D.
Using route and survey information to generate cognitive maps: differences between normally sighted and visually impaired individuals
Authors: Steyvers Frank J. J. M. , Kooijman Aart C.
Published: April 2008

Visually impaired people (VIP) have to rely on different information to generate a cognitive map of their environment than normally sighted people. This study explored the extent to which a cognitive map could be generated by auditory information of route‐type and survey‐type descriptions of a fictitious environment. A total of 27 visually impaired and 28 normally sighted participants listened to either a survey‐type or a route‐type description of a fictitious zoo. They then answered both route‐type and survey‐type questions. This listening/question‐and‐answer sequence was repeated twice (total n = 3). The visually impaired participants showed no difference in error frequency between the two description types, while the normally sighted individuals performed better after listening to the survey‐type description. In addition, the learning curve of the normally sighted individuals was steeper than that of the visually impaired and they made fewer errors. The error scores indicated two subgroups in both the normally sighted and the visually impaired groups. These two groups, the ‘good’ learners and the ‘poor’ learners, showed marked differences in generating a cognitive map from auditory descriptions of an environment. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The cognitive interview: the efficacy of a modified mental reinstatement of context procedure for frontline police investigators
Authors: Dando Coral , Wilcock Rachel , Milne Rebecca
Published: April 2008

The current investigative interview framework for police officers in England and Wales (and many other countries) recommends the use of the cognitive interview (CI). One of the primary components of the CI is the mental reinstatement of context (MRC) instruction. However, research has consistently indicated that police officers do not regularly use this component and when they do it is often poorly applied. Thus the question arises as to whether some adjustment of the MRC component might enhance its forensic practicability. An initial investigation was conducted as to the efficacy of a more succinct and less complex MRC technique, namely a sketch plan mental reinstatement of context (Sketch MRC). Twenty‐four hours after having viewed a crime film, adult mock witnesses were interviewed employing the traditional MRC instruction, a Sketch MRC instruction or no mental reinstatement of context (No MRC). Analysis of overall memorial performance revealed the Sketch MRC to be as effective as the MRC and more effective than No MRC. Thus, for less serious crime the Sketch MRC technique may be a viable, less complex and less time consuming alternative. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The role of importance/consequentiality appraisal in flashbulb memory formation: the case of the death of Pope John Paul II
Authors: Tinti Carla , Schmidt Susanna , Sotgiu Igor , Testa Silvia , Curci Antonietta
Published: April 2008

This study investigates how flashbulb memories (FBMs) relative to the death of Pope John Paul II vary according to the persons' evaluation of the event's importance and consequences. In particular, FBMs were investigated in persons who were expected to attribute different degrees of importance/consequentiality to the event as a function of two factors: (1) religious involvement, (2) nationality (Polish, Italian, Swiss). The comparison was made with respect to the following hypothesized determinants of FBMs: surprise, emotional reaction, rehearsal, event memory and especially the attitudes towards the Pope and the appraisal of the importance and the consequences of his death. Structural equation modelling indicates that importance/consequentiality is a fundamental determinant of FBM and is influenced by antecedent personal and social characteristics reflected in the person's attitudes. Moreover, memory consistency seems to be both directly influenced by emotional intensity and indirectly through rehearsal, whereas surprise seems not a critical determinant of FBM. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Trisomy 20q caused by interstitial duplication 20q13.2: Clinical report and literature review
Authors: Blanc Pierre , Gouas Laetitia , Francannet Christine , Giollant Michel , Vago Philippe , Goumy Carole
Published: April 2008

We report on a 3‐year‐old boy with moderate developmental delay, abnormal craniofacial features and ventricular septal defect resulting from trisomy of the long arm of chromosome 20. The cytogenetic defect consists of a de novo isolated interstitial duplication in distal 20q [dup(20)(q13.2q13.2)]. The duplication was detected by comparative genomic hybridization (CGH) and confirmed by array CGH. Other cases of comparable trisomies are reviewed. This new case further delineates the recognizable phenotype of trisomy 20q13 → 20qter and highlights the relevance of CGH for the detection of such rearrangements. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Association analysis of schizophrenia on 18 genes involved in neuronal migration: MDGA1 as a new susceptibility gene
Authors: Kähler Anna K. , Djurovic Srdjan , Kulle Bettina , Jönsson Erik G. , Agartz Ingrid , Hall Håkan , Opjordsmoen Stein , Jakobsen Klaus D. , Hansen Thomas , Melle Ingrid , Werge Thomas , Steen Vidar M. , Andreassen Ole A.
Published: April 2008

Several lines of evidence support the theory of schizophrenia (SZ) being a neurodevelopmental disorder. The structural, cytoarchitectural and functional brain abnormalities reported in patients with SZ, might be due to aberrant neuronal migration, since the final position of neurons affects neuronal function, morphology, and formation of synaptic connections. We have investigated the putative association between SZ and gene variants engaged in the neuronal migration process, by performing an association study on 839 cases and 1,473 controls of Scandinavian origin. Using a gene‐wide approach, tagSNPs in 18 candidate genes have been genotyped, with gene products involved in the neuron‐to‐glial cell adhesion, interactions with the DISC1 protein and/or rearrangements of the cytoskeleton. Of the 289 markers tested, 19 markers located in genes MDGA1, RELN, ITGA3, DLX1, SPARCL1, and ASTN1, attained nominal significant P‐values (P < 0.05) in either a genotypic or allelic association test. All of these genes, except transcription factor DLX1, are involved in the adhesion between neurons and radial glial cells. Eight markers obtained nominal significance in both tests, and were located in intronic or 3′UTR regions of adhesion molecule MDGA1 and previously reported SZ candidate RELN. The most significant result was attained for MDGA1 SNP rs9462341 (unadjusted association results: genotypic P = 0.00095; allelic P = 0.010). Several haplotypes within MDGA1, RELN, ITGA3, and ENAH were nominally significant. Further studies in independent samples are needed, including upcoming genome wide association study results, but our data suggest that MDGA1 is a new SZ susceptibility gene, and that altered neuronal migration is involved in SZ pathology. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Dementia in fragile X‐associated tremor/ataxia syndrome (FXTAS): Comparison with Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Seritan Andreea L. , Nguyen Danh V. , Farias Sarah Tomaszewski , Hinton Ladson , Grigsby Jim , Bourgeois James A. , Hagerman Randi J.
Published: April 2008

Neurocognitive deficits in fragile X‐associated tremor/ataxia syndrome (FXTAS) involve attentional control, working memory, executive functioning, and declarative and procedural learning. To date, no studies comparing FXTAS with other dementias have been done. We characterize the dementia in FXTAS, comparing it with Alzheimer's disease. Retrospective chart review of 68 adults (50 men, 18 women) with FXTAS. 20 men with FXTAS dementia were matched by age, gender, and education to patients with mild Alzheimer's dementia (AD). Neuropsychological measures were compared between the two groups: Boston Naming Test (BNT), phonemic fluency (Controlled Oral Word Association Test), digit span forward (DSF) and backward (DSB). Comparisons were based on analysis of covariance and t‐tests to assess significant differences between groups. 50% of men with FXTAS and no women were cognitively impaired. On mean scores of verbal fluency (22.83 in FXTAS vs. 28.83 in AD, P = 0.112), working memory (DSB, 4.80 in AD vs. 5.41 in FXTAS, P = 0.359), and language (BNT, 48.54 in AD vs. 54.20 in FXTAS, P = 0.089), there were no significant differences. Digit span forward, measuring attention, was significantly higher in subjects with FXTAS dementia (8.59, vs. 7.10 in AD, P = 0.010). Individuals with FXTAS have significant cognitive deficits, on the order of those in AD although the cognitive profiles in these dementias are not similar. Further research is needed to outline the neuropsychiatric profile in FXTAS and the correlation of genetic markers with the progression and severity of cognitive loss. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Repeated physical disturbances and the stability of sub‐tropical coral communities in Hong Kong, China
Authors: Tam Tze‐Wai , Ang Put O.
Published: April 2008

This paper reports on the dynamics of the coral community structure at A Ma Wan (AMW) and A Ye Wan (AYW) in Tung Ping Chau, Hong Kong, focusing on data collected before and after the summer typhoon seasons in 1997 to 1999. This period (1999) experienced the highest frequency of severe tropical cyclones to hit Hong Kong with one cyclone being the strongest to hit in the last 23 years (1984 to 2006).

This is part of a long‐term monitoring programme of subtropical coral communities that has been set up in AMW since May 1997 and AYW since May 1998 with nine fixed position 40 m long transects and 0.5 m × 0.5 m permanent quadrats laid at 5 m intervals along each transect. A total of 45 scleractinian coral species from 21 genera (12 families) was recorded, with 40 species in AMW and 32 species in AYW recorded at the beginning of the study.

Multidimensional scaling ordinations showed distinct spatial variations in the coral communities within and between sites. These variations were probably a result of the differential effects of the repeated cyclone impacts on the communities. Cyphastrea serailia, Goniopora lobata, Montipora peltiformis and Pavona decussata were the dominant species most strongly affected by cyclone impacts at AMW, experiencing a 6.2–16.2% loss of mean area cover during the study period. Some dominant species (e.g. P. decussata) in AYW also experienced a 6.5–14.3% loss of mean area cover within the same period.

Overall, these coral community structures appeared relatively stable and resistant to repeated physical disturbances. However, they may have low resilience towards more severe disturbances in the future. Preserving the resilience of coral communities/species in Tung Ping Chau should be one of the main goals of coral conservation strategies for the island.

Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.