bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of the Epstein criteria for prediction of clinically insignificant prostate cancer in Korean men
Authors: Lee Sang E. , Kim Dae S. , Lee Won K. , Park Hong Z. , Lee Chang J. , Doo Seung H. , Jeong Seong J. , Yoon Cheol Y. , Byun Seok‐Soo , Choe Gheeyoung , Hwang Sung I. , Lee Hak J. , Hong Sung K.
Published: November 2009

Study Type – Prognosis (case series) Level of Evidence 4

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the rate of pathologically confirmed unfavourable prostate cancers among Korean men who fulfilled the contemporary Epstein criteria for clinically insignificant prostate cancer.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This was a retrospective study of 131 Korean men who underwent radical prostatectomy (RP) for clinically insignificant prostate cancer as defined by contemporary Epstein criteria. We assessed the percentage of unfavourable prostate cancer (pathological Gleason sum ≥7 and/or extraprostatic extension [EPE]) among these men and tried to identify useful predictors for such unfavourable tumour profiles using uni‐ and multivariate analyses.

RESULTS

Among 131 men with clinically insignificant prostate cancer, 40 (30.5%) had pathological Gleason ≥7 tumours after RP. Of these 40 men, four (3.1%) also had EPE on examination of RP specimen. All those who did not have Gleason score upgrading after RP had organ‐confined disease from examination of RP specimen. Overall, 40 (30.5%) of the 131 men who fulfilled the contemporary Epstein criteria for clinically insignificant prostate cancer before RP had pathologically unfavourable disease. Among our patients, no significant preoperative predictor of pathologically unfavourable disease was identified using uni‐ and multivariate analyses.

CONCLUSION

Our results showed that a significant proportion of contemporary Korean patients who meet all the conditions of the contemporary Epstein criteria for prediction of clinically insignificant prostate cancer might actually harbour prostate cancer with unfavourable pathological features. Such findings should be considered when treatment options are contemplated based upon the Epstein criteria among Asian patients.
Application of mesenchymal stromal cells in urological diseases
Authors: Montzka Katrin , Heidenreich Axel
Published: November 2009

The application of stem cells and their use in tissue‐engineering approaches is emerging in clinical therapeutic intervention strategies. The use of adult stem cells, either autologous or allogenic, does not raise ethical concerns, in contrast to embryonic stem cells. Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) can be easily obtained from bone marrow or from adipose tissue and further expanded in vitro. Due to their differentiation capacity, MSCs are very attractive for tissue engineering purposes. Furthermore, MSCs secrete a variety of mediators that have beneficial effects on the regenerating tissue. In this review we give an insight into stem cell hierarchy, define the properties of MSCs and summarize recent reports of their administration in urological diseases.
The associations of apolipoprotein E and angiotensin‐converting enzyme polymorphisms and cognitive function in Type 1 diabetes based on an 18‐year follow‐up of the DCCT cohort
Authors: Jacobson A. M. , Paterson A. D. , Ryan C. M. , Cleary P. A. , Waberski B. H. , Weinger K. , Musen G. , Dahms W. , Bayless M. , Silvers N. , Harth J. , Boright A. P. ,   The DCCT/EDIC Research Group
Published: November 2009

Diabet. Med. 27, 15–22 (2010)

Aims  Specific polymorphisms of the apolipoprotein E (APOE) and angiotensin‐converting enzyme (ACE) genes appear to increase risk for Alzheimer’s disease and cognitive dysfunction in the general population, yet little research has examined whether genetic factors influence risk of cognitive dysfunction in patients with Type 1 diabetes. The long‐term follow‐up of the Diabetes Control and Complications Trial/Epidemiology of Diabetes Interventions and Complications (DCCT/EDIC) population provides an opportunity to examine if specific genetic variations in APOE and ACE alter risk for cognitive decline.

Methods  Neurocognitive function in Type 1 diabetic subjects from the DCCT/EDIC study was assessed at DCCT entry and re‐assessed approximately 18 years later, using a comprehensive cognitive test battery. Glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) and the frequency of severe hypoglycaemic events leading to coma or seizures were measured over the 18‐year follow‐up. We determined whether the APO ε4 and ACE intron 16 indel genotypes were associated with baseline cognitive function and with change over time, and whether they conferred added risk in those subjects experiencing severe hypoglycaemic events or greater glycaemic exposure.

Results  None of the APOE or ACE polymorphisms were associated with either baseline cognitive performance or change in cognition over the 18‐year follow‐up. Moreover, none of the genotype variations altered the risk of cognitive dysfunction in those subjects with severe hypoglycaemic episodes or high HbA1c.

Conclusions  In this sample of young and middle‐aged adults with Type 1 diabetes, APO ε4 and ACE D alleles do not appear to increase risk of cognitive dysfunction.
Preferences and opinions of patients with Type 2 diabetes on education and self‐care: a cross‐sectional survey
Authors: Gorter K. J. , Tuytel G. H. , de Leeuw J. R. J. , van der Bijl J. J. , Bensing J. M. , Rutten G. E. H. M.
Published: November 2009

Diabet. Med. 27, 85–91 (2010)

Objective  To assess the preferences of patients with Type 2 diabetes regarding self‐care activities and diabetes education.

Research design and methods  Questionnaire survey carried out in general practices and outpatient clinics across the Netherlands. Outcomes: preferred setting for education, preferred educator, and preferred and most burdensome self‐care activity. Multinomial logistic regression analysis assessed associations between outcomes and patient characteristics, preferences and opinions.

Results  Data of 994 consecutive individuals were analysed (mean 65 years; 54% male; 97% Caucasian; 21% low education level; 80% primary care). Of these, 19% thought they had poor to average glycaemic control, 61% thought they were over‐weight and 32% thought they took too little exercise. Eighty per cent of respondents preferred diabetes education during regular diabetes check‐ups. Patients taking insulin preferred education to be given by nurses [odds ratio (OR) 2.45; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.21–4.96]. Individuals who thought their health to be poor/average preferred education to be given by doctors (OR 1.65; 95% CI 1.08–2.53). Physical exercise was the preferred self‐care activity of those who thought they took too little exercise (OR 1.97; 95% CI 1.32–2.93) but was preferred less by patients with mobility problems (OR 0.65; 95% CI 0.43–0.97). Patients with eating disinhibition reported keeping to a healthy diet (OR 4.63; 3.00–7.16) and taking medication (OR 1.66; 95% CI 1.09–2.52) as the most burdensome self‐care activities. Age was not an independent determinant of any preference.

Conclusions  When providing education for patients with newly diagnosed Type 2 diabetes, healthcare providers should consider making a tailored education plan, irrespective of the patient’s age.
Performance of existing risk scores in screening for undiagnosed diabetes: an external validation study
Authors: Witte D. R. , Shipley M. J. , Marmot M. G. , Brunner E. J.
Published: November 2009

Diabet. Med. 27, 46–53 (2010)

Aim  To compare the performance of nine published strategies for the selection of individuals prior to screening for undiagnosed diabetes.

Methods  We conducted a validation study, based on a cross‐sectional analysis of 6990 participants of the Whitehall II study, an occupational cohort of civil servants in London. We calculated sensitivity, specificity and the area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, indicative of the ability of a risk score to correctly identify those with undiagnosed diabetes.

Results  The prevalence of unknown diabetes was 2.0%. At a set level of sensitivity (0.70), the specificity of the different scores ranged between 0.41 and 0.57. A reference model, based solely on age and body mass index had an area under the ROC curve of 0.67 [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.62, 0.72]. Four scores had a lower area under the ROC curve (lowest ROC AUC: 0.62; 95% CI: 0.58, 0.67) compared with the reference model, while the other five scores had similar areas (highest ROC AUC: 0.68; 95% CI: 0.63, 0.72). All ROC curve areas were lower than those reported in the original publications and validation studies.

Conclusions  Existing risk scores for the detection of undiagnosed diabetes perform less well in a large validation cohort compared with previous validation studies. Our study indicates that non‐invasive risk scores require further refinement and testing before they can be used as the first step in a diabetes screening programme.
Exercise‐induced growth hormone response in euglycaemia and hyperglycaemia in patients with Type 1 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Jenni S. , Christ E. R. , Stettler C.
Published: November 2009

Diabet. Med. 27, 230–233 (2010)

Aims  To compare exercise‐induced growth hormone (GH) response in patients with Type 1 diabetes during stable euglycaemic and hyperglycaemic conditions.

Methods  We conducted a randomized, controlled, single‐blinded cross‐over trial in seven male patients with well‐controlled Type 1 diabetes. The patients cycled twice for 120 min at a level of 55–60% maximal oxygen uptake. Euglycaemia was at 5.0 mmol/l, hyperglycaemia at 11.0 mmol/l.

Results  Area under the curve of GH (AUCGH) during exercise was significantly higher during euglycaemia [1430 ng ml−1 min, 95% confidence interval (CI) 703–2910] compared with hyperglycaemia (1061 ng ml−1 min, 95% CI 538–2091, P = 0.02).

Conclusions  In patients with Type 1 diabetes, GH concentrations during moderate aerobic exercise during stable hyperglycaemic conditions are significantly lower compared with euglycaemia. These findings are compatible with preserved glucose‐mediated GH regulation during exercise in individuals with well‐controlled Type 1 diabetes.
‘I bet you know more and are nicer too!’: what children infer from others’ accuracy
Authors: Brosseau‐Liard Patricia E. , Birch Susan A.J.
Published: November 2009

Research has shown that preschoolers monitor others’ prior accuracy and prefer to learn from individuals who have the best track record. We investigated the scope of preschoolers’ attributions based on an individual’s prior accuracy. Experiment 1 revealed that 5‐year‐olds (but not 4‐year‐olds) used an individual’s prior accuracy at labelling to predict her knowledge of words and broader facts; they also showed a ‘halo effect’ predicting she would be more prosocial. Experiment 2 confirmed that, overall, 4‐year‐olds did not make explicit generalizations of knowledge. These findings suggest that an individual’s prior accuracy influences older preschoolers’ expectations of that individual’s broader knowledge as well as their impressions of how she will behave in social interactions.
How Should National Governing Bodies of Sport Be Governed in the UK? An Exploratory Study of Board Structure
Authors: Taylor Marc , O'Sullivan Noel
Published: November 2009

Manuscript Type: Empirical

Research Question/Issue: This study explores the most appropriate board structure for national governing bodies (NGBs) of sport in the UK. Sports are a very important aspect of UK society, involving a significant number of participants and spectators, occupying a key role in furthering the nation's health, and, at the elite level, a source of considerable national pride. From a governance perspective, NGBs of sport are non‐profit organizations, managing both professional and amateur sports, and administering the allocation of considerable amounts of funds, especially public funds. The study was motivated by a renewed interest, not least from government, in ensuring NGBs had an appropriate structure to ensure optimal decision‐making for their stakeholders.

Research Findings/Insights: We interviewed 22 senior administrators involved in sports in the UK. Our interviews sought to ascertain their views on the appropriateness of applying a number of key board reforms, currently seen as good practice, to NGBs of sport. The overall consensus is as follows: (1) NGBs should reform the composition of their boards to better reflect business demands; (2) board size should be in the range of five to 12 members; (3) NGBs should have different individuals occupying the positions of CEO and chairman; and (4) boards of NGBs should possess more non‐executive directors.

Theoretical/Academic Implications: This research adds to our understanding of governance in non‐profit organizations generally and NGBs of sport in particular. Ascertaining the views of key administrators and advisors in sport provides a novel contribution to the governance in sport literature. Our findings allow us to develop a number of propositions capable of being examined further in subsequent research.

Practitioner/Policy Implications: The results of this study feed into an important on‐going debate regarding the appropriate governance structure of sport NGBs in the UK. A key finding is that boards in NGBs should move away from being only representative, but should also include members with specific business expertise as well as a greater element of non‐executive monitoring.
Insights, Errors and Self‐Misconceptions of the Theory of Principles
Authors: POSCHER RALF
Published: November 2009

The theory of principles is multifaceted. Its initial expression contained an important argument against positivist theories of adjudication. As a legal theory, it fails in its effort to claim a structural difference between rules and principles. It also fails as a methodological theory that reduces adjudication to subsumption or balancing. It misunderstands itself when it is conceived as a doctrinal theory especially of fundamental rights. Its most promising aspect could be its contribution to a more comprehensive theory of legal argumentation.
Norm Enactment and Performative Contradictions
Authors: ROTOLO ANTONINO , ROVERSI CORRADO
Published: November 2009

In this paper we investigate the role of performative contradictions in legal discourse. First of all we identify the argumentative roles of performative contradictions and two possible interpretations of them. With this done, we show that one use of performative contradictions can be fruitfully applied in analysing normative speech acts implementing norm enactment, namely, those speech acts that are designed to produce new legal norms. We conclude the paper by showing that our analysis provides strong support for Robert Alexy's claim‐to‐correctness thesis, according to which speech acts of the norm‐enacting kind raise a claim to correctness.
Achieving and Managing Equality in the Criminal Justice Process: Do the New Equality Measures Go Far Enough?
Authors: JOHNSTONE JENNY K. , LEACOCK VIVIAN
Published: November 2009

Abstract: This article will explore some of the legal and organisational challenges facing the various agencies involved in the delivery of criminal justice, in the UK, in adhering to the Equality Act 2006, Equality Duties and the forthcoming Single Equality Act (which, proposes a Single Equality Duty). We will consider the impact of these changes with reference to European legislation. Of particular interest will be the themes of effective implementation of the current Duties, equality of access and equality of outcome for both victims and offenders to appropriate services to tackle offending behaviour and the prevention of crime. This article will highlight issues surrounding impact assessment and the role of agency discretion and regulation. We offer some comments on future directions and the role of the regulatory bodies including the Equalities and Human Rights Commission (EHRC).
The Fairest Cape of Them All? Cape Town in Cinematic Imagination
Authors: BICKFORD‐SMITH VIVIAN
Published: November 2009

Work on film and the city is still in its infancy for Africa. To my knowledge, there is little research on the way that film has contributed to promoting the image of African cities. This article aims to help fill this gap. In doing so, it draws on Giuliana Bruno's observations on the close relationship between cinema and mass tourism. The article reviews existing literature on cinema and urban Africa. It then explores ways in which Cape Town was represented on film before the ending of apartheid in 1994 and the subsequent rapid rise of the city as a mass tourist destination, international film location and centre of a local film industry. A number of films about the city have since been made for tourists and sold as DVDs or aired on the likes of the Travel Channel. They predictably construct Cape Town as a desirably ‘unique’ and exotic, yet sufficiently safe and ‘vibrant’, city of the imagination. Through close analysis of a typical local travelogue, this article analyses how film language is deployed to this end in the context of Cape Town's apartheid past, the reality of extensive poverty, disease and violence in the present, and dystopian imagery in a growing number of locally made films.

Les travaux sur le cinéma et la ville ne font que débuter à propos de l'Afrique. Rares sont, semble‐t‐il, les études sur la manière dont la production de films a aidéà promouvoir l'image des villes africaines. Cherchant à combler cette lacune, l'article part des observations de Giuliana Bruno sur le rapport étroit entre cinéma et tourisme de masse. Il revient d'abord sur la littérature consacrée au cinéma et à l'Afrique urbaine. Il explore ensuite les représentations filmiques du Cap avant la fin de l'apartheid en 1994, donc avant l'avènement rapide de la ville en tant que destination touristique courue, site de tournage international et centre d'une industrie cinématographique locale. Depuis, plusieurs films touristiques ont été tournés sur la ville et vendus en DVD ou diffusés sur des chaînes comme Travel Channel. Bien entendu, Le Cap y est présenté comme une ville rêvée, alliant un intérêt ‘unique’ et exotique à un degré suffisant de sécurité et d' ‘effervescence’. En analysant de près un documentaire de voyage typique de la production locale, l'article étudie comment le langage filmique est utiliséà cette fin dans le cadre du passé d'apartheid du Cap, de sa réalité actuelle de grave pauvreté, maladie et violence, et d'une imagerie dystopique dans un nombre croissant de films réalisés sur place.
Visual attention in autism families: ‘unaffected’ sibs share atypical frontal activation
Authors: Belmonte Matthew K. , Gomot Marie , Baron‐Cohen Simon
Published: November 2009

Background:  In addition to their more clinically evident abnormalities of social cognition, people with autism spectrum conditions (ASC) manifest perturbations of attention and sensory perception which may offer insights into the underlying neural abnormalities. Similar autistic traits in ASC relatives without a diagnosis suggest a continuity between clinically affected and unaffected family members.

Methods:  We applied fMRI in the context of a non‐social task of visual attention in order to determine whether this continuity persists at the level of brain physiology.

Results:  Both boys with ASC and clinically unaffected brothers of people with ASC were impaired at a visual divided‐attention task demanding conjunction of attributes from rapidly and simultaneously presented, spatially disjoint stimuli and suppression of spatially intervening distractors. In addition, both groups in comparison to controls manifested atypical fronto‐cerebellar activation as a function of distractor congruence, and the degree of this frontal atypicality correlated with psychometric measures of autistic traits in ASC and sibs. Despite these resemblances between the ASC and sib groups, an exploratory, hypothesis‐generating analysis of correlations across brain regions revealed a decrease in overall functional correlation only in the ASC group and not in the sibs.

Conclusions:  These results establish a neurophysiological correlate of familial susceptibility to ASC, and suggest that whilst abnormal time courses of frontal activation may reflect processes permissive of autistic brain development, abnormal patterns of functional correlation across a wider array of brain regions may relate more closely to autism’s determinants.
Development of consumer techno segmentation and its application to international markets
Authors: Lim Heejin , Lee Hyun‐Joo
Published: November 2009

This study aimed to develop consumer techno segments based on technology‐related psychographic variables in four different countries including the US, Canada, Spain and Italy. The respondents' technology innovativeness, technology opinion leadership, network externality risk and technology anxiety were used as metrics to identify consumer techno segments. Cluster analysis identified three to four distinct techno segments in each country. Multivariate analysis of variance and univariate analyses were used to validate the differences among techno segments in need for change, leisure orientation and e‐shopping preference in each local market. The similarities and differences of each techno segment were examined across different international markets. A discussion and implications were drawn to help marketers develop penetration and market strategies for different international markets by understanding an expected diffusion rate of a new product and of product life cycles for each local market.
Computer ownership and home usage: the case of Malaysia
Authors: Loke Yiing Jia , Foo Ching Szu
Published: November 2009

The multi‐functionality of computers and the increased accessibility of the Internet have created a demand for computers at home which was previously concentrated in offices. Using the Heckman two‐step model and by combining socioeconomic factors and insights from Becker's theory on allocation of time in the household with information system theories, it was found that: (i) household allocation of resources; (ii) age and gender; and (iii) household social environment are significant in determining computer purchase decisions and its extent of usage in households in Malaysia, a developing information, communication and technology country. Responses collected from 500 computer users were used in the study.

Unlike most household technologies, the results also suggested that despite the multi‐functionality of computers, it was perceived as a technology that facilitates the consumption process more than the production process.
A new decapod crustacean faunule from the Middle Jurassic of north‐west France
Authors: CRÔNIER CATHERINE , BOURSICOT PIERRE‐YVES
Published: November 2009

Abstract:  Decapod crustacean material collected recently from the lower Callovian (Middle Jurassic) in Maine‐et‐Loire (north‐west France) comprises two new species of prosopid and one new species of tanidromitid crabs, of the genera Nodoprosopon and Tanidromites, respectively. Also represented in this faunule is a probable paguroid anomuran, in the form of isolated chelae here assigned to the genus Orhomalus, as well as appendicular remains of unknown affinity; some of the latter might belong to prosopid crabs. These anomurans and brachyurans co‐occur with a diverse benthic fauna in limestones with abundant iron ooids; their main interest lies in the fact that they add valuable data to the rather poor record of Middle Jurassic decapod crustaceans.
Schischcatella (Fenestrata, Bryozoa) from the Devonian of the Rhenish Massif, Germany
Authors: ERNST ANDREJ , BOHATÝ JAN
Published: November 2009

Abstract:  The Devonian fenestrate bryozoan, SchischcatellaWaschurova, 1964, possessed colonies in the form of low, erect bifoliate fronds that grew from an encrusting sheet‐like base with autozooecia arranged in biserial, bifurcating rows. This growth habit is unique in fenestrates, which normally had unilaminate arborescent colonies. Originally, Schischcatella was described from the Lower Devonian of Tajikistan. This article describes a new species, S. heinorum sp. nov., from the Middle Devonian of the Eifel (western Rhenish Massif, Germany) with additional material from the Lower Devonian of the Kellerwald (eastern Rhenish Massif, Germany). External and internal morphologies of this bryozoan have been studied using abundant material. The growth habit of Schischcatella suggests a completely different pattern of feeding currents than that in the normal fenestrate colony. The outflow of the filtered water occurred only on edges of colonies between rami. In the absence of chimneys (areas of vertical water expelling), such a functional morphology may have restricted extension of the colony in a distal direction. The evolution of Schischcatella is apparently an example of paedomorphosis, the genus evolved from an unknown semicosciniid species by the early ontogenetic interruption of colony development and further changes in the mode of growth.
Silicified Upper Ordovician trilobites from Pai‐Khoi, Arctic Russia
Authors: OWENS ROBERT M. , FORTEY RICHARD A.
Published: November 2009

Abstract:  A collection of silicified trilobites extracted from samples obtained by F. Nansen from the Upper Ordovician of Khabarovo, Pai Khoi, Russian Arctic is dominated by two new species of the proetide Lasarchopyge, a genus known hitherto only from the Argentine Precordillera. Comparison of Lasarchopyge with Scharyia reveals a range of common characters that support inclusion of both genera in the same family. The rest of the fauna comprises a metagnostid (Trinodus elspethi), an asaphid (Isotelus sp.), two remopleuridids (Remopleurides cf. caelatus and R. sp. nov. A), an aulacopleurid (Harpidella triloba), a lichid and an odontopleurid (Apianurus cf. barbatus), the last two being represented by very fragmentary material. T. elspethi, H. triloba, R. cf. caelatus and A. cf. barbatus are common to or closely resemble taxa from the Edinburg Formation, Virginia. Closely related taxa are present also in the Esbataottine Formation, NW Territories, Canada, and in the Albany Group, Girvan district, Scotland. All of these occurrences are of early Caradoc (Sandbian) age, and most lay at palaeolatitudes of 20°–30° south; all are interpreted as having been deposited on the outer shelf, which is consistent with their distribution.
New data on the enigmaticOcruranus–Eohalobiagroup of Early Cambrian small skeletal fossils
Authors: VENDRASCO MICHAEL J. , LI GUOXIANG , PORTER SUSANNAH M. , FERNANDEZ CHRISTINE Z.
Published: November 2009

Abstract: TheOcruranus–Eohalobiagroup, whose members were variously considered to be brachiopods, bivalves, chitons, tommotiids and coeloscleritophorans, are difficult to classify because of lack of morphological detail and evidence for skeletal reconstruction. New specimens from South China reveal more information aboutOcruranus–Eohalobiaand allow progress towards deciphering the skeletal reconstruction and phylogenetic affinity of this enigmatic group. Many specimens have a phosphatic inner and outer coat (mould) with empty space in between that resulted from dissolution of the original shell. Moreover, many of the internal moulds show a previously unknown type of shell microstructure that consisted of stacked layers of highly organized, acicular crystallites that radiated from the apex of the shell towards the aperture. The dissolved shell and needle‐like crystals suggest an original calcareous, probably aragonitic, shell mineralogy. A few specimens also show a polygonal texture in regions that suggests the shell had a thin, prismatic inner shell microstructure.OcruranusandEohalobiabelong to the same skeleton, and we herein synonymizeEohalobiawith the olderOcruranus. Moreover, new specimens from Meishucun reveal a third type of shell plate, similar in form and inferred placement to intermediate valves of chitons.Ocruranusis likely a mollusc, and possibly a member of the chiton stem lineage. If so, then the beginning of the known record of chitons would be extended back from late Cambrian (SaukiaZone; Furongian) to early Cambrian (Meishucunian; Series 1).
Epigallocatechin gallate reduces human monocyte mobility and adhesion in vitro
Authors: Melgarejo Esther , Medina Miguel Ángel , Sánchez‐Jiménez Francisca , Urdiales José Luis
Published: November 2009

Background and purpose:  Monocytes/macrophages are an important population of immune inflammatory cells that have diverse effector functions in which their mobility and adhesion play a very relevant role. Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), a major component of green tea, has been reported to have anti‐allergic and anti‐inflammatory activities, but its effects on monocytes remain to be determined. Here we investigated the effects of EGCG on the migration and adhesion of monocytes.

Experimental approach:  We used a human monocyte cell line (THP‐1) to analyse the effects of treatment with EGCG under non‐cytotoxic conditions on the expression levels of the monocyte chemotactic protein‐1 (MCP‐1) and of the MCP‐1 receptor (CCR2) and on the activation of β1 integrin. A functional validation was carried out by evaluating the inhibitory effect of EGCG on monocyte adhesiveness and migration in vitro.

Key results:  Treatment of THP‐1 cells with EGCG decreased MCP‐1 and CCR2 gene expression, together with MCP‐1 secretion and CCR2 expression at the cell surface. EGCG also inhibited β1 integrin activation. The effects on these molecular targets were in agreement with the EGCG‐induced inhibition of THP‐1 migration in response to MCP‐1 and adhesion to fibronectin.

Conclusions and implications:  Under our experimental conditions, EGCG treatment inhibited the migration and adhesion of monocytes. These inhibitory effects of EGCG on monocyte function should be considered as a promising new anti‐inflammatory response with a potential therapeutic role in the treatment of inflammation‐dependent diseases.
U‐shaped dose‐dependent effects of BmK AS, a unique scorpion polypeptide toxin, on voltage‐gated sodium channels
Authors: Zhu Mang‐Mang , Tao Jie , Tan Miao , Yang Hong‐tian , Ji Yong‐Hua
Published: November 2009

Background and purpose:  Buthus martensi Karsch (BmK) AS is a scorpion polypeptide toxin, said to target the voltage‐gated sodium channels (VGSCs). However, the mechanism of action of BmK AS on the VGSCs has yet to be defined.

Experimental approach:  We examined the electrophysiological effects of BmK AS in a wide dose range on the rat brain‐type VGSC α‐subunit, rNav1.2a, heterologously expressed in Xenopus oocytes and on the VGSCs endogenously expressed in the dorsal root ganglion neuroblastoma ND7‐23 cell line.

Key results:  In the oocytes, BmK AS depolarized the voltage dependence of activation and inactivation of rNav1.2a at 0.1 and 500 nM whereas these parameters were hyperpolarized at 1 nM. In ND7‐23 cells, BmK AS hyperpolarized the voltage dependence of activation and inactivation at 0.1, 1 and 100 nM but not 10 nM. BmK AS also hyperpolarized the voltage dependence of recovery from inactivation at 0.1 and 100 nM and slowed the recovery kinetics at all concentrations, but the effects of 1 and 10 nM were relatively smaller than those at 0.1 and 100 nM. Moreover, the inactivation of VGSCs was potentiated by 10 nM BmK AS in both systems, whereas it was inhibited by 0.1 or 100 nM BmK AS in the oocytes or ND7‐23 cells respectively.

Conclusions and implications:  BmK AS modulated the VGSCs in a unique U‐shaped dose‐dependent manner, which could be due to the opposing effects of binding to two distinct receptor sites on the VGSCs.
POLYPHASIC CHARACTERIZATION OF THREE STRAINS OF ANABAENA RENIFORMIS AND APHANIZOMENON APHANIZOMENOIDES (CYANOBACTERIA) AND THEIR RECLASSIFICATION TO SPHAEROSPERMUM GEN. NOV. (INCL. ANABAENA KISSELEVIANA)1
Authors: Zapomělová Eliška , Jezberová Jitka , Hrouzek Pavel , Hisem Daniel , Řeháková Klára , Komárková Jaroslava
Published: November 2009

Occurrences of rare cyanobacteria Anabaena reniformis Lemmerm. and Aphanizomenon aphanizomenoides (Forti) Horecká et Komárek were recently detected at several localities in the Czech Republic. Two monoclonal strains of An. reniformis and one strain of Aph. aphanizomenoides were isolated from distant localities and different sampling years. They were characterized by a combination of morphological, genetic, and biochemical approaches. For the first time, partial 16S rRNA gene sequences were obtained for these morphospecies. Based on this gene, all of these strains clustered separately from other planktonic Anabaena and Aphanizomenon strains. They appeared in a cluster with Cylindrospermopsis Seenaya et Subba Raju and Raphidiopsis F. E. Fritsch et M. F. Rich, clustered closely together with two An. kisseleviana Elenkin strains available from GenBank. A new generic entity was defined (Sphaerospermum gen. nov., with the type species S. reniforme, based on the traditional species An. reniformis). These results contribute significantly to the knowledge base about genetic heterogeneity among planktonic Anabaena–like and Aphanizomenon–like morphospecies. Accordingly, the subgenus Dolichospermum, previously proposed for the group of planktonic Anabaena, should be revaluated. Secondary metabolite profiles of the An. reniformis and Aph. aphanizomenoides strains differed considerably from 17 other planktonic Anabaena strains of eight morphospecies isolated from Czech water bodies. Production of puwainaphycin A was found in both of the An. reniformis strains. Despite the relatively short phylogenetic distance from Cylidrospermopsis, the production of cylindrospermopsin was not detected in any of our strains.
MICROMORPHOGENESIS DURING DIATOM WALL FORMATION PRODUCES SILICEOUS NANOSTRUCTURES WITH DIFFERENT PROPERTIES1
Authors: Crawford Simon A. , Chiovitti Anthony , Pickett‐Heaps Jeremy , Wetherbee Richard
Published: November 2009

Micromorphogenesis within the silica deposition vesicle (SDV) of the diatom Pinnularia viridis (Nitzsh) Ehrenb. resulted in distinct silica nanostructures and layers within forming valves and girdle bands. These siliceous components were similarly disclosed following alkaline etching of mature valves/girdle bands, where their different susceptibilities to dissolution over time resulted from apparent differences in silica density and/or chemistry. The bulk of silica appeared to be deposited at the interface of the forming valve or girdle band with the silicalemma and occurred by the outward expansion of microfibrils of silica that aligned perpendicularly to the silicalemma. Microfibrils originated from both sides of the “silica lamella,” the first nanostructure formed within the SDV, and several silica species of distinct nanostructure and density resulted, including distinctive inner and outermost silica “coverings” of mature valves/girdle bands and the central and terminal nodules. Not all silica deposition and micromorphogenesis occurred in contact with the expanding silicalemma, but was somehow directed within the SDV cavity, and resulted in the distinct silica layers that lined the raphe fissures and poroids. Following alkaline etching, the inner surfaces of valves/girdle bands, as well as the silica layers lining the raphes, poroids, and slits, were determined to be significantly more resistant to alkaline etching than the exterior surfaces, while the outer silica coating and the nodules were quickly dissolved. The processes of micromorphogenesis must have exerted precise control over the chemical nature of the silica formed at different positions within the SDV and affected the overall structure and function of the diatom wall.
AN EXAMINATION OF PACHYMENIA AND AEODES (HALYMENIACEAE, RHODOPHYTA) IN NEW ZEALAND AND THE TRANSFER OF TWO SPECIES OF AEODES IN SOUTH AFRICA TO PACHYMENIA1
Authors: Russell Lisa K. , Hurd Catriona L. , Nelson Wendy A. , Broom Judy E.
Published: November 2009

A phylogenetic study was conducted of species of Halymeniaceae from New Zealand presently placed in Aeodes or Pachymenia, based on maximum‐likelihood (ML), maximum‐parsimony (MP), and Bayesian analyses of rbcL and nuclear internal transcribed spacer (ITS) rDNA sequences. We used molecular and morphological data in combination with exhaustive sampling of herbarium collections to clarify the taxonomy and distributions of New Zealand members of Pachymenia and Aeodes. Our study confirms the presence of three erect species of Pachymenia on the New Zealand mainland, and we resurrect the name Pachymenia dichotoma J. Agardh for the widely distributed, southernmost species. Species of Aeodes from South Africa are shown to be closely related to Pachymenia carnosa (J. Agardh) J. Agardh, the type species of Pachymenia, and are accordingly transferred to Pachymenia.
Long‐term storage of peripheral blood stem cells frozen and stored with a conventional liquid nitrogen technique compared with cells frozen and stored in a mechanical freezer
Authors: McCullough Jeffrey , Haley Rebecca , Clay Mary , Hubel Allison , Lindgren Bruce , Moroff Gary
Published: November 2009

BACKGROUND: Cryopreservation of hematopoietic progenitor cells using liquid nitrogen and controlled‐rate freezing requires complex equipment and highly trained staff and is expensive. We compared the liquid nitrogen method with methods using a combination of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) and hydroxyethyl starch (HES) for cryopreservation followed by storage in mechanical freezers.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Peripheral blood stem cells (PBSCs) were collected from normal donors by apheresis and allocated to one of four preservation and storage conditions: 1) 10% DMSO with freezing in liquid nitrogen and storage in liquid nitrogen, 2) 5% DMSO and 6% HES with freezing and storage in a −80°C mechanical freezer, 3) 5% DMSO and 6% HES with freezing in a −80°C mechanical freezer and storage in a −135°C mechanical freezer, or 4) 5% DMSO and 6% HES with freezing and storage both in a 135°C mechanical freezer. Cells were stored for 5 years during which total nucleated cells (TNCs), cell viability, CD34+ cell content, and colony‐forming unit–granulocyte‐macrophage content were determined.

RESULTS: There were some significant differences in the variables measured during freezing and the 5 years of storage compared to the values before freezing and storage; however, these differences were not consistent and do not favor one protocol over the others. Samples stored for 24 hours before cryopreservation showed a significant decrease in TNCs, but no other significant changes during the 5 years.

CONCLUSION: In vitro measurements indicate that PBSCs can be successfully frozen and stored using a combination of DMSO and HES providing smaller amounts of DMSO and allowing simplified freezing and storage conditions.
Direct assessment of cytomegalovirus transfusion‐transmitted risks after universal leukoreduction
Authors: Wu Yanyun , Zou Shimian , Cable Ritchard , Dorsey Kerri , Tang Yanlin , Hapip Cheryl Anne , Melmed Russell , Trouern‐Trend Jonathan , Wang Jian‐Hui , Champion Melanie , Fang Chyang , Dodd Roger
Published: November 2009

BACKGROUND: Cytomegalovirus (CMV) transfusion‐transmitted disease (TTD) remains a clinical concern. Universal leukoreduction has become one of the main strategies for the prevention of CMV‐TTD. Through prospective clinical follow‐up and testing of transfusion recipients (TRs), the risk for CMV‐TTD was studied.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Transfused units were all leukoreduced and not prospectively screened for CMV. For TRs with negative baseline CMV testing results (CMV total antibody and DNA), all follow‐up TR samples were tested for CMV total antibody and DNA, and retained linked donor serum samples were tested for CMV total antibody. In cases when CMV‐TTD was suspected, donor sera were also tested for CMV DNA and selected TR samples were tested for CMV immunoglobulin M antibody. Evaluable transfusion was defined as a transfusion with TR sample(s) collected 14 to 180 days posttransfusion.

RESULTS: Forty‐six TRs were negative for CMV at baseline. There were 1316 evaluable cellular blood transfusions to these TRs. Of 1316 evaluable cellular products, 460 (35%) were positive for CMV total antibody tested using linked donor samples. Three cases of probable CMV‐TTD were found; however, there was no definitive proof from donor follow‐up that they were transfusion associated.

CONCLUSION: Among all 46 baseline seronegative recipients and 1316 evaluable transfusions, the calculated overall CMV‐TTD risk was up to 6.5% (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.0%‐18.0%) in terms of TRs and up to 0.23% (95% CI, 0.06%‐0.62%) in terms of non–CMV‐screened leukoreduced cellular products. In summary, after universal leukoreduction, CMV‐TTD, while uncommon, may still occur.
BLOOD COMPONENTS: The quality of stored umbilical cord and adult‐donated whole blood in Mombasa, Kenya
Authors: Hassall Oliver , Maitland Kathryn , Fegan Gregory , Thitiri Johnstone , Pole Lewa , Mwakesi Robert , Denje Douglas , Wambua Kongo , Mandaliya Kishor , Bates Imelda
Published: November 2009

BACKGROUND: In sub‐Saharan Africa umbilical cord blood may be a useful source of blood for transfusion. Before clinical trials, evidence is needed that cord blood donations, which vary greatly in volume, can be collected and stored into a fixed volume of anticoagulant‐preservative solution obviating the need for prestorage processing.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Twenty‐four umbilical cord whole blood (UC‐WB) donations were collected into 21 mL of CPDA‐1 and refrigerated for 35 days. The Kenya Blood Transfusion Service provided 12 adult‐donated whole blood (AD‐WB) controls. Supernatant hemoglobin (Hb) and potassium were assayed at 7‐day intervals.

RESULTS: UC‐WB red blood cell hemolysis and potassium loss increased throughout storage but did not differ significantly with cord blood volume. Hemolysis rates did not differ significantly between UC‐WB and AD‐WB but UC‐WB potassium loss was slightly but significantly greater than AD‐WB on Days 2, 7, and 14 (p < 0.05). In the AD‐WB controls, eight were low volume (<405 mL), two had total Hb of less than 45 g, and two showed hemolysis greater than 0.8% by Day 28.

CONCLUSION: Variable volumes of UC‐WB can be stored for 35 days without prestorage processing and further work into its suitability for transfusion to children is justified. The quality of conventional AD‐WB is a concern and needs further evaluation.
False Tendon between the Fossa Ovalis and the Anterior Mitral Valve Leaflet
Authors: Dencker Magnus , Holm Johan , Johansson Ann‐Catrin
Published: November 2009

(ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY, Volume 26, November 2009)
Using Real Time Three‐Dimensional Transesophageal Echocardiography during Ross Procedure in the Operating Room
Authors: Weitzel Nathaen , Salcedo Ernesto , Puskas Ferenc , Nasrallah Fadi , Fullerton David , Seres Tamas
Published: November 2009

(ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY, Volume 26, November 2009)
The Value of Live/Real Time Three‐Dimensional Transesophageal Echocardiography in the Assessment of Valvular Vegetations
Authors: Hansalia Sachin , Biswas Monodeep , Dutta Rajarshi , Hage Fadi G. , Hsiung Ming Chon , Nanda Navin C. , Singh Preeti , Manda Jayaprakash , Kesanolla Saritha Kumari , Wei Jeng , Yin Wei‐Hsian
Published: November 2009

We studied 13 patients with valvular vegetations who underwent intraoperative live/real time three‐dimensional transesophageal echocardiography (3DTEE) and real time two‐dimensional transesophageal echocardiography (2DTEE). The 3DTEE provided incremental value on top of 2DTEE in its ability to accurately identify and localize vegetations and in identifying complications of infective endocarditis such as abscesses, perforations, and ruptured chordae. By using 3DTEE, we were able to measure vegetation volumes, perforation areas, and estimate the area of the valve that is involved in the infective process. These preliminary results suggest the superiority of 3DTEE over 2DTEE in the evaluation of valvular vegetations and provide incremental knowledge that is useful to the cardiac surgeons. (ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY, Volume 26, November 2009)
Live/Real Time Three‐Dimensional Transthoracic Echocardiographic Assessment of Pericardial Disease
Authors: Hernandez Carlos Martinez , Singh Preeti , Hage Fadi G. , Nanda Navin C. , Hsiung Ming C. , Wei Jeng , Chang Chung Yi , Lee Kuo Chen , Sue Sung How , Yin Wei Hsian , Aly Nagwa Ahmed Abdel Rahman , Deshmukh Onkar , Biswas Monodeep , Gupta Isha , Sanam Kumar , Sen Upasana
Published: November 2009

We studied 19 patients with pericardial disease using two‐dimensional and three‐dimensional transthorathic echocardiography (2DTTE and 3DTTE, respectively) in order to determine whether 3DTTE provides incremental value on top of 2DTTE in the evaluation of these patients. With 3DTTE a more comprehensive assessment of pericardial effusion can be made and both the parietal and visceral layers of the pericardium can be visualized en face and examined for pathologies and fibrin deposits. In our series of patients, 3DTTE was superior to 2DTTE in uncovering mass lesions involving the pericardium such as tuberculous granulomas and metastatic disease. Furthermore, it provided a better assessment of the nature of pericardial lesions, such as pericardial and mediastinal hematomas, pericardial cysts, and metastatic disease to the pericardium by sequential cropping of the 3D data sets and visualizing the interior of the lesions in a manner not possible with 2DTTE. It was also valuable in determining the extent of pericardial calcification in pericardial constriction and in measuring the size of pericardial masses. These preliminary results suggest the superiority of 3DTTE over 2DTTE in the evaluation of pericardial diseases and that it provides incremental knowledge to the echocardiographer. (ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY, Volume 26, November 2009)
Continuing Medical Education Program in Echocardiography
Authors: Fan Pohoey , Garg Rajeev , Khaja Azam , Madsen Richard , Alpert Martin A. , Tejwana Lokesh , Aggarwal Kul
Published: November 2009

Article Title: Observer Variation in the Echocardiographic Measurement of Maximum Atrial Septal Excursion: A Comparison of M‐Mode with Two‐Dimensional or Transesophageal Echocardiography

(ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY, Volume 26, November 2009)
Markov and Semi‐Markov Switching Linear Mixed Models Used to Identify Forest Tree Growth Components
Authors: Chaubert‐Pereira Florence , Guédon Yann , Lavergne Christian , Trottier Catherine
Published: November 2009

Summary Tree growth is assumed to be mainly the result of three components: (i) an endogenous component assumed to be structured as a succession of roughly stationary phases separated by marked change points that are asynchronous among individuals, (ii) a time‐varying environmental component assumed to take the form of synchronous fluctuations among individuals, and (iii) an individual component corresponding mainly to the local environment of each tree. To identify and characterize these three components, we propose to use semi‐Markov switching linear mixed models, i.e., models that combine linear mixed models in a semi‐Markovian manner. The underlying semi‐Markov chain represents the succession of growth phases and their lengths (endogenous component) whereas the linear mixed models attached to each state of the underlying semi‐Markov chain represent—in the corresponding growth phase—both the influence of time‐varying climatic covariates (environmental component) as fixed effects, and interindividual heterogeneity (individual component) as random effects. In this article, we address the estimation of Markov and semi‐Markov switching linear mixed models in a general framework. We propose a Monte Carlo expectation–maximization like algorithm whose iterations decompose into three steps: (i) sampling of state sequences given random effects, (ii) prediction of random effects given state sequences, and (iii) maximization. The proposed statistical modeling approach is illustrated by the analysis of successive annual shoots along Corsican pine trunks influenced by climatic covariates.