bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Low cycle thermo‐mechanical fatigue: damage operator approach
Authors: NAGODE M. , HACK M. , FAJDIGA M.
Published: December 2009

The strain‐life approach is standardized and widely accepted for determining fatigue damage under strain‐controlled low cycle fatigue (LCF) loading. It was first extended to non‐isothermal cases by introducing an equivalent temperature approach (ETA). The paper presents its extension that is the damage operator approach (DOA) enabling online continuous damage calculation for isothermal and non‐isothermal loading with mean stress correction. The cycle closure point, cycle equivalent temperature, threshold temperature and separate rainflow counting obligatory for the ETA are not necessary for the DOA any more. Both approaches are equivalent for the second and subsequent runs of block loading if temperature is constant. However, for non‐isothermal cases, the DOA is within the worst and the best case scenarios of the ETA. The approaches are compared to the simple stress histories and several thermo‐mechanical fatigue (TMF) cycle types.
Excitatory actions of substance P in the rat lateral posterior nucleus
Authors: Paul Kush , Cox Charles L.
Published: December 2009

The lateral posterior nucleus (LP) receives inputs from both neocortex and superior colliculus (SC), and is involved with integration and processing of higher‐level visual information. Relay neurons in LP contain tachykinin receptors and are innervated by substance P (SP)‐containing SC neurons and by layer V neurons of the visual cortex. In this study, we investigated the actions of SP on LP relay neurons using whole‐cell recording techniques. SP produced a graded depolarizing response in LP neurons along the rostro‐caudal extent of the lateral subdivision of LP nuclei (LPl), with a significantly larger response in rostral LPl neurons compared with caudal LPl neurons. In rostral LPl, SP (5–2000 nm) depolarized nearly all relay neurons tested (> 98%) in a concentration‐dependent manner. Voltage‐clamp experiments revealed that SP produced an inward current associated with a decreased conductance. The inward current was mediated primarily by neurokinin receptor (NK)1 tachykinin receptors, although significantly smaller inward currents were produced by specific NK2 and NK3 receptor agonists. The selective NK1 receptor antagonist RP67580 attenuated the SP‐mediated response by 71.5% and was significantly larger than the attenuation of the SP response obtained by NK2 and NK3 receptor antagonists, GR159897 and SB222200, respectively. The SP‐mediated response showed voltage characteristics consistent with a K+ conductance, and was attenuated by Cs+, a K+ channel blocker. Our data suggest that SP may modulate visual information that is being processed and integrated in the LPl with inputs from collicular sources.
Dynamics of early locomotor network dysfunction following a focal lesion in an in vitro model of spinal injury
Authors: Taccola Giuliano , Mladinic Miranda , Nistri Andrea
Published: December 2009

It is unclear how a localized spinal cord injury may acutely affect locomotor networks of segments initially spared by the lesion. To investigate the process of secondary damage following spinal injury, we used the in vitro model of the neonatal rat isolated spinal cord with transverse barriers at the low thoracic–upper lumbar region to allow focal application of kainate in hypoxic and aglycemic solution (with reactive oxygen species). The time‐course and nature of changes in spinal locomotor networks downstream of the lesion site were investigated over the first 24 h, with electrophysiological recordings monitoring fictive locomotion (alternating oscillations between flexor and extensor motor pools on either side) and correlating any deficit with histological alterations. The toxic solution irreversibly suppressed synaptic transmission within barriers without blocking spinal reflexes outside. This effect was focally associated with extensive white matter damage and ventral gray neuronal loss. Although cell losses were < 10% outside barriers, microglial activation with neuronal phagocytosis was detected. Downstream motor networks still generated locomotor activity 24 h later when stimulated with N‐methyl‐d‐aspartate (NMDA) and serotonin, but not with repeated dorsal root stimuli. In the latter case, cumulative depolarization was recorded from ventral roots at a slower rate of rise, suggesting failure to recruit network premotoneurons. Our data indicate that, within the first 24 h of injury, locomotor networks below the lesion remained morphologically intact and functional when stimulated by NMDA and serotonin. Nevertheless, microglial activation and inability to produce locomotor patterns by dorsal afferent stimuli suggest important challenges to long‐term network operation.
Injury‐induced neural stem/progenitor cells in post‐stroke human cerebral cortex
Authors: Nakayama Daisuke , Matsuyama Tomohiro , Ishibashi‐Ueda Hatsue , Nakagomi Takayuki , Kasahara Yukiko , Hirose Haruka , Kikuchi‐Taura Akie , Stern David M. , Mori Hidezo , Taguchi Akihiko
Published: December 2009

Increasing evidence points to accelerated neurogenesis after stroke, and support of such endogenous neurogenesis has been shown to improve stroke outcome in experimental animal models. The present study analyses post‐stroke cerebral cortex after cardiogenic embolism in autoptic human brain. Induction of nestin‐ and musashi‐1‐positive cells, potential neural stem/progenitor cells, was observed at the site of ischemic lesions from day 1 after stroke. These two cell populations were present at distinct locations and displayed different temporal profiles of marker expression. However, no surviving differentiated mature neural cells were observed by 90 days after stroke in the previously ischemic region. Consistent with recent reports of neurogenesis in the cerebral cortex after induction of stroke in rodent models, the present current data indicate the presence of a regional regenerative response in human cerebral cortex. Furthermore, observations underline the potential importance of supporting survival and differentiation of endogenous neural stem/progenitor cells in post‐stroke human brain.
The mushroom bodies – prominent brain centres of arthropods and annelids with enigmatic evolutionary origin
Authors: Loesel Rudi , Heuer Carsten M.
Published: December 2009

Loesel, R. and Heuer, C.M. 2010. The mushroom bodies – prominent brain centres of arthropods and annelids with enigmatic evolutionary origin. —Acta Zoologica (Stockholm) 91: 29–34

Mushroom bodies (MBs) are the most prominent and conspicuous neuropils in the brain of arthropods, onychophorans and vagile polychaete annelids but have not been described in any other animal group with complex brain architecture. Due to a number of unique neuroanatomical characters MBs can easily be identified and distinguished from other brain centres. However, their evolutionary origin and the question whether MBs are homologous structures is still under debate. This paper will briefly summarize the available morphological data and their implications with respect to the molecular evidence on early metazoan radiation. Unraveling the origin of MBs is an example of the challenges neurophylogenists will face in the future, especially so since it will signify a major step towards reconstructing early metazoan brain evolution.
From genomes to morphology: a view from amphioxus
Authors: Holland Peter W. H.
Published: December 2009

Holland, P.W.H. 2010. From genomes to morphology: a view from amphioxus. —Acta Zoologica (Stockholm) 91: 81–86

As complete genome sequences are determined from an ever‐increasing number of animal species, new opportunities are arising for comparative biology. For zoologists interested in the evolution of shape and form, however, there is a problem. The link between genome sequence and morphology is not direct and is obfuscated by complex and evolving genetic pathways, even when conserved regulatory genes are considered. Nonetheless, a large‐scale comparison of genome sequences between extant chordates reveals an intriguing parallel between genotypic and phenotypic evolution. Tunicates have highly altered genomes, with loss of ancestral genes and shuffled genetic arrangements, while vertebrate genomes are also derived through gene loss and genome duplication. The recently sequenced amphioxus genome, in contrast, reveals much greater stasis on the cephalochordate lineage, in parallel to a less derived body plan. The opportunities and challenges for relating genome evolution to morphological evolution are discussed.
Increasing inositol (1,4,5)‐trisphosphate metabolism affects drought tolerance, carbohydrate metabolism and phosphate‐sensitive biomass increases in tomato
Authors: Khodakovskaya Mariya , Sword Courtney , Wu Qian , Perera Imara Y. , Boss Wendy F. , Brown Christopher S. , Winter Sederoff Heike
Published: December 2009

Inositol‐(1,4,5)‐trisphosphate (InsP3) is a second messenger in plants that increases in response to many stimuli. The metabolic consequences of this signalling pathway are not known. We reduced the basal level of InsP3 in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum cv. Micro‐Tom) by expressing the human type I inositol polyphosphate 5‐phosphatase (InsP 5‐ptase) gene. Transgenic lines producing InsP 5‐ptase protein had between 15% and 30% of the basal InsP3 level of control plants. This increased hydrolysis of InsP3 caused dramatic increases in drought tolerance, vegetative biomass and lycopene and hexose concentrations in the fruits. Transcript profiling of root, leaf and fruit tissues identified a small group of genes, including a cell‐wall invertase inhibitor gene, that were differentially regulated in all tissues of the InsP 5‐ptase expressing plants. Significant differences were found in the amounts of carbohydrates and organic phosphate in these plants. Plants with increased hydrolysis of InsP3 in the cytosol also showed increased net CO2‐fixation and sucrose export into sink tissue and storage of hexoses in the source leaves. The increase in biomass was dependent on the supply of inorganic phosphate in the nutrient medium. Uptake and storage of phosphate was increased in the transgene expressing lines. This suggests that in tomato, increased flux through the inositol phosphate pathway uncoupled phosphate sensing from phosphate metabolism. Altering the second messenger, InsP3, revealed multiple coordinated changes in development and metabolism in tomato that have potential for crop improvement.
Conversational agents in virtual worlds: Bridging disciplines
Authors: Veletsianos George , Heller Robert , Overmyer Scott , Procter Mike
Published: December 2009

This paper examines the effective deployment of conversational agents in virtual worlds from the perspective of researchers/practitioners in cognitive psychology, computing science, learning technologies and engineering. From a cognitive perspective, the major challenge lies in the coordination and management of the various channels of information associated with conversation/communication and integrating this information with the virtual space of the environment and the belief space of the user. From computing science, the requirements include conversational competency, use of nonverbal cues, animation consistent with affective states, believability, domain competency and user adaptability. From a learning technologies perspective, the challenge is to maximise the considerable affordances provided by conversational avatars in virtual worlds balanced against ecologically valid investigations regarding utility. Finally, the engineering perspective focuses on the technical competency required to implement effective and functional agents, and the associated costs to enable student access. Taken together, the four perspectives draw attention to the quality of the agent–user interaction, how theory, practice and research are closely intertwined, and the multidisciplinary nature of this area with opportunities for cross fertilisation and collaboration.
‘You Can Stand on Your Head and Still End Up with Lower Pay’: Gliding Segregation and Gendered Work Practices in Danish ‘Family‐friendly’ Workplaces
Authors: Holt Helle , Lewis Suzan
Published: December 2009

This article explores the process of gliding segregation in two Danish workplaces. We address the questions of how and why women and men at the same workplace, with the same levels of education, often end up doing different work tasks. Drawing on a gendered organization perspective and sense of entitlement theory we illustrate the processes whereby structural and cultural expectations place women in predictable and routine work, and men in more developmental work. We also show that the level of education makes a difference to women's sense of entitlement to developmental work, but that the discourse of family friendliness disadvantages women in the allocation of interesting and valued work tasks. The findings illustrate the resilience of gendered work practices and the importance of focusing on workplace interactions to explain this.
Nursing a Grievance? The Role of Healthcare Assistants in a Modernized National Health Service
Authors: Bach Stephen , Kessler Ian , Heron Paul
Published: December 2009

The complex division of labour in health care has encouraged the analysis of occupational boundary disputes between separate professions. Less attention has been directed at the divisions in individual occupational groups but in a context of intensive health sector workforce reform there has been a growth in lower status occupations. This article extends debate about lower status occupations by exploring the manner in which nurses and healthcare assistants engage in boundary work to advance their occupational interests. The UK government's modernization agenda has encouraged a more prominent role for healthcare assistants and the findings confirm that this agenda has reinforced occupational boundary disputes between nurses and healthcare assistants. Tensions between nurses and healthcare assistants took particular forms influenced by gendered notions of caring work. The consequences of these boundary management strategies in terms of work undertaken, pay and status are also explored.
Genetic status of an endemic marine mammal, the Australian fur seal, following historical harvesting
Authors: Lancaster M. L. , Arnould J. P. Y. , Kirkwood R.
Published: December 2009

Genetic variation, and the way in which it is partitioned among populations, has implications for a species' survival and evolutionary potential. Such information is particularly important for the successful conservation and management of species that have experienced past human impacts and potential losses of genetic diversity. Overharvesting of the Australian fur seal Arctocephalus pusillus doriferus in the 18th and 19th centuries resulted in severe population reductions and elimination of an estimated 17 of 26 colonies. Currently, the subspecies is recovering and c. 20 000 pups are produced annually at 13 colony sites, most of which are situated in Bass Strait in south‐eastern Australia. Genetic analysis of samples collected from pups captured at nine colonies revealed no difference in allelic diversity or heterozygosity at five microsatellite loci and no differences in haplotype diversity within a 344 bp region of the mitochondrial DNA control region. There was some evidence for isolation by distance but the program structure predicted a single cluster of individuals. Gene flow among colonies appears to be substantial at present, indicating that the Australian fur seal is currently a single, panmictic unit.
One for all and all for one: the energetic benefits of huddling in endotherms
Authors: Gilbert Caroline , McCafferty Dominic , Le Maho Yvon , Martrette Jean‐Marc , Giroud Sylvain , Blanc Stéphane , Ancel André
Published: December 2009

Huddling can be defined as “an active and close aggregation of animals”. It is a cooperative group behaviour, permitting individuals involved in social thermoregulation to minimize heat loss and thereby lower their energy expenditure, and possibly allowing them to reallocate the saved energy to other functions such as growth or reproduction. Huddling is especially important in the case of animals faced with high heat loss due to a high surface‐to‐volume ratio, poor insulation, or living in cold environments. Although numerous experimental studies have focused on the huddling behaviour of a wide range of species, to our knowledge, this is the first attempt to review the various implications of this widely used behavioural strategy.

Huddling allows individuals to maximise energy savings by (1) decreasing their cold‐exposed body surface area, (2) reducing their heat loss through warming of ambient temperatures surrounding the group, and (3) eventually lowering their body temperature through physiological processes. Huddling provides substantial energy savings and is estimated to reduce energy expenditure by between 6 and 53%. Broad variations in the energetic benefits of huddling depend on the number of individuals and species involved in huddles, the ambient temperatures to which individuals are exposed and the density of the aggregations. It has been shown that huddling individuals have increased survival, a lower food intake, a decreased body mass loss, increased growth rate, reduced water loss, and/or a more constant body temperature together with a significant reduction in metabolic rate. Though huddling has been studied widely, this review reveals the intricacies of this adaptive behaviour.
The changing biological roles of melatonin during evolution: from an antioxidant to signals of darkness, sexual selection and fitness
Authors: Tan Dun‐Xian , Hardeland Rüdiger , Manchester Lucien C. , Paredes Sergio D. , Korkmaz Ahmet , Sainz Rosa M. , Mayo Juan C. , Fuentes‐Broto Lorena , Reiter Russel J.
Published: December 2009

Melatonin is a molecule present in a multitude of taxa and may be ubiquitous in organisms. It has been found in bacteria, unicellular eukaryotes, macroalgae, fungi, plants and animals. A primary biological function of melatonin in primitive unicellular organisms is in antioxidant defence to protect against toxic free radical damage. During evolution, melatonin has been adopted by multicellular organisms to perform many other biological functions. These functions likely include the chemical expression of darkness in vertebrates, environmental tolerance in fungi and plants, sexual signaling in birds and fish, seasonal reproductive regulation in photoperiodic mammals, and immunomodulation and anti‐inflammatory activity in all vertebrates tested. Moreover, its waning production during aging may indicate senescence in terms of a bio‐clock in many organisms. Conversely, high melatonin levels can serve as a signal of vitality and health. The multiple biological functions of melatonin can partially be attributed to its unconventional metabolism which is comprised of multi‐enzymatic, pseudo‐enzymatic and non‐enzymatic pathways. As a result, several bioactive metabolites of melatonin are formed during its metabolism and some of the presumed biological functions of melatonin reported to date may, in fact, be mediated by these metabolites. The changing biological roles of melatonin seem to have evolved from its primary function as an antioxidant.
Microparticulation of mixtures of whey protein and inulin
Authors: TOBIN JOHN T , FITZSIMONS SINEAD M , KELLY ALAN L , KELLY PHILIP M , AUTY MARK A E , FENELON MARK A
Published: December 2009

This study investigated the effect of the presence of inulin, in the range 0 ‐ 3.81 g/100g, on the physical and microstructural properties of microparticulated whey protein concentrates (MWPC) and powders. Substitution of lactose with inulin increased levels of whey protein denaturation during microparticulation. The increased denaturation levels were correlated with reductions in lactose and calcium content of the microparticulated solutions, which increased aggregate size and solution viscosity post‐processing. In conclusion, it appears possible to successfully manufacture a low‐calorie microparticulated whey protein based fat replacer using the dietary fibre inulin as the carbohydrate source.
The development of burfi sweetened with aspartame
Authors: ARORA SUMIT , GAWANDE HEMANT , BALBIR KAUR WADHWA VIVEK SHARMA , GEORGE VISHWAS , SHARMA GHANSHYAM S , SINGH ASHISH KUMAR
Published: December 2009

Sucrose was successfully replaced with the sweetener aspartame for the preparation of the indigenous dairy product burfi. Analytical conditions were standardised for the solid phase extraction of aspartame and its degradation products from burfi followed by their reverse phase HPLC. Recovery using this method was 90–97%. Aspartame at a level of 0.065% of milk w/w scored highest in terms of sweetness perception and resembled control burfi in sweetness. Storage studies at 6–8°C revealed that aspartame‐sweetened burfi resembled the control burfi in retaining the sensory profile, but showed an increase in acidity and microbial load and could not retain the texture. High‐performance liquid chromatography analysis revealed no degradation of aspartame in burfi, establishing its stability and hence its sweetness on storage.
Swedish District Nurses’ experiences on the use of information and communication technology for supporting people with serious chronic illness living at home – a case study
Authors: Nilsson Carina , Skär Lisa , Söderberg Siv
Published: December 2009

Scand J Caring Sci; 2010; 24; 259–265
 
Swedish District Nurses’ experiences on the use of information and communication technology for supporting people with serious chronic illness living at home – a case study

The aim of this case study was to describe two District Nurses’ (DN) experiences of using information and communication technology (ICT) to communicate with chronically ill people in their homes. An electronic messaging program via computers and mobile phones with an Internet connection was used, enabling DNs and the ill people to exchange messages to and from anywhere. The program comprised different virtual rooms, and communication was via text messages. The DNs in this study used the program two to four times each week from November 2003 to March 2004. Semi‐structured interviews were performed before, during and after the implementation of the new technology and were analysed using thematic content analysis. The results showed that the DNs felt that the technology increased accessibility to nursing care through a more direct communication with the ill person meaning that a more trusting relationship could be created. The DNs also experienced that the use of ICT saved working time. This study indicates that the use of ICT for communication allowed the DN to better support a chronically ill person at home leading to improved home nursing care. This method of communication cannot replace physical presence, but can be seen as a complement to nursing care at home.
‘We got the whole story all at once’: physiotherapists’ use of key questions when meeting patients with long‐standing pain
Authors: Afrell Maria , Rudebeck Carl Edvard
Published: December 2009

Scand J Caring Sci; 2010; 24; 281–289
 
‘We got the whole story all at once’: physiotherapists’ use of key questions when meeting patients with long‐standing pain

Long‐standing musculoskeletal pain has many dimensions. Physiotherapy lacks a tested method of dialogue with which physiotherapists and patients can together explore pain in all its complexity. The present aim was to find out how physiotherapists experienced the influence of systematically prepared key questioning on their relation to, and understanding of, patients with long‐standing pain. A group of six physiotherapists with long experience of pain rehabilitation used such questions in their encounters with their patients. Two periods of work with the questions were followed by discussions in which the physiotherapists shared their experience in a joint focus group. Verbatim transcripts of the discussions constitute the data of the study. A phenomenographic method was used for the analysis. The responses to the key questions gave the physiotherapists an insight into the patient as a person. The questions started a process of change in the patient, and changed the physiotherapist’s relation to her or him. The patient expressed feelings and experience, and this also seemed to encourage a change in chosen coping strategies. This new content of the interaction challenged the physiotherapist’s role, thus raising questions about her professional mandate.
Recent Microbiological Shifts in Perianal Bacterial Dermatitis: Staphylococcus aureus Predominance
Authors: Heath Candrice , Desai Nina , Silverberg Nanette B.
Published: December 2009

Abstract:  Traditionally, bacterial infections of the anal skin have been found to be caused by Streptococcus. The aim of this study was to determine the breakdown of bacterial isolates and the current presentation of bacterial diseases involving the perineum. From the chart review of children who had bacterial cultures of the anus from 2005 to 2008 in a pediatric dermatology practice population in New York City, 26 pediatric patients (ages 5 months to 12 yrs) who had the indications of anal erythema or recurrent buttocks dermatitis were identified. Bacterial cultures of 17 patients grew pathogens, that of 14 (82% of identifiably infected patients) grew Staphylococcus aureus, in 11 as a solo pathogen (6 MSSA and 5 MRSA in 2 family clusters). Streptococcus was identified in three patients, two on culture and one on latex agglutination test; and two patients were identified as having both group A beta hemolytic Streptococcus and Staphylococcus aureus (2 MSSA and 1 MRSA). In patients with S. aureus perianally, concurrent small papules and pustules of the buttocks or extension of the erythema to adjacent buttock skin was the primary clinical feature distinguishing this condition from isolated streptococcal disease. Whereas Streptococcal infections of the anus and buttocks occur commonly, Staphylococcus aureus has become the leading cause of anal bacterial infection in the setting of skin involvement; therefore, antibacterial therapy for anal and buttock bacterial infections should be tailored accordingly.
Milia En Plaque: Three New Pediatric Cases
Authors: Cota Carlo , Sinagra Jolinda , Donati Pietro , Amantea Ada
Published: December 2009

Abstract:  Milia en plaque (MEP) is an unusual and extremely rare clinical variant of milia, characterized by multiple milia‐like lesions overlying an erythematous edematous plaque with histologic findings consistent with milia. MEP tends to affect the middle‐aged patients and shows a predilection for women. Among children, this entity is rarely described and, to our knowledge, only four cases have been reported to date in the dermatologic literature. We add three new cases of children, one of whom had an unusual site of presentation.
Primary Cutaneous CD30 Positive Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma in an Adolescent
Authors: Vaid Reena , Cohen Bernard
Published: December 2009

Abstract:  We present a case of a 14‐year‐old boy with a large ulcerated plaque on the scalp for 6 months, who was found to have primary cutaneous CD30‐positive, anaplastic kinase‐negative, anaplastic large cell lymphoma with post‐auricular lymphadenopathy. MRI, bone marrow biopsy, and laboratory data demonstrated no other systemic involvement. He was treated with radiation and low‐dose oral methotrexate, with improvement of the lesion and lymphadenopathy. Very few cases of primary cutaneous CD30‐positive anaplastic large cell lymphoma in the pediatric population have been reported, and our case represents one of the first pediatric patients with local lymph node involvement.
Childhood Onset Vulvar Lichen Sclerosus Does Not Resolve at Puberty: A Prospective Case Series
Authors: Smith Saxon D. , Fischer Gayle
Published: December 2009

Abstract:  When vulvar lichen sclerosus occurs in prepubertal children it is widely believed that it is likely to remit at puberty. However when it occurs in adult women it is accepted that remission is unlikely and that in addition untreated or inadequately treated disease may be complicated by significant disturbance of vulvar architecture and less commonly squamous cell carcinoma. Our database reveals 18 girls who developed lichen sclerosus prior to puberty who are now adolescents or young adults. Twelve have remained under surveillance and the other six patients have been lost to follow‐up. We report a prospective series of these 12 patients. Three patients have achieved complete remission sustained for three or more years, all prior to menarche. Nine patients, or 75% of the cohort, who still had active lichen sclerosus at puberty continue to require maintenance therapy after menarche. Of the 12, six have had significant disturbance of vulvar architecture. The concept that prepubertal lichen sclerosus resolves at puberty would appear not to be true in the majority of patients. Even when diagnosed early and treated effectively, childhood onset lichen sclerosus may be complicated by distortion of vulvar architecture.
Isotretinoin Use in a Case of Chronic Granulomatous Disease
Authors: SPILLANE ANNE P. , HIVNOR CHAD M.
Published: December 2009

Abstract:  Chronic granulomatous disease (CGD) is a rare, inherited disorder, in which phagocytic cells, through an enzyme defect, are unable to produce microbicidal oxidants; affected individuals are thereby unduly susceptible to certain life‐threatening bacterial and fungal infections and require lifelong antibiotic and antifungal prophylaxis. We present the case of an adolescent CGD patient whose recalcitrant acne vulgaris and subsequent recurrent facial abscesses were successfully treated with isotretinoin; swift resolution of this and similar patients’ acne lesions is paramount, as these lesions may serve as a portal of entry for systemic infections and may pose a significant risk for scarring. Isotretinoin is associated with an increased rate of cutaneous Staphylococcus aureus carriage as well as exuberant granulation responses, both of theoretical concern in CGD patients. The therapeutic outcome of isotretinoin in treatment‐resistant cases of acne in CGD patients has not been reported in the literature; we present this case to advocate an underreported use of isotretinoin in the prevention of acne, its subsequent cyst formation, and scarring patients with CGD.
Transient Pigmentary Lines of the Newborn
Authors: MARTÍN JOSÉ M. , JORDÁ ESPERANZA , ALONSO VICENT
Published: December 2009

Letters to the Editor are welcomed for publication (subject to editing). Letters must be signed by all authors, and must not exceed two pages of text including references. Letters should not duplicate material submitted or published in other journals. Prepublication proofs will not be provided.
Involvement of Pro‐Nociceptive 5‐HT2A Receptor in the Pathogenesis of Medication‐Overuse Headache
Authors: Supornsilpchai Weera , Le Grand Supang M. , Srikiatkhachorn Anan
Published: December 2009

(Headache 2010;50:185‐197)

Objectives.— To determine the involvement of 5‐HT2A (5‐HT2A) receptor in the process of trigeminal plasticity induced by chronic analgesic exposure and in the process of inflammatory‐induced thermal hyperalgesia.

Background.— Derangement in 5‐HT2A serotonin receptor has been reported to implicate in pathogenesis of medication‐overuse headache. No clear explanation concerning the precise roles of these receptors in the process.

Methods.— Wistar rats were daily administered with paracetamol (200 mg/kg) for 30 days. On the next day, ketanserin, a 5‐HT2A antagonist, or saline was given prior to cortical spreading depression (CSD) induction. Electrocorticogram, cortical blood flow, Fos and 5‐HT2A‐immunoreactivity in cortex and trigeminal pathway were studied. In the other experiment, complete Freund's adjuvant was injected into the rat hind paw to induce tissue inflammation. Three days later, ketanserin was given and noxious heat was applied to both inflamed and noninflamed paws. The response between 2 sides was compared by measuring paw withdrawal latency.

Results.— Chronic paracetamol exposure led to an increase in CSD frequency and CSD‐evoked Fos expression in cerebral cortex indicating the increase in neuronal excitability. Prolonged medication exposure also facilitated trigeminal nociception as evident by an increase in CSD‐evoked Fos expression in trigeminal nucleus caudalis. The expression of 5‐HT2A receptor in cerebral cortex and trigeminal ganglia was enhanced by chronic paracetamol administration. Pretreatment with ketanserin significantly attenuated these effects. The second experiment showed that ketanserin was able to lengthen the paw withdrawal latency in the inflamed side but did not alter nociceptive response in the noninflamed side.

Conclusion.— These findings suggest that up‐regulation of pro‐nociceptive 5‐HT2A receptor is an important step in the process of cortical hyper‐excitation and nociceptive facilitation induced by chronic analgesic exposure.
Medication‐Overuse Headache and Personality: A Controlled Study by Means of the MMPI‐2
Authors: Sances Grazia , Galli Federica , Anastasi Serena , Ghiotto Natascia , De Giorgio Giuseppina , Guidetti Vincenzo , Firenze Caterina , Pazzi Stefania , Quartesan Roberto , Gallucci Marcello , Nappi Giuseppe
Published: December 2009

(Headache 2010;50:198‐209)

Objective.— The main aim of this study involves comparing the personality profiles of patients with medication‐overuse headache (MOH) and episodic headaches, in order to elucidate the role of personality characteristics, according to one of the most widely used and validated personality assessment tool: Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI‐2).

Background.— Many studies have assessed the personality of headache patients by means of MMPI‐2 only using clinical and content scales. In this study the supplementary scales were also used as they evaluate different aspects of personality, particularly broad personality characteristics, generalized emotional distress and behavioral dyscontrol.

Methods.— We recruited 219 subjects (151 women and 68 men) who were grouped in the following categories: MOH group (n = 82); episodic headache group (n = 82; 58 migraine aura; 6 migraine with aura; 6 frequent episodic tension‐type headache; 12 migraine+infrequent episodic tension‐type headache) and 1 group of 55 healthy controls. MMPI‐2 was employed. Data were computed with one‐way anova and post hoc analyses.

Results.— Medication‐overuse headache and episodic headache patients (EH) showed a very similar pattern, differentiating each other only in the Hypochondriasis (Hs) (P = .007; MOH: mean 14.18 [SD 5.53]; EH: mean 11.93 [SD 5.88] and Health Concerns [HEA]) (P = .005; MOH: mean 14.06 [SD 5.38]; EH: mean 11.81 [SD 5.59]) scales. Surprisingly, no differences were found between the 3 groups in the scales measuring dependence‐related behavior such as Addiction Potential Scale (Aps) and Addiction Admission Scale (Aas). MOH and episodic headache patients scored significantly higher in the so‐called neurotic scales Hs (P < .0001; MOH: mean 14.18 [SD 5.53]; EH: mean 11.93 [SD 5.88]; Controls: mean 5.91 [SD 3.57]), Depression (D) (P < .0001; MOH: mean 26.44 [SD 7.01]; EH: mean 26.09 [SD 5.85]; Controls: mean 21.47 [SD 4.90]), and Hysteria (Hy) (P < .0001; MOH: mean 27.33 [SD 5.51]; EH: mean 26.81 [SD 5.68]; Controls: mean 21.95 [3.85]) and in many other scales such as Paranoia (Pa), Psychasthenia (Pt), Schizophrenia (Sc) while they scored significantly lower on Ego Strength (Es) and Dominance (Do) scales when compared with controls.

Conclusions.— Patients with MOH and episodic headache showed very similar patterns, differentiating only in the Hypochondriasis and Health Concerns scales. Surprisingly, there were no significant differences in the scores of the scales measuring dependence‐related behavior. The clinical role of MMPI‐2 in discriminating MOH patients with dependency from drugs is discussed, in order to implement a complete tests' battery for headache patients' assessment.
Triptan Use as a Function of Cardiovascular Risk. A Population‐Based Study
Authors: Bigal Marcelo E. , Golden Wendy , Buse Dawn , Chen Ya‐Ting , Lipton Richard B.
Published: December 2009

(Headache 2010;50:256‐263)

Aim.— To estimate the proportion of individuals with migraine using triptan therapy as a function of their cardiovascular (CV) profile and disease severity.

Methods.— As a part of the American Migraine Prevalence and Prevention study, we identified migraineurs representative of the U.S. adult population. Triptan use was estimated as a function of presence of CV disease (CVD), of CV risk factors, and by level of migraine‐related disability.

Results.— Our sample consists of 6102 individuals with migraine. Compared with migraineurs without risk factors for CVD, triptans were significantly less likely to be used in individuals with diabetes (11.5% vs 18.3%, OR = 0.6, 95% CI = 0.5‐0.7), hypertension (14.8%, OR = 0.8, 0.7‐0.9) and by smokers (12.9%, OR = 0.7, 0.6‐0.8). Similar findings were seen for individuals with established CVD. As contrasted to individuals without CVD, those with myocardial infarct (8.5% vs 18.5%, OR = 0.4, 0.3‐0.7), stroke (7%, OR = 0.6, 0.3‐0.9) and heart surgery (9.3%, OR = 0.5, 0.4‐0.7) were less likely to use triptans. Use of triptan increased as a function of disability regardless of CVD status or presence of CV risk factors.

Conclusion.— Triptan use is lower in those with vs without CV risk, suggesting that doctors and/or patients fear using triptans in individuals at risk to CVD. Furthermore, triptan use in those with established CVD increases with headache‐related disability, suggesting that patients and providers balance risks and benefits. Additional and analytical data are needed on the safety of triptans in the setting of CVD risk. This study has not assessed adequacy of care.
Effect of Surface Conditioning and Taper Angle on the Retention of IPS e.max Press Crowns
Authors: Madina Manal M. A. , Özcan Mutlu , Badawi Manal F.
Published: December 2009

Purpose: The objective of this study was to evaluate the retentive strength of single‐unit crowns with 10° and 26° taper angles cemented using two surface conditioning methods.

Materials and Methods: Thirty‐two freshly extracted sound human molars were divided into two groups (n = 16) and prepared in a standardized manner with 10° and 26° taper angles. All‐ceramic (IPS e.max Press) single crowns were fabricated for the prepared teeth. The crowns were then subdivided into two groups (n = 8), according to type of surface conditioning for the intaglio surfaces. Half the groups were HF acid etched and silanized, and the other half were conditioned with tribochemical silica coating and silanization. The crowns were cemented using adhesive cement (Panavia F 2.0). Retentive strength was measured in a universal testing machine.

Results: No significant difference was found between the mean retention forces for both 10° and 26° taper angles when the crowns were conditioned either with silica coating (613 ± 190 N and 525 ± 90 N, respectively), or with hydrofluoric (HF) acid etching and silanization (550 ± 110 N and 490 ± 130 N for 10° and 26°, respectively) (p= 0.32).

Conclusion: Neither the surface conditioning type, nor the taper angle affected the retentive strength of IPS e.max Press single‐unit crowns when cemented adhesively. Since silica coating and silanization did not show significant differences from HF acid gel and silanization, the former can be preferred for conditioning intaglio surfaces of glass ceramic crowns to avoid the use of the hazardous compound HF acid gel chairside.
Intraprocedural Use of Ibutilide to Organize and Guide Ablation of Complex Fractionated Atrial Electrograms: Preliminary Assessment of a Modified Step‐Wise Approach to Ablation of Persistent Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: SINGH SHELDON M. , D’AVILA ANDRE , KIM STEVEN J. , HOUGHTALING CHRISTOPHER , DUKKIPATI SRINIVAS R. , REDDY VIVEK Y.
Published: December 2009

Ibutilide Guided CFAE Ablation. Introduction: While able to achieve clinical success, the current step‐wise approach to persistent atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation requires considerable “substrate” ablation and frequently mandates multiple procedures to address consequent atrial tachycardias (ATs). An alternative strategy minimizing the amount of ablation while maintaining clinical success would be desirable. We hypothesize that intraprocedural administration of a low‐dose antiarrhythmic drug (AAD) during AF will organize areas of passive activation and not affect areas critical to AF maintenance, thereby potentially minimizing the ablation lesion set.

Methods and Results:
Eleven patients (age = 55 ± 6 years; LA = 48 ± 15 mm; median AF duration = 3 years) with persistent AF undergoing catheter ablation were enrolled in this exploratory prospective observational study. After pulmonary vein (PV) isolation, a mean cycle length (mCL) map was created and areas with mCL <120 ms were considered to represent complex fractionated atrial electrograms (CFAE). Ibutilide (0.25–1.0 mg) was then administered and a second mCL map created. Ablation lesions were placed at CAFE sites identified after ibutilide administration. Activation and/or entrainment mapping was employed to address ATs. The endpoint of ablation was achieving sinus rhythm. The average LA mCL increased (146 vs 165 ms, P = 0.01) and the LA CFAE surface area decreased after ibutilide administration. Additional ablation organized AF to either sinus rhythm or AT in 10/11 (91%) patients. After a median follow up of 455 days, 8 of 11 (72%) patients were free from AF. Three patients underwent a repeat ablation procedure (average 1.27 ablations/patient).

Conclusions:
Ibutilide administration may organize atrial activity and facilitate AF termination during ablation while minimizing the ablation lesion set. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 21, pp. 608‐616, June 2010)
On the Use of CartoSound for Left Atrial Navigation
Authors: SCHWARTZMAN DAVID , ZHONG HUA
Published: December 2009

On the Use of CartoSound for Left Atrial Navigation. Introduction: The utility of “virtual” imaging systems for left atrial (LA) navigation has been hampered by inadequate spatial detail, as well as inaccurate integration of more detailed preoperative images, such as those generated by computed tomography (CT). CartoSound is an intracardiac echocardiography (ICE)‐based technology that promises to ameliorate these problems. Our objective was to examine the capabilities and optimal use of CartoSound, both as a stand‐alone tool and as a facilitator of CT image integration.

Methods and Results:
In 10 patients, CartoSound models of the LA were generated using each of 4 ICE transducer locations: LA, right atrium (RA), coronary sinus (CS), and esophagus (ESO). Each of these models was used to register CT‐derived LA models into the operative workspace. We correlated the comprehensiveness of LA imaging from each transducer location with the quality of the CT registration, as well as the accuracy of mock circumferential antral ablation guided by the CartoSound model alone or by the CT model. The LA transducer location provided the most comprehensive rendering of the LA, which was associated with higher quality CT registration and greater CT‐guided mock ablation accuracy. Mock ablation guided by the CartoSound model alone was at least as accurate as CT, although the models were less intuitive.

Conclusions:
For LA navigation, optimal use of CartoSound may require LA transducer location, which is effective for stand‐alone use and as a facilitator of CT image integration. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 21, pp. 656‐664, June 2010)
Taxonomic Identity in Microbial Eukaryotes: A Practical Approach Using the Testate Amoeba Centropyxis to Resolve Conflicts Between Old and New Taxonomic Descriptions
Authors: LAHR DANIEL J. G. , BERGMANN PHILIP J. , LOPES SÔNIA G. B. C.
Published: December 2009

ABSTRACT. The present work focuses on 12 taxa of the genus Centropyxis Stein, 1857 to explore the conflict between traditional and contemporary taxonomic practices. We examined the morphology, biometry, and ecology of 2,120 Centropyxis individuals collected from Tiete River, Sao Paulo, Brazil; with these new data we studied the consistency of previously described species, varieties, and forms. We encountered transitional forms of test morphology that undermine specific and varietal distinctions for three species and nine varieties. Biometrical analyses made comparing the organisms at the species level suggest a lack of separation between Centropyxis aculeata and Centropyxis discoides, and a possible distinction for Centropyxis ecornis based on spine characteristics. However, incongruence between recent and previous surveys makes taking any taxonomic–nomenclatural actions inadvisable, as they would only add to the confusion. We suggest an explicit and objective taxonomic practice in order to enhance our taxonomic and species concepts for microbial eukaryotes. This will allow more precise inferences of taxon identity for studies in other areas.
Morphology, Conjugation, and Postconjugational Reorganization of Dileptus tirjakovae n. sp. (Ciliophora, Haptoria)
Authors: VĎAČNÝ PETER , FOISSNER WILHELM
Published: December 2009

ABSTRACT. We studied the morphology, conjugation, and postconjugational reorganization of a new haptorid ciliate, Dileptus tirjakovae n. sp., using conventional methods. Dileptus tirjakovae is characterized by two abutting, globular macronuclear nodules and scattered brush kinetids. Conjugation is similar to that in congeners, that is, it is temporary, heteropolar, and the partners unite bulge‐to‐bulge with the proboscis. Some peculiarities occur in the nuclear processes: there are two synkaryon divisions producing four synkaryon derivatives, of which two become macronuclear anlagen, one becomes the micronucleus, and one degenerates. Unlike spathidiids, D. tirjakovae shows massive changes in body shape and ciliary pattern before, during, and after conjugation: early and late conjugants as well as early exconjugants resemble Spathidium, while mid‐conjugants resemble Enchelyodon. These data give support to the hypothesis that spathidiids evolved from a Dileptus‐like ancestor by reduction of the proboscis. Dileptus tirjakovae exconjugants differ from vegetative cells by their smaller size, stouter body, shorter proboscis, and by the lower number of ciliary rows, suggesting one or several postconjugation divisions. Although 83% of the exconjugants have the vegetative nuclear pattern, some strongly deviating specimens occur and might be mistaken for distinct species, especially because exconjugants are less than half as long as vegetative cells.
Highly Sensitive/Selective Miniature Potentiometric Carbon Monoxide Gas Sensors with Titania‐Based Sensing Elements
Authors: Park Jun‐Young , Song Sun‐Ju , Wachsman Eric D.
Published: December 2009

Miniature, potentiometric, solid‐state CO sensors utilizing titania‐based semiconducting oxide electrodes are studied at the operating temperature of the optimal response, i.e., 500°C. To improve the selectivity, sensitivity, and response time, yttria and palladium were mixed into the titania electrodes. Excellent sensing performance was obtained using an assembly of titania on one side and composite titania cermet synthesized by adding yttria and palladium on the other. The use of platinum contacts instead of gold current collectors afforded a substantial improvement in voltage response. The device detected an extended range of CO concentration (1–1000 ppm) with a high sensitivity to CO, while being capable of detecting even 1 ppm variations at low CO concentration ranges and retaining considerable selectivity to CO against CO2, NO, and O2 gases. Additionally, the response to CO is barely influenced by the coexisting interference gases (100 ppm NO, 16% CO2, 3% O2, 3% H2O).