bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sci‐Sat AM (2) Therapy‐01: A rotational total skin electron irradiation technique using a linear accelerator with a commercially available high dose rate total body electron mode
Authors: Evans M , Olivares M , Seuntjens J , Parker W , Devic S , Poli E , Freeman C , Podgorsak E
Published: July 2006

We have transferred and modernized our 25‐year‐old rotational total skin electron irradiation (RTSEI) technique from a linac (Varian Clinac‐18) with a custom modified beam line to a linac (Varian 21EX) with a commercially available electron mode intended for total skin electron irradiation. The new technique uses a “high dose rate” mode and a “high dose per Monitor Unit” mode in conjunction with a custom‐made flattening filter to produce a uniform beam at an extended SSD of 378 cm. Reference dosimetry for the stationary and rotational electron fields was performed to allow delivery of the prescription dose using the linac's transmission ionization chamber. The accessory tray holds the custom‐made flattening filter and automatically selects the beam energy (6 MeV) and high dose rate (888 MU/min) while moving the collimators to the maximum 40 × 40 cm2 field size. Beam parameters are monitored using the record‐and‐verify (VARIS) system. Patients are treated on a rotating platform with a high dose rate electron beam having a zmax at the skin surface, an R50 at 15 mm and a bremsstrahlung contamination of the order of 3%. The nominal dose rate to water at zmax (surface) for the rotational technique was determined to be 24.1 cGy/1000 MU, and beam delivery is monitored with a secondary Farmer‐type ionization chamber located near the patient in the treatment field. Treatment times for a daily dose of 2.0 Gy are of the order of 9.5 minutes and to date we have treated 15 patients with this technique.
Sci‐Sat AM (2) Therapy‐02: Calcifications and tissue composition in post‐implant prostate dosimetry: a clinical study with Monte Carlo
Authors: Carrier JF , D'Amours M , Martin A , Vigneault E , Beaulieu L
Published: July 2006

We developed an automated Monte Carlo (MC) multipurpose program to study different tissue configurations for post‐implant prostate brachytherapy dosimetry. We used our program for a clinical study on 18 cases. The usage of the DICOM‐RT protocol allows for an efficient transfer of data (Hounsfield Units [HU], seed positions, and organ contours) from the SPOT Pro system (version 3, Nucletron B.V., The Netherlands) to the MC program. A complete model was developed: for each voxel, the density is set by the HU and the elemental composition is set according to the radiation oncologist's contours. Between 180 and 320 different materials (prostate tissue, muscle, rectum tissue, bladder tissue, calcification, adipose tissue, and various mixtures) are utilized for each patient. The comparison between the TG‐43 based dosimetry and the complete MC simulation leads to average differences of 12±3 Gy for the D90 CTV parameter.

Three calcification scenarios were considered to finalize the MC model. When compared to the complete model, the first calcification scenario leads to an average decrease of 14 Gy on the D90 CTV parameter while the second calcification scenario leads to an average increase of 6 Gy. The impact on organs at risk was also evaluated. The inclusion of prostate calcifications in the MC model is important but it is not possible to establish which scenario is the most realistic with traditional CT data. Research on dual‐energy CT is underway to facilitate the management of calcifications.
Sci‐Sat AM (2) Therapy‐08: Influence of time dose rate calibration on Siemens Virtual Wedge dosimetry
Authors: Malkoske K , Nakonechny K
Published: July 2006

We have investigated the influence of time dose rate calibration on the dosimetry of Siemens Virtual Wedge (VW). The linear accelerator (LINAC) uses the ionization current generated in two dose monitoring ion chambers (MONITOR 1 and MONITOR 2) to dynamically control the three phases of VW delivery (initial gap, sweep portion, and open field). We intentionally offset the calibration of MONITOR 2, which controls the time dose rate delivered on the LINAC, by up to ± 3% and observed fractional changes in the wedge dose profile of approximately 10% for a 6MV beam with a 60° wedge at a field size of 20 × 20 cm2. We present an analytical expression to calculate the fractional change in wedge dosimetry as a function of time dose rate calibration of MONITOR 2. A comparison with measurement showed that the expression was accurate to within 1%. We will show how changes in the calibration of time dose rate (MONITOR 2) affect both the central axis wedge factor and wedge angle in order to assist in the diagnosis of wedge problems encountered in routine quality control measurements. The effects are most prominent at low beam energies, large wedge angles and large field sizes.
GUARANTEED INERTIA FUNCTIONS IN DYNAMICAL GAMES
Authors: AUBIN JEAN-PIERRE , SAINT-PIERRE PATRICK
Published: July 2006

This paper deals with inertia functions in control theory introduced in Aubin, Bernardo and Saint-Pierre (2004, 2005) and their adaptation to dynamical games. The inertia function associates with any initial state-control pair the smallest of the worst norms over time of the velocities of the controls regulating viable evolutions. For tychastic systems (parameterized systems where the parameters are tyches, disturbances, perturbations, etc.), the palicinesia of a tyche measure the worst norm over time of the velocities of the tyches. The palicinesia function is the largest palicinesia threshold c such that all evolutions with palicinesia smaller than or equal to c are viable. For dynamical games where one parameter is the control and the other one is a tyche (games against nature or robust control), we define the guaranteed inertia function associated with any initial state-control-tyche triple the best of the worst of the norms of the velocities of the controls and of the tyches and study their properties. Viability Characterizations and Hamilton-Jacobi equations of which these inertia and palicinesia functions are solutions are provided.
ON THE SINGULARITIES OF AN IMPULSIVE DIFFERENTIAL GAME ARISING IN MATHEMATICAL FINANCE
Authors: BERNHARD PIERRE
Published: July 2006

We investigate an impulse control differential game arising in a problem of option pricing in mathematical finance. In a previous paper, it was shown that its Value function in ℝ3 could be described as a pair of functions affine in one of the variables, joined on a 2D manifold. Depending on the regions of the state space, this manifold is either a dispersal one, an equivocal one or a 2D focal manifold. A pair of PDE's were derived for the focal part. Here we show that irrespective of the nature of this manifold, it has to satisfy this same set of PDE's.
Indigenous People and Environmental Politics
Authors: Dove Michael R.
Published: July 2006

Modernity has helped to popularize, and at the same time threaten, indigeneity. Anthropologists question both the validity of the concept of indigeneity and the wisdom of employing it as a political tool, but they are reluctant to deny it to local communities, whose use of the concept has become subject to study. The concept of indigenous knowledge is similarly faulted in favor of the hybrid products of modernity, and the idea of indigenous environmental knowledge and conservation is heatedly contested. Possibilities for alternate environmentalisms, and the combining of conservation and development goals, are being debated and tested in integrated conservation and development projects and extractive reserves. Anthropological understanding of both state and community agency is being rethought, and new approaches to the study of collaboration, indigenous rights movements, and violence are being developed. These and other current topics of interest involving indigenous peoples challenge anthropological theory as well as ethics and suggest the importance of analyzing the contradictions inherent in the coevolution of science, society, and environment.
Chronic resistance training in women potentiates growth hormone in vivo bioactivity: characterization of molecular mass variants
Authors: Kraemer William J. , Nindl Bradley C. , Marx James O. , Gotshalk Lincoln A. , Bush Jill A. , Welsch Jill R. , Volek Jeff S. , Spiering Barry A. , Maresh Carl M. , Mastro Andrea M. , Hymer Wesley C.
Published: July 2006

This investigation determined the influence of acute and chronic resistance exercise on responses of growth hormone (GH) molecular variants in women. Seventy-four healthy young women (23 ± 3 yr, 167 ± 7 cm, 63.8 ± 9.3 kg, 26.3 ± 4.0% body fat) performed an acute bout of resistance exercise (6 sets of 10 repetition maximum squat). Blood samples were obtained pre- and postexercise. Resulting plasma was fractionated by molecular mass ( fraction A, >60 kDa; fraction B, 30–60 kDa; and fraction C, <30 kDa) using chromatography. Fractionated and unfractionated (UF) plasma was then assayed for GH using three different detection systems (monoclonal immunoassay, polyclonal immunoassay, and rat tibial line in vivo bioassay). Subjects were then matched and randomly placed into one of four resistance exercise training groups or a control group for 24 wk. All experimental procedures were repeated on completion of the 24-wk resistance training programs. After acute exercise, immunoassays showed consistent increases in UF GH samples and fractions B and C; increases in fraction A using immunoassay were seen only in the monoclonal assay. No consistent changes in bioactive GH were found following acute exercise. Conversely, chronic exercise induced no consistent changes in immunoassayable GH of various molecular masses, whereas, in general, bioassayable GH increased. In summary, although acute exercise increased only immunoactive GH, chronic physical training increased the biological activity of circulating GH molecular variants. Increased bioactive GH was observed across all fractions and training regimens, suggesting that chronic resistance exercise increased a spectrum of GH molecules that may be necessary for the multitude of somatogenic and metabolic actions of GH.
Folate status modulates the induction of hepatic glycineN-methyltransferase and homocysteine metabolism in diabetic rats
Authors: Nieman Kristin M. , Hartz Cara S. , Szegedi Sandra S. , Garrow Timothy A. , Sparks Janet D. , Schalinske Kevin L.
Published: July 2006

A diabetic state induces the activity and abundance of glycine N-methyltransferase (GNMT), a key protein in the regulation of folate, methyl group, and homocysteine metabolism. Because the folate-dependent one-carbon pool is a source of methyl groups and 5-methyltetrahydrofolate allosterically inhibits GNMT, the aim of this study was to determine whether folate status has an impact on the interaction between diabetes and methyl group metabolism. Rats were fed a diet containing deficient (0 ppm), adequate (2 ppm), or supplemental (8 ppm) folate for 30 days, after which diabetes was initiated in one-half of the rats by streptozotocin treatment. The activities of GNMT, phosphatidylethanolamine N-methyltransferase (PEMT), and betaine-homocysteine S-methyltransferase (BHMT) were increased about twofold in diabetic rat liver; folate deficiency resulted in the greatest elevation in GNMT activity. The abundance of GNMT protein and mRNA, as well as BHMT mRNA, was also elevated in diabetic rats. The marked hyperhomocysteinemia in folate-deficient rats was attenuated by streptozotocin, likely due in part to increased BHMT expression. These results indicate that a diabetic state profoundly modulates methyl group, choline, and homocysteine metabolism, and folate status may play a role in the extent of these alterations. Moreover, the upregulation of BHMT and PEMT may indicate an increased choline requirement in the diabetic rat.
How muscle insulin sensitivity is regulated: testing of a hypothesis
Authors: Geiger Paige C. , Han Dong Ho , Wright David C. , Holloszy John O.
Published: July 2006

Muscle contractions induce an increase in glucose transport. The acute effect of muscle contractions on glucose transport is independent of insulin and reverses rapidly after cessation of exercise. As the acute increase in glucose transport reverses, a marked increase in the sensitivity of muscle to insulin occurs. The mechanism for this phenomenon is unknown. We hypothesize that an increase in insulin sensitivity is a general phenomenon that occurs during reversal of an increase in cell surface GLUT4 induced by any stimulus, not just exercise. To test this hypothesis, epitrochlearis, rat soleus, and flexor digitorum brevis muscles were incubated for 30 min with a maximally effective insulin concentration (1.0 mU/ml). Muscles were allowed to recover for 3 h in the absence of insulin. Muscles were then exposed to 60 μU/ml insulin for 30 min followed by measurement of glucose transport. Preincubation with 1.0 mU/ml insulin resulted in an ∼2-fold greater increase in glucose transport 3.5 h later in response to 60 μU/ml insulin than that which occurred in control muscles treated with 60 μU/ml insulin. Pretreatment of muscles with combined maximal insulin and exercise stimuli greatly amplified the increase in insulin sensitivity. The increases in glucose transport were paralleled by increases in cell surface GLUT4. We conclude that stimulation of glucose transport by any agent is followed by an increase in sensitivity of glucose transport to activation that is mediated by translocation of more GLUT4 to the cell surface.
Regulation of steroid hormone biosynthesis enzymes and organic anion transporters by forskolin and DHEA-S treatment in adrenocortical cells
Authors: Asif Abdul R. , Ljubojevic Marija , Sabolic Ivan , Shnitsar Vladimir , Metten Maria , Anzai Naohiko , Müller Gerhard A. , Burckhardt Gerhard , Hagos Yohannes
Published: July 2006

Several important physiological functions are regulated by cortisol. Previously, we demonstrated the involvement of human organic anion transporter 3 (hOAT3) in cortisol release. In the present study, we investigated the influence of dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S) and estrone sulfate on cortisol release in a human adrenocortical cell line (NCI-H295R) compared with forskolin stimulation. Additionally, we examined the impact of forskolin and DHEA-S on the expression of key enzymes in steroid biosynthesis and expression of hOAT3 and -4 in NCI-H295R cells. The cortisol release was increased 10-fold after 24-h incubation with DHEA-S, but incubation with estrone sulfate did not show any significant change in cortisol release. When cells were incubated with DHEA-S in the presence of forskolin, an additive influence of DHEA-S stimulation of cortisol was recorded over forskolin alone. The 24-h stimulation of NCI-H295R cells with forskolin increased the expression of steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR), CYP17, CYP21A2, and CYP11A1, whereas only StAR mRNA expression was increased significantly by incubation with DHEA-S. Immunofluorescence analyses revealed strongly elevated expression of hOAT3 by forskolin as well as by DHEA-S stimulation. We conclude that the increased cortisol release of adrenocortical cells by DHEA-S and forskolin stimulation is probably due to high expression of the key enzymes of steroid biosynthesis and hOAT3.
Null mutation in macrophage migration inhibitory factor prevents muscle cell loss and fibrosis in partial bladder outlet obstruction
Authors: Taylor John A. , Zhu Qing , Irwin Brian , Maghaydah Yazeed , Tsimikas John , Pilbeam Carol , Leng Lin , Bucala Richard , Kuchel George A.
Published: July 2006

Idiopathic detrusor underactivity (DU) and detrusor decompensation which develops following partial bladder outlet obstruction (pBOO) are both associated with smooth muscle degeneration and fibrosis. Macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF), an important mediator of bladder inflammation, has been shown to promote fibroblast survival and muscle death in other tissues. We evaluated the hypothesis that MIF has similar actions in the bladder by studying detrusor responses to pBOO or sham surgery in anesthetized female mice rendered null for the mif gene (MIF KO) and in wild-type (WT) controls, all killed 3 wk after surgery. WT mice revealed intense MIF immunoreactivity in urothelial cells which decreased, without change in overall mif mRNA levels. Stereologically sound quantitative morphometric measurements were performed in the middetrusor region of each bladder. MIF KO bladders were normal in appearance, yet were 30–40% heavier, with increased middetrusor collagen and muscle, compared with WT controls. In WT mice, pBOO increased the collagen-to-muscle ratio 1.9-fold and middetrusor collagen 1.8-fold, while nucleated muscle counts were 22% lower. In MIF KO mice, by contrast, pBOO had no significant effect on any of these parameters. In primary bladder muscle cultures, treatment with rMIF protein increased TUNEL staining, raising the proportion of early and late apoptotic cells on flow cytometry. Our studies implicate MIF in the sequence of events leading to detrusor muscle loss and fibrosis in obstruction. They raise the possibility that strategies designed to antagonize MIF synthesis, release, or biological activity could prevent or delay DU and urinary retention.
Mineralocorticoid receptor blockade confers renoprotection in preexisting chronic cyclosporine nephrotoxicity
Authors: Pérez-Rojas Jazmin , Blanco Jorge A. , Cruz Cristino , Trujillo Joyce , Vaidya Vishal S. , Uribe Norma , Bonventre Joseph V. , Gamba Gerardo , Bobadilla Norma A.
Published: July 2006

Recent studies from our laboratory have shown that the mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) blockade with spironolactone (Sp) prevented renal dysfunction and reduced renal injury in both acute and chronic cyclosporine (CsA) nephrotoxicity. This study was designed to evaluate whether Sp administration reduces functional and structural renal damage associated in the setting of preexisting chronic CsA nephrotoxicity. Twenty eight male Wistar rats were fed a low-sodium diet. Fourteen received vehicle (V) and the others were treated with CsA (15 mg/kg sc). After 18 days one half of each group received Sp (20 mg/kg po) for the subsequent 18 days. Creatinine clearance, arteriolopathy, tubulointerstitial fibrosis, arteriolar thickening, glomerular diameter, apoptosis index and TGF-β, procaspase-3, and kidney injury molecule 1 (Kim-1) mRNA levels as well as Kim-1 shedding in urine were evaluated. Sp reduced the progression of renal dysfunction and tubulointerstitial fibrosis in preexisting chronic CsA nephrotoxicity. There was a significant reduction of arteriolar thickening in the CsA+Sp group that was associated with greater glomerular diameter and reduction of apoptosis index. These renoprotective effects were associated with reduction of TGF-β, procaspase-3, and Kim-1 mRNA levels as well as Kim-1 shedding into the urine. In conclusion, MR blockade with Sp prevented the progression of renal injury in preexisting chronic CsA nephropathy. These results suggest that Sp may reduce CsA-induced established nephrotoxicity in patients.
Descending Signals From the Pontomedullary Reticular Formation Are Bilateral, Asymmetric, and Gated During Reaching Movements in the Cat
Authors: Schepens Bénédicte , Drew Trevor
Published: July 2006

We examined the contribution of neurons within the pontomedullary reticular formation (PMRF) to the control of reaching movements in the cat. We recorded the activity of 127 reticular neurons, including 56 reticulospinal neurons, during movements of each forelimb; 67/127 of these neurons discharged prior to the onset of activity in the prime flexor muscles during the reach of the ipsilateral limb and form the focus of this report. Most neurons (63/67) showed similar patterns and levels of discharge activity during reaches of either limb, although activity was slightly greater during reach of the ipsilateral limb. In 26/67 cells, the initial change in discharge activity was time-locked to the go signal during reaches of either limb; we have argued that this early discharge contributes to the anticipatory postural adjustments that precede movement. In 11/26 cells, the initial change in activity was reciprocal for reaches with the left and right limbs, although activity during the movement was nonreciprocal. Spike-triggered averaging produced postspike facilitation or depression (PSD) in 12/50 cells during reaches of the limb ipsilateral to the recording site and in 17/49 cells during reach of the contralateral limb. Some cells produced PSD in ipsilateral extensor muscles before the start of the reach and during reaches made with the contralateral, but not the ipsilateral limb; this suggests the signal must be differentially gated. Overall, the results suggest a strong bilateral, albeit asymmetric, contribution from the PMRF to the control of posture and movement during voluntary movement.
Genome-wide scan for quantitative trait loci influencing spatial navigation and social recognition memory in Dahl rats
Authors: Ruiz-Opazo Nelson , Tonkiss John
Published: July 2006

The genetic determinants of learning and memory have been difficult to unravel because of the complex inheritance of these forms of cognitive behavior encompassing multiple genetic and environmental factors. Indeed, genes that can account for strain and individual variations in learning and memory are largely unknown. Here we report a genome-wide scan for quantitative trait loci (QTLs) affecting spatial learning and memory and social recognition memory in an F2population derived from Dahl rats. We detected five QTLs on chromosomes 1, 8, 11, 17, and 20 affecting spatial acquisition performance and five QTLs on chromosomes 2, 3, 9, and 20 influencing spatial accuracy (once information about the target location had been acquired). None of these QTLs overlap, indicating the existence of independent genetic determinants for these two distinct behavioral components of spatial navigation. Moreover, five QTLs affecting social recognition memory were detected, two on chromosome 9 and three on chromosome X. The chromosomal regions linked to social recognition memory performance in the rat are syntenic to regions that have been linked to autism in humans. Thus our results could have paradigmatic value in guiding the experimental investigation of similar pathways in genetic susceptibility to this disorder, which results in profound impairments in social behavior.
Upregulation of Tumor Necrosis Factor-Alpha by Stress and Substance P in a Murine Model of Allergic Airway Inflammation
Authors: Joachim Ricarda A. , Sagach Viktoriya , Quarcoo David , Dinh Thai , Arck Petra C. , Klapp Burghard F.
Published: July 2006

Objective: Clinical observation has suggested that stress and asthma morbidity are associated, though underlying mechanisms are not clearly understood. After having established a mouse model of stress-exacerbated allergic airway inflammation, we demonstrated a stress-mediating role for neurokinin-1 receptor, the main substance P (SP) receptor. Here, our aim was to investigate the influence of stress or exogenously applied SP on airway inflammation and on the local cytokine production of immune cells. Methods: BALB/c mice were systemically sensitized to ovalbumin (OVA) and repeatedly challenged with OVA aerosol. Sound stress was applied to the animals for 24 h, starting with the first airway challenge. Alternatively, one group of non-stressed mice received intranasal SP before airway challenges. Cell numbers were determined in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid. Leukocytes from mediastinal lymph nodes were analyzed by flow cytometry to determine the percentages of T cells producing interleukin-4, interferon-γ and tumor necrosis factor-α. Results: In BAL fluids of stressed or SP-treated animals, significantly higher total cell counts were found compared to non-stressed mice. In lymph nodes, the percentage of TNF-α-positive T cells was higher in stressed mice and mice after application of SP. In contrast, the influence of stress did not increase the percentages of interferon-γ-positive CD3+ cells, meanwhile the application of SP increased the percentages of T cells positive for this cytokine. Conclusion: Our data provide further evidence for a stress-mediating neuroimmunological pathway that, putatively via SP, is able to influence the composition of immune cells in different compartments of allergic airway inflammation.
Consequences of Suppressing Thoughts about Tinnitus and the Effects of Cognitive Distraction on Brain Activity in Tinnitus Patients
Authors: Andersson Gerhard , Jüris Linda , Classon Elisabeth , Fredrikson Mats , Furmark Tomas
Published: July 2006

Tinnitus is the perception of sound in the absence of any appropriate external stimulus. Based on the clinical observation that tinnitus patients may distract themselves from their sounds, we performed an experimental test on the effects of suppressing thoughts about tinnitus with 45 tinnitus patients, to systematically evaluate the immediate consequences of suppressing thought vs. attending to tinnitus. Suppression instructions tended to lead to a subsequent decrease in tinnitus-related thoughts, whereas attention to tinnitus resulted in an increase in such thoughts. No effects were seen in a control group who neither suppressed nor attended to their tinnitus. In an independent positron emission tomography study of cerebral blood flow with 8 patients we found that silent backward counting (‘serial sevens test’) led to a decrease in neural activity in auditory cortex, as well as perceived decrease of tinnitus loudness and annoyance. Thus, distraction that altered the tinnitus experience seemed to attenuate auditory cortex activity.
Response to Long-Term Growth Hormone Therapy in Short Children with Reduced GH Bioactivity
Authors: Travaglino Paola , Buzi Fabio , Meazza Cristina , Pagani Sara , Tinelli Carmine , Iughetti Lorenzo , De Sanctis Vincenzo , Aimaretti Gianluca , Poddighe Dimitri , Barberi Salvatore , Bozzola Mauro
Published: July 2006

Background/Aims: The aim of the present study was to investigate whether short children with normal growth hormone (GH) immunoreactivity, but reduced bioactivity (bioinactive GH) could benefit from rhGH treatment as GH deficient (GHD) patients. Methods: We evaluated 12 pre-pubertal children (8 M, 4 F), with GH deficiency-like phenotype showing normal serum GH peak levels (>10 ng/ml), measured by immunofluorimetric assay (IFMA-GH), in contrast with a reduced GH bioactivity (bio-GH), evaluated using the Nb2 cells. We also evaluated 15 age-matched GHD pre-pubertal children (11 M, 4 F) with serum GH peak <5 ng/ml. Both groups were treated with rhGH therapy at the dose of 0.23 mg/kg/week s.c. Results: Serum bio-GH/IFMA-GH ratio at peak time for each patient during the provocative test was significantly lower in bioinactive GH than in GHD children (0.29 vs. 2.05, p = 0.00001). Recombinant human GH therapy induced a significant (p < 0.001) increase in growth rate in both groups during the first 2 years. In the third year of treatment, while growth rate in GHD children is maintained, in bioinactive GH patients it decreases remaining, however higher compared to the pre-treatment one. Conclusions:Short rhGH therapy given to selected bioinactive GH children improve growth rate and might result in greater final adult height.
Neutrophil Priming as a Surgery-Related Risk Factor for Postoperative Infectious Complications in Patients with Ulcerative Colitis
Authors: Miki Chikao , Yoshiyama Shigeyuki , Okita Yoshiki , Araki Toshimitsu , Uchida Keiichi , Yanagi Hidenori , Kusunoki Masato
Published: July 2006

Aims: The present study was designed to assess whether preoperative neutrophil priming under surgical stress has causal effects on the postoperative clinical outcomes of ulcerative colitis (UC) patients. Patients and Methods: In 63 consecutive UC patients, perioperative changes in cytokines and neutrophil elastase (NE) were quantified and their relationships to postoperative infectious complications (PICs) were evaluated. Results: A preoperative increase in NE (high group: Group H) was associated with longer disease duration and greater preoperative total amount of steroids administered. Patients in Group H developed more PICs than those in the low NE group when they underwent surgery >240 min. In Group H, the NE level remained high after longer duration surgery, but decreased rapidly after shorter duration surgery. Multivariate analyses revealed that the total amount of steroids used and preoperative NE level were independent risk factors for predicting PICs in the longer operation group. Conclusion: Preoperative neutrophil activation may become a risk factor for postoperative morbidity when the patients undergo intense surgical stress. The most important procedures for preventing postoperative morbidity in high-risk UC patients may be reducing surgical stress and/or controlling neutrophil activation perioperatively.
Sucralfate Protects Blood Clots from Peptic Digestion by Gastric Juice in vitro
Authors: Nysæter Gunnar , Berstad Arnold
Published: July 2006

Objective: To test in vitro the ability of sucralfate to protect a blood clot from peptic digestion by gastric juice. Material and Methods: Blood clots adhering to the bottom of plastic tubes were exposed to native acidic gastric juice or gastric juice to which Al-Mg antacids, sucralfate or alkali had been added. The tubes were tilted regularly at room temperature and clot digestion monitored by measuring the diameters of the clots. After 15 h, the liquids, but not the adherent clots, were poured out and the tubes refilled with native acidic gastric juice. Further clot digestion was measured, as before. Results: Native gastric juice digested the clots completely during approximately 7 h, while in neutralized gastric juice or in gastric juice containing antacids or sucralfate no digestion was seen. In the second experiment, native gastric juice completely digested all remaining clots, except those previously exposed to sucralfate. A dose-response study indicated that gastric juice containing 3% or more of sucralfate had this long-lasting, clot-protective effect. Conclusions: In vitro, sucralfate adheres to and protects blood clots from digestion by gastric juice pepsin. This unique effect of sucralfate may be of clinical relevance in the treatment of bleeding peptic ulcers.
The Potential Allergenicity of Two 2S Albumins from Soybean (Glycine max): A Protein Microarray Approach
Authors: Lin Jing , Shewry Peter R. , Archer David B. , Beyer Kirsten , Niggemann Bodo , Haas Helmut , Wilson Philip , Alcocer Marcos J.C.
Published: July 2006

Background: The 2S albumins are a group of storage proteins that occur widely in seeds of dicotyledonous plants. The widespread distribution and stability to digestion of allergenic 2S albumins raise the question of why some members of this family present in important food sources, such as soybean, are not regarded as major allergens. Methods: The pepsinolytic stability of two 2S albumins from soybean seed was determined using simulated gastric fluid. Using a new protein microarray system, IgE binding to these soybean 2S albumins was studied with the sera from 23 European individuals allergic to soybean. In order to validate the microarray result, two of the sera were selected and further tested using the micro-ELISA and UniCAP system. Results: Both albumins exhibited high stability to digestion similar to other allergenic members of the 2S albumin, trypsin/amylase inhibitor and lipid transfer protein superfamily. None of the patients was found to have IgE specific to soybean 2S albumins by the microarray system, and this result was in agreement with the results from the micro-ELISA and UniCAP system.Conclusions: The results from microarray, micro-ELISA and UniCAP system suggested that the 2S albumins from soybean are not major allergens within the patient population analyzed.
Rectal Carcinoma Treated with Short-Term Preoperative Radiotherapy followed by Abdominoperineal Resection
Authors: van der Vaart M.G. , van der Zwet W.C. , Arends J.W. , Eeftinck Schattenkerk M. , Eddes E.H.
Published: July 2006

Background: Treatment of choice for rectal carcinoma is short-term preoperative radiotherapy (5 × 5 Gy) followed by a total mesorectal excision (TME) of the rectum. This treatment has led to a reduction in local recurrence 2 years after surgery from 8.2 to 2.4%. Side effects of this treatment seem to be marginal and of no consequence. After introduction of short-term preoperative radiotherapy we noticed a rise in the postoperative presacral abscess formation which is difficult to treat and results in readmissions and prolonged hospital stay. Research was needed to investigate whether short-term preoperative radiotherapy can be held accountable for the presumed rise in presacral abscess formation in the treatment of rectal carcinoma. Methods: A retrospective study was performed over the period January 2000–October 2004. Two groups were formed. Group 1 existed of 30 patients who underwent a TME of the rectum without short-term preoperative radiotherapy. Group two existed of 35 patients who underwent a TME of the rectum with short-term preoperative radiotherapy. Results: Statistical analysis showed a significant increase in presacral abscess formation (13 vs. 40%) after introduction of short-term preoperative radiotherapy. Radiotherapy proved to be an important risk factor. Reduction in incidence of local recurrence was not evident. Conclusion: We found a significant increase in presacral abscess formation strongly suggestive due to the introduction of short-term preoperative radiotherapy in the treatment of rectal carcinoma. We noticed no reduction in incidence of local recurrence. We advocate that additional research is needed in order to formulate extra patient selection criteria for the use of preoperative radiotherapy in the treatment of rectal cancer.
ENSO Predictability of a Fully Coupled GCM Model Using Singular Vector Analysis
Authors: Tang Youmin , Kleeman Richard , Miller Sonya
Published: July 2006

Using a recently developed method of computing climatically relevant singular vectors (SVs), the error growth properties of ENSO in a fully coupled global climate model are investigated. In particular, the authors examine in detail how singular vectors are influenced by the phase of ENSO cycle—the physical variable under consideration as well as the error norm deployed. Previous work using SVs for studying ENSO predictability has been limited to intermediate or hybrid coupled models.

The results show that the singular vectors share many of the properties already seen in simpler models. Thus, for example, the singular vector spectrum is dominated by one fastest growing member, regardless of the phase of ENSO cycle and the variable of perturbation or the error norm; in addition the growth rates of the singular vectors are very sensitive to the phase of the ENSO cycle, the variable of perturbation, and the error norm. This particular CGCM also displays some differences from simpler models; thus subsurface temperature optimal patterns are strongly sensitive to the phase of ENSO cycle, and at times an east–west dipole in the eastern tropical Pacific basin is seen. This optimal pattern also appears for SST when the error norm is defined using Niño-4. Simpler models consistently display a single-sign equatorial signature in the subsurface corresponding perhaps to the Wyrtki buildup of heat content before a warm event. Some deficiencies in the CGCM and their possible influences on SV growth are also discussed.
An Assessment of Climate Feedbacks in Coupled Ocean–Atmosphere Models
Authors: Soden Brian J. , Held Isaac M.
Published: July 2006

The climate feedbacks in coupled ocean–atmosphere models are compared using a coordinated set of twenty-first-century climate change experiments. Water vapor is found to provide the largest positive feedback in all models and its strength is consistent with that expected from constant relative humidity changes in the water vapor mixing ratio. The feedbacks from clouds and surface albedo are also found to be positive in all models, while the only stabilizing (negative) feedback comes from the temperature response. Large intermodel differences in the lapse rate feedback are observed and shown to be associated with differing regional patterns of surface warming. Consistent with previous studies, it is found that the vertical changes in temperature and water vapor are tightly coupled in all models and, importantly, demonstrate that intermodel differences in the sum of lapse rate and water vapor feedbacks are small. In contrast, intermodel differences in cloud feedback are found to provide the largest source of uncertainty in current predictions of climate sensitivity.
Interdecadal Variations in AGCM Simulation Skills
Authors: Grimm Alice M. , Sahai A. K. , Ropelewski Chester F.
Published: July 2006

Global climate models forced by sea surface temperature are standard tools in seasonal climate prediction and in projection of future climate change caused by anthropogenic emissions of greenhouse gases. Assessing the ability of these models to reproduce observed atmospheric circulation given the lower boundary conditions, and thus its ability to predict climate, has been a recurrent concern. Several assessments have shown that the performance of models is seasonally dependent, but there has always been the assumption that, for a given season, the model skill is constant throughout the period being analyzed. Here, it is demonstrated that there are periods when these models perform well and periods when they do not capture observed climate variability. The variations of the model performance have temporal scales and spatial patterns consistent with decadal/interdecadal climate variability. These results suggest that there are unmodeled climate processes that affect seasonal climate prediction as well as scenarios of climate change, particularly regional climate change projections. The reliability of these scenarios may depend on the time slice of the model output being analyzed. Therefore, more comprehensive model assessment should include a verification of the long-term stability of their performance.
Impact of Balloon Drift Errors in Radiosonde Data on Climate Statistics
Authors: McGrath Ray , Semmler Tido , Sweeney Conor , Wang Shiyu
Published: July 2006

Radiosonde data are a valuable resource in the detection of climate change in the upper atmosphere. Long time series of stratospheric temperature data, carefully screened and corrected to remove errors, are available for this purpose. Normal reporting practice usually ascribes a fixed time and position (the station location) to all data reported in the ascent. In reality, the ascent may take around 90 min to complete and the spatial drift of the radiosonde may exceed 200 km. This note examines the magnitude of the errors associated with this practice using simulated radiosonde data generated from the ECMWF reanalysis archive. The results suggest that the temperature errors, while generally small in the troposphere, are locally significant in the stratosphere, particularly in the jet stream areas. However, the impact of the drift errors on global climate statistics is very small. Errors in the wind and humidity data are also examined.
The Break in the Mongolian Rainy Season and Its Relation to the Stationary Rossby Wave along the Asian Jet
Authors: Iwasaki Hiroyuki , Nii Tomomi
Published: July 2006

Seasonal and interannual variation of rainfall over Mongolia was investigated using 10-day rainfall data from 92 stations during 1993–2001 and NCEP–NCAR reanalysis data from 1979 to 2001. The break in the rainy season was found in the middle of July, and the meteorological stations with a clear break period were concentrated in eastern Mongolia where the plain prevails relative to western Mongolia without regard to the difference in annual precipitation.

Clear breaks in the rainy season were recognized in 5 yr among an analysis period of 9 yr. In the break period, the stationary Rossby wave trapped in the Asian jet was predominant at 200 hPa, and a barotropic ridge associated with the Rossby wave developed over Mongolia. Furthermore, interannual variation of the break also corresponded to the variation of the stationary Rossby wave. It is considered that the break of the Mongolian rainy season is caused by the stationary Rossby wave trapped in the Asian jet. The stationary Rossby wave was climatologically phase locked in seasonal evolution and, as a result, the break period was also concentrated around the middle of July.
Teaching and Learning in the Language Teacher Education Course Room:
Authors: Singh Gurmit , Richards Jack C.
Published: July 2006

This paper is a reconsideration of the nature of teaching and learning in the language teacher education course room. Drawing broadly on sociocultural perspectives of Lave and Wenger and Vygotskian models of cognitive apprenticeship, it considers how to design the course room as a learning environment. It begins with a critique of technical-rational discourses of teacher education, one of the implications of which has been to assert the primacy of the social construction of teacher identity. We present the case for the course room as a community of practice where teachers learn through engaging in activities and discourses, mediated through cultural artifacts. A community of practice is also shaped by larger systems of power, which are reproduced in the micro-context of the course room. Teacher learning is a site of struggle over activities, discourses, tools and identity because of its situated nature within institutional, historical and cultural contexts. A revised role for teacher educators in shaping an emerging course room culture is presented, acknowledging the realities of power and ideology that influence the daily practices in the course room.
Methods of Teaching Inferring Meaning from Context
Authors: Walters JoDee
Published: July 2006

Second language researchers and trainers have met with some success in teaching language learners the skill of inferring meaning from context while reading, using a variety of teaching methods. This paper describes a study that attempts to compare the effectiveness of three teaching methods, on ESL learners’ ability to infer from context and reading comprehension. The study investigated the effectiveness of (1) a general strategy, (2) recognition and interpretation of specific context clues, and (3) practice with feedback. Some limited effects for teaching method after six hours of instruction were found, but replication of the study is urged, with a greater number of participants, over a longer time period, and with the training incorporated into regular language teaching lessons.
On Availability of Conscious Knowledge in Discrimination of Vowel Length
Authors: Ansarin Ali Akbar
Published: July 2006

Learners’ consciousness of mismatch of the phonemic inventory of their mother tongue with the language being learned may prompt them to activate their conscious grammar knowledge to monitor their oral production. This happens only when they become conscious of the nature of the task in advance. Otherwise the mismatch is believed to challenge their conscious knowledge of L2 significantly. It is assumed that at intermediate stages of second language learning, learners’ unconsciousness of the task requirement will depict inefficiency and/or unavailability of conscious knowledge in monitoring the quality feature, more precisely length of English vowels. In this study, this quality as one constituent feature of English vowels is investigated at conscious and unconscious states by involving Persian undergraduate learners of English. The duration of these vowels is contrasted in the word middle position. Results are indicative of the fact that learners succeed in maintaining the phonematic distinction accurately between the long and short vowels in different words by controlling the vowel length at conscious level, but they fail to demonstrate the same capability when the task load overwhelms or reduces their ability to preserve this distinction when they are unconscious of the task and are not able to activate their monitor.
The Potential of Management-Dominated Work Organization: The Critical Case of Japan
Authors: Vernon Guy
Published: July 2006

A succession of studies have suggested that management-dominated work organization can deliver productivity alongside participation and reward for employees generally. Examination of the Japanese political economy before the traumas of the 1990s shows that it was a critical case of management-dominated work organization in an environment uniquely facilitative of innovation in work practice and its diffusion. However, detailed consideration of Japanese manufacturing shows that the sector was not generally characterized by comparatively participative, rewarding and productive work organization. The Japanese experience suggests that the potential for mutual gains under management-dominated work organization tends to be overstated.
Towards Equality and Renewal: Women’s Groups, Diversity and Democracy in British Unions
Authors: Parker Jane
Published: July 2006

Discussion of union equality and democracy usually locates women’s group (WG) organizing as a special representative form within unions. This study focuses on the extent to which WGs themselves address the interests of diverse constituent groups. Data from a national survey of Trades Union Congress affiliates were used to map WGs across unions and analyse the attention they give to group diversity relative to gender in pursuit of equality and better interest representation. It emerged that most members belong to unions where WGs tackle diversity to some extent. Implications for WG and union renewal strategy, research and theory are examined.
‘Peak’ Employers’ Organizations: International Attempts at Transferring Experience
Authors: Croucher Richard , Tyson Shaun , Wild Alan
Published: July 2006

Employers’ organizations’ central role in social dialogue at national and supra-national levels is advocated and supported by supranational institutions. Yet some of the organizations, particularly outside Western Europe, face considerable membership and revenue generation challenges. West European national employers’ organizations are used extensively as models of ‘best practice’ for their counterparts in the developing world and especially in Central and Eastern Europe. This article examines how far West European models can be used in this way. International data are analysed to suggest that Western European models should only be used as exemplars under strict conditions, as a more context-sensitive approach is required. Moreover, measures based on high levels of state support may threaten organizational independence.
The Consequences of the Development of a Beanpole Kin Structure on Exchanges Between Generations
Authors: Meil Gerardo
Published: July 2006

This article analyzes the effects of the number of siblings, their sex composition, and other individualization indicators intertwined with the development of a beanpole-type kin structure on exchanges among generations in Spain. The effects of this development vary depending on the point of view adopted: that of the parents or that of the adult children. Although this development increases the likelihood of not having daughters who continue to act as kin keepers, there are no clear signs of a weakening of intergenerational ties deriving from the development of a beanpole-type kin structure. The biggest threat for the density of intergenerational relationships derives not so much from this development but from the geographical dispersion of generations caused by the lack of professional and employment opportunities for the younger generations.