bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Visualization and dimensional scaling for some three-body problems in atomic and molecular quantum mechanics
Authors: Chen Goong , Ding Zhonghai , Perronnet Alain , Zhang Zhigang
Published: June 2008

Three-body problems in atomic and molecular quantum mechanics, comprising one electron–two nuclei and two electron–one nucleus, are studied from their Schrödinger–Born–Oppenheimer models. The following are main topics of interest in this paper: (1) review of foundational mathematical properties of the multiparticle Schrödinger operator, (2) visualization of H2+ (hydrogen molecular ion)-like and He (helium)-like molecular and atomic states, and (3) spectrum of He obtained by the large-dimension scaling limit. The authors begin with topic (1) for the tutorial purpose and devote topics (2) and (3) to new contributions of the analytical, numerical, and visualization nature. Relevant heuristics, graphics, proofs, and calculations are presented.
Simulations of absorbance efficiency and power production of three dimensional tower arrays for use in photovoltaics
Authors: Flicker Jack , Ready Jud
Published: June 2008

The production of cheap energy from the sun will be a major research objective in the coming years. Major strides must be made in solar cell efficiency, including increasing absorbance efficiency of a cell by etching or texturing. In order to increase the absorbance efficiency of solar cells, we have developed a three-dimensional solar cell structure by depositing a cadmium telluride thin film overtop carbon nanotube towers. These towers act as both a scaffolding and an electrical interconnect. Multiple photon interactions as they reflect between these towers increase the absorption efficiency. We have developed a theoretical model and computer simulation to maximize the number of photon interactions due to the geometrical characteristics of the system (aspect ratio, spacing, size, shape, etc.). Simulated modeling has shown that by optimization of parameters, a three-dimensional cell can obtain up to a 300% increase in power production over traditional cells.
On the solid- and liquidlike nature of quantum clusters in their ground state
Authors: Cuervo Javier Eduardo , Roy Pierre-Nicholas
Published: June 2008

The ground state of pristine clusters of (paraH2)N and (orthoD2)N of size ranging from N=11 to 55 is examined by means of the variational path integral method. The chemical potential is calculated for two different interaction models and it is shown that the location of magic numbers indeed depends on the chosen interaction potential. Density profiles are calculated and reveal the difference between the two isotopes with regards to shell structure. The magnitude of relative pair distance and position fluctuations is used to asses the rigidity of these finite-size quantum systems. A comparison of generic and specific distance fluctuations as a function of cluster size is proposed as a probe of the appearance of rigidity in the clusters. It is found that smaller (paraH2)N clusters are fluidlike and start to display increased rigidity for clusters of size N⩾26, whereas (orthoD2)N clusters of N=13 and N⩾19 are rigid. Small clusters exhibit structures loosely based on an anti-Mackay icosahedral motif. An anti-Mackay to Mackay transition at N=41–42 is suggested.
Electron energy-loss spectroscopy analysis of HfO2 dielectric films on strained and relaxed SiGe∕Si substrates
Authors: Jang Jiyoung , Park Tae Joo , Kwon Ji-Hwan , Jang Jae Hyuck , Hwang Cheol Seong , Kim Miyoung
Published: June 2008

In this investigation, HfO2 thin films were deposited on strained and strain-relaxed epitaxial-SiGe∕Si substrates, and subsequently subjected to annealing. Electron energy-loss spectroscopy analysis was used to investigate the electronic structure and composition of the film as well as the interfacial layer (IL). While the energy-loss function of the dielectric films revealed predominant Si diffusion in the strained substrates, post deposition annealing (PDA) significantly influenced the diffusion and altered the local composition of the IL in strain-relaxed substrates. Analysis of electronic structures revealed the origin of significant loss of Ge atoms at the IL during PDA.
Hard x-ray photoemission spectroscopy in wurtzite-type zinc magnesium oxide solid-solution films grown by pulsed-laser deposition
Authors: Ohsawa Takeo , Ohashi Naoki , Adachi Yutaka , Sakaguchi Isao , Ryoken Haruki , Matsumoto Kenji , Haneda Hajime , Ueda Shigenori , Yoshikawa Hideki , Kobayashi Keisuke
Published: June 2008

The electronic structure of Zn1−xMgxO alloy thin films was determined by hard x-ray photoemission spectroscopy (HX-PES) and optical transmittance measurements. HX-PES measurements revealed that the binding energies of valence band, Zn 2p, and O 1s levels increased with increasing MgO fraction. The energy shift correlated with a widening of the band gap and change in ionicity of chemical bonds by alloying. The Fermi level in the alloy compounds was found to be close to the bottom of conduction band regardless of the MgO fraction.
Why Water Is Not H2O, and Other Critiques of Essentialist Ontology from the Philosophy of Chemistry
Authors: VandeWall Holly
Published: June 2008

Ellis argues that certain essential properties of objects in the world not only determine the nature of these objects but also how they will behave in any situation. In this paper I will critique Ellis's essentialism from the perspective of the philosophy of chemistry, arguing that our current knowledge of chemistry in fact doesnotlend itself to essentialist interpretations and that this seriously undercuts Ellis's project. In particular I will criticize two key distinctions Ellis draws between internal vs. external properties and essential vs. accidental properties, showing that at the chemical level such distinctions are insupportable. If essential properties only exist at the level of sub-atomic physics, then Ellis's hopes that essentialism will provide a theoretical basis for a philosophy of chemistry are at best hopes for a very distant future, since the argument that chemical structure and dynamics can be explained at the quantum level derived is purely from analogy to much simpler systems than those chemists actually study. This suggests that we have very little scientific evidence that scientific essentialism is a viable ontology.
Validation Study of Artificial Neural Network Models for Prediction of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Carriage
Authors: Hsu Cheng-Chuan , Lin Yusen E. , Chen Yao-Shen , Liu Yung-Ching , Muder Robert R.
Published: June 2008

Objective.

Use of active surveillance cultures for methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) for all patients admitted to the intensive care unit has been shown to reduce nosocomial transmission. However, the cost-effectiveness and the utility of implementing use of active surveillance cultures nationwide remain controversial. We sought to develop an artificial neural network (ANN) model that would predict the likelihood of MRSA colonization.

Setting.

Two acute care hospitals, one in Pittsburgh (hospital A) and one in Kaohsiung, Taiwan (hospital B).

Methods.

Nasal cultures were performed for all patients admitted to the hospitals. A total of 46 potential risk factors in hospital A and 86 potential risk factors in hospital B associated with MRSA colonization were assessed. Culture results were obtained; 75% of the data were used for training our ANN model, and the remaining 25% were used for validating our ANN model. The culture results were the “gold standard” for determining the accuracy of the model predictions.

Results.

The ANN model predictions were accurate 95.2% of the time for hospital A (sensitivity, 94.3%; specificity, 96.0%) and 94.2% of the time for hospital B (sensitivity, 96.6%; specificity, 91.8%), integrating all potential risk factors into the model. Only 17 potential risk factors were needed for the hospital A ANN model (accuracy, 90.9%; sensitivity, 98.5%; specificity, 83.4%), and only 20 potential risk factors were needed for the hospital B ANN model (accuracy, 90.5%; sensitivity, 96.6%; specificity, 84.3%), if the minimal risk factor method was used. Cross-validation analysis showed an average accuracy of 85.6% (sensitivity, 91.3%; specificity, 80.0%).

Conclusion.

Our ANN model can be used to predict with an accuracy of more than 90% which patients carry MRSA. The false-negative rates were significantly lower than the false-positive rates in the ANN predictions, which can serve as a safety buffer in case of patient misclassification.
Detection of Methicillin-ResistantStaphylococcus aureusand Vancomycin-Resistant Enterococci on the Gowns and Gloves of Healthcare Workers
Authors: Snyder Graham M. , Thorn Kerri A. , Furuno Jon P. , Perencevich Eli N. , Roghmann Mary-Claire , Strauss Sandra M. , Netzer Giora , Harris Anthony D.
Published: June 2008

Objective.

To assess the rate of and the risk factors for the detection of methicillin-resistantS. aureus(MRSA) and vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) on the protective gowns and gloves of healthcare workers (HCWs).

Methods.

We observed the interactions between HCWs and patients during routine clinical activities in a 29-bed medical intensive care unit at the University of Maryland Medical Center, an urban tertiary care academic hospital. Samples for culture were obtained from HCWs' hands prior to their entering a patient's room, from HCWs' disposable gowns and gloves after they completed patient care activities, and from HCWs' hands immediately after they removed their protective gowns and gloves.

Results.

Of 137 HCWs caring for patients colonized or infected with MRSA and/or VRE, 24 (17.5%; 95% confidence interval, 11.6%–24.4%) acquired the organism on their gloves, gown, or both. HCW contact with the endotracheal tube or tracheostomy site of a patient (P< .05), HCW contact with the head and/or neck of a patient (P< .05), and HCW presence in the room of a patient with a percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy and/or jejunostomy tube (P< .05) were associated with an increased risk of acquiring these organisms.

Conclusions.

The gloves and gowns of HCWs frequently become contaminated with MRSA and VRE during the routine care of patients, and particularly during care of the patient's respiratory tract and any associated indwelling devices. As part of a larger infection control strategy, including high-compliance hand disinfection, they likely provide a useful barrier to transmitting antibiotic-resistant organisms among patients in an inpatient setting.
Detection of endogenous DNA adducts, O6‐carboxymethyl‐2′‐deoxyguanosine and 3‐ethanesulfonic acid‐2′‐deoxycytidine, in the rat stomach after duodenal reflux
Authors: Terasaki Masaru , Totsuka Yukari , Nishimura Koichi , Mukaisho Ken‐ichi , Chen Kuan‐Hao , Hattori Takanori , Takamura‐Enya Takeji , Sugimura Takashi , Wakabayashi Keiji
Published: June 2008

The endogenous DNA adducts O6‐carboxymethyl‐deoxyguanosine (O6‐CM‐dG) and 3‐ethanesulfonic acid‐deoxycytidine (3‐ESA‐dC) are produced from N‐nitroso bile acid conjugates, such as N‐nitrosoglycocholic acid (NO‐GCA) and N‐nitrosotaurocholic acid (NO‐TCA), respectively. Formation of these DNA adducts in vivo was here analyzed by 32P‐postlabeling in the glandular stomach of rats subjected to duodenal content reflux surgery. In this model, all duodenal contents, including bile acid conjugates, flow back from the jejunum into the gastric corpus. The levels of O6‐CM‐dG found at 4 and 8 weeks after surgery were 40.9 ± 9.4 and 56.3 ± 3.2 per 108 nucleotides, respectively, whereas the sham operation groups had values of 5.8 ± 2.3 and 5.9 ± 0.5 per 108 nucleotides. Moreover, adduct spots corresponding to 3‐ESA‐dC were detected in both duodenal reflux and sham operation groups and levels in the duodenal reflux groups were around four‐fold elevated at 11.2 ± 1.0 and 8.9 ± 1.0 per 108 nucleotides after 4 and 8 weeks, respectively. When the duodenal reflux animals were treated with a nitrite trapping agent, thiazolidine‐ 4‐carboxylic acid (thioproline, TPRO), the levels of O6‐CM‐dG and 3‐ESA‐dC were reduced to the same levels as in the sham operation animals. These observations suggest that NO‐TCA and NO‐GCA are formed by nitrosation of glycocholic acid and taurocholic acid, respectively, and these nitroso compounds produce DNA adducts in the glandular stomach of rats subjected to duodenal content reflux surgery. (Cancer Sci 2008; 99: 1741–1746)
Are adolescents chronically sleep‐deprived? An investigation of sleep habits of adolescents in the Southwest of Germany
Authors: Loessl B. , Valerius G. , Kopasz M. , Hornyak M. , Riemann D. , Voderholzer U.
Published: June 2008

Background  Adolescent sleep receives increasing attention. Several studies have shown that adolescents generally do not sleep enough. This survey assessed adolescents’ sleep patterns, and results were compared with sleep logs.

Methods  A total of 818 students aged 12–18 attending three different school types were asked to complete a questionnaire, adapted from the ‘School Sleep Habits Survey’, and filled in a sleep protocol over 2 weeks. Information on sleep patterns and demographic data were obtained additionally.

Results  A total of 601 students completed the questionnaire (i.e. 73.5% return rate), 55.1% female and 44.9% male. Average sleep duration during the week amounted to 8.04 ± 0.89 h and 9.51 ± 1.65 h on weekends. Sleep duration times on school days decreased from an average 8.64 ± 0.83 h for the age category 12–13 years to 7.83 ± 0.72 h for students above 16 years. 91.6% of all students slept less than 9.2 h per night during the week. Data from the 153 returned sleep logs showed even lower sleep times (7.75 ± 0.82 h for school nights).

Conclusions  The main hypothesis that students sleep on average considerably less than the recommended 9 h during weekdays was confirmed. Bedtimes changed throughout the week with the latest on Friday and Saturday nights and the least sleep around midweek. There were no significant group differences regarding school type and environment (rural vs. urban). Interestingly, the majority reported only little daytime sleepiness and no impaired performance. Results regarding the consequences of chronic sleep deprivation in the literature are inconclusive. The impact on physiological parameters, especially metabolic functions, requires further investigations.
Tailored regimen of interferon alpha for HBeAg‐positive chronic hepatitis B: a prospective controlled study
Authors: Luo K. , Mao Q. , Karayiannis P. , Liu D. , Liu Z. , Zhou Y. , Feng X. , Zhu Y. , Guo Y. , Jiang R. , Zhou F. , Peng J. , Hou J.
Published: June 2008

Summary.  The response to interferon‐alpha treatment of patients with chronic hepatitis B under the current protocol is not satisfactory. The aim of this study was to try an alternative approach to improve treatment outcome. Of 374 HBeAg‐positive patients, 127 of them received 5 million units of interferon‐alpha thrice weekly for 6 months and constituted the control group, while 247 in the study group received the same dosage but the duration of treatment was tailored. The study protocol provided for continuation of treatment if HBV DNA levels were continuously decreasing. The treatment ended when viral, antigenic and biochemical endpoints were reached or when HBV DNA levels were no longer decreasing. The median length of tailored treatment was 10 (range 6–24) months. The end‐of‐treatment response rates were 39.3% and 23.6% (P = 0.002), and after 12‐month, follow‐up, the sustained response rates were 40.5% and 28.3% (P = 0.013) in the study and control groups, respectively. Excluding the patients who dropped out, 228 and 115 completed a median of 40‐ and 44‐month‐long follow‐up; the long‐term response was thus 45.3% and 33.1% (P = 0.014) in the respective groups. Interferon‐alpha treatment tailored in length demonstrated significantly increased efficacy in patients with chronic hepatitis B.
Depletion of RNase HI activity in Escherichia coli lacking DNA topoisomerase I leads to defects in DNA supercoiling and segregation
Authors: Usongo Valentine , Nolent Flora , Sanscartier Patrick , Tanguay Cynthia , Broccoli Sonia , Baaklini Imad , Drlica Karl , Drolet Marc
Published: June 2008

Gyrase‐mediated hypernegative supercoiling is one manifestation of R‐loop formation, a phenomenon that is normally suppressed by topoisomerase I (topA) in Escherichia coli. Overproduction of RNase HI (rnhA), an enzyme that removes the RNA moiety of R‐loops, prevents hypernegative supercoiling and allows growth of topA null mutants. We previously showed that topA and rnhA null mutations are incompatible. We now report that such mutants were viable when RNase HI or topoisomerase III was expressed from a plasmid‐borne gene. Surprisingly, DNA of topA null mutants became relaxed rather than hypernegatively supercoiled following depletion of RNase HI activity. This result failed to correlate with the cellular concentration of gyrase or topoisomerase IV (the other relaxing enzyme in the cell) or with transcription‐induced supercoiling. Rather, intracellular DNA relaxation in the absence of RNase HI was related to inhibition of gyrase activity both in vivo and in extracts. Cells lacking topA and rnhA also exhibited properties consistent with segregation defects. Overproduction of topoisomerase III, an enzyme that can carry out DNA decatenation, corrected the segregation defects without restoring supercoiling activity. Collectively these data reveal (i) the existence of a cellular response to loss of RNase HI that counters the supercoiling activity of gyrase, and (ii) supercoiling‐independent segregation defects due to loss of RNase HI from topA null mutants. Thus RNase HI plays a more central role in DNA topology than previously thought.
Does magnifying endoscopy improve the diagnosis of erosive esophagitis?
Authors: Amano Yuji , Yamashita Haruhiro , Koshino Kenji , Ohshima Tadayuki , Miwa Hiroto , Iwakiri Ryuichi , Fujimoto Kazuma , Manabe Noriaki , Haruma Ken , Kinoshita Yoshikazu
Published: June 2008

Background and Aims:  Low‐grade erosive esophagitis (i.e. Los Angeles grade A) is the most predominant type of esophagitis in Japan. It is unclear whether all the mucosal breaks detected by conventional endoscopy are indicative of esophageal mucosal erosion. Hospital‐based, cross‐sectional, cross‐over, observational study was assigned to investigate the value of magnifying endoscopy for diagnosis of erosive esophagitis.

Methods:  From August to December 2006, 178 consecutive patients with upper gastrointestinal symptoms were enrolled at three university hospitals and one national medical center in western Japan. Before endoscopy, all participants were requested to answer questionnaires concerning their symptoms. Experienced endoscopists performed an endoscopic diagnosis of each patient first with a conventional standard view and then with a magnifying view. Endoscopic diagnostic concordance between conventional and magnifying endoscopic view for erosive esophagitis was calculated. Relationship between a variety of symptoms and erosive esophagitis was also evaluated.

Results:  Erosive esophagitis was identified using conventional and magnifying endoscopy in 14.6% and 17.4% of patients, respectively. Eleven false‐negative and six false‐positive diagnoses using conventional endoscopy occurred among the 178 enrolled patients. The weighted kappa value of diagnostic concordance for erosive esophagitis between the two endoscopic views was 0.76. The prevalence of erosive esophagitis in patients with reflux‐, dysmotility‐, and ulcer‐like symptoms was 20.7%, 24.1%, and 15.2%, respectively.

Conclusions:  Magnifying endoscopy did not significantly improve the diagnostic sensitivity of erosive esophagitis over non‐magnifying, conventional endoscopy. Erosive esophagitis was frequently identified in patients that did not have reflux symptoms.
Cause and effect relationship of malnutrition with idiopathic chronic pancreatitis: Prospective case–control study
Authors: Midha Shallu , Singh Namrata , Sachdev Vikas , Tandon Rakesh Kumar , Joshi Yogendra Kumar , Garg Pramod Kumar
Published: June 2008

Background and Aim:  Patients with chronic pancreatitis are often malnourished. The role of malnutrition in the pathogenesis of chronic pancreatitis is unclear. The aim of the present article was to study prospectively the cause and effect relationship of malnutrition with idiopathic chronic pancreatitis in a case–control study.

Methods:  Consecutive patients with chronic pancreatitis underwent anthropometry, nutritional and dietary assessments. For dietary assessment, food frequency questionnaire and 24‐hour dietary recall methods were used. Primary outcome measure was cause and effect relationship of malnutrition with idiopathic chronic pancreatitis.

Results:  Of 201 patients with chronic pancreatitis, 120 had idiopathic chronic pancreatitis (mean age 29.60 years, 74 males) who formed the study group. None of the patients consumed cassava. The nutritional status and dietary intake of the patients before the onset of chronic pancreatitis were comparable with those of controls with 20.6% of patients and 22.5% of controls being malnourished (body mass index [BMI] < 18.5). After the onset of chronic pancreatitis, 56.5% of patients lost weight and significantly more patients became malnourished compared with controls (45.8% vs 22.5%; P < 0.001). The causes of weight loss were diabetes, higher calories from proteins, and pseudocyst.

Conclusion:  Malnutrition was not a cause of idiopathic chronic pancreatitis and weight loss occurred as an effect of chronic pancreatitis. Cassava was not found to be a cause of idiopathic chronic pancreatitis.
Beliefs about the genetics of suicide in Canadian students: Cross‐language validation of the Beliefs in the Inheritance of Risk Factors for Suicide Scale (BIRFSS)
Authors: Voracek Martin , Fisher Maryanne L. , Loibl Lisa Mariella , Tan Hasan , Sonneck Gernot
Published: June 2008

Aim:  The genetics underlying suicidal behavior is becoming increasingly recognized and investigated. Convergent evidence towards this end has emerged from numerous research strategies (adoption, family, genome‐scan, geographic, immigrant, molecular genetic, surname, and twin studies of suicide). The topic‐related mental‐health literacy (i.e. knowledge and beliefs) of professionals and laypersons, however, may lag behind this research progress, and data on this question are scant. The aim of the present study was therefore to further validate, in a cross‐language setting, the novel 22‐item Beliefs in the Inheritance of Risk Factors for Suicide Scale (BIRFSS), originally developed in German, which assesses beliefs about the genetics of suicide.

Methods:  Data were collected from a mixed student sample from Canada (n = 288; 70.5% females, 58.0% studying psychology as a major or minor).

Results:  Factor analysis of BIRFSS items yielded a dominant first factor. Internal scale consistency was, however, only middling (lower than previously observed in Austrian samples). Although the structure of beliefs about the genetics of suicide seems to be complex, the Canadian sample's item‐performance indicators corresponded strongly to those obtained in Austrian samples, thus indicating cross‐sample and cross‐language robustness of item statistics.

Conclusion:  For the Canadian sample, BIRFSS scores were positively related to overall and specific knowledge about suicide and general beliefs about genetic determinism (convergent validity), whereas they were not (or only trivially) related to the Big Five personality dimensions, lay theories of suicide, locus of control, social desirability, religiosity, and political orientation (discriminant validity), and to several key demographic variables. Supplemental findings, study limitations, application possibilities, user recommendations, and avenues for further inquiry are discussed.
Anterior cingulate cortex volume reduction in patients with panic disorder
Authors: Asami Takeshi , Hayano Fumi , Nakamura Motoaki , Yamasue Hidenori , Uehara Kumi , Otsuka Tatsui , Roppongi Tomohide , Nihashi Namiko , Inoue Tomio , Hirayasu Yoshio
Published: June 2008

Aim:  Recent neuroimaging studies have suggested that the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) has an important role in the pathology of panic disorder. Despite numerous functional neuroimaging studies that have elucidated the strong relationship between functional abnormalities of the ACC and panic disorder and its symptoms and response to emotional tasks associated with panic disorder, there has been no study showing volumetric changes of the ACC or its subregions.

Methods:  To clarify the structural abnormalities of ACC and its subregions, the combination of region of interest (ROI) and optimized voxel‐based morphometry (VBM) methods were performed on 26 patients with panic disorder, and 26 age and sex‐matched healthy subjects. In the ROI study, ACC was divided into four subregions: dorsal, rostral, subcallosal and subgenual ACC.

Results:  The results of the manually traced ROI volume comparison showed significant volume reduction in the right dorsal ACC. VBM also showed a volume reduction in the right dorsal as well as a part of the rostral ACC as a compound mass.

Conclusions:  Both manual ROI tracing and optimized VBM suggest a subregion‐specific pattern of ACC volume deficit in panic disorder. In addition to functional abnormalities, these results suggest that structural abnormalities of the ACC contribute to the pathophysiology of panic disorder.
Analgesia during self‐cutting: Clinical implications and the association with suicidal ideation
Authors: Matsumoto Toshihiko , Imamura Fumi , Chiba Yasuhiko , Katsumata Yotaro , Kitani Masahiko , Takeshima Tadashi
Published: June 2008

The present study examined the association of suicidal ideation in self‐cutters with clinical features of self‐cutting, using a sample of subjects from juvenile correctional institutions. Multivariate analysis revealed that male self‐cutters and analgesia during self‐cutting were significantly associated with a history of suicidal ideation. These results suggest that male analgesic self‐cutters should be regarded as a high‐risk subgroup for suicide.
Two cases of burning mouth syndrome treated with olanzapine
Authors: Ueda Nobuhisa , Kodama Yuki , Hori Hikaru , Umene Wakako , Sugita Atsuko , Nakano Hideki , Yoshimura Reiji , Nakamura Jun
Published: June 2008

Two case reports of patients suffering from burning mouth syndrome (BMS), a type of somatoform disorder, who were treated with olanzapine are discussed. One case was a 54‐year‐old female with BMS who failed to respond to milnacipran treatment. Olanzapine (2.5 mg/day) brought about dramatic improvement in the patient's symptoms, and thereafter milnacipran withdrawal further eliminated her symptoms. The second case was a 51‐year‐old male with BMS who failed to respond to paroxetine treatment. Olanzapine (2.5 mg/day) was added to the treatment regimen and increased to 5.0 mg/day the following week. The patient noted a reduction in symptoms and continued to live normally thereafter without experiencing severe symptoms. These findings suggest that olanzapine may be useful in the treatment of BMS.
Temporal cortex dopamine D2/3 receptor binding in major depression
Authors: Lehto Soili M. , Kuikka Jyrki , Tolmunen Tommi , Hintikka Jukka , Viinamäki Heimo , Vanninen Ritva , Haatainen Kaisa , Koivumaa‐Honkanen Heli , Honkalampi Kirsi , Tiihonen Jari
Published: June 2008

The aim of this study was to assess the dopamine function of the temporal cortex in major depressive disorder using [123I]epidepride to image D2/3 receptor binding sites. Ten major depressives and 10 healthy controls were selected from a general population sample for single‐photon emission computed tomography imaging. Among the major depressives there was a strong bilateral correlation between the scores on the 21‐item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale and D2/3 receptor binding. Dopaminergic abnormalities may be present in the temporal cortices of major depressives.
Giant adrenal cyst in a pregnant woman: A case report
Authors: Balci Osman , Kuscu Esra
Published: June 2008

In this case report, a rare example of a pregnant woman with a huge adrenal cyst is reported. No other published reports were found to have an outcome like the present case. A 27‐year‐old primiparous patient admitted to our clinic with complaints of gaining weight, abdominal distension and dyspnea. On physical examination abdominal distension was prominent. She weighed 78 kg. At abdominal ultrasonography, there was an 11 week, single live fetus within the uterine cavity. There was also an approximately 30 x 40 cm sized cyst. The origin of the cyst could not be detected by ultrasonography and magnetic resonance imaging. It was suspected to originate from the ovaries. Tumor markers and other laboratory tests were normal. Laparotomy was planned. During laparotomy, it was observed that there was a huge, thin capsulated cystic lesion filling the abdomen. The uterus and bilateral ovaries were normal. Eleven liters of yellow‐colored fluid was drained from the cyst. At exploration, the cyst capsule was originating from a right adrenal lodge and was extirpated. The postoperative weight of the patient decreased to 67 kg. On the third postoperative day, the patient was discharged without any problems. The pathology result of the patient was reported as an epithelial adrenal cyst. The patient did not have any problems on antenatal follow up and had a cesarean delivery at term for cephalopelvic disproportion. A 3500 g, healthy female fetus was delivered.
Lethal endometrial recurrence after cone biopsy for microinvasive cervical adenocarcinoma
Authors: Singh Piksi , Scurry James , Proietto Anthony
Published: June 2008

The follow up of microinvasive cervical adenocarcinoma treated conservatively is difficult because recurrences are often out of range and Pap smears difficult to interpret. A 30‐year‐old woman with a microinvasive adenocarcinoma with clear, but narrow, margins on cone biopsy was treated conservatively. After 2 years of close follow up in which no recurrence was detected, dilatation and curettage performed for infertility revealed adenocarcinoma invading secretory endometrium. The carcinoma resembled her cervical adenocarcinoma histologically, immunohistochemically and was HPV DNA 16 positive. A radical hysterectomy showed carcinoma involving the entire endometrium and the uppermost 3 mm of the endocervical canal, but sparing the remainder of the cervix. The patient died of disseminated carcinoma at the age of 34 years. The location of the recurrence was the reason it escaped detection for so long despite close follow up.
Hypothalamus, sexual arousal and psychosexual identity in human males: a functional magnetic resonance imaging study
Authors: Brunetti M. , Babiloni C. , Ferretti A. , Del Gratta C. , Merla A. , Olivetti Belardinelli M. , Romani G. L.
Published: June 2008

In a recent functional magnetic resonance imaging study, a complex neural circuit was shown to be involved in human males during sexual arousal [A. Ferretti et al. (2005) Neuroimage, 26, 1086]. At group level, there was a specific correlation between penile erection and activations in anterior cingulate, insula, amygdala, hypothalamus and secondary somatosensory regions. However, it is well known that there are remarkable inter‐individual differences in the psychological view and attitude to sex of human males. Therefore, a crucial issue is the relationship among cerebral responses, sexual arousal and psychosexual identity at individual level. To address this issue, 18 healthy male subjects were recruited. Their deep sexual identity (DSI) was assessed following the construct revalidation by M. Olivetti Belardinelli [(1994) Sci. Contrib. Gen. Psychol., 11, 131] of the Franck drawing completion test, a projective test providing, according to this revalidation, quantitative scores on ‘accordance/non‐accordance’ between self‐reported and psychological sexual identity. Cerebral activity was evaluated by means of functional magnetic resonance imaging during hard‐core erotic movies and sport movies. Results showed a statistically significant positive correlation between the blood oxygen level‐dependent signal in bilateral hypothalamus and the Franck drawing completion test score during erotic movies. The higher the blood oxygen level‐dependent activation in bilateral hypothalamus, the higher the male DSI profile. These results suggest that, in male subjects, inter‐individual differences in the DSI are strongly correlated with blood flow to the bilateral hypothalamus, a dimorphic brain region deeply implicated in instinctual drives including reproduction.
Action of dexmedetomidine on the substantia gelatinosa neurons of the rat spinal cord
Authors: Ishii Hideaki , Kohno Tatsuro , Yamakura Tomohiro , Ikoma Miho , Baba Hiroshi
Published: June 2008

Dexmedetomidine is a highly specific, potent and selective α2‐adrenoceptor agonist. Although intrathecal and epidural administration of dexmedetomidine has been found to produce analgesia, whether this analgesia results from an effect on spinal cord substantia gelatinosa (SG) neurons remains unclear. Here, we investigated the effects of dexmedetomidine on postsynaptic transmission in SG neurons of rat spinal cord slices using the whole‐cell patch‐clamp technique. In 92% of the SG neurons examined (n = 84), bath‐applied dexmedetomidine induced outward currents at −70 mV in a concentration‐dependent manner, with the value of effective concentration producing a half‐maximal response (0.62 μm). The outward currents induced by dexmedetomidine were suppressed by the α2‐adrenoceptor antagonist yohimbine, but not by prazosin, an α1‐, α2B‐ and α2C‐adrenoceptor antagonist. Moreover, the dexmedetomidine‐induced currents were partially suppressed by the α2C‐adrenoceptor antagonist JP‐1302, while simultaneous application of JP‐1302 and the α2A‐adrenoceptor antagonist BRL44408 abolished the current completely. The action of dexmedetomidine was mimicked by the α2A‐adrenoceptor agonist oxymetazoline. Plots of the current–voltage relationship revealed a reversal potential at around −86 mV. Dexmedetomidine‐induced currents were blocked by the addition of GDP‐β‐S [guanosine‐5′‐O‐(2‐thiodiphosphate)] or Cs+to the pipette solution. These findings suggest that dexmedetomidine hyperpolarizes the membrane potentials of SG neurons by G‐protein‐mediated activation of K+channels through α2A‐ and α2C‐adrenoceptors. This action of dexmedetomidine might contribute, at least in part, to its antinociceptive action in the spinal cord.
Modulation of neural responses in inferotemporal cortex during the interpretation of ambiguous photographs
Authors: Liu Yan , Jagadeesh Bharathi
Published: June 2008

Ambiguous images are interpreted in the context of biases about what they might be; these biases and the behavioral consequences induced by them may influence the processing of images. In this report, we examine neural responses in inferotemporal cortex (IT) during the interpretation of ambiguous photographs created by morphing between two photographs. Monkeys classified different images as being one of two choices and learned to classify most of the samples correctly. For one image (the ambiguous sample) reward was administered randomly for either possible choice, and the monkeys were free to classify that image based on their own interpretation, with no learning possible. The ambiguous samples were not classified randomly: the monkey interpreted the samples differently during different sessions. The interpretation of the ambiguous sample was, in turn, highly correlated with the normalized response of individual neurons in IT to the ambiguous sample. If an ambiguous sample was interpreted as a particular choice during a session, the response to that ambiguous sample more closely resembled the response to that choice. Identical ambiguous images were interpreted differently during different sessions, and neural responses reflected the differing interpretations of the image during that session. The relationship between the interpretation of the image and neural responses strengthened over the course of a session because neural responses shifted to more closely resemble the response to the initial interpretation of the image. The data support a flexible representation of visual stimuli in higher visual areas.
Temporally limited role of substantia nigra–central amygdala connections in surprise‐induced enhancement of learning
Authors: Lee H. J. , Youn J. M. , Gallagher M. , Holland P. C.
Published: June 2008

Prediction error plays an important role in modern associative learning theories. For example, the omission of an expected event (surprise) can enhance attention to cues that accompany those omissions, such that subsequent new learning about those cues is more rapid. Many studies from our laboratories have demonstrated that circuitry that includes the amygdala central nucleus (CeA), the cholinergic neurons in the substantia innominata/nucleus basalis region and their innervation of the posterior parietal cortex is critical for this surprise‐induced enhancement of attention in learning. We recently showed that midbrain dopamine neurons, known to code prediction error, are also important for surprise‐induced enhancement of learning through their interaction with CeA. The present study examined whether in rats the communication between the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNc) and CeA is critical only at the time of surprise, for example to detect prediction error information, or is also needed to maintain and later express that information as enhanced learning. All animals received unilateral CeA lesions and unilateral cannula implants targeting the SNc located contralateral to the lesioned CeA. As the SNc–CeA connections are mainly ipsilateral, inactivating SNc contralateral to the lesioned CeA provided transient blockage of SNc and CeA communication. The results show that SNc–CeA communication is critical for processing prediction error information at the time of surprise, but neither SNc nor SNc–CeA communication is necessary to express that information as enhanced learning later.
Large‐scale study of phosphoproteins involved in long‐term potentiation in the rat dentate gyrus in vivo
Authors: Chardonnet Solenne , Le Marechal Pierre , Cheval Hélène , Le Caer Jean‐Pierre , Decottignies Paulette , Laprevote Olivier , Laroche Serge , Davis Sabrina
Published: June 2008

The mechanisms underlying the induction of synaptic plasticity and the formation of long‐term memory involve activation of cell‐signalling cascades and protein modifications such as phosphorylation and dephosphorylation. Based on a protein candidate strategy, studies have identified several protein kinases and their substrates, which show an altered phosphorylation state during the early phases of long‐term potentiation (LTP), yet only a limited number of synaptic phosphoproteins are known to be implicated in LTP. To identify new phosphoproteins associated with LTP, we have undertaken a proteomic study of phosphoproteins at different time points following the induction of LTP in the dentate gyrus in vivo (0, 15 and 90 min). For each time point, proteins from the dentate gyrus were separated by two‐dimensional gel electrophoresis and stained with Pro−Q® Diamond, a fluorescent stain specific for phosphoproteins. Fourteen proteins whose phosphorylation state varied significantly following LTP were identified using matrix‐assisted laser desorption ionization/time of flight mass spectrometry and electrospray ionization‐Orbitrap tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS). They are involved in various cellular functions implicated in synaptic plasticity, such as intracellular signalling, axonal growth, exocytosis, protein synthesis and metabolism. Our results highlight new proteins whose phosphorylation or dephosphorylation is associated with LTP induction or maintenance. Further studies focusing on the regulation of specific phosphorylation sites will lead to greater understanding of the individual implications of these proteins in LTP as well as of their molecular interactions.
Concepts of neural nitric oxide‐mediated transmission
Authors: Garthwaite John
Published: June 2008

As a chemical transmitter in the mammalian central nervous system, nitric oxide (NO) is still thought a bit of an oddity, yet this role extends back to the beginnings of the evolution of the nervous system, predating many of the more familiar neurotransmitters. During the 20 years since it became known, evidence has accumulated for NO subserving an increasing number of functions in the mammalian central nervous system, as anticipated from the wide distribution of its synthetic and signal transduction machinery within it. This review attempts to probe beneath those functions and consider the cellular and molecular mechanisms through which NO evokes short‐ and long‐term modifications in neural performance. With any transmitter, understanding its receptors is vital for decoding the language of communication. The receptor proteins specialised to detect NO are coupled to cGMP formation and provide an astonishing degree of amplification of even brief, low amplitude NO signals. Emphasis is given to the diverse ways in which NO receptor activation initiates changes in neuronal excitability and synaptic strength by acting at pre‐ and/or postsynaptic locations. Signalling to non‐neuronal cells and an unexpected line of communication between endothelial cells and brain cells are also covered. Viewed from a mechanistic perspective, NO conforms to many of the rules governing more conventional neurotransmission, particularly of the metabotropic type, but stands out as being more economical and versatile, attributes that presumably account for its spectacular evolutionary success.
Ileal ureteric replacement with an ileo‐psoas muscle tunnel antirefluxing technique for the treatment of long segment ureteric strictures
Authors: Xu Yue‐Min , Qian Lin , Qiao Yong , Wu Deng‐Long , Sa Ying‐Long , Zhang Xin‐Ru , Chen Rong , Si Jie‐Min
Published: June 2008

OBJECTIVES

To develop and report our initial experience with a novel antirefluxing technique for segmental ileal ureteric replacement for the treatment of long ureteric strictures.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Between January 2000 and January 2007, 12 cases of ureteric strictures (nine bilateral and three unilateral) were treated using a novel surgical technique in which the ureter was replaced with a segment of ileum using an end‐to‐side anastomosis. An antireflux valve was constructed by fixing the distal part of upper ureter (4 cm) between the psoas muscle and ileal segment (the ileo‐psoas tunnel technique). The distal ileum was connected to the urinary bladder with an end‐to‐side anastomosis.

RESULTS

The 12 cases were followed‐up for a mean (range) of 39.42 (12–64) months. There were no cases of pyelonephritis or signs of renal failure after surgery. There was dramatic improvement in hydronephrosis, as assessed by intravenous urography, in the 4–9 months after surgery. Cystography showed no evidence of ileo‐ureteric reflux. Mild hyperchloraemic acidosis was detected in two patients and was successfully treated with oral alkalization.

CONCLUSIONS

In our initial experience, ileal ureteric replacement combined with the ileo‐psoas tunnel antirefluxing technique is a highly effective procedure for the treatment of ureteric strictures.
Critical review of the World Health Organization's (WHO) 2007 report on ‘evidence of the long‐term effects of breastfeeding: systematic reviews and meta‐analysis’ with respect to obesity
Authors: Cope M. B. , Allison D. B.
Published: June 2008

Obesity among children and adults has become a highly recognized public health concern and there is an increasing need to discover causes and evaluate preventative measures. One putatively causal influence on obesity is breastfeeding (BF). The World Health Organization (WHO) recently published a report (WR) on ‘Evidence of the Long‐Term Effects of Breastfeeding: Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analysis’ and concluded ‘that the evidence suggests that breastfeeding may have a small protective effect[emphasis added] on the prevalence of obesity . . . [and] the effect of breastfeeding was not likely to be due to publication bias or confounding.’ Here we provide a critical overview of the WR's section on BF and obesity by addressing eight questions: Q1: Is there sufficient evidence to conclude that BF is associated with lower rates of obesity in children? Q2: Is there sufficient evidence to conclude that BF is associated with lower rates of obesity among breastfed offspring once they reach adulthood? Q3: If there are such associations, what are their magnitudes in comparison with other putatively causal factors and with respect to the potential impact on individual or population levels of obesity? Q4: Is there sufficient evidence to conclude that BF causes a reduction in risk of obesity during childhood? Q5: Is there sufficient evidence to conclude that BF does not cause a reduction in risk of obesity during childhood? Q6: Is there sufficient evidence to conclude that BF causes a long‐term reduction in risk of obesity that persists into adulthood? Q7: Is there sufficient evidence to conclude that BF does not cause a long‐term reduction in risk of obesity that persists into adulthood? Q8: What further research might be done to address these questions? We conclude that, while BF may have benefits beyond any putative protection against obesity, and benefits of BF most likely outweigh any harms, any statement that a strong, clear or consistent body of evidence shows that BF causally reduces the risk of overweight or obesity is unwarranted at this time.
DEADLY PLURALISM? WHY DEATH‐CONCEPT, DEATH‐DEFINITION, DEATH‐CRITERION AND DEATH‐TEST PLURALISM SHOULD BE ALLOWED, EVEN THOUGH IT CREATES SOME PROBLEMS
Authors: ZEILER KRISTIN
Published: June 2008

Death concept, death definition, death criterion and death test pluralism has been described by some as a problematic approach. Others have claimed it to be a promising way forward within modern pluralistic societies. This article describes the New Jersey Death Definition Law and the Japanese Transplantation Law. Both of these laws allow for more than one death concept within a single legal system. The article discusses a philosophical basis for these laws starting from John Rawls' understanding of comprehensive doctrines, reasonable pluralism and overlapping consensus. It argues for the view that a certain legal pluralism in areas of disputed metaphysical, philosophical and/or religious questions should be allowed, as long as the disputed questions concern the individual and the resulting policy, law or acts based on the policy/law, do not harm the lives of other individuals to an intolerable extent. However, while this death concept, death definition, death criterion and death test pluralism solves some problems, it creates others.
Development of a Bridge Bumper to Protect Bridge Girders from Overheight Vehicle Impacts
Authors: Sharma Hrishikesh , Hurlebaus Stefan , Gardoni Paolo
Published: June 2008

Abstract:  Bridges with low clearance are vulnerable to collision with overheight vehicles. Collisions of overheight vehicles can cause fatalities and injuries to the drivers and passengers of the overheight vehicles, and damage to bridge girders. The repair of the damaged bridges can be costly and time consuming. This article investigates the feasibility of developing a bridge bumper that minimizes the physical injuries and the likelihood of fatalities and protects the structural elements of bridges by absorbing the impact energy. The article presents the results of small‐scale impact experiments using the proposed bridge bumper with several options of energy‐absorbing materials to protect a reinforced concrete beam. Finite element analyses are carried out to simulate the small‐scale impact experiments. Optimization of the finite element model is conducted for the response quantities of interest with respect to the geometrical parameters and the material properties of the proposed bridge bumper. Such analysis can guide the design of an optimal bridge bumper that maximizes the energy dissipation and minimizes the damage to the bridge girder and the likelihood of fatalities and injuries. A possible full‐scale implementation of the proposed bridge bumper is also described.