bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modification of Lipooligosaccharide with Phosphoethanolamine by LptA in
Neisseria meningitidis
Enhances Meningococcal Adhesion to Human Endothelial and Epithelial Cells
Authors: Takahashi Hideyuki , Carlson Russel W. , Muszynski Artur , Choudhury Biswa , Kim Kwang Sik , Stephens David S. , Watanabe Haruo
Published: September 2008

The lipooligosaccharide (LOS) of
Neisseria meningitidis
can be decorated with phosphoethanolamine (PEA) at the 4′ position of lipid A and at the O-3 and O-6 positions of the inner core of the heptose II residue. The biological role of PEA modification in
N. meningitidis
remains unclear. During the course of our studies to elucidate the pathogenicity of the ST-2032 (invasive) meningococcal clonal group, disruption of
lptA
, the gene that encodes the PEA transferase for 4′ lipid A, led to a approximately 10-fold decrease in
N. meningitidis
adhesion to four kinds of human endothelial and epithelial cell lines at an multiplicity of infection of 5,000. Complementation of the
lptA
gene in a Δ
lptA
mutant restored wild-type adherence. By matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time-of-flight mass spectrometry analysis, PEA was lost from the lipid A of the Δ
lptA
mutant compared to that of the wild-type strain. The effect of LptA on meningococcal adhesion was independent of other adhesins such as pili, Opc, Opa, and PilC but was inhibited by the presence of capsule. These results indicate that modification of LOS with PEA by LptA enhances meningococcal adhesion to human endothelial and epithelial cells in unencapsulated
N. meningitidis
.
Bacteriophage 2851 Is a Prototype Phage for Dissemination of the Shiga Toxin Variant Gene 2c in
Escherichia coli
O157:H7
Authors: Strauch Eckhard , Hammerl Jens Andre , Konietzny Antje , Schneiker-Bekel Susanne , Arnold Walter , Goesmann Alexander , Pühler Alfred , Beutin Lothar
Published: September 2008

The production of Shiga toxin (Stx) (verocytotoxin) is a major virulence factor of
Escherichia coli
O157:H7 strains (Shiga toxin-producing
E. coli
[STEC] O157). Two types of Shiga toxins, designated Stx1 and Stx2, are produced in STEC O157. Variants of the Stx2 type (Stx2, Stx2c) are associated with high virulences of these strains for humans. A bacteriophage designated 2851 from a human STEC O157 encoding the Stx2c variant was described previously. Nucleotide sequence analysis of the phage 2851 genome revealed 75 predicted coding sequences and indicated a mosaic structure typical for lambdoid phages. Analyses of free phages and K-12 phage 2851 lysogens revealed that upon excision from the bacterial chromosome, the loss of a phage-encoded IS
629
element leads to fusion of phage
antA
and
antB
genes, with the generation of a recombined
antAB
gene encoding a strong antirepressor. In wild-type
E. coli
O157 as well as in K-12 strains, phage 2851 was found to be integrated in the
sbcB
locus. Additionally, phage 2851 carries an open reading frame which encodes an OspB-like type III effector similar to that found in
Shigella
spp. Investigation of 39
stx
2c
E. coli
O157 strains revealed that all except 1 were positive for most phage 2851-specific genes and possessed a prophage with the same border sequences integrated into the
sbcB
locus. Phage 2851-specific sequences were absent from most
stx
2c
-negative
E. coli
O157 strains, and we suggest that phage 2851-like phages contributed significantly to the dissemination of the Stx2c variant toxin within this group of
E. coli
.
Informed consent for the study of retained tissues from postmortem examination following sudden infant death
Authors: Elliot J G , Ford D L , Beard J F , Fitzgerald K N , Robinson P J , James A L
Published: September 2008

Objective:

To develop an approach for seeking informed consent to examine tissues retained from a previous study of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) as part of a study on asthma, and to document responses and participation rate.

Design:

Pilot open-ended approach to 10 volunteer SIDS parents, followed by staged approach (newsletter, mail and telephone call) to seek consent from the target SIDS families for the asthma study.

Participants:

Parents (n = 10) of SIDS infants known to SIDS and Kids Victoria and parents of SIDS infants (n = 107) from the 1991–2 SIDS in Victoria case–control study.

Main outcomes:

Qualitative responses of the piloted parents and study parents, and participation rates.

Results:

The pilot group responses were used to refine the written material to be provided. Of the 72 families for which contact details were available, 45 gave verbal consent for contact by the Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine regarding the asthma study, three refused and 24 did not respond to two letters. Thirty-three completed consent forms, all positive for participation in the asthma study, giving a positive response rate of 73% (33/45).

Conclusions:

The use of postmortem tissue for research is acceptable to the next of kin when an approach is sensitive to their concerns and needs and is made by experienced counsellors from a familiar organisation. Despite the painful memories evoked by the approach of the research group, the acceptance rate among those who could be contacted was high.
Delivery of ambulance service by volunteers in Victoria, Australia: an ethical dilemma?
Authors: Xu B
Published: September 2008

The Alexandra District Ambulance Service is the only volunteer-based ambulance service in Victoria, Australia. It provides an opportunity to reflect on the ethical issues surrounding the delivery of ambulance service by volunteers, and its impact on the community.
Paternity testing requested by private parties in Italy: some ethical considerations
Authors: Caenazzo L , Comacchio A , Tozzo P , Rodriguez D , Benciolini P
Published: September 2008

In Italy, judicial and extrajudicial requests for paternity testing have increased in recent years. A retrospective analysis of such private extrajudicial requests received by the legal medicine unit of the Department of Environmental Medicine and Public Health of Padua University was conducted to identify problem areas most helpful in determining whether to accept private parties’ requests for paternity testing. Such testing is most delicate when a presumptive father may be seeking to disown paternity and when testing is wanted without the consent of a member of the mother–child–father triangle. Tests that could establish paternity where none has been recognised are less problematic, as the child will not lose out. Legal and ethical–deontological aspects of consent, of the protection of minors and of children’s and parents’ need for follow-up interviews to deal with the outcome of such testing are carefully considered by the Padua University team when deciding whether to accept a request for testing. It is argued that because such issues are not dealt with by mail-order laboratories, the use of such services is inappropriate.
Failure to report and provide commentary on research ethics board approval and informed consent in medical journals
Authors: Finlay K A , Fernandez C V
Published: September 2008

Background:

The Declaration of Helsinki prohibits the publication of articles that do not meet defined ethical standards for reporting of research ethics board (REB) approval and informed consent. Despite this prohibition and a call to highlight the deficiency for the reader, articles with potential ethical shortcomings continue to be published.

Objective:

To determine what proportion of articles in major medical journals lack statements confirming REB approval and informed consent, and whether accompanying commentary alerts readers to this deficiency.

Design:

Retrospective, observational study.

Setting:

Online review of five major medical journals.

Population:

All clinical research articles published online between 1 January 2005 and 31 December 2006 in theBMJ,Lancet, Annals of Internal Medicine, JAMAand theNew England Journal of Medicine.

Measurements:

Statement of REB approval and informed consent.

Results:

Of 1780 articles reviewed, 1133 (63.7%) met inclusion criteria (manuscripts reporting human subjects, human tissue or identifiable personal data research), 36 (3.2%) articles lacked a statement of REB approval, 62 (5.5%) lacked disclosure of informed consent and 15 (1.3%) articles lacked both. Articles that did not state REB approval were associated with not stating informed consent (p<0.001). There were no editorial comments to alert readers to the lack of either REB approval or informed consent statements associated with any of the deficient articles.

Conclusions:

Articles that lack explicit statements of REB approval and informed consent are infrequent but continue to be published in major medical journals without editorial statements to alert the reader to this deficiency.
Do faculty and resident physicians discuss their medical errors?
Authors: Kaldjian L C , Forman-Hoffman V L , Jones E W , Wu B J , Levi B H , Rosenthal G E
Published: September 2008

Background:

Discussions about medical errors facilitate professional learning for physicians and may provide emotional support after an error, but little is known about physicians’ attitudes and practices regarding error discussions with colleagues.

Methods:

Survey of faculty and resident physicians in generalist specialties in Midwest, Mid-Atlantic and Northeast regions of the US to investigate attitudes and practices regarding error discussions, likelihood of discussing hypothetical errors, experience role-modelling error discussions and demographic variables.

Results:

Responses were received from 338 participants (response rate  = 74%). In all, 73% of respondents indicated they usually discuss their mistakes with colleagues, 70% believed discussing mistakes strengthens professional relationships and 89% knew at least one colleague who would be a supportive listener. Motivations for error discussions included wanting to learn whether a colleague would have made the same decision (91%), wanting colleagues to learn from the mistake (80%) and wanting to receive support (79%). Given hypothetical scenarios, most respondents indicated they would likely discuss an error resulting in no harm (77%), minor harm (87%) or major harm (94%). Fifty-seven percent of physicians had tried to serve as a role model by discussing an error and role-modelling was more likely among those who had previously observed an error discussion (OR 4.17, CI 2.34 to 7.42).

Conclusions:

Most generalist physicians in teaching hospitals report that they usually discuss their errors with colleagues, and more than half have tried to role-model discussions. However, a significant number of these physicians report that they do not usually discuss their errors and some do not know colleagues who would be supportive listeners.
Variability in forest floor at different spatial scales in a natural forest in the Carpathians: effect of windthrows and mesorelief
Authors: Šamonil P. , Král K. , Douda J. , Šebková B.
Published: September 2008

Spatial variability of humus properties in a natural fir–beech forest was studied along with the influence of windthrows and mesorelief on this variability. In 1720 windthrows the thickness and form of the organic horizons were studied in three positions — mound, pit, and undisturbed control. On undisturbed sites, substantial variability of thickness and forms of the organic horizons was found on a fine scale (0–10 m). Close spatial dependence of some humus characteristics was found on a coarser scale (20–120 m). The mesorelief was found to be one of the key autocorrelation factors. The level of spatial dependence was not uniform; it differed between the fermented and humification horizons and among their forms. The presence of windthrows increased the variability of humus thickness on both fine (0–10 m) and coarse (level of entire locality, i.e., 11 ha) scales. However, windthrows did not increase the variability of organic horizon forms (OHFs) on a fine scale. High variability of OHFs is probably a property of fully developed mature humus in a natural fir–beech forest. On a coarse scale, the presence of pits increased the frequency of fermented zoogenous and humification residual horizons on the study area.
Data envelopment analysis of technical efficiency and productivity growth in the US Pacific Northwest sawmill industry
Authors: Helvoigt Ted L. , Adams Darius M.
Published: September 2008

This paper uses data envelopment analysis (DEA) to characterize the changing production frontier (technical efficiency, productivity growth, technical and efficiency change, and returns to scale) of the sawmilling industry in the Pacific Northwest (PNW) US using geographical panel data for the period 1968–2002. Unlike past DEA studies, we develop confidence intervals for all estimates using an improved bootstrapping method. The results indicate that the gap between the least and most efficient regions in PNW has grown and the least efficient regions are falling further behind the most efficient regions. For the Oregon regions, the null hypothesis of constant returns to scale (CRS) could not be rejected for any year. For the Washington regions, returns to scale varied year by year, although only two of the five regions showed strong tendencies away from CRS. For PNW as a whole, mean productivity growth was 0.5% per year between 1968 and 1992. Between 1992 and 2002, the regional mean was 1.3%, although with wide variation across regions. DEA results indicate that the vast majority of productivity growth in the PNW sawmilling industry between 1968 and 2002 was due to technical change. Improvements in scale efficiency played a very small role, and efficiency change was zero or negative.
PERMUTATIONS OF STRONGLY SELF-ABSORBING C*-ALGEBRAS
Authors: HIRSHBERG ILAN , WINTER WILHELM
Published: September 2008

Let G be a finite group acting on {1,…,n}. For any C*-algebra [Formula: see text], this defines an action α of G on [Formula: see text]. We show that if [Formula: see text] tensorially absorbs a UHF algebra of infinite type, the Jiang–Su algebra, or is approximately divisible, then [Formula: see text] has the corresponding property as well.
HOLOMORPHIC PRINCIPAL BUNDLES WITH AN ELLIPTIC CURVE AS THE STRUCTURE GROUP
Authors: BISWAS INDRANIL
Published: September 2008

Let Λ ⊂ ℂ be the ℤ-module generated by 1 and [Formula: see text], where τ is a positive real number. Let Z := ℂ/Λ be the corresponding complex torus of dimension one. Our aim here is to give a general construction of holomorphic principal Z-bundles over a complex manifold X.

Let θ1 and θ2 be two C∞ real closed two-forms on X such that the Hodge type (0, 2) component of the form [Formula: see text] vanishes, and the elements in H2(X, ℂ) represented by θ1 and θ2 are contained in the image of H2(X, ℤ). For such a pair we construct a holomorphic principal Z-bundle over X. Conversely, given any holomorphic principal Z-bundle EZ over X, we construct a pair of closed differential forms on X of the above type.
3D reconstruction and visualization of astrophysical wind volumes using physical models
Authors: Pachoulakis Ioannis
Published: September 2008

This article reports on the application of a framework used to model, simulate and visualize the 3D structure of astrophysical wind volumes. The modeling methodology is similar to multidirectional medical tomography in that the spatial structure of an extended target can be reconstructed from a sequence of images obtained by scanning that target from several directions. Even though the controlled environment realized in diagnostic radiology cannot be replicated in the study of astrophysical phenomena, strong candidates for astrophysical tomography do exist in hot, close double stars locked in orbits around a common center of mass. As the Keplerian orbit is traced out, the geometry presented to the observer varies so that each star constitutes an analyzer upon its companion's wind and probes its structure. Since these targets are too far to be resolved spatially, we study and model the UV spectral lines of prominent wind ions, which scatter photospheric UV light so that line shapes vary as the stars revolve and as inhomogeneities form, propagate, and evolve in the composite wind. The framework presented is applied to two hot close binaries near the applicability limits of the discussed methodology. Two novel custom-made tools that aid the analysis of the spectra and the visualization of the results are also presented. The first of these, the
Spectrum Analyzer and Animator
, automates the derivation of light curves from the observed spectra and the generation of synthetic binary wind-line profiles, which reproduce the morphologies and variabilities of the observed wind profiles. After the composite wind structure of a binary has been recovered, the second tool, the
Binary 3D Renderer
—also authored in IDL—aids the visualization of the results by simulating the motion of the system (stars, winds and wind-interaction effects) around the binary's center of mass. The
Binary 3D Renderer
thus repackages the end product of a lengthy physical modeling process to generate physically sound, realistic multimedia content and increase the effectiveness and communication impact of the research results.
Some observations on staff estimation metrics for object
Authors: Mishra Deepti , Mishra Alok
Published: September 2008

Object-Oriented software projects are becoming more popular than structured (functional) technology based projects in the present scenario. Object Technology (OT) offers support to deliver products to market more quickly and to provide high quality products with lower maintenance costs. As expertise in managing Object-Oriented (OO) project grows, such a body of OO metric knowledge will become increasingly usable across the Industry. There is need for good OO metrics for both process and product management. Estimation is an important field of software engineering. In this work we have proposed model for staffing estimation by using available metrics in OO and taking affecting factors into consideration.
Playscript for use cases
Authors: Riehle Richard
Published: September 2008

The concept of use case has become popular in developing requirements for software systems. It is even recommended as an inherent part of the Unified Modeling Language (UML). An early predecessor of the use case for systems and procedures practice in the 1960's was the Playscript procedure. This article describes how Playscript can contribute to better use cases.
Risks to the public
Authors: Neumann Peter G.
Published: September 2008

Edited by Peter G. Neumann (Risks Forum Moderator and Chairman of the ACM Committee on Computers and Public Policy), plus personal contributions by others, as indicated. Opinions expressed are individual rather than organizational, and all of the usual disclaimers apply. We address problems relating to software, hardware, people, and other circumstances relevant to computer systems. To economize on space, we include pointers to items in the online Risks Forum: (R i j) denotes RISKS vol i number j. Cited RISKS items generally identify contributors and sources, together with URLs. Official RISKS archives are available at www.risks.org (which redirects to Newcastle and gets you nice html formatting and a search engine courtesy of Lindsay Marshall; http://catless.ncl.ac.uk/Risks/i.j.html gets you (R i j)) and at ftp://www.sri.com/risks.
Review of “Botnet Detection: Countering the Largest Security Threat (Advances in Information Security) by Wenke Lee, Cliff Wang, David Dagon”, Springer-Verlag New York Inc., 2007, $99.00, ISBN: 0387687661
Authors: Henderson David B.
Published: September 2008

Review of “Botnet Detection: Countering the Largest Security Threat (Advances in Information Security) by Wenke Lee, Cliff Wang, David Dagon”, Springer-Verlag New York Inc., 2007, $99.00, ISBN: 0387687661
The Fabrication of Reality
Authors: Kelly-Bootle Stan
Published: September 2008

There are always anniversaries, real or concocted, to loosen the columnist’s writer’s block and/or justify the intake of alcohol. I’ll drink to that to the fact that we are blessed with a reasonably regular solar system providing a timeline of annual increments against which we can enumerate and toast past events. Hic semper hic. When the drinking occurs in sporadic and excessive bursts, it becomes known, disapprovingly, as "bingeing." I’m tempted to claim that this colorful Lincolnshire dialect word binge, meaning soak, was first used in the boozing-bout sense exactly 200 years ago. And that, shurely, calls for a schelebration.
Visual thesaurus
Authors: Worrell Sharon
Published: September 2008

I'm a self-confessed internet junkie, and I'm rarely surprised by anything that I find nowadays. But when I stumbled across the Visual Thesaurus (www.visualthesaurus.com) I have to admit that I was intrigued. I love to write for fun, but invariably end up using the same old words. I'm not a huge fan of the traditional Roget's Thesaurus -- I'm embarrassed to say how long it took me to master it, but it was more than a couple of years -- so I thought it would be fun to see connected words laid out in a more visual manner.
Cryoablation of Small Renal Tumors in Patients with Solitary Kidneys: Initial Experience
Authors: Munver Ravi , Disick Grant I. S. , Lombardo Salvatore A. , Bargman Vladislav G. , Sawczuk Ihor S.
Published: September 2008

Introduction. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the role of renal cryoablation in patients with solitary kidneys with the goals of tumor destruction and maximal renal parenchymal preservation.Methods. Eleven patients with single tumors were treated with cryoablation, of which 10 patients had solitary kidneys and 1 had a nonfunctioning contralateral kidney. All procedures were performed via an open extraperitoneal approach; ten tumors were treated with in-situ cryoablation and 1 tumor was treated with cryo-assisted partial nephrectomy.Results. Cryoablation was successfully performed without any preoperative complications. Mean patient age was 62.4 years (range 49–79), tumor location included: 6 (upper pole), 2 (mid-kidney), 3 (lower pole). The mean and median tumor size was 2.6 cm and 2.8 cm (range 1.2–4.3 cm), mean operative time 205 minutes (range 180–270 minutes), blood loss 98.5 ml (range 40–250 ml), and hospitalization 4.6 days (range 3–8 days). Creatinine values included: preoperative 1.43 mg/dL (range 1.2–1.9), postoperative 1.67 mg/dL (range 1.5–2.5), and nadir 1.57 mg/dL (range 1.3–2.1). All patients were followed postoperatively with magnetic resonance imaging for surveillance. At a median follow-up of 43 months, 9 patients had no evidence of recurrence, 1 patient has an enhancing indeterminate area, and 1 patient was lost to follow-up.Conclusion. Intermediate-term results suggest that renal cryoablation offers a feasible alternative for patients that require a maximal nephron-sparing effort with preservation of renal function and minimal risk of tumor recurrence.
On the Stability of Quadratic Functional Equations
Authors: Lee Jung Rye , An Jong Su , Park Choonkil
Published: September 2008

Let X, Y be vector spaces and k a fixed positive integer. It is shown that a mapping f(kx + y) + f(kx-y) = 2k2f(x) + 2f(y) for all x, y ∈ X if and only if the mapping f : X → Y satisfies f(x + y) + f(x-y) = 2f(x) + 2f(y) for all
x, y ∈ X. Furthermore, the Hyers‐Ulam‐Rassias stability of the above functional
equation in Banach spaces is proven.
Biventricular Response After Pulmonary Valve Replacement for Right Ventricular Outflow Tract Dysfunction
Authors: Frigiola Alessandra , Tsang Victor , Bull Catherine , Coats Louise , Khambadkone Sachin , Derrick Graham , Mist Bryan , Walker Fiona , van Doorn Carin , Bonhoeffer Philipp , Taylor Andrew M.
Published: September 2008

Background—

The timing of pulmonary valve replacement (PVR) for free pulmonary incompetence in patients with congenital heart disease remains a dilemma for clinicians. We wanted to assess the determinants of improvement after PVR for pulmonary regurgitation over a wide range of patient ages and to use any identified predictors to compare clinical outcomes between patient groups.

Methods and Results—

Seventy-one patients (mean age 22±11 years; range, 8.5 to 64.9; 72% tetralogy of Fallot) underwent PVR for severe pulmonary regurgitation. New York Heart Association class improved after PVR (median of 2 to 1,
P
<0.0001). MRI and cardiopulmonary exercise testing were performed before and 1 year after intervention. After PVR, there was a significant reduction in right ventricular volumes (end diastolic volume 142±43 to 91±18, end systolic volume 73±33 to 43±14 mL/m
2
,
P
<0.0001), whereas left ventricular end diastolic volume increased (66±12 to 73±13 mL/m
2
,
P
<0.0001). Effective cardiac output significantly increased (right ventricular: 3.0±0.8 to 3.3±0.8 L/min,
P
=0.013 and left ventricular: 3.0±0.6 to 3.4±0.7 L/min,
P
<0.0001). On cardiopulmonary exercise testing, ventilatory response to carbon dioxide production at anaerobic threshold improved from 35.9±5.8 to 34.1±6.2 (
P
=0.008). Normalization of ventilatory response to carbon dioxide production was most likely to occur when PVR was performed at an age younger than 17.5 years (
P
=0.013).

Conclusions—

A relatively aggressive PVR policy (end diastolic volume <150 mL/m
2
) leads to normalization of right ventricular volumes, improvement in biventricular function, and submaximal exercise capacity. Normalization of ventilatory response to carbon dioxide production is most likely to occur when surgery is performed at an age ≤17.5 years. This is also associated with a better left ventricular filling and systolic function after surgery.
The Impact of Diabetic Status on Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Patency
Authors: Singh Steve K. , Desai Nimesh D. , Petroff Stephanie D. , Deb Saswata , Cohen Eric A. , Radhakrishnan Sam , Schwartz Leonard , Dubbin James , Fremes Stephen E.
Published: September 2008

Background—

Despite worse outcomes in diabetics after coronary artery bypass grafting surgery, studies have not examined graft patency in this high-risk group. This study examined the impact of diabetes on graft patency, 1-year postcoronary artery bypass grafting, using data from a multicenter randomized trial.

Methods and Results—

The Radial Artery Patency Study enrolled 561 patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting, comparing graft patency of the saphenous vein (SV) versus radial artery 1-year postcoronary artery bypass grafting. Angiographic follow-up was acquired for 440 patients (115 diabetics, 325 nondiabetics), each with a study radial artery and a control SV graft. Preoperative characteristics were similar. The proportion of small-sized target vessels was greater in diabetics (
P
=0.04). At 1 year, 33 of 230 study grafts (14.4%) were occluded in the diabetics versus 63 of 650 (9.7%) in the nondiabetics (
P
=0.052). Multivariable regression found diabetes to be a significant independent predictor of 1-year graft occlusion (relative risk, 1.45; 95% CI, 1.03 to 2.05;
P
=0.03) along with female gender, SV conduit, and small target-vessel size. A significantly higher proportion of SV grafts were occluded in the diabetics (19% versus 12%,
P
=0.04). Radial artery grafting was protective in the diabetic cohort (radial artery: 11 of 115 occluded [9.5%] versus SV: 22 of 115 occluded [19.1%], McNemar corrected
P
=0.05; relative risk, 0.42; 95% CI, 0.16 to 1.01) and nondiabetics (radial artery: 25 of 325 occluded [7.7%] versus SV: 38 of 325 occluded [11.7%], McNemar corrected
P
=0.11; relative risk, 0.63; 95% CI, 0.35 to 1.10).

Conclusions—

Coronary artery bypass grafting occlusions were more common among diabetics versus nondiabetics at 1-year angiography, mainly because of more frequent SV graft failure in diabetics. Radial artery, compared with SV grafting, is protective in both diabetic and nondiabetic patients.
Modulated Inflammation by Injection of High-Mobility Group Box 1 Recovers Post-Infarction Chronically Failing Heart
Authors: Takahashi Kunihiko , Fukushima Satsuki , Yamahara Kenichi , Yashiro Kenta , Shintani Yasunori , Coppen Steven R. , Salem Husein K. , Brouilette Scott W. , Yacoub Magdi H. , Suzuki Ken
Published: September 2008

Background—

Inflammation plays an important role in the progress of adverse ventricular remodeling after myocardial infarction. High-mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) is a nuclear protein, which has recently been uncovered to also act as a modifier of inflammation when released. We hypothesized that HMGB1 injection could preferentially modulate local myocardial inflammation, attenuate ventricular remodeling, and subsequently improve cardiac performance of postinfarction chronic heart failure.

Methods and Results—

Three weeks after left coronary artery ligation, HMGB1 (2.5 μg) or PBS was intramyocardially injected into rat hearts. At 28 days after injection, left ventricular ejection fraction was significantly improved after HMGB1 injection compared to PBS (39.3±1.4 versus 33.3±1.8%;
P
<0.01). Accumulation of CD45
+
inflammatory cells, two thirds of which were OX62
+
dendritic cells, in the peri-infarct area was significantly attenuated by HMGB1 injection. Dramatic changes in the expression of major proinflammatory cytokines were not detected by microarray or RT-PCR. Adverse ventricular remodeling including cardiomyocyte hypertrophy (cardiomyocyte cross-sectional area; 439±7 versus 458±6 μm
2
;
P
<0.05) and extracellular collagen deposition (collagen volume fraction; 11.9±0.4 versus 15.2±0.6%;
P
<0.01) was attenuated by HMGB1 injection. Analyses of signal transduction pathways revealed that HMGB1 injection activated ERK1/2, but not p38, Akt, and Smad3. Cardiac regeneration and neovascularization were not observed.

Conclusion—

HMGB1 injection modulated the local inflammation in the postinfarction chronically failing myocardium, particularly
via
reducing the accumulation of dendritic cells. This modulated inflammation resulted in attenuated fibrosis and cardiomyocyte hypertrophy, which thereby improved global cardiac function. These data suggest that HMGB1 may be valuable for the chronic heart failure treatment.
Does Obesity Modify the Effect of Blood Pressure on the Risk of Cardiovascular Disease?
Authors: Silventoinen Karri , Magnusson Patrik K.E. , Neovius Martin , Sundström Johan , Batty G. David , Tynelius Per , Rasmussen Finn
Published: September 2008

Background—

Some studies have suggested that increased blood pressure has a stronger effect on the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in lean persons than in obese persons, although this is not a universal finding. Given the inconsistency of this result, we tested it using a large population-based cohort data set.

Methods and Results—

Systolic and diastolic blood pressures (BPs) and body mass index were measured in 1 145 758 Swedish men born between 1951 and 1976 who were in young adulthood (median age 18.2 years). During the register-based follow-up, which lasted until the end of 2006, 65 611 new CVD events took place, including 6799 myocardial infarctions and 8827 strokes. Hazard ratios (HRs) per 1-SD increase in systolic and diastolic BP were computed within established body mass index categories (underweight, normal, overweight, or obese) with Cox proportional hazards models. The strongest associations of diastolic BP with CVD (HR 1.18), myocardial infarction (HR 1.22), and stroke (HR 1.13) were observed in the obese category. For systolic BP, the strongest associations were observed in the obese category with CVD (HR 1.16) and stroke (HR 1.29) but in the overweight category with myocardial infarction (HR 1.19). We observed statistically significant interactions (
P
<0.0001) with body mass index for diastolic BP in relation to CVD and for systolic BP in relation to CVD and stroke.

Conclusions—

In contrast to the findings of previous studies, we observed a general increase in the magnitude of the association between blood pressure and subsequent CVD with increasing body mass index. Hypertension should not be regarded as a less serious risk factor in obese than in lean or normal-weight persons.
Atrial Fibrillation After Isolated Coronary Surgery Affects Late Survival
Authors: Mariscalco Giovanni , Klersy Catherine , Zanobini Marco , Banach Maciej , Ferrarese Sandro , Borsani Paolo , Cantore Cristiano , Biglioli Paolo , Sala Andrea
Published: September 2008

Background—

Atrial fibrillation (AF) after coronary artery bypass graft surgery is a difficult problem and a continuing source of morbidity and mortality. However, the prognostic implications of postoperative AF are still in dispute. Our aim was to ascertain the impact of AF after coronary artery bypass graft on postoperative survival and to assess its prognostic role in cause-specific mortality.

Methods and Results—

We conducted a prospective observational study of 1832 patients undergoing isolated coronary artery bypass graft between January 2000 and December 2005 at 2 cardiac surgery centers in northern Italy. Patients affected by postoperative AF were identified and followed up until death or study end (April 30, 2007). A total of 570 patients (31%) developed AF after coronary surgery. Patients affected by postoperative AF experienced a longer hospital stay (7 days [25th to 75th percentile, 7 to 10 days] versus 7 days [25th to 75th percentile, 6 to 8 days];
P
<0.001). Hospital mortality also was higher in AF patients (3.3% versus 0.5%;
P
<0.001). On discharge, 1806 patients were alive; 143 were lost to follow-up. The remaining 1663 were followed up for a median of 51 months (25th to 75th percentile, 41 to 63 months); 126 of them died after a median of 14 months (25th to 75th percentile, 5 to 32 months). Long-term mortality rates were significantly higher for patients with postoperative AF (2.99 per 100 person-years; 95% confidence interval, 2.33 to 3.84; 61 deaths) compared with those without the arrhythmia (1.34 per 100 person-years; 95% confidence interval, 1.05 to 1.71; 65 deaths), with an adjusted hazard ratio of 2.13 (
P
<0.001) and 2.56 (
P
=0.001) when also accounting for the prescription of warfarin at discharge. With Cox regression, patients with AF were shown to be at higher risk of dying from embolism (adjusted hazard ratio, 4.33; 95% confidence interval, 1.78 to 10.52) but not from other causes.

Conclusions—

Postoperative AF affects early and late mortality after isolated coronary artery bypass graft surgery. Patients affected by AF are at higher risk of fatal embolic events. Careful postoperative surveillance with a specific antiarrhythmic and antithrombotic prophylaxis, aimed at reducing AF and its complications, is recommended.
Microphysical and Thermodynamic Structure and Evolution of the Trailing Stratiform Regions of Mesoscale Convective Systems during BAMEX. Part II: Column Model Simulations
Authors: Grim Joseph A. , McFarquhar Greg M. , Rauber Robert M. , Smith Andrea M. , Jewett Brian F.
Published: September 2008

This study employed a nondynamic microphysical column model to evaluate the degree to which the microphysical processes of sublimation, melting, and evaporation alone can explain the evolution of the relative humidity (RH) and latent cooling profiles within the trailing stratiform region of mesoscale convective systems observed during the Bow Echo and Mesoscale Convective Vortex Experiment (BAMEX). Simulations revealed that observations of a sharp change in the profile of RH, from saturated air with respect to ice above the melting layer to subsaturated air with respect to water below, developed in response to the rapid increase in hydrometeor fall speeds from 1–2 m s−1 for ice to 2–11 m s−1 for rain. However, at certain times and locations, such as the first spiral descent on 29 June 2003 within the notch of lower reflectivity, the air may remain subsaturated for temperatures (T) < 0°C. Sufficiently strong downdrafts above the melting level, such as the 1–3 m s−1 downdrafts observed in the notch of lower reflectivity on 29 June, could enable this state of sustained subsaturation. Sensitivity tests, where the hydrometeor size distributions and upstream RH profiles were varied within the range of BAMEX observations, revealed that the sharp contrast in the RH field across the melting layer always developed. The simulations also revealed that latent cooling from sublimation and melting resulted in the strongest cooling at altitudes within and above the melting layer for locations where hydrometeors did not reach the ground, such as within the rear anvil region, and where sustained subsaturated air is present for T < 0°C, such as is observed within downdrafts. Within the enhanced stratiform rain region, the air is typically at or near saturation for T < 0°C, whereas it is typically subsaturated for T > 0°C; thus, evaporation and melting result in the primary cooling in this region. The implications of these results for the descent of the rear inflow jet across the trailing stratiform region are discussed.
Organizational unlearning
Authors: Tsang Eric W.K. , Zahra Shaker A.
Published: September 2008

Organizational unlearning is widely considered an important condition for successful adaptation to environmental changes, promoting organizational learning and enhancing a firm's performance. Yet, organizational unlearning has received scant attention in the literature, making theory building difficult. This article defines and clarifies the meaning of organizational unlearning, distinguishes it from organizational learning, articulates its dimensions and discusses ways organizations can unlearn.
Clinical Observation of Self-Injurious Behavior Correlated With Changes in Scalp Morphology in a Child With Congenital Hydrocephalus
Authors: Hartman Ellie C. , Gilles Elizabeth , McComas Jennifer J. , Danov Stacy E. , Symons Frank J.
Published: September 2008

We report the case of a 12-year-old girl born with cerebral dysgenesis and congenital hydrocephalus first shunted shortly after birth. She had severe tissue-damaging self-injurious behavior, profound mental retardation, quadriparesis, as well as multiple cranial anomalies including turricephaly. After stage 1 cranial remodeling, a bone window was left pending second stage remodeling. Episodic changes in fluctuation of the scalp overlying the bone window were easily observed. During the course of a behavioral assessment for her self-injury, it was observed that the overall frequency of occurrence of self-injury increased significantly ( P < .01) when the scalp was protruding and bulging compared with when the scalp was flush with the skull table. Periods of increased scalp protrusion were also associated with higher scores on a pain scale developed for children with communicative impairments associated with severe neurological impairment. After shunt replacement, there was remarkable improvement in functional status and decreased episodic self-injury.
Divergent Ependymal Tumor (Ependymoblastoma/Anaplastic Ependymoma) of the Posterior Fossa: An Uncommon Case Observed in a Child
Authors: Ortiz Javier , Otero Alvaro , Bengoechea Oscar , Gonçalves Jesús , Sousa Pablo , Figols Javier , Bullón Agustín
Published: September 2008

We report a divergent ependymal tumor of the posterior fossa (ependymoblastoma/anaplastic ependymoma) observed in an 8-year-old boy. The tumor showed the histological pattern typical of an ependymoblastoma (tubular-papillary fetaloid architecture with stratification of the tumor cells) next to areas in which findings typical of an anaplastic ependymoma were detected. The immunohistochemical study confirmed our diagnostic suspicion, allowing us to establish a differential diagnosis with other entities such as medulloblastoma, medulloepithelioma, atypical rhabdoid/teratoid tumor, or metastases.
Acute Epidural Hematoma With Infarction of the Right Hemisphere in a 5-Month-Old Child: Case Report With a Long-Term Follow-Up and a Review of the Literature
Authors: Ulrich Peter T. , Fuessler Helmut , Januschek Elke
Published: September 2008

Two hours after a fall, a 5-month-old girl was admitted to our hospital because of an extended galea hematoma and restlessness. Five hours after the trauma, a left hemiparesis developed. The child became drowsy. The hematocrit had fallen to 7.1 g/dL. Cranial computerized tomography disclosed a huge frontoparietal epidural hematoma on the right side and a hypodensity in the territories of the middle and posterior cerebral arteries. Immediately before surgery, the right pupil dilated. After evacuation of the epidural hematoma and ligation of the middle meningeal artery, the girl recovered satisfactorily. Nevertheless, magnetic resonance imaging showed a vast defect zone in the territories of the right middle and posterior cerebral arteries. Six weeks after the injury, the visual-evoked potentials were unavailable on both sides. Four years after the accident, visual assessment revealed normal acuity and stereopsis. Cognitive and neuromotor development were undisturbed and appropriate to the age.
Examining the non-linear relationship between monoclonal antiphospholipid antibody sequence, structure and function
Authors: Giles I , Lambrianides A , Rahman A
Published: September 2008

In the antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), pathogenic antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL) that cause thrombosis or pregnancy morbidity are characterized by binding to anionic phospholipids (PL) and β2-glycoprotein I (β2GPI). Sequence analysis of human monoclonal aPL has shown that high affinity for these antigens is associated with the presence of three particular amino acids: arginine (Arg), asparagine and lysine in the complementarity determining regions (CDRs) of their heavy and light chains. In vitro expression systems have been used to create variants of the antibodies in which these amino acids have been altered. In general, removal of Arg residues reduces affinity for anionic PL and β2GPI. Arg at different positions in the sequence, however, have different effects on binding affinity and effects on binding are not always mirrored by effects on pathogenicity. This review will focus upon the sequence motifs that have been found to distinguish pathogenic from non-pathogenic aPL, and whether these or other properties may help to identify distinct pathogenic subsets of aPL. In particular, we will focus on our recent work in which we are trying to develop a better understanding of the molecular mechanisms involved in activation of target cells by pathogenic aPL. These studies, together with molecular models of antigen/antibody complexes, help us to understand exactly how pathogenic antibodies interact with antigens. Ultimately, this understanding may aid the design of more powerful diagnostic/prognostic assays and targeted therapeutic agents to block the pathogenic effects of these antibodies.
Prothrombotic mechanisms based on the impairment of fibrinolysis in the antiphospholipid syndrome
Authors: Forastiero R , Martinuzzo M
Published: September 2008

Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is a clinical autoimmune disorder characterised by thrombosis, venous or arterial, and recurrent pregnancy morbidity in association with the persistence of antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL). The clinical variety of aPL ranges from asymptomatic individuals to those with multiple organ thromboses and failure developing over a short period, also known as catastrophic APS. An increasing number of phospholipid-binding proteins with crucial functions in the regulation of blood coagulation and fibrinolysis are targeted by APS-related autoantibodies. Disruption of fibrinolysis is one of the proposed pathophysiological mechanisms for the APS. There are some experimental data for an association between impaired overall fibrinolytic activity and autoimmune aPL; however, evidence is still inconclusive and more studies are needed in this area. In this article, we review the evidence by which aPL may disturb fibrinolysis.
Some antiphospholipid antibodies bind to hemostasis and fibrinolysis proteases and promote thrombosis
Authors: Chen PP , Yang CD , Ede K , Wu CC , FitzGerald JD , Grossman JM
Published: September 2008

It is generally accepted that the major autoantigen for antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL) is β2glycoprotein I (β2GPI). Interestingly, some aPL bind to β2GPI and the homologous enzymatic domains of several proteases involved in hemostasis and fibrinolysis, and correspondingly hinder anticoagulant regulation and resolution of clots. These findings are consistent with several early findings of aPL and provide a new perspective about some aPL in terms of their binding specificities and related functional properties in promoting thrombosis. In addition, homologous enzymatic domains of the involved proteases share conformation epitope(s) with β2GPI, thus providing a possible structural basis for some non-mutually exclusive mechanisms of aPL-mediated thrombosis.
Genomics and proteomics: a new approach for assessing thrombotic risk in autoimmune diseases
Authors: López-Pedrera C , Barbarroja N , Aguirre MA , Torres LA , Velasco F , Cuadrado MJ
Published: September 2008

Several systemic autoimmune conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus and antiphospholipid syndrome, are characterised by enhanced atherosclerosis and, consequently, higher cardiovascular morbidity and mortality rates. The association of these diseases with atherosclerosis suggests a common pathogenic mechanism. Genomic and proteomic studies performed on atherosclerotic plaques have further confirmed the presence of a gene and protein profile similar to that observed in autoimmune diseases with cardiovascular risks. Human sera and body fluids have been analysed and have resulted in the identification of auto-antibodies that can be used as diagnostic markers in specific autoimmune diseases, and proteomic fingerprints of blood cells, tissues and body fluids have resulted in the identification of individual proteins or patterns of protein expression that are deregulated. The information provided by these proteomic studies is of diagnostic and therapeutic potential. In this review, we discuss new approaches available for assessing thrombotic risk in autoimmune diseases, focusing in the genomic and proteomic methods now available to deep into the origin of the mechanisms associated with vascular involvement in systemic autoimmune diseases. The increasing data available suggests that when treating patients with these autoimmune disorders, paying attention to the increased risk of cardiovascular disease is essential.
Modeling of Hysteresis Phenomena in Ferroelectric Polymers in a Low Frequency Electric Field
Authors: Belouadah R. , Kendil D. , Bousbiat E. , Ducharne B. , Guyomar D. , Guiffard B.
Published: September 2008

It is important to model ferroelectric behavior of polymers to understand the physical phenomena exhibited by this kind of material. In this article, a new method based on dry-friction movement is proposed. It is already known that this modeling gives good results for ferroelectric ceramics. However, in the special case of ferroelectric polymers, the resistive current that exists in a low frequency electric field cannot be neglected. In order to adapt the ceramic model to ferroelectric polymers, a new formulation containing a special resistive term is proposed. The viability of the new model has been tested under different amplitudes of low frequency (5 mHz, 10 mHz, 1 Hz) applied electric field. Comparison between simulations and experimental data on polyvinylidene fluoride (β phase) are shown as validation of the model accuracy.
Introducing History Into STARPOWER
Authors: Corbeil Pierre
Published: September 2008

STARPOWER is a powerful simulation that shocks participants into a realization of the effects of power on both ruler and ruled. Its effect depends partly on the absence of a time horizon to guide the relationship between the groups and to give perspective to the decision making of the ruling class. A time variable reduces the tensions and reestablishes a link with real historical processes. This article describes and discusses such a modification.