bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Extracellular Signal-Regulated Kinase-Regulated Microglia–Neuron Signaling by Prostaglandin E2Contributes to Pain after Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Zhao Peng , Waxman Stephen G. , Hains Bryan C.
Published: February 2007

Many patients with traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) report pain that persists indefinitely and is resistant to available therapeutic approaches. We recently showed that microglia become activated after experimental SCI and dynamically maintain hyperresponsiveness of spinal cord nociceptive neurons and pain-related behaviors. Mechanisms of signaling between microglia and neurons that help to maintain abnormal pain processing are unknown. In this study, adult male Sprague Dawley rats underwent T9 spinal cord contusion injury. Four weeks after injury when lumbar dorsal horn multireceptive neurons became hyperresponsive and when behavioral nociceptive thresholds to mechanical and thermal stimuli were decreased, we tested the hypothesis that prostaglandin E2(PGE2) contributes to signaling between microglia and neurons. Immunohistochemical data showed specific localization of phosphorylated extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (pERK1/2), an upstream regulator of PGE2release, to microglial cells and a neuronal localization of the PGE2receptor E-prostanoid 2 (EP2). Enzyme immunoassay analysis showed that PGE2release was dependent on microglial activation and ERK1/2 phosphorylation. Pharmacological antagonism of PGE2release was achieved with the mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase 1/2 (MEK1/2) inhibitor PD98059 [2-(2-amino-3-methyoxyphenyl)-4H-1-benzopyran-4-one] and the microglial inhibitor minocycline. Cyclooxygenase-2 expression in microglia was similarly reduced by MEK1/2 inhibition. PD98059 and EP2 receptor blockade with AH6809 (6-isopropoxy-9-oxoxanthene-2-carboxylic acid) resulted in a decrease in hyperresponsiveness of dorsal horn neurons and partial restoration of behavioral nociceptive thresholds. Selective targeting of dorsal horn microglia with the Mac-1–synapse-associated protein (SAP) immunotoxin resulted in reduced microglia staining, reduction in PGE2levels, and reversed pain-related behaviors. On the basis of these observations, we propose a PGE2-dependent, ERK1/2-regulated microglia–neuron signaling pathway that mediates the microglial component of pain maintenance after injury to the spinal cord.
Spectral Changes in Cortical Surface Potentials during Motor Movement
Authors: Miller Kai J. , Leuthardt Eric C. , Schalk Gerwin , Rao Rajesh P. N. , Anderson Nicholas R. , Moran Daniel W. , Miller John W. , Ojemann Jeffrey G.
Published: February 2007

In the first large study of its kind, we quantified changes in electrocorticographic signals associated with motor movement across 22 subjects with subdural electrode arrays placed for identification of seizure foci. Patients underwent a 5–7 d monitoring period with array placement, before seizure focus resection, and during this time they participated in the study. An interval-based motor-repetition task produced consistent and quantifiable spectral shifts that were mapped on a Talairach-standardized template cortex. Maps were created independently for a high-frequency band (HFB) (76–100 Hz) and a low-frequency band (LFB) (8–32 Hz) for several different movement modalities in each subject. The power in relevant electrodes consistently decreased in the LFB with movement, whereas the power in the HFB consistently increased. In addition, the HFB changes were more focal than the LFB changes. Sites of power changes corresponded to stereotactic locations in sensorimotor cortex and to the results of individual clinical electrical cortical mapping. Sensorimotor representation was found to be somatotopic, localized in stereotactic space to rolandic cortex, and typically followed the classic homunculus with limited extrarolandic representation.
Saccade-Related Information in the Superior Temporal Motion Complex: Quantitative Functional Mapping in the Monkey
Authors: Bakola Sophia , Gregoriou Georgia G. , Moschovakis Adonis K. , Raos Vassilis , Savaki Helen E.
Published: February 2007

Although the role of the motion complex [cortical areas middle temporal (V5/MT), medial superior temporal (MST), and fundus of the superior temporal (FST)] in visual motion and smooth-pursuit eye movements is well understood, little is known about its involvement in rapid eye movements (saccades). To address this issue, we used the quantitative14C-deoxyglucose method to obtain functional maps of the cerebral cortex lying in the superior temporal sulcus of rhesus monkeys executing saccades to visual targets and saccades to memorized targets in complete darkness. Fixational effects were observed in MT-foveal, FST, the anterior part of V4-transitional (V4t), and temporal-occipital areas. Saccades to memorized targets activated areas V5/MT, MST, and V4t, which were also activated for saccades to visual targets. Regions activated in the light and in the dark overlapped extensively. In addition, saccades to visual targets activated areas FST and the intermediate part of the polysensory temporal-parietal-occipital area. Cortical activity related to visually guided saccades could be explained, at least in part, by visual motion. Because only oculomotor signals can account for the equally robust activations induced by memory saccades in complete darkness, we suggest that areas V5/MT, MST, and V4t receive and/or process saccade-related oculomotor information.
Development of Hydrocephalus in Mice Expressing the Gi-Coupled GPCR Ro1 RASSL Receptor in Astrocytes
Authors: Sweger Elizabeth J. , Casper Kristen B. , Scearce-Levie Kimberly , Conklin Bruce R. , McCarthy Ken D.
Published: February 2007

We developed a transgenic mouse line that expresses the Gi-coupled RASSL (receptor activated solely by synthetic ligand) Ro1 in astrocytes to study astrocyte–neuronal communication. Surprisingly, we found that all transgenics expressing Ro1 developed hydrocephalus. We analyzed these mice in an effort to develop a new model of hydrocephalus that will further our understanding of the pathophysiology of the disease. Expression of Ro1 was restricted to astrocytes by crossing the transgenic hGFAP-tTA (tet transactivator behind the human glial fibrillary acidic protein promoter) mouse line with the transgenic tetO-Ro1/tetO-LacZ mouse line. This cross produced double-transgenic mice that expressed Ro1 in astrocytes. All double transgenics developed hydrocephalus by postnatal day 15, whereas single-transgenic littermate controls appeared normal. Hydrocephalic Ro1 mice displayed enlarged ventricles, partial denudation of the ependymal cell layer, altered subcommissural organ morphology, and obliteration of the cerebral aqueduct. Severely hydrocephalic mice also had increased levels of phospho-Erk and GFAP expression. Administration of doxycycline to breeding pairs suppressed Ro1 expression and the onset of hydrocephalus in double-transgenic offspring. Ro1 animals maintained on dox did not develop hydrocephalus; however, if taken off doxycycline at weaning, double-transgenic mice developed enlarged ventricles within 7 weeks, indicating that Ro1 expression also induces hydrocephalus in adults. This study discovered a new model of hydrocephalus in which the rate of pathogenesis can be controlled enabling the study of the pathogenesis of both juvenile and adult onset hydrocephalus.
TRPV1 Mediates Histamine-Induced Itching via the Activation of Phospholipase A2and 12-Lipoxygenase
Authors: Shim Won-Sik , Tak Min-Ho , Lee Mi-Hyun , Kim Minjung , Kim Minkyung , Koo Jae-Yeon , Lee Chang-Hun , Kim Misook , Oh Uhtaek
Published: February 2007

Histamine provokes itching and is a major skin disease complaint. Histamine is known to excite a subset of sensory neurons, predominantly C-fibers. Although histamine is pruritogenic, its signaling pathways that excite sensory neurons have not been identified. Because the metabolic products of lipoxygenases (LOs) activate transient receptor potential vanilloid receptor-1 (TRPV1) in sensory neurons, we hypothesized that histamine excites sensory neurons by activating TRPV1 via phospholipase A2(PLA2) and LO stimulation. In cultured sensory neurons, histamine evoked inward currents that were reduced by capsazepine, a TRPV1 blocker. Moreover, histamine provoked inward currents when histamine receptor subtype 1 (H1R) and TRPV1 were expressed heterologously, but not when H1R or TRPV1 was expressed alone. In addition, histamine caused Ca2+influxes in sensory neurons in wild-type mice but not in TRPV1−/−mice. Furthermore, histamine caused a 2.5-fold increase in the production of 12-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid, a metabolite of LO, in cultured sensory neurons. When injected subcutaneously into the necks of mice, histamine caused bouts of scratching, which were greatly reduced by pretreatment with capsazepine, a TRPV1 blocker, and by inhibitors of PLA2, LO, and H1R. Furthermore, mice lacking TRPV1 markedly reduced histamine-induced scratching compared with wild type. Together, these results indicate that TRPV1 plays a key role in mediating the pruritogenic action of histamine via the PLA2/LO pathway.
Neurosteroid Synthesis-Mediated Regulation of GABAAReceptors: Relevance to the Ovarian Cycle and Stress
Authors: Maguire Jamie , Mody Istvan
Published: February 2007

Recently, we demonstrated cyclic alterations in GABAAreceptor (GABAAR) subunit composition over the ovarian cycle correlated with fluctuations in progesterone levels. However, it remains unclear whether this physiological regulation of GABAARs is directly mediated by hormones. Here, we show that both ovarian and stress hormones are capable of reorganizing GABAARs by actions through neurosteroid metabolites. The cyclic alterations in GABAARs demonstrated in female mice can be mimicked with exogenous progesterone treatment in males or in ovariectomized females. Progesterone (5 mg/kg, twice daily) upregulates the expression of GABAAR δ subunits and enhances the tonic inhibition mediated by these receptors in dentate gyrus granule cells (DGGCs). These changes in males as well as ovarian cycle-induced changes in females can be blocked by finasteride, an antagonist of neurosteroid synthesis from progesterone. The altered GABAAR expression is unaffected by the progesterone receptor antagonist RU486 [mifepristone (11β-[p-(dimethylamino)phenyl]-17β-hydroxy-17-(1-propynyl)estra-4,9-dien-3-one)], suggesting that neurosteroid synthesis and not progesterone receptor activation underlies the hormone-mediated effects on GABAAR expression. Neurosteroids can alter GABAAR expression on a rapid timescale, because GABAAR upregulation can be induced in brain slices maintainedin vitroafter a short (30 min) treatment with the neurosteroid 3α,5α-tetrahydrodeoxycorticosterone (THDOC) (100 nm). Consistent with these rapid alterations, acute stress, a condition known to quickly raise THDOC levels, within 30 min induces upregulation of GABAAR δ subunit expression and increase tonic inhibition in DGGCs. These results reveal that several physiological conditions characterized by elevations in neurosteroid levels induce a reorganization of GABAARs through the action of neurosteroids.
Neuropilins and Their Ligands Are Important in the Migration of Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone Neurons
Authors: Cariboni Anna , Hickok Jason , Rakic Sonja , Andrews William , Maggi Roberto , Tischkau Shelley , Parnavelas John G.
Published: February 2007

Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons in the hypothalamus play an important role in reproductive function. These cells originate in the nasal compartment and migrate into the basal forebrain in association with olfactory/vomeronasal nerves in embryonic life in rodents. Here, we studied the role of neuropilins and their ligands, semaphorins, in the development of the olfactory-GnRH system. We focused onNeuropilin-2knock-out (Npn-2−/−) mice, because they are known to display defasciculation of olfactory nerves and reduced fertility. We found a significant decrease in the number of GnRH neurons in the hypothalamus and a marked reduction in their gonadal size. We then observed an abnormal increase of GnRH neurons in the noses ofNpn-2−/−mice, indicating that these cells failed to migrate into the forebrain. However, because neuropilins and semaphorins are involved in events of neuronal migration in the brain, we asked whether the observed reduction in GnRH neurons was directly attributable to the action of these molecules. Using fluorescence-activated cell sorting and reverse transcription-PCR on mRNA derived from embryonic green fluorescent protein (GFP)–GnRH transgenic mice, we found expression of class 3 semaphorins and their receptors (neuropilin-1/2 and plexin-A1) in GnRH neurons. Furthermore, double-immunofluorescence experiments showed that migrating GnRH neurons, as well as associated olfactory fibers, express Npn-2 in the nasal region. We then used a line of immortalized GnRH neurons (GN11 cells) that display the same expression patterns for semaphorins and their receptors as GFP–GnRH cells and found that class 3 semaphorins and vascular endothelial growth factors modulate their migratory activity. These studies provide support for the direct involvement of neuropilins and their ligands in the establishment of the GnRH neuroendocrine system.
Dissociable Intrinsic Connectivity Networks for Salience Processing and Executive Control
Authors: Seeley William W. , Menon Vinod , Schatzberg Alan F. , Keller Jennifer , Glover Gary H. , Kenna Heather , Reiss Allan L. , Greicius Michael D.
Published: February 2007

Variations in neural circuitry, inherited or acquired, may underlie important individual differences in thought, feeling, and action patterns. Here, we used task-free connectivity analyses to isolate and characterize two distinct networks typically coactivated during functional MRI tasks. We identified a “salience network,” anchored by dorsal anterior cingulate (dACC) and orbital frontoinsular cortices with robust connectivity to subcortical and limbic structures, and an “executive-control network” that links dorsolateral frontal and parietal neocortices. These intrinsic connectivity networks showed dissociable correlations with functions measured outside the scanner. Prescan anxiety ratings correlated with intrinsic functional connectivity of the dACC node of the salience network, but with no region in the executive-control network, whereas executive task performance correlated with lateral parietal nodes of the executive-control network, but with no region in the salience network. Our findings suggest that task-free analysis of intrinsic connectivity networks may help elucidate the neural architectures that support fundamental aspects of human behavior.
The Importance of Children's Literature in a Global Society
Authors: Kurkjian Catherine , Livingston Nancy
Published: February 2007

The authors review numerous books that promote social justice and global awareness. The work of author‐illustrator Yangsook Choi is highlighted.
The Interdependence of Social Awareness and Literacy Instruction
Authors: Lobron Alison , Selman Robert
Published: February 2007

It is essential to help foster students' social awareness in addition to their academic skills. Through discussions of stories that emphasize social issues such as racism and prejudice, students have the opportunity to develop and explore their own beliefs. But what do they really learn, and how?

In this article, the authors document their efforts to understand children's comprehension, both of socially themed books and of the belief systems they represent. They also describe the supports that must be provided to ensure that students comprehend the plot of a story and the underlying messages. Finally, the authors offer suggestions for supporting children at different levels within the classroom, as well as appropriate books for children of different ages.
Effects of Defoliation on Growth and Reproduction of Brazilian Peppertree (Schinus terebinthifolius)
Authors: Treadwell Lucinda W. , Cuda J. P.
Published: February 2007

The exotic Brazilian peppertree is a serious invader of both disturbed and natural areas in central and south Florida, forming fast-growing, impenetrable thickets that dominate entire ecosystems. Brazilian peppertree has been targeted for biocontrol, and two defoliating insect species may eventually be released. This study was done to consider the possible effectiveness of defoliating biocontrol agents. The research investigated the effects of different frequencies of defoliation on height, crown diameter, and berry production of young Brazilian peppertrees. All the foliage was manually clipped from 36 trees in field plots once or twice per year for ≥ 1 yr. The effect on berry production of clipping 100% of the leaves from scattered individual branches of one large Brazilian peppertree was ALSo examined. Trees that were completely defoliated five times at 6-mo intervals were significantly smaller and produced significantly fewer fruits than undamaged controls. Plants defoliated one time only, two times in 1 yr, and two times in each of 2 yr were comparable to the undamaged controls. From this simulated herbivory study, we infer that multiple defoliations by insect defoliators have the potential to significantly suppress the growth and fruit production of Brazilian peppertree in Florida.
Postrelease Evaluation of Mecinus janthinus Host Specificity, a Biological Control Agent for Invasive Toadflax (Linaria spp.)
Authors: Breiter Nehalem C. , Seastedt Timothy R.
Published: February 2007

Toadflax invasion into natural areas has prompted interest in weed management via biological control. The most promising biological control agent currently available for the control of Dalmatian toadflax is Mecinus janthinus, a stem-boring weevil that has been shown to significantly reduce toadflax populations. Some land managers, however, are reluctant to release approved weed biological control agents based on concerns about possible nontarget impacts. Few postrelease examinations of biocontrol impact and host specificity have been performed, despite the call for such information. This study examined the host specificity of Mecinus janthinus, postrelease, in relation to Colorado sites to provide information to managers about its relative safety as a weed biological control agent. This study employed three components: (1) greenhouse choice and no-choice experiments; (2) no-choice caged field experiments; and (3) release-site evaluation of nontarget use of native plant species where this weevil has been released and has established. Both greenhouse and field experiments failed to demonstrate nontarget use of native plant species by M. janthinus in the region where it was studied, even in no-choice starvation tests. We found no evidence of nontarget herbivory on native plants growing at toadflax sites where M. janthinus was well established. These results support the continued use of M. janthinus as a low-risk biological control agent for the management of toadflax in the Rocky Mountain Front Range.
Genetic Diversity of Wild Oat (Avena fatua)Populations from China and the United States
Authors: Li Runzhi , Wang Shiwen , Duan Liusheng , Li Zhaohu , Christoffers Michael J. , Mengistu Lemma W.
Published: February 2007

Weed genetic diversity is important for understanding the ability of weeds to adapt to different environments and the impact of herbicide selection on weed populations. Genetic diversity within and among six wild oat populations in China varying in herbicide selection pressure and one population in North Dakota were surveyed using 64 polymorphic alleles resulting from 25 microsatellite loci. Mean Nei's gene diversity (h) for six wild oat populations from China was between 0.17 and 0.21, and total diversity (HT) was 0.23. A greater proportion of this diversity, however, was within (Hs= 0.19) rather than among (Gst= 0.15) populations. For the wild oat population from the United States,h= 0.24 andHT= 0.24 were comparable to the values for the six populations from China. Cluster analysis divided the seven populations into two groups, where one group was the United States population and the other group included the six Chinese populations. The genetic relationships among six populations from China were weakly correlated with their geographic distribution (r= 0.22) using the Mantel test. Minimal difference in gene diversity and small genetic distance (Nei's distance 0.07 or less) among six populations from China are consistent with wide dispersal of wild oat in the 1980s. Our results indicate that the wild oat populations in China are genetically diverse at a level similar to North America, and the genetic diversity of wild oat in the broad spatial scale is not substantially changed by environment, agronomic practices, or herbicide usage.
Nonhybrid Progeny from Crosses of Dioecious Amaranths: Implications for Gene-Flow Research
Authors: Trucco Federico , Zheng Danman , Woodyard Andrew J. , Walter Jared R. , Tatum Tatiana C. , Lane Rayburn A. , Tranel Patrick J.
Published: February 2007

Large proportions of nonhybrid progeny result from controlled crosses between Palmer amaranth and common waterhemp, both dioecious weeds. Agamospermy was proposed as an explanation for this phenomenon, and here we provide evidence in support of this hypothesis. We evaluated 60 nonhybrid offspring from two interspecific crosses, and all plants were females and had DNA content values similar to the female (Palmer amaranth) parent. Among nine hybrids resulting from these crosses, eight were nonviable (lethal or neuter), and only one hybrid allowed for continued gene movement. Cytogenetic evaluation of this hybrid revealed triploidy, further supporting the occurrence of unreduced gametes in these species. In light of this new evidence, we examine earlier data regarding Palmer amaranth by common waterhemp hybridization and suggest some prior conclusions may be premature.
Effects of repeated phosphorus fertilisation on field crops in Finland 2.Sufficient phosphorus application rates on silty and sandy soils
Authors: SAARELA I. , HUHTA H. , VIRKAJÄRVI P.
Published: February 2007

In order to update fertilisation recommendations for Finnish silty and sandy soils, the effects of repeated phosphorus (P) fertilisation on the yields of cereals, grasses and other crops were measured at ten sites for 9 to 18 years. Results of some earlier studies were also used in examining the relationships of the yield responses to applied P and to the soil test values measured by the Finnish ammonium acetate method (PAc). Significant effects of P fertilisation were observed at all sites that had low or medium PAc values; in the case of potatoes, even at sites with fairly high values. The mean relative yield without applied P divided by yield with 60 or 45 kg P ha-1 of the ten sites was 81% (mean PAc 11.6 mg dm-3) varying from 55% at the PAc value of 4.7 mg dm-3 to 100% at the highest PAc values. In order to achieve a relative yield of 97%, which is considered the optimum for cereals and leys, the required mean annual application of P in the later parts of the experiments was 25 kg ha-1 (variation 0-42 kg ha-1). On the six soils that had low or medium PAc values (4.5-9.1 mg dm-3, mean 8.0 mg dm-3), relative yield was 97% at the P application rate of 35 kg ha-1 (variation 22-42 kg ha-1), while 11 kg P ha-1 (variation 0-25 kg ha-1) sufficed on the four soils that had higher PAc values (mean 20.8 mg dm-3, variation 11.7-35.2 mg dm-3). Reasons for the poor availability of P in silty and sandy soils were discussed.;
Understanding Women, Health, and Social Change: The Case of South Korea
Authors: Chun Heeran , Doyal Lesley , Payne Sarah , Cho Sung-Il , Kim Il-Ho
Published: February 2007

Since the 1960s, South Korea has experienced rapid economic development and an improvement in the health of its population. During this period there have been marked increases in women's educational and occupational opportunities. But despite these improvements, women still suffer higher levels of gender discrimination than their counterparts in many other countries at similar stages of development. Most dramatically, there are still high levels of sex-selective abortion. Women have lower socioeconomic status than men, and their lives are markedly restricted by the cultural values associated with Confucianism. This article explores the effects of these factors on women's health. Despite their greater longevity, South Korean women still report higher rates of morbidity and distress than men. This can be compared with the “gender paradox” in health reported in many developed countries during the 1970s and 1980s. More detailed research is needed on the factors influencing the health of South Korean women and on related trends in other newly industrializing Asian societies.
Cognitive and Affective Benefits of an Animated Pedagogical Agent for Learning English as a Second Language
Authors: Choi Sunhee , Clark Richard E.
Published: February 2007

This study compared the use of ananimated pedagogical agent (agent) with an electronic arrow and voice narration (arrow and voice) in a multimedia learning environment where 74 college level English as a Second Language (ESL) students learned English relative clauses. No significant differences in learning or performance were found between the group receiving the agent and the arrow and voice group. This result provides evidence for Clark's (2001) claim that learning is supported by appropriate instructional methods (in this study directing attention to and voicing key concepts), not a delivery medium (in this study an animated agent or the drawing of an arrow with voice). Clark has also argued against using expensive instructional media when lower cost alternatives achieve the same or similar learning and motivation goals. It was also found that the agent's visual appearances and social behaviors did not motivate, interest, or tutor learners better than the simple arrow with voice. Thus, this result does not support the Persona Effect (Lester, Converse, Kahler, Barlow, Stone, & Bhogal, 1997) which is derived from the hypothesis that an animated agent motivates human-computer interaction because it is perceived as more socially engaging and interesting than other attention directing and information dispensing devices, and thus leads learners to work harder and learn more. The study also did not support the cognitive efficiency hypothesis (Cobb, 1997) which refers to one medium requiring less effort from learners in achieving a specific learning criterion or leading to faster learning than another. No significant difference was found between the agent and arrow with voice groups in the measured levels of cognitive efficiency. Yet, as in past studies, the data suggested a significant learning benefit of animated pedagogical agents for learners with the lowest levels of prior knowledge but no differences at the intermediate or advanced prior knowledge levels.
A Decade of Research: Assessing Change in the Technical Communication Classroom Using Online Portfolios
Authors: Johnson Carol Siri
Published: February 2007

Over a period of 10 years, we have developed a sustainable process of online portfolio assessment that demonstrates both reliability and validity, using both qualitative and quantitative measures. The sustainable cycle is that, each semester, we assess a random sampling of the students' work that they have posted, as per our instructions, in an online portfolio. During the reading, the faculty score the documents for 11 variables, including writing, content, audience awareness, and document design. We achieved validity by a modified online Delphi that led to a redefinition of the construct of technical communication itself; we achieved reliability by adjudication resulting in adjacent scores. The results of our assessment meet the requirements of ABET and result in a continual cycle of improvement for our technical communication curriculum. Results from three semesters show an improving correlation between the course grade and the overall, holistic portfolio score.
Friends Don't Let Friends … or do They? Developmental and Gender Differences in Intervening in Friends' Atod Use
Authors: Flanagan Constance A. , Elek-Fisk Elvira , Gallay Leslie S.
Published: February 2007

This study focused on the strategies adolescents endorsed for situations in which friends were experimenting with alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs. Four hypothetical vignettes (concerning a friend smoking, using drugs, getting drunk at a party, or deciding whether to attend a party with alcohol and drugs) were presented to 2697 5th-12th graders. Whereas younger students were more likely to choose proactive strategies (talking to the friend or an adult or ending the friendship), older students were more inclined to say they would ignore a friend's smoking and drug use although they would take the car keys away from a friend drinking alcohol. Among those 13 years old and older, the more dangerous the substance, the more inclined the youth were to intervene. Females were more inclined than males to talk to friends about smoking, drinking, and drugs and less inclined to ignore the behaviors or stop being a friend.
Personality Correlates Related to Tobacco Abstinence following Treatment
Authors: Hooten W. Michael , Wolter Troy D. , Ames Steven C. , Hurt Richard D. , Vickers Kristin S. , Offord Kenneth P. , Hays J. Taylor
Published: February 2007

Objective:

The five-factor model of personality was used to describe the correlates of smoking abstinence.

Methods:

Following treatment in the Mayo Clinic Nicotine Dependence Center, the six month abstinence status was determined by self-report. Sixteen months to 2.4 years following the initial treatment evaluation, and 10 months to 1.9 years after the abstinence status was determined, 475 patients were mailed a Neuroticism, Extraversion, Openness, Five-Factor Inventory questionnaire. Ninety-nine abstinent and 151 smoking patients returned a completed questionnaire.

Results:

Multivariate analysis showed that low scores on neuroticism and openness were associated with tobacco abstinence. In addition, high scores on neuroticism and low scores on agreeableness and conscientiousness were associated with predictors of poor outcome including greater number of cigarettes smoked per day, initiation of smoking prior to age 18, and a Fagerström Test for Nicotine Dependence score of ≥ 6.

Conclusions:

Personality characteristics as predictors of smoking abstinence following treatment warrant further investigation in prospective clinical trails. Treatment matching using personality profiling as a guide may be a valuable tool for improving abstinence rates following treatment for nicotine dependence.
Ziprasidone for Agitation or Psychosis in Dementia: Four Cases
Authors: Cole Steven A. , Saleem Rehan , Shea William P. , Sedler Mark , Sablosky Marilyn , Jyringi Darlene , Smith Angela
Published: February 2007

Objective:

These case reports examine the potential efficacy and safety of ziprasidone for the treatment of agitation or psychosis in dementia.

Method:

The authors performed a retrospective chart review of three patients with DSM-IV diagnoses of dementia, treated with ziprasidone for agitation/psychosis on an academic psychiatric inpatient unit in 2002–2003. In addition, these three case reports are supplemented by a clinical report of the first outpatient with DSM-IV diagnosis of dementia completing a prospective open-label six-week study in 2004 evaluating the use of oral ziprasidone for agitation/psychosis in dementia. Qualitative descriptions of clinical improvement provide outcome data for these case reports.

Results:

Four patients with dementia with agitation/psychosis experienced marked behavioral improvement after receiving oral doses of ziprasidone (20–160 mg/day), without any evidence of problematic cardiac or other side-effects. Two of the four patients had final EKGs and both of these patients demonstrated no change of QTc interval after administration of ziprasidone.

Conclusions:

These case reports suggest that oral ziprasidone may be an effective and safe medication for the treatment of agitation or psychosis in patients with dementia.
Electrolyte‐ and pH‐responsive polyampholytes with potential as viscosity‐control agents in enhanced petroleum recovery
Authors: Ezell Ryan G. , McCormick Charles L.
Published: February 2007

Low‐charge‐density amphoteric copolymers and terpolymers composed of AM, the cationic comonomer (3‐acrylamidopropyl)trimethyl ammonium chloride, and amino acid derived monomers (e.g., N‐acryloyl valine, N‐acryloyl alanine, and N‐acryloyl aspartate) have been prepared via free‐radical polymerization in aqueous media. These terpolymers with random charge distributions have been compared to terpolymers of like compositions containing the anionic comonomer sodium 3‐acrylamido‐3‐methylbutanoate. Terpolymer compositions determined by 13C‐ and 1H‐NMR spectroscopy, terpolymer molecular weights and polydispersity indices obtained via size exclusion chromatography/multi‐angle laser light scattering, and hydrodynamic dimensions determined via dynamic light scattering have allowed a direct comparison of the fundamental parameters affecting the behavioral characteristics. The solution properties of low‐charge‐density amphoteric copolymers and terpolymers have been studied as functions of the solution pH, ionic strength, and polymer concentration. The low‐charge‐density terpolymers display excellent solubility in deionized water with no phase separation. The charge‐balanced terpolymers exhibit antipolyelectrolyte behavior at pH values greater than or equal to 6.5 ± 0.2. As the solution pH decreases, these charge‐balanced terpolymers become increasingly cationic because of the protonation of the anionic repeat units. The aqueous solution behavior (i.e., globule‐ to‐coil transition at the isoelectric point in the presence of salt and globule elongation with increasing charge asymmetry) of the terpolymers in the dilute regime correlates well with that predicted by the polyampholyte solution theories. An examination of the comonomer charge density, hydrogen‐bonding ability, and spacer group (e.g., the moiety separating the ionic group from the polymer chain) indicates that conformational restrictions of the sodium 3‐acrylamido‐3‐methylbutanoate and N‐acryloyl valine segments result in increased chain stiffness and higher solution viscosities in deionized water and brine solutions. On the other hand, the terpolymers with N‐acryloyl alanine and N‐acryloyl aspartate segments are more responsive to changes in the salt concentration. An assessment of the effects of the terpolymer structure on the viscosity under specified conditions of the ionic strength and pH from these studies should allow for rational design of optimized systems for enhanced petroleum recovery. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2007.
Fabrication and structure of carbon aerogel spheres prepared by inverse suspension/emulsion polymerization and ambient pressure drying
Authors: Liu Ning , Zhang Shuting , Fu Ruowen , Dresselhaus Mildred S. , Dresselhaus Gene
Published: February 2007

Carbon aerogel (CA) spheres were fabricated by inverse suspension polymerization of an emulsified resorcinol–formaldehyde aqueous solution with a basic surfactant used as catalyst, and then drying by gradually heating the resultant sol–gel spheres at ambient pressure. The fabrication conditions, nanostructures of the resultant CA spheres, and their electrochemical properties were investigated. By controlling the time at which stirring started, the stirring speed, and the recipe of the emulsion solution, the diameter of the CA spheres can be controlled from 70 to 1000 μm. The internal carbon nanoparticles of the spheres are of a size ranging from 20 to 40 nm, and are interconnected into a three‐dimensional network. The highest surface area and mesopore volume of the spherical CAs thus prepared reach 626 m2/g and 0.69 cm3/g, respectively. These CAs can be used as an electrode in supercapacitors, and the specific capacitance is as high as 197 F/g. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 2007
Coating silver nanoparticles on poly(methyl methacrylate) chips and spheres via ultrasound irradiation
Authors: Kotlyar A. , Perkas N. , Amiryan G. , Meyer M. , Zimmermann W. , Gedanken A.
Published: February 2007

Ultrasound irradiation is used for anchoring silver nanoparticles with an average size of ∼ 51 nm onto the surface of poly(methyl methacrylate) PMMA chips (2 mm diameter), and silver nanoparticles with an average size of ∼ 20 nm onto the surface of the PMMA spheres (1–10 μm). The sonochemical reduction was carried out under argon atmosphere at room temperature. The silver nanoparticles were obtained by the irradiation of a mixture containing the PMMA, silver nitrate, ethylene glycol, ethanol, water, and 24% (wt) aqueous ammonia for 2 h, yielding a PMMA‐nanosilver composite. By controlling the atmosphere and reaction conditions, we could achieve the deposition of silver nanoparticles onto the surface of poly(methyl methacrylate). The silver‐deposited PMMA chips (loaded with 0.01–1.0 weight percent silver) were successfully homogenized in melt by extrusion and then injection molded into small, disc‐shaped samples. These samples were analyzed with respect to their directional spectral optical properties in UV, VIS, and IR spectroscopy. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 2007
Glucocorticoids and cardiovascular events in rheumatoid arthritis: A population‐based cohort study
Authors: Davis John M. , Maradit Kremers Hilal , Crowson Cynthia S. , Nicola Paulo J. , Ballman Karla V. , Therneau Terry M. , Roger Véronique L. , Gabriel Sherine E.
Published: February 2007

Objective

To determine the relationship between glucocorticoid exposure and cardiovascular (CV) events in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Methods

A total of 603 adult residents of Rochester, Minnesota with incident RA between 1955 and 1995 were followed up through their medical records for a median of 13 years (total of 9,066 person‐years). Glucocorticoid exposure was defined 3 ways: tertiles of cumulative exposure; recent use (≤3 months) versus past use (>3 months); and average daily dosage (≤7.5 mg/day or >7.5 mg/day). CV events, including myocardial infarction, heart failure, and death from CV causes, were defined according to validated criteria. Cox regression models were adjusted for demographic features, CV risk factors, and RA characteristics.

Results

Rheumatoid factor (RF)–negative patients with exposure to glucocorticoids were not at increased risk of CV events, irrespective of the glucocorticoid dosage or timing of use, as compared with the reference group of RF‐negative patients who had never been exposed to glucocorticoids. In contrast, RF‐positive patients were at increased risk of CV events, particularly with higher cumulative exposure, higher average daily dosage, and recent use of glucocorticoids. RF‐positive patients with high cumulative exposure to glucocorticoids had a 3‐fold increased risk of CV events (hazard ratio 3.06 [95% confidence interval 1.81–5.18]), whereas RF‐negative patients with high cumulative exposure were not at increased risk (hazard ratio 0.85 [95% confidence interval 0.39–1.87]).

Conclusion

RF‐positive but not RF‐negative patients were at increased risk of CV events following exposure to glucocorticoids. These findings suggest that glucocorticoids interact with RF status to modulate the occurrence of CV events in patients with RA. The mechanisms underlying this interaction are unknown and should be the subject of further research.
Factors affecting patella cartilage and bone in middle‐aged women
Authors: Hanna F. S. , Bell R. J. , Davis S. R. , Wluka A. E. , Teichtahl A. J. , O'Sullivan R. , Cicuttini F. M.
Published: February 2007

Objective

To evaluate the effects of age, physical activity, and body mass index (BMI) on patella cartilage volume and defects and bone volume in middle‐aged women without knee pain.

Methods

Magnetic resonance imaging was performed in 176 healthy women, ages 40–67 years, without knee pain to measure patella cartilage and bone volume and patella cartilage defects. The effects of age, physical activity, BMI, smoking, and alcohol were analyzed to determine whether associations existed between these variables and patella cartilage and bone volume and cartilage defects.

Results

Patella cartilage volume decreased with age (P = 0.01) and BMI (P = 0.05) after adjusting for age and patella bone volume. Patella bone volume was positively associated with body height in both the univariate and multivariate models. Cartilage defects in the patellofemoral compartment were present in 36.4% of the study population. Age, weight, and BMI were positively associated with the presence of cartilage defects in the multivariate analysis.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated that although age is positively associated with both patella bone volume and cartilage defects, it is inversely associated with patella cartilage volume in healthy individuals. Moreover, BMI is inversely associated with both patella cartilage volume and patella bone volume in middle‐aged women without knee osteoarthritis. Longitudinal studies will be required to determine whether avoiding a high BMI will reduce the risk of developing patellofemoral osteoarthritis.
Developing and testing a measure of dyadic efficacy for married women with rheumatoid arthritis and their spouses
Authors: Sterba Katherine Regan , de Vellis Robert F. , Lewis Megan A. , Baucom Donald H. , Jordan Joanne M. , de Vellis Brenda
Published: February 2007

Objective

Interpersonal relationships and self‐efficacy have each been independently studied in the context of coping with chronic illness. To examine a new type of interpersonal efficacy in couples coping with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), we developed and tested new measures of perceptions of arthritis dyadic efficacy. We assessed both partners' perceptions of confidence about working together as a team to manage women's illness‐related challenges.

Methods

First, a 3‐phase pilot study was conducted with interviews, expert review, and pretesting to develop items. Next, the psychometric properties of new measures were tested in 190 women with RA and their husbands. Exploratory analyses were conducted, Cronbach's alphas were calculated for each factor, and construct validity was examined with Pearson's correlations at baseline, 4‐month, and 8‐month followup.

Results

Factor analyses yielded 3 factors in the wife and husband versions, assessing dyadic behaviors concerning arthritis problem solving and emotions, arthritis symptom management, and arthritis‐related couple outcomes. All items loaded >0.60, Cronbach's alphas for all subscales were >0.88, and initial evidence of construct validity was demonstrated. Finally, the initial factor structure was replicated with additional exploratory factor analyses in the same sample at 4‐month and 8‐month followup.

Conclusion

Three short, reliable subscales resulted for couples coping with RA for use in interpersonal health research. These instruments facilitate viewing illness adaptation processes in a dyadic manner.
Glucocorticoids and cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events in polymyalgia rheumatica
Authors: Kremers Hilal Maradit , Reinalda Megan S. , Crowson Cynthia S. , Davis John M. , Hunder Gene G. , Gabriel Sherine E.
Published: February 2007

Objective

To examine the effect of glucocorticoid use on the risk of various cardiovascular diseases in patients with polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR).

Methods

We assembled a population‐based incidence cohort of 364 patients with PMR first diagnosed between January 1, 1970 and December 31, 1999. Inclusion criteria were age ≥50 years, bilateral aching and morning stiffness involving at least 2 areas (neck, shoulders, hips, or proximal aspects of the thighs), and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) ≥40 mm/hour. In patients who fulfilled the first 2 criteria but had a normal ESR, a rapid response to low‐dose glucocorticoids served as the third criterion. Patients were followed up until death or December 31, 2004. Cox models with time‐dependent covariates were used to examine the association between glucocorticoid exposure and risk of myocardial infarction, heart failure, peripheral vascular disease, and cerebrovascular disease.

Results

A total of 364 PMR patients (mean age 73 years, 67% women) were followed for a median of 7.6 years. During the disease course, 310 (85%) patients received glucocorticoids. After adjusting for age, calendar year, and ESR, patients who received glucocorticoids did not have a significantly higher risk for myocardial infarction, heart failure, peripheral vascular disease, or cerebrovascular disease (hazard ratio [95% confidence interval] 0.58 [0.29–1.18], 0.85 [0.45–1.54], 0.58 [0.24–1.40], and 0.65 [0.33–1.26], respectively) compared with those who did not receive glucocorticoids. In fact, a trend for a protective effect was seen. No significant association was observed between cumulative glucocorticoid dose and any of the outcomes (P = 0.39).

Conclusion

In patients with PMR, treatment with glucocorticoids is not associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Renal rickets and dwarfism: A pituitary disease
Authors: Chown Bruce
Published: February 2007

In the past two years I have seen two babies, sisters, having from birth deformities like those of severe rickets. A few days after birth they began to have curious spells of sham joy. Both had a hypercalcæmia but normal or slightly reduced phosphatæmia without discernible progressive decalcification of the skeleton. One died at three months and the other at six. Both had early pathological changes in the kidneys, which would have led to chronic nephritis. At first I thought that these were cases of congenital osteitis fibrosa cystica, but now believe that the two children were suffering from a form of the disease variously called ‘renal rickets’, ‘dwarfism’, or ‘infantilism’. If this is true, then the cases add weight to the opinion that these diseases are due to endocrines running amok, the kidneys being but innocent bystanders.
The treatment of acute intramammary abscess, by incision and by aspiration
Authors: Battle R J V , Bailey G N
Published: February 2007

An account is here given of acute intramammary abscess with particular reference to treatment, and the statements we make are founded partly on the literature and partly on our own observations. We have recently been in the position to observe every case of breast abscess treated at St. Thomas's Hospital over a period of about a year. It has been possible to collect 71 cases, and careful records have been kept of each case. Some of these patients were treated in the Out-patient Department, but those that failed to improve, and those in which suppuration supervened during the puerperium, were admitted to the Septic Block, where a certain number of beds were always available.
Large pedunculated fibroma of the œsophagus
Authors: Glynn L E
Published: February 2007

Benign tumours of the œsophagus are comparative rarities, only 62 cases having been recorded between 1717 and 1932 (Patterson, 1932). Of these the leiomyomata constitute by far the largest group, details of which have been summarized by Rose (1936). Very few reports of large pedunculated tumours are available, and often histological details are missing.