bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chronic activation of the D2 dopamine autoreceptor inhibits synaptogenesis in mesencephalic dopaminergic neurons in vitro
Authors: Fasano C. , Poirier A. , DesGroseillers L. , Trudeau L.‐E.
Published: October 2008

Chronic blockade or activation of dopamine receptors is critical for the pharmacological treatment of diseases like schizophrenia, Parkinson’s or attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder. However, the long‐term impact of such treatments on dopamine neurons is unclear. Chronic blockade of the dopamine D2 receptor in vivo triggers an increase in the axonal arborization of dopamine neurons [European Journal of Neuroscience, 2002, 16, 787–794]. However, the specific involvement of presynaptic (autoreceptors) vs. postsynaptic D2 receptors as well as the molecular mechanisms involved have not been determined. Here, we examined the role of D2 autoreceptors in regulating the ability of mouse dopamine neurons to establish axon terminals. Chronic activation of this receptor with quinpirole, a specific agonist, decreased the number of axon terminals established by isolated dopamine neurons. This effect was accompanied by a decrease in dopamine release and was mediated through inhibition of protein kinase A. The decrease in axon terminal number induced by D2 receptor activation was also occluded when the mammalian Target of Rapamycin pathway of mRNA translation was blocked. Our results suggest that chronic activation of the D2 autoreceptor inhibits synaptogenesis by mesencephalic dopamine neurons through translational regulation of the synthesis of proteins required for synapse formation. This study provides a better understanding of the impact of long‐term pharmacological interventions acting through the D2 receptor.
Direct effects of prismatic lenses on visuomotor control: an event‐related functional MRI study
Authors: Danckert James , Ferber Susanne , Goodale Melvyn A.
Published: October 2008

Exposure to prisms has long been used to explore the control of visually guided actions primarily because adaptation requires the recalibration of misaligned reference frames due to perturbed visual input (i.e. eye‐in‐head and hand‐centered reference frames must be realigned). To date, the only neuroimaging study to explore the direct effects of prisms on pointing used positron emission tomography and found increased activation only in right parietal cortex. We used event‐related functional MRI to examine the effects of prisms on visuomanual pointing. Results demonstrated changes in activity in the anterior cingulate, the anterior intraparietal region and in a medial region of the right cerebellum. Specifically, activity in these regions was higher for the first few pointing trials made while viewing targets through prisms when directly contrasted to the last few trials. These results highlight that a more extensive network of cortical and cerebellar regions is involved in recalibrating visuomotor commands in the face of perturbed visual input.
Anesthetic management of gastrochisis – a review of our practice over the past 5 years
Authors: RAGHAVAN MURALI , MONTGOMERIE JAMES
Published: October 2008

Background:  Surgical closure of gastrochisis has traditionally been performed under general anesthesia followed by admission to intensive care and postoperative ventilation. We reviewed the management of these neonates in our hospital over the past 5 years to identify changes in practice and possible factors which affect the perioperative course.

Methods:  We retrospectively identified cases of gastrochisis undergoing repair from June 2002 to May 2007. Details of the demographic data, preoperative factors, intraoperative anesthetic and surgical management and postoperative care were collected from the anesthetic chart, operative record and patient notes.

Results:  Forty‐eight self‐ventilating neonates underwent operative repair in theatre. A neuraxial local anesthetic block was performed as part of the anesthetic technique in 22 patients. There was a significant difference in the need for postoperative ventilation in this group (23%) when compared with a traditional opioid‐based method of providing analgesia (88%, P < 0.05). This difference was seen in both term and preterm babies.

Conclusion:  Conclusions are difficult when analyzing retrospective data in patients with a variety of factors. The results suggest that anesthesia which includes a regional technique is a valid method in these cases. Traditional opioid analgesia when compared to regional techniques may be associated with increased need for postoperative ventilation.
Hemodynamic effects of levobupivacaine after pediatric caudal anesthesia evaluated by transesophageal doppler
Authors: GALANTE DARIO , PELLICO GIUSEPPE , MEOLA SALVATORE , CASO ANTONIO , DE CAPRARIS ANTONELLA , MILILLO ROSELLA , MIRABILE CRISTIAN , OLIVIERI MARIA , CINNELLA GILDA , DAMBROSIO MICHELE
Published: October 2008

Background:  The aim of this study is to determine if there are significant differences in hemodynamic effects between combined general‐regional anesthesia using levobupivacaine 0.25% 2 ml·kg−1 via the caudal route in comparison with balanced general anesthesia using continuous infusion of remifentanil in young children undergoing genitourinary surgery.

Patients and methods:  62 ASA I‐II pediatric patients (12 female, 50 male) aged 6 months to 7 years undergoing genitourinary surgery were included in the study. Patients were randomly allocated into one of two groups of 31 patients each. Group Caud received caudal blockade with levobupivacaine 0.25% 2 mg·kg−1 in combined general‐regional anesthesia and Group Gen received balanced general anesthesia with remifentanil.

The noninvasive hemodynamic parameters were measured in each group 5 min after induction of general anesthesia or caudal block (Tcaud), after further 5 min coincident with skin incision (Tsi), 10 min after skin incision (T10i), at the end of surgical procedure (Tend). The time between Tcaud and Tsi was 10 min and the measurements during the interval time T10i‐Tend were performed every 15 min according to the duration of surgical procedures.

Results:  There was a decrease in all measured hemodynamic parameters at skin incision. The decreases occurred in both groups with those in the caudal group occurring at skin incision and those in the balanced anesthesia group occurring at 10 min after skin incision. These variations showed no significant differences for any of the stated outcomes; neither between the groups at each time point nor in the caudal in comparison with baseline measurements.

Conclusions:  Using transesophageal Doppler no differences in hemodynamic parameters could be detected between balanced general anesthesia with either caudal levobupivacaine or remifentanil infusion. Both techniques showed good hemodynamic stability with only minor changes from baseline over time which are unlikely to be of clinical significance except possibly in patients with preexisting cardiovascular compromise. Other studies with noninvasive monitoring in a larger population are required to better understand the consequences of caudal blockade on CO and on regional blood flow in infants.
The significance of lymphovascular invasion in transurethral resection of bladder tumour and cystectomy specimens on the survival of patients with urothelial bladder cancer
Authors: Streeper Necole M. , Simons Christopher M. , Konety Badrinath R. , Muirhead DesiRae M. , Williams Richard D. , O’Donnell Michael A. , Joudi Fadi N.
Published: October 2008

OBJECTIVE

To test the hypothesis that patients with bladder cancer who had evidence of lymphovascular invasion (LVI) in their transurethral resection of bladder tumour (TURBT) and radical cystectomy (RC) specimens would have a worse prognosis and higher likelihood of clinical understaging, and to assess the effect of LVI discovered at RC on subsequent disease‐related mortality, as the prognostic significance of LVI in TURBT or RC specimens of patients treated for urothelial carcinoma of the bladder is not completely established.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed the records of 163 patients with urothelial carcinoma of the bladder seen at our institution, and who had TURBT (69) or RC (94) between 1995 and 2005. We compared patients with LVI on TURBT and/or RC specimens to a group of controls who did not have LVI on TURBT (34) or RC (32).

RESULTS

Patients with LVI present in their TURBT specimen had a shorter disease‐specific survival than those without LVI, with a 5‐year survival of 33.6% vs 62.9% (log‐rank test P = 0.027; hazard ratio 2.21). LVI at TURBT varied with clinical stage (P = 0.049). Patients with LVI and who were clinical stage I or II had lower survival than those without LVI (P = 0.049; hazard ratio 2.68). LVI did not affect survival among those with clinical stage III or IV (P = 0.29). There was a trend for patients with LVI at TURBT to be clinically understaged compared to those without LVI (75% vs 46%) but the difference was not significant (P = 0.086). Patients with LVI detected in their RC specimen were significantly more likely to have cancer recurrence than were those with no evidence of LVI (48% vs 19%, P = 0.006). For the RC group there was also a significant difference in survival distribution between patients with evidence of LVI vs those without (5‐year survival 45.5% vs 78.4%, P = 0.017). Those with LVI were significantly more likely to die from the disease than those without LVI (P = 0.017; hazard ratio 2.92).

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that LVI is a histological feature that might be associated with a poorer prognosis in patients with urothelial carcinoma of the bladder. The presence of LVI in TURBT specimens predicts shorter survival for patients with stage I or II disease. The presence of LVI in RC specimens predicts recurrence of disease and shorter survival. Further studies are needed to determine whether this group of patients would benefit from early RC and/or perioperative chemotherapy to improve clinical outcomes.
Laparoscopic partial nephrectomy for tumour in the presence of nephrolithiasis or pelvi‐ureteric junction obstruction
Authors: Baccala Angelo , Lee Una , Hegarty Nicholas , Desai Mihir , Kaouk Jihad , Gill Inderbir
Published: October 2008

OBJECTIVE

To report on patients with a small renal mass and concomitant calculus or pelvi‐ureteric junction obstruction (PUJO), and to propose an algorithm for minimally invasive management when these conditions coexist, as the success of laparoscopic partial nephrectomy (LPN) depends greatly on the absence after surgery of ureteric obstruction.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Fifteen (3%) of 548 patients undergoing LPN (November 1999 to May 2005) had concomitant calculus/PUJO; the calculus/PUJO was treated in six, either before (one), during (three) or after (two) LPN, depending on the presence of obstruction. The remaining nine patients were monitored as they had a punctate and unobstructing stone burden.

RESULTS

The mean (range) tumour size was 2.7 (1.4–4) cm, the operative duration 3.8 (2–6) h, the warm ischaemia time 34.8 (22–53) min, and blood loss 237 (50–600) mL. Two patients with concomitant PUJO had a single‐session dismembered Anderson‐Hynes pyeloplasty and LPN. Three patients with smaller stones (5–12 mm) had extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy, percutaneous nephrolithotomy or or ureteroscopic removal before (one) or after (two) LPN. One patient with a larger 1.6 cm obstructing renal pelvic calculus had laparoscopic flexible pyeloscopy, but the stone was not visualized. At the end of all treatments, the 6‐month tumour‐free and stone‐free rates were 15/15 and 11/13, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Patients with a concomitant small renal mass and calculus/PUJO can be successfully managed in a simultaneous or staged manner using minimally invasive techniques. A management algorithm is presented.
Prevalence and determinants of diabetes mellitus in the Indian industrial population
Authors: Ajay V. S. , Prabhakaran D. , Jeemon P. , Thankappan K. R. , Mohan V. , Ramakrishnan L. , Joshi P. , Ahmed F. U. , Mohan B. V. M. , Chaturvedi V. , Mukherjee R. , Reddy K. S.
Published: October 2008

Aim   To highlight the regional difference in the prevalence of diabetes mellitus (DM) and to explore determinants in variability in the Indian industrial population.

Methods   A cross‐sectional survey was carried out among the employees and their family members (10 930 individuals, mean age 39.6 years, 6764 male) of eleven medium‐to‐large industries from diverse sites in India, using a stratified random sampling technique. Information on behavioural, clinical and biochemical risk factors of DM was obtained, through standardized instruments. DM was diagnosed when fasting blood glucose was ≥ 7.0 mmol/l and/or individuals took drug treatment for DM. Multiple logistic regression analysis was carried out to identify the potential predictors of DM.

Result   In the 20 to 69‐year‐old age group, the crude prevalence of DM and impaired fasting glucose was 10.1 and 5.3%, respectively. Urban sites had a higher prevalence and awareness of DM status. Individuals in the lower education group had a high prevalence of DM (11.6%). In diabetic subjects, 38.4% were unaware that they had diabetes. Waist‐circumference‐to‐height ratio had a higher DM predictive power than waist circumference and body mass index. The risk factors associated with overall prevalence of DM were: age, sex, low‐education level, family history of DM, hypertension and overweight/obesity. Interaction of risk factors was observed only in urban high‐prevalence sites.

Conclusion   There are wide regional variations in the prevalence of DM in India. The high burden of undetected diabetes, even in settings with universal access to on‐site health care, highlights the need for innovative prevention and control strategies.
ENTREPRENEURS' LOCATION CHOICE AND PUBLIC POLICIES: A SURVEY OF THE NEW ECONOMIC GEOGRAPHY
Authors: Candau Fabien
Published: October 2008

Abstract The aim of this paper is to survey what has been done by the New Economic Geography (NEG) on a regional scale in order to answer the three following questions: What are the predictions of the NEG concerning the future of regions in the triad? Are these predictions robust? What can be the optimal public policy on a regional and national scale in a world characterized by agglomeration, trade liberalization and mobility of entrepreneurs? In surveying the most recent contributions in this area, the paper sheds light on several shortcomings of the NEG literature in order to point out new directions for further research, with particular reference to studies concerning welfare and tax competition.
Public Production of Anti‐Retroviral Medicines in Brazil, 1990–2007
Authors: Flynn Matthew
Published: October 2008

This article examines Brazil's experience with the public production of anti‐retroviral drugs (ARVs) and highlights the important role of the state in guaranteeing access to life‐saving medicines and fulfilling human rights commitments. The key to understanding the government's successful intervention in the pharmaceutical market and provision of treatment rests on the synergistic, albeit political, relationship between reform‐minded public servants and civil society activists. This article argues that three key factors led to the government becoming a direct producer of ARVs: 1) a pre‐existing infrastructure of public laboratories that have served the public health system to a greater or lesser degree since the 1960s; 2) strong civil society pressures, including public health activists both inside and outside the government; and 3) a pharmaceutical sector characterized by high prices and controlled by transnational drug companies.
The Dynamics of Real Markets: Cattle in Southern Zimbabwe following Land Reform
Authors: Mavedzenge B.Z. , Mahenehene J. , Murimbarimba F. , Scoones I. , Wolmer W.
Published: October 2008

Since 2000 there have been major changes in the agrarian economy in Zimbabwe. Extensive land redistribution and severe macro‐economic instability have resulted in significant shifts in agricultural production and the functioning of markets, opening opportunities for some and closing options for others. This article focuses on cattle in Masvingo Province, identifying current patterns and dynamics and future challenges. Key to the analysis is an understanding of the social and political embeddedness of real markets and the relationship between the state and an increasingly informal, sometimes illegal, economy. The article traces the transformation of a formalized beef production and marketing system, organized around a relatively narrow group of players, to a more fragmented, diverse and complex system with a different — and potentially wider — scope and reach. It highlights a series of phases, from the technocratic order of the colonial era, and its replication in the period following Independence, to a new situation following land reform. Although there have recently been attempts to reinstate a particular order through price controls and other measures, this has had little impact. The result is a radically reshaped production and market system, which suggests very new political and social relationships for the livestock sector.
EXPLOITING MARINE WILDLIFE IN QUEENSLAND: THE COMMERCIAL DUGONG AND MARINE TURTLE FISHERIES, 1847–1969
Authors: Daley Ben , Griggs Peter , Marsh Helene
Published: October 2008

The historical exploitation of marine resources in Queensland has only been partially documented. In particular, the history of the commercial fishing of dugongs and marine turtles has received comparatively little scholarly attention. Since European settlement in Queensland, various human activities have exploited these resources. We present documentary and oral history evidence of the scale of those industries. Based on extensive archival and oral history research, we argue that diverse fishing practices occurred and that the sustained exploitation of dugongs, green turtles, and hawksbill turtles led to observable declines in the numbers of these animals – now species of conservation concern.
HYPERBOLIC DISCOUNTING, PUBLIC DEBT AND BALANCED BUDGET RULES
Authors: Huber Bernd , Runkel Marco
Published: October 2008

This paper considers a government that chooses its tax and borrowing policy in order to minimize the present value of the excess burden caused by taxation. In doing so, the government uses hyperbolic discounting. It turns out that public deficits are positive even if public expenditures are constant over time. With cyclical expenditures, the government chooses an asymmetric debt policy, i.e., in bad times it borrows more than it repays in good times. In contrast to tax smoothing and political economy theories of public debt, the welfare effects of a balanced budget rule are ambiguous.
A META‐ANALYSIS ON THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN INCOME INEQUALITY AND ECONOMIC GROWTH
Authors: De Dominicis Laura , Florax Raymond J. G. M. , De Groot Henri L. F.
Published: October 2008

In recent years there is a growing interest in determining the impact of inequality on economic growth. Theoretical papers as well as empirical applications have, however, produced controversial results. Although there is a considerable part of the literature that considers inequality detrimental to growth, more recent studies have challenged this result and found a positive effect of inequality on growth. In this paper, we provide a contribution to the empirical puzzle by using meta‐analysis to systematically describe, identify and analyse the variation in outcomes of empirical studies. We find that estimation methods, data quality and sample coverage systematically affect the results. The results point out that it will be particularly useful to increasingly focus research on determining the impact of income inequality on economic growth using single‐country data at the regional level, or a relatively homogeneous set of countries with adequate controls for country‐wide differences in economic, social and institutional characteristics.
MONETARY POLICY RULES IN THE RUN‐UP TO THE EMU
Authors: Chortareas Georgios
Published: October 2008

We characterize central bank behavior in the euro area during the run‐up to the European Economic and Monetary Union (EMU) era by estimating Taylor rule‐type reaction functions at both the individual and aggregate level. We focus on whether national monetary policies during the run‐up to the EMU were responding to economic developments according to their own policy rules or to a broader, euro area‐wide, policy rule. To consider the last possibility we examine whether national monetary policies were responding to German interest rates. Finally, we compare the performance of the estimated with imposed policy rules.
Who Benefits from Marriage?*
Authors: Maasoumi Esfandiar , Millimet Daniel L. , Sarkar Dipanwita
Published: October 2008

The phenomenon that married men earn higher average wages than unmarried men – the marriage premium – is well known. However, the robustness of the premium across the wage distribution and the underlying causes of the marriage premium are unclear. Focusing on the entire wage distribution and employing recently developed semi‐non‐parametric tests for quantile treatment effects, our findings cast doubt on the robustness of the premium. We find that the premium is explained by selection above the median, whereas a positive premium is obtained only at very low wages. The causal effect at low wages may be attributable to employer discrimination.
IMPACT OF DIVIDEND‐PROTECTED EMPLOYEE STOCK OPTIONS ON PAYOUT POLICIES: EVIDENCE FROM TAIWAN
Authors: Wu Ming‐Cheng , Kao Erin H. C. , Fung Hung‐Gay
Published: October 2008

Abstract.  This study used a sample of 1035 Taiwanese firms to examine the impact of dividend protected employee stock options on stock repurchase and cash dividend policies from 2000 to 2005. This study finds a positive relationship between cash dividends and executive options, implying that executives holding stock options might prefer to distribute cash dividends to boost the stock price. This result, unlike in earlier studies, arises from the dividend protected characteristic of Taiwanese employee stock options. Finally, free cash flow, firm profitability, level of debt, investment opportunities and firm size are found to considerably influence payout decisions.
LOCAL RESPONSES TO GLOBALIZATION IN CHINA: A TERRITORIAL RESTRUCTURING PROCESS PERSPECTIVE
Authors: Chien Shiuh‐Shen
Published: October 2008

Abstract.  This paper argues that the formation and transformation of local entrepreneurial governances can be understood as a process of local responses to challenges presented by global economic restructuring. Two kinds of local responses are theoretically identified. At the structure level, local entrepreneurial governances happen when places are embedded in the situation of competition between cities and regions. At the agent level, the emergence of local entrepreneurial governances requires local actors who pursue their own political and economic interests. The theoretical framework, what I term ‘territorial restructuring process’, is empirically explained by the context of the West and China.
The Effect of Reminiscence Group Work on Life Satisfaction, Self‐Esteem and Mood of Ageing People with Intellectual Disabilities
Authors: Van Puyenbroeck Joris , Maes Bea
Published: October 2008

Background  This study evaluates the effects of reminiscence group work on the subjective well‐being of ageing people with intellectual disabilities.

Methods  The content of the successive group work sessions was manipulated as follows: a control‐phase with three ‘current topics’ sessions, an experimental phase with six ‘reminiscence’ sessions and finally three ‘current topics’ sessions. Life satisfaction, perceived self‐competence and mood were measured by questionnaires, filled in by the participants and direct support workers.

Results  A quasi‐experimental pre‐test–post‐test design (n = 41) did not detect any changes in life satisfaction and perceived self‐competence. For mood, a quasi‐experimental ABA‐design (n = 41) did not yield an experimental treatment effect, but a significant increase in scores was observed over time. Personality characteristics ‘extraversion’ and ‘emotional stability’, but not memory specificity were found to be significant covariates for the mood scores.

Conclusion  Although the study’s design did not allow us to confirm the effect of reminiscence group work, the analysis nonetheless revealed some useful indications for further research. Also, interviews conducted before and after the programme resulted in positive appraisals of the programme as a worthwhile and meaningful activity for ageing people with intellectual disability.
From Advocate to Activist? Mapping the Experiences of Mothers of Children on the Autism Spectrum
Authors: Ryan Sara , Cole Katherine Runswick
Published: October 2008

Background  For parents of disabled children, the role of advocate often develops to a level of frequency and complexity that other parents do not usually face. This paper considers whether this high level of advocacy translates into a form of activism on the part of mothers and if so, why this shift might occur.

Materials and Methods  The broader study from which the data are taken aimed to explore the experiences of living with autism. Qualitative methods were used to understand how participants made sense of their lives and negotiated the social world. This analysis is based on interviews with 36 mothers of children on the autism spectrum.

Results  Most mothers adopted an enhanced advocacy role acting either independently or collectively through involvement with support groups. In both cases, some mothers demonstrated an activist role and extended their efforts towards campaigning for change outside of their families.

Conclusions  Mothers’ experiences do not sit comfortably within existing articulations of activism but suggest that advocacy and activism may be experienced on a continuum. For many mothers, advocacy and activism are a major part of the experience of mothering a disabled child yet this remains a largely unrecognized role.
Voluntary Appointment of Independent Directors in Taiwan: Motives and Consequences
Authors: Young Chaur‐Shiuh , Tsai Liu‐Ching , Hsieh Pei‐Gin
Published: October 2008

Abstract:  This study explores factors that motivate firms to increase board independence in the absence of legal requirements to do so. In addition, we examine the impact of voluntary enhancement of board independence on firm performance. Using a sample of listed companies in Taiwan, we show that voluntary appointment of independent directors is associated with both economic factors and managerial power. Specifically, we find that board independence increases with the weaknesses of alternative corporate governance mechanisms and the severity of agency problems. However, board independence decreases with managerial ownership and family control. In addition, by employing a simultaneous equations model with selectivity, we provide evidence supporting the positive performance impact of voluntary appointment of independent directors in Taiwan.
Food–niche relationships within a guild of alpine ungulates including an introduced species
Authors: Bertolino S. , Di Montezemolo N. C. , Bassano B.
Published: October 2008

To assess competition for trophic resources within a guild of ungulates, we studied the food niches of sympatric ungulates in an alpine area of the Italian Western Alps and evaluated the extent of their dietary overlap, especially with regard to the presence of the introduced mouflon Ovis musimon. The roe deer Capreolus capreolus had the most diverse diet including dicotyledons, young sprouts of trees and an unusually high percentage of graminoids. The red deer Cervus elaphus and chamois Rupicapra rupricapra mainly consumed graminoids, supplemented with dicotyledonous herbs and woody plants. The mouflon was a grass feeder, with graminoids representing the majority of items ingested in all seasons. Among the native species, we recorded a high overlap of feeding choices between red deer and chamois, which frequently used the same areas and are both intermediate feeders. The mouflon showed considerable dietary overlap with the chamois and red deer in all seasons, while the similarity with roe deer was low. High food–niche overlap can imply competition but only if resources are limited and the species use the same habitats.
Leisure and idleness in the Renaissance: the ambivalence of otium
Authors: Vickers Brian
Published: October 2008

Scholars are ashamed of otium. But there is something noble about leisure and idleness. ‐ If idleness really is the beginning of all vice, then it is at any rate in the closest proximity to all virtue; the idle man is always a better man than the active. ‐ But when I speak of leisure and idleness, you do not think I am alluding to you, do you, you sluggards?‐Nietzsche
Feasibility of Trans‐Radial Approach in Percutaneous Intervention for Upper Arm Dialysis Access
Authors: Lin Yu‐Sheng , Lin Pi‐Chi , Hsu Jen‐Te , Chang Shih‐Tai , Yang Teng‐Yao , Cheng Hui‐Wen , Chung Chang‐Min
Published: October 2008

Background:  This retrospective study evaluated the feasibility and efficacy of trans‐radial intervention for upper arm dialysis access.

Methods:  This study retrospectively reviewed 165 trans‐radial interventions performed for upper arm dialysis access in 101 patients. Sixty‐nine patients had arteriovenous graft (AVG), and 32 had arteriovenous fistula (AVF). Balloon angioplasty was performed in 66 stenotic dialysis accesses and 99 thrombosed dialysis accesses. Thrombosed dialysis access was further managed by additional balloon thrombectomy with or without urokinase injection.

Results:  Procedural time was 46.7 ± 25.5 minutes. Anatomic and clinical success rates were 89.7% and 84.2%, respectively. The rate of complications, most of which involved lesion rupture with contrast‐media extravasation and distal embolism, was 9.7%. Pretreatment stenosis was more severe (p = 0.01) and the prevalence of total occlusion was higher (p < 0.01) in the AVG group than the AVF group. The success rate and complication rate did not statistically differ (p = 0.59). Additionally, the thrombosed group had a lower success rate (p = 0.02), a higher complication rate (p < 0.01) and a longer procedural time (p < 0.01) than the stenotic group.

Conclusions:  Comparison with previous studies employing the traditional approach reveals that trans‐radial intervention has a comparable success rate, procedural time and complication rate for upper arm dialysis access. Therefore, trans‐radial intervention is a safe and feasible technique for upper arm dialysis access.
Using Macrophytes in Urban Stream Rehabilitation: A Cautionary Tale
Authors: Suren Alastair M.
Published: October 2008

Native macrophytes were transplanted into a small urban stream as part of a rehabilitation program, that also meandered the previously channeled stream, naturalized stream banks, and planted native riparian vegetation. Transplanted macrophytes minimized spread of introduced macrophytes and were viewed beneficially by residents, as was the stream rehabilitation. We transplanted the native macrophyte Myriophyllum triphyllum into five larger streams dominated by exotic macrophytes—some of which were weeded prior to transplanting—to see whether Myriophyllum could prevent regrowth of weeded plants. Transplanted Myriophyllum plants were washed away in two streams, reflecting high shear stresses there. Myriophyllum cover in the other streams decreased as weeded plants regrew. Our attempt at eliminating exotic macrophytes in patches in large streams was unsuccessful. Furthermore, council authorities weeded other experimental sections following complaints from residents of excess macrophyte growth. This problem highlighted conflicting multiple values placed on urban streams by managers and the public. A repeat survey of residents living near the original rehabilitated stream showed that many respondents were now critical of excessive plant growth—both in‐stream and riparian. A recurring comment made concerned the apparent lack of maintenance to the stream, giving it an untidy appearance. Difficulties with propagating and transplanting native macrophytes into larger streams, coupled with a negative perception of native vegetation (both in‐stream and riparian) if it looks unmanaged, suggest that planting macrophytes or riparian plants as part of urban stream rehabilitation programs may be more problematic than realized.
Pool Spacing, Channel Morphology, and the Restoration of Tidal Forested Wetlands of the Columbia River, U.S.A.
Authors: Diefenderfer Heida L. , Montgomery David R.
Published: October 2008

Tidal forested wetlands have sustained substantial areal losses associated with human land use, and restoration practitioners lack descriptions of ecosystem structures within these systems, in which surface water is a significant controlling factor on flora and fauna. In particular, the roles of large wood in tidal areas remain poorly described compared to terrestrial and riverine ecosystems. This study documents the role of large wood accumulations in forcing channel morphology in remnant Sitka spruce (Picea sitchensis)–dominated tidal freshwater wetlands (swamps) in the floodplain of the Columbia River, U.S.A., near the Pacific coast. The average pool spacing documented in channel surveys of three swamps near Grays Bay, 2.2–2.8 channel widths per pool, was not significantly different. There were higher numbers of pools on these tidal forested wetland channels (median 2.7 pools/100 m) than on a nearby diked agricultural site prior to restoration. Log jams were common in the swamps and nonexistent in the pasturelands prior to restoration. On the basis of pool spacing and observed sequences of log jams and pools, tidal forested wetland channels were classified consistent with a forced step‐pool channel type. This new classification for tidal systems provides a basis for restoration project design involving placement of large wood and development of pool habitats for aquatic species. Modifications by beaver (Castor canadensis) observed on restoration and reference sites warrant further investigation to explore the interactions between these animals and restoration methods that affect channel structure and hydraulics in tidal forced step‐pool channels.
Outcome after hemispherectomy in hemiplegic adult patients with refractory epilepsy associated with early middle cerebral artery infarcts
Authors: Cukiert Arthur , Cukiert Cristine Mella , Argentoni Meire , Baise‐Zung Carla , Forster Cássio Roberto , Mello Valeria Antakli , Burattini José Augusto , Mariani Pedro Paulo
Published: October 2008

Purpose:  To study the outcome after hemispherectomy (HP) in a homogeneous adult patient population with refractory hemispheric epilepsy.

Methods:  Fourteen adult patients submitted to HP were studied. Patients had to be at least 18 years old, and have refractory epilepsy, clearly focal lateralized seizures and unilateral porencephalus consistent with early middle cerebral artery infarct on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). All patients were submitted to functional hemispherectomy. We analyzed age of seizure onset, age by the time of surgery, gender, seizure type and frequency, interictal and ictal electroencephalography (EEG) findings, MRI and IQ scores preoperatively; seizure frequency, drug regimen, and IQ outcome were studied postoperatively.

Results:  Mean follow‐up was 64 months. All patients had frequent daily seizures preoperatively. All patients had unilateral simple partial motor seizures (SPS); 11 patients had secondarily generalized tonic–clonic (GTC) seizures and five patients had complex partial seizures (CPS), preoperatively. All patients had hemiplegia and hemianopsia. Twelve patients had unilateral EEG findings, and in two epileptic discharges were seen exclusively over the apparently normal hemisphere. Twelve patients were seizure‐free after surgery and two patients had at least 90% improvement in seizure frequency. Pre‐ and postoperative mean general IQ was 84 and 88, respectively. Five of the twelve Engel I patients were receiving no drugs at last follow‐up. There was no mortality or major morbidity.

Conclusions:  Our results suggest that well‐selected adult patients might also get good results after HP. Although good results were obtained in our adult series, the same procedure yielded a much more striking result if performed earlier in life.
Are cortical tubers epileptogenic? Evidence from electrocorticography
Authors: Major Philippe , Rakowski Sonja , Simon Mirela V. , Cheng Ming L. , Eskandar Emad , Baron Joshua , Leeman Beth A. , Frosch Matthew P. , Thiele Elizabeth A.
Published: October 2008

The purpose of this study was to characterize the epileptogenicity of tubers and surrounding cortex in patients with tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC). Three pediatric patients with TSC and intractable epilepsy underwent surgical resection of tubers associated with epileptogenic foci. In all patients, presurgical imaging revealed a prominent tuber that correlated on electroencephalography (EEG) with frequent interictal epileptiform discharges and electrographic seizures. Intracranial electrocorticography (ECoG) was performed using subdural grids placed over the tuber and surrounding cortex and depth electrodes positioned directly within the tuber. In all three patients, the depth electrode within the tuber was electrographically silent, whereas the surrounding cortical tissue showed significant epileptiform activity. The tuber and the electrically active adjacent cortex were resected. The patients experienced a drastic reduction in seizure frequency postsurgery. Epileptogenicity of cortical tubers may derive not from the lesion itself, but rather from the perturbation or abnormal development of the surrounding cortex.
Do We Have a Cure for Tuberous Sclerosis Complex?
Authors: Crino Peter B.
Published: October 2008

The recent development of several mouse models for tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) provides in vivo systems to test new therapies for the neurological manifestations of TSC. Rapamycin is known to antagonize the effects of loss of TSC protein function in vitro and in mouse TSC models, rapamycin can prevent seizures and improve learning task performance. These findings provide new hope for TSC patients suffering from intractable seizures and possibly, for those with autism and cognitive disabilities.
When it Comes to GABAergic Responses and Neonatal Seizures—Sex Matters!
Authors: Stafstrom Carl E.
Published: October 2008

Dissociated Gender-Specific Effects of Recurrent Seizures on GABA Signaling in CA1 Pyramidal Neurons: Role of GABAA Receptors. Galanopoulou AS. J Neurosci 2008;28(7):1557–1567. Early in development, the depolarizing GABAAergic signaling is needed for normal neuronal differentiation. It is shown here that hyperpolarizing reversal potentials of GABAAergic post-synaptic currents ( EGABA) appear earlier in female than in male rat CA1 pyramidal neurons because of increased potassium chloride cotransporter 2 (KCC2) expression and decreased bumetanide-sensitive chloride transport in females. Three episodes of neonatal kainic acid-induced status epilepticus (3KA-SE), each elicited at postnatal days 4 (P4)–P6, reverse the direction of GABAAergic responses in both sexes. In males, 3KA-SE trigger a premature appearance of hyperpolarizing GABAAergic signaling at P9, instead of P14. This is driven by an increase in KCC2 expression and decrease in bumetanide-sensitive chloride cotransport. In 3KA-SE females, EGABA transiently becomes depolarizing at P8–P13 because of increase in the activity of a bumetanide-sensitive NKCC1 (sodium potassium chloride cotransporter 1)-like chloride cotransporter. However, females regain their hyperpolarizing GABAAergic signaling at P14 and do not manifest spontaneous seizures in adulthood. In maternally separated stressed controls, a hyperpolarizing shift in EGABA was observed in both sexes, associated with decreased bumetanide-sensitive chloride cotransport, whereas KCC2 immunoreactivity was increased in males only. GABAA receptor blockade at the time of 3KA-SE or maternal separation reversed their effects on EGABA. These data suggest that the direction of GABAA-receptor signaling may be a determining factor for the age- and sex-specific effects of prolonged seizures in the hippocampus, because they relate to normal brain development and possibly epileptogenesis. These effects differ from the consequences of severe stress.
The Spine Loss Paradox: Clues to Mechanisms and Meaning
Authors: Swann John W.
Published: October 2008

A Cellular Mechanism for Dendritic Spine Loss in the Pilocarpine Model of Status Epilepticus. Kurz JE, Moore BJ, Henderson SC, Campbell JN, Churn SB. Epilepsia 2008 May 8. [Epub ahead of print] PURPOSE: Previous studies have documented a synaptic translocation of calcineurin (CaN) and increased CaN activity following status epilepticus (SE); however, the cellular effect of these changes in CaN in the pathology of SE remains to be elucidated. This study examined a CaN-dependent modification of the dendritic cytoskeleton. CaN has been shown to induce dephosphorylation of cofilin, an actin depolymerization factor. The ensuing actin depolymerization can lead to a number of physiological changes that are of interest in SE. METHODS: SE was induced by pilocarpine injection, and seizure activity was monitored by video-EEG. Subcellular fractions were isolated by differential centrifugation. CaN activity was assayed using a paranitrophenol phosphate (pNPP) assay protocol. Cofilin phosphorylation was assessed using phosphocofilin-specific antibodies. Cofilin–actin binding was determined by coimmunoprecipitation, and actin polymerization was measured using a triton-solubilization protocol. Spines were visualized using a single-section rapid Golgi impregnation procedure. RESULTS: The immunoreactivity of phosphocofilin decreased significantly in hippocampal and cortical synaptosomal samples after SE. SE-induced cofilin dephosphorylation could be partially blocked by the preinjection of CaN inhibitors. Cofilin activation could be further demonstrated by increased actin–cofilin binding and a significant depolymerization of neuronal actin, both of which were also blocked by CaN inhibitors. Finally, we demonstrated a CaN-dependent loss of dendritic spines histologically. DISCUSSION: The data demonstrate a CaN-dependent, cellular mechanism through which prolonged seizure activity results in loss of dendritic spines via cofilin activation. Further research into this area may provide useful insights into the pathology of SE and epileptogenic mechanisms.
Informal and Illicit Entrepreneurs: Fighting for a Place in the Neoliberal Economic Order
Authors: Galemba Rebecca B.
Published: October 2008

A panel at the 2007 meetings of the American Anthropological Association examined the working lives of illicit and informal entrepreneurs living in “the gaps” or “shadows” of neoliberal globalization. Panelists challenged dichotomies such as informal/formal and legal/illegal by examining the everyday practices of workers in diverse settings. Emphasis was placed on entrepreneurs' efforts to legitimate their activities and identities to themselves and others.
A Novel Technique for Synthesizing Nanoshell Hollow Alumina Particles
Authors: Wang Yenwen , Tseng Wenjea J.
Published: October 2008

A novel and versatile synthesis route has been developed to fabricate hollow Al2O3 microspheres with nanoporous shell structures. The method involves a preferential “implantation” of Al species into polymeric template particles to form a core–shell structure in solvent. The template cores can then be removed by thermal pyrolysis to form hollow interiors. This unique “implantation” process allows for synthesis of monodisperse hollow spheres with a nonaggregated character. The implantation of Al species is confirmed by electron spectroscopy for chemical analysis/Auger analysis in depth profiles. The shell structure changes from amorphous to γ‐Al2O3 at 900°C; because of which, the shell is nanoporous in structure. The porous shell then transforms to α‐Al2O3 as temperature is further raised above 1000°C. Transmission electron microscopy examination reveals a uniform shell thickness of ca. 20–40 nm, and grain growth appears to be constrained by the thin shell walls at 1100°C, leading to void formation at the triple grain junctions.
Pressureless Sintering of 3Y‐TZP/Stainless‐Steel Composite Layers
Authors: Dourandish Mahdi , Simchi Abdolreza , Tamjid Shabestary Elnaz , Hartwig Thomas
Published: October 2008

A pressureless sintering method was utilized to fabricate metal/ceramic joints out of yttria‐stabilized zirconia (3Y‐TZP) and stainless steels (SS). Ultrafine (150 nm) and nanoscale (75 nm) 3Y‐TZP particles and micrometric 17‐4PH, 316L, and 420 SS (<31 μm) powders were tested. Isothermal and nonisothermal sintering behaviors of the powders and composite layers in hydrogen, argon, and vacuum atmospheres were examined. It was found that the mismatch strain between the zirconia ceramic and SS during cosintering is significant, which leads to bond cracking and joint failure. Nevertheless, interlayer diffusion of Zr, Fe, and Cr and the formation of a reaction zone, particularly during vacuum sintering, enables an accommodation of the residual stresses caused by the mismatch shrinkage upon cooling. The formation of a porous region close to the metal layer was observed. Sinter joining of zirconia to 420 SS is more successful compared with austenitic steel because of a lower difference in the coefficient of thermal expansion.
Mechanical Properties of Wet‐Coagulated Alumina Bodies Prepared by Direct Coagulation Casting Using a MgO Coagulating Agent
Authors: Prabhakaran Kuttan , Tambe Shekhar Parshuram , Melkeri Anand , Gokhale Nitin Madusudhan , Sharma Suresh Chandra
Published: October 2008

High strength and Young's modulus of wet‐coagulated bodies is key to the success of a direct coagulation casting (DCC) process. The yield strength and Young's modulus of wet‐coagulated alumina bodies prepared at various concentrations of ammonium poly(acrylate) dispersant and MgO coagulating agent has been evaluated. The yield strength and Young's modulus of the wet‐coagulated bodies, prepared at a MgO concentration equivalent to react with the dispersant, increased with an increase in the dispersant concentration due to the binding of alumina particles by the Mg‐poly(acrylate) formed by the reaction between the dispersant and MgO. Addition of MgO higher than the equivalent amount to react with the dispersant increased the yield strength, Young's modulus, and brittleness of the wet‐coagulated bodies. This is due to a combination of an increase in the cohesive force between particles and a decrease in homogeneity of the particle network in the wet‐coagulated body induced by heterocoagulation of alumina and MgO particles having opposite surface charges. The high yield strength (up to 472 kPa) and Young's modulus (up to 110 MPa) achieved would facilitate easy and successful removal of the wet‐coagulated bodies even from intricate shape molds.