bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Relationship of Bipolar Left Ventricular Pacing Stimulus Intensity to Cardiac Depolarization and Repolarization in Humans with Cardiac Resynchronization Devices
Authors: THEIS CATHRIN , BAVIKATI VENKATA V. , LANGBERG JONATHAN J. , LLOYD MICHAEL S.
Published: December 2008

Background:Myocardial depolarization can be altered by varying pacing stimulus output. This may have implications on response rates for cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT). The purpose of our study was to determine the relationship of left ventricular (LV) pacing stimulus intensity to measures of depolarization and repolarization in humans with CRT devices.

Methods:In 37 patients with a CRT device and bipolar LV leads, bipolar LV‐only pacing from maximum output to threshold was performed. The presence of changes in depolarization was defined by predetermined changes in ECG morphology that accompanied a change in bipolar stimulus amplitude. ECG parameters and the EGMs were analyzed at various LV pacing stimulus intensities.

Results:Changes in ECG morphology were apparent in 70% of patients. These occurred at a mean LV stimulus amplitude of greater than 2.7 ± 0.8 V at 1 ms. Of the patients with changes in surface ECG, the transventricular conduction time decreased from 155 ± 41 ms at low output to 141 ± 39 ms at high output (P < 0.01). Despite a significant reduction in QRS duration with high output, mean QTc and JTc interval increased with increasing LV stimulus strength (539 ± 45 vs 559 ± 46 ms (P < 0.01) and 353 ± 31 ms vs 377 ± 32 (P < 0.01)).

Conclusion:Increased LV stimulus intensity, independent of RV anodal capture, is associated with faster transventricular conduction time, changes in myocardial depolarization, and longer QT intervals. These findings have important implications on the relationship of programmed LV pacing output to pacing‐induced proarrhythmia and clinical CRT response rates.
Selective Vagal Denervation of the Sinus and Atrioventricular Nodes, Guided by Vagal Reflexes Induced by High Frequency Stimulation, to Treat Refractory Neurally Mediated Syncope
Authors: SCANAVACCA MAURICIO , HACHUL DENISE , PISANI CRISTIANO , SOSA EDUARDO
Published: December 2008

A 15‐year‐old female patient presented with frequent episodes of vasovagal syncope refractory to non‐pharmacological and pharmacological measures. Two tilt‐table tests performed before and after conventional therapy were positive and reproduced the patient's clinical symptoms. Selective vagal denervation, guided by HFS, was performed. Six radiofrequency pulses were applied on the left and right sides of the interatrial septum, abolishing vagal responses at these locations. Basal sinus node and Wenckebach cycle lengths changed significantly following ablation. A tilt test performed after denervation was negative and revealed autonomic tone modification. The patient reported significant improvement in quality of life and remained asymptomatic for 9 months after denervation. After this period, three episodes of NMS occurred during a 4‐month interval and a tilt test performed 11 months after the procedure demonstrated vagal activity recovery.
Low Dielectric Loss Ceramics in the ZnAl2O4–TiO2 System as a τf Compensator
Authors: Huang Cheng‐Liang , Yang Tung‐Jung , Huang Chung‐Chia
Published: December 2008

The microstructure and microwave dielectric properties of a (1−x)ZnAl2O4–xTiO2 ceramic system prepared by the mixed oxide route have been investigated. The phases of ZnAl2O4 and TiO2 co‐exist with each other and form a two‐phase system, which is confirmed by the X‐ray diffraction patterns and the energy dispersive X‐ray spectrometer analysis. The microwave dielectric properties of the specimens are strongly related to the sintering temperature, the density, and the mole ratio of ZnAl2O4/TiO2. The sintering temperature of the specimen can be effectively lowered by increasing the TiO2 content. The Qu×f values of the ceramics can be significantly boosted by adding an appropriate amount of TiO2 and by sintering at a suitable temperature. Consequently, a very high Qu×f of 277 000 GHz associated with an ɛr of 25.2 and a large resonant frequency (τf) of 177 ppm/°C are obtained using 0.5ZnAl2O4–0.5TiO2 ceramics at 1390°C/4 h. These unique properties can be utilized as a τf compensator for dielectrics that would require extremely low loss. The MgTiO3 and Mg4Nb2O9 having negative τf were mixed with 0.5ZnAl2O4–0.5TiO2 ceramics to achieve dielectrics with a low ɛr, a high Qu×f, and a nearly‐zero τf. In addition, a circle dual‐mode microstrip bandpass filter is designed and fabricated using the proposed dielectric to study its performance.
Evaluating the validity of using unverified indices of body condition
Authors: Schamber Jason L. , Esler Daniel , Flint Paul L.
Published: December 2008

Condition indices are commonly used in an attempt to link body condition of birds to ecological variables of interest, including demographic attributes such as survival and reproduction. Most indices are based on body mass adjusted for structural body size, calculated as simple ratios or residuals from regressions. However, condition indices are often applied without confirming their predictive value (i.e., without being validated against measured values of fat and protein), which we term ‘unverified’ use. We evaluated the ability of a number of unverified indices frequently found in the literature to predict absolute and proportional levels of fat and protein across five species of waterfowl. Among indices we considered, those accounting for body size never predicted absolute protein more precisely than body mass, however, some indices improved predictability of fat, although the form of the best index varied by species. Further, the gain in precision by using a condition index to predict either absolute or percent fat was minimal (rise in r2≤0.13), and in many cases model fit was actually reduced. Our data agrees with previous assertions that the assumption that indices provide more precise indicators of body condition than body mass alone is often invalid. We strongly discourage the use of unverified indices, because subjectively selecting indices likely does little to improve precision and might in fact decrease predictability relative to using body mass alone.
Early cortical bone healing around loaded titanium implants: a histological study in the rabbit
Authors: Slaets Elke , Naert Ignace , Carmeliet Geert , Duyck Joke
Published: December 2008

Objectives: To identify the role of immediate implant loading on the early phases of the bone healing responses.

Material and methods: Implants were placed in rabbit tibial diaphyses and left to heal for 3, 7, 14, 28 or 42 days. Half of the animals received an immediate loading protocol of 2.2 N at 3 Hz for 1800 cycles and 5 days/week, whereas the others served as unloaded controls. Histological assessment was combined with histomorphometrical measurements.

Results: At early time‐points, an endosteal and periosteal new bone formation was found, while the cortex itself contained damaged osteocytes. At later time‐points, new bone formation was also found at the cortical level itself. Differences between groups were found mainly in this new bone formation process, with larger reactions for the endosteal and periosteal bone in the loaded group after 28 and 42 days, respectively. At the end‐point of the experiment, bone formation at the cortical level was reduced in the loaded group compared with the control group.

Conclusions: These results show that the immediate loading protocol caused no differences in the sequential events leading to osseointegration in cortical bone. However, the processes of new bone formation originating from the endosteum and the periosteum lasted longer compared with the unloaded controls.
A feasibility study evaluating an in situ formed synthetic biodegradable membrane for guided bone regeneration in dogs
Authors: Jung Ronald E. , Lecloux Geoffrey , Rompen Eric , Ramel Christian F. , Buser Daniel , Hammerle Christoph H. F.
Published: December 2008

Purpose: The aim was (1) to evaluate the soft‐tissue reaction of a synthetic polyethylene glycol (PEG) hydrogel used as a barrier membrane for guided bone regeneration (GBR) compared with a collagen membrane and (2) to test whether or not the application of this in situ formed membrane will result in a similar amount of bone regeneration as the use of a collagen membrane.

Material and methods: Tooth extraction and preparation of osseous defects were performed in the mandibles of 11 beagle dogs. After 3 months, 44 cylindrical implants were placed within healed dehiscence‐type bone defects resulting in approximately 6 mm exposed implant surface. The following four treatment modalities were randomly allocated: PEG+autogenous bone chips, PEG+hydroxyapatite (HA)/tricalcium phosphate (TCP) granules, bioresorbable collagen membrane+autogenous bone chips and autogenous bone chips without a membrane. After 2 and 6 months, six and five dogs were sacrificed, respectively. A semi‐quantitative evaluation of the local tolerance and a histomorphometric analysis were performed. For statistical analysis, repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) and subsequent pairwise Student's t‐test were applied (P<0.05).

Results: No local adverse effects in association with the PEG compared with the collagen membrane was observed clinically and histologically at any time‐point. Healing was uneventful and all implants were histologically integrated. Four out of 22 PEG membrane sites revealed a soft‐tissue dehiscence after 1–2 weeks that subsequently healed uneventful. Histomorphometric measurement of the vertical bone gain showed after 2 months values between 31% and 45% and after 6 months between 31% and 38%. Bone‐to‐implant contact (BIC) within the former defect area was similarly high in all groups ranging from 71% to 82% after 2 months and 49% to 91% after 6 months. However, with regard to all evaluated parameters, the PEG and the collagen membranes did not show any statistically significant difference compared with sites treated with autogenous bone without a membrane.

Conclusion: The in situ forming synthetic membrane made of PEG was safely used in the present study, revealing no biologically significant abnormal soft‐tissue reaction and demonstrated similar amounts of newly formed bone for defects treated with the PEG membrane compared with defects treated with a standard collagen membrane.
Papillary dermal elastosis: a unique elastic tissue disorder or an unusual manifestation of pseudoxanthoma elasticum‐like papillary dermal elastolysis?
Authors: Wang Annie R. , Lewis Kevan , Lewis Michelle , Robinson‐Bostom Leslie
Published: December 2008

There are numerous acquired elastic tissue disorders, several of which present cutaneously with small yellow‐to‐white papules resembling plucked chicken skin. Differential diagnoses depend on the abnormalities within the network of elastic tissues. We report a case with distinct histologic features, which may represent a unique elastic tissue disorder or a variant of pseudoxanthoma elasticum‐like papillary dermal elastolysis. Our patient's clinical presentation includes scattered 1–2 mm white‐to‐yellow papules without surface change on the upper back and neck region. Histology is characterized by foci of clumped, granular elastic tissue, which have replaced the oxytalan and elaunin fibers, alternating with foci of decreased concentrations of normal‐appearing elastic fibers within the papillary dermis. Given its characteristics, we have termed this novel entity ‘papillary dermal elastosis’.
Histologic mimics of perineural invasion
Authors: Dunn Martin , Morgan Michael B. , Beer Trevor W. , Chen Karl T. K. , Acker Scott M.
Published: December 2008

Background: Perineural invasion (PNI) by primary cutaneous cancers is an important adverse risk factor. Certain benign conditions may mimic microscopic PNI. Mohs surgery is being performed more frequently on smaller primary cutaneous malignancies. While PNI may be present in these cases, it is likely to be microscopic and asymptomatic, affecting as little as one cutaneous nerve branch.

Methods: Review of the literature base regarding PNI as well as contribution of original findings.

Results: Four benign entities that could easily be confused with microscopic PNI are presented.

Conclusion: At least four benign mimics of microscopic PNI exist, important in the differential diagnosis of microscopic PNI. Knowledge of these entities should help dermatopathologists to correctly distinguish them from PNI and avoid unnecessary additional treatment.
Efficacy and safety of pegylated liposomal doxorubicin in primary cutaneous B‐cell lymphomas and comparison with the commonly used therapies
Authors: Pulini Stefano , Rupoli Serena , Goteri Gaia , Pimpinelli Nicola , Alterini Renato , Bettacchi Alberta , Mulattieri Simonetta , Picardi Paola , Tassetti Angela , Scortechini Anna Rita , Fioritoni Giuseppe , Leoni Pietro
Published: December 2008

Objectives:  The therapy of advanced, relapsed or refractory primary cutaneous lymphomas is often unsatisfactory. Recent data indicate a favourable pharmacokynetic, pharmacodynamic and toxicity profile of pegylated liposomal doxorubicin (Peg‐Doxo) in primary cutaneous T‐cell lymphomas, while in primary cutaneous B‐cell lymphomas (PCBCLs), the drug efficacy has never been assessed so far.

Methods:  We performed a prospective phase II pilot clinical trial of Peg‐Doxo monotherapy (20 mg/m2) in PCBCLs. One patient had a marginal zone B‐cell lymphoma and four were affected by diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma‐leg type, all with widespread nodular lesions.

Results:  All the patients achieved a complete response (CR = 100%) in a short period of time (median 3 months), even when pretreated with radio‐chemotherapy. Two experienced a relapse. At follow‐up, one patient died for progressive disease; four are in CR after 5, 52, 63 and 69 months. As concerning the toxicity profile, the treatment was well‐tolerated, no one decreased or delayed the dose. The haematological toxicity was mild with only one case of grade III neutropenia; a patient showed a grade I neurotoxicity. Dermatological toxicity, in particular the palmar–plantar erythrodysesthesia, did not occurred, probably because of both the low dosages of Peg‐Doxo monotherapy and the oral prophylaxis with pyridoxine.

Conclusions:  In spite of the small number of patients, it emerges that monochemotherapy with Peg‐Doxo has a significantly high clinical activity and a good safety profile in PCBCLs, even in aggressive forms, compared with other therapeutic regimens, which are completely reviewed. It suggests the need of further investigations in this field.
AKR‐501 (YM477) a novel orally‐active thrombopoietin receptor agonist
Authors: Fukushima‐Shintani Mari , Suzuki Ken‐ichi , Iwatsuki Yoshiyuki , Abe Masaki , Sugasawa Keizo , Hirayama Fukushi , Kawasaki Tomihisa , Nakahata Tatsutoshi
Published: December 2008

Thrombopoietin (TPO) is the principal physiologic regulator of platelet production. We have searched for small molecule compounds that mimic the action of TPO by using human TPO receptor‐expressed in Ba/F3 cells, resulting in the discovery of AKR‐501 (YM477). AKR‐501 specifically targeted the TPO receptor and stimulated megakaryocytopoiesis throughout the development and maturation of megakaryocytes just as rhTPO did. AKR‐501, however, was shown to be effective only in humans and chimpanzees with high species specificity. Therefore, we examined the in vivo platelet‐increasing effect of AKR‐501 in human platelet producing non‐obese diabetic/severe combined immunodeficiency (NOD/SCID) mice transplanted with human fetal liver CD34+ cells. Daily oral administration of AKR‐501 dose‐dependently increased the number of human platelets in these mice, with significance achieved at doses of 1 mg/kg and above. The peak unbound plasma concentrations of AKR‐501 after administration at 1 mg/kg in NOD/SCID mice were similar to those observed following administration of an active oral dose in human subjects. These results suggest that AKR‐501 is an orally‐active TPO receptor agonist that may be useful in the treatment of patients with thrombocytopenia.
Specific assessment of BCR–ABL transcript overexpression and imatinib resistance in chronic myeloid leukemia patients
Authors: Bianchini Michele , Brasi Carlos De , Gargallo Patricia , Gonzalez Mariana , Bengió Raquel , Larripa Irene
Published: December 2008

Imatinib mesylate has proven to be the most effective treatment in chronic myeloid leukemia. Nevertheless, imatinib resistance has raised concern and prompted interest in additional strategies to achieve disease eradication. Resistance to imatinib is mainly associated with three mechanisms: acquired mutations in the kinase domain of BCR–ABL protein, genetic amplification, and transcript overexpression of BCR–ABL rearrangement. Therefore an accurate assessment of resistance mechanism is particularly important to improve strategies to overcome resistance. In order to determine overexpression of BCR–ABL, we propose a method that correlates quantitative real time PCR and fluorescence in situ hybridization data from the same peripheral blood sample. The ratio between both methodologies permits to calculate the expression index (EI) for each patient. EI estimates the rate of BCR–ABL transcription per rearrangement. The median EI value, including all cases (n = 123), was 0.288; those cases (n = 13) included in percentile 90 showed an increment of EI above 1 Log (>2.88) with respect to the median value and were considered as cases with overexpression. We also evaluated the EIs using receiver operating characteristics curve; choosing an EI cutoff of 1.836 we obtained a sensitivity of 95% and a specificity of 61%. Using this EI cutoff value, more patients (n = 17) were included in the overexpression group. Patients within this group were resistant to imatinib and also showed a worse overall survival if compared with the remaining.
Prevention of ischemia/reperfusion‐induced cardiac apoptosis and injury by melatonin is independent of glutathione peroxdiase 1
Authors: Chen Zhongyi , Chua Chu C. , Gao Jinping , Chua Kao‐Wei , Ho Ye‐Shih , Hamdy Ronald C. , Chua Balvin H. L.
Published: December 2008

Abstract:  Free‐radical generation is one of the primary causes of myocardial ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury. Melatonin is an efficient free‐radical scavenger and induces the expression of antioxidant enzymes. We have previously shown that melatonin can prevent free‐radical‐induced myocardial injury. To date, the mechanism underlying melatonin’s cardioprotective effect is not clear. In this study, we assessed the ability of melatonin to protect against I/R injury in mice deficient in glutathione peroxidase 1 (Gpx1). Mice hearts were subjected to 40 min of global ischemia in vitro followed by 45 min of reperfusion. Myocardial I/R injury (expressed as % of recovery of left ventricular developed pressure × heart rate) was exacerbated in mice deficient in Gpx1 (51 ± 3% for Gpx1+/+ mice versus 31 ± 6% for Gpx1−/− mice, P < 0.05). Administration of melatonin for 30 min protected against I/R injury in both Gpx1+/+ mice (72 ± 4.8%) and Gpx1−/− mice (63 ± 4.7%). This protection was accompanied by a significant improvement in left ventricular end‐diastolic pressure and a twofold decrease in lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) level released from melatonin‐treated hearts. In another set of experiments, mice were subjected to 50 min of ligation of the left descending anterior coronary artery in vivo followed by 4 hr of reperfusion. The infarct sizes, expressed as the percentage of the area at risk, were significantly larger in Gpx1−/− mice than in Gpx1+/+ mice (75 ± 9% versus 54 ± 6%, P < 0.05) and were reduced significantly in melatonin‐treated mice (31 ± 3.7% Gpx1−/− mice and 33 ± 6.0% Gpx1+/+ mice). In hearts subjected to 30 min of coronary artery occlusion followed by 3 hr of reperfusion, melatonin‐treated hearts had significantly fewer in situ oligo ligation‐positive myocytes and less protein nitration. Our results demonstrate that the cardioprotective function of melatonin is independent of Gpx1.
Effect of combined maternal and infant vitamin D supplementation on vitamin D status of exclusively breastfed infants
Authors: Saadi Hussein F. , Dawodu Adekunle , Afandi Bachar , Zayed Reem , Benedict Sheela , Nagelkerke Nicolaas , Hollis Bruce W.
Published: December 2008

Severe vitamin D deficiency in mothers and their breastfed infants is a significant health problem in the Middle East. Supplementation of the breastfed infant alone with the recommended dose of vitamin D may be insufficient in high‐risk population. We investigated the effect of combined maternal and infant vitamin D supplementation on vitamin D status of the breastfed infant. We examined also the effect of supplementation on vitamin D antirachitic activity of breast milk in a subset of mothers. Healthy breastfeeding mothers (n = 90) were randomly assigned to 2000 IU daily (group 1) or 60 000 IU monthly (group 2) of vitamin D2, and all their infants (n = 92) received 400 IU daily of vitamin D2 for 3 months. Most infants had vitamin D deficiency – 25‐hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] ≤ 37.5 nmol L−1– at study entry. Serum 25(OH)D concentrations at 3 months increased significantly from baseline in infants of mothers in group 1 (13.9 ± 8.6 vs. 49.6 ± 18.5 nmol L−1, P < 0.0001) and group 2 (13.7 ± 12.1 vs. 44.6 ± 15.0 nmol L−1, P < 0.0001). Maternal and infant serum 25(OH)D concentrations correlated positively at baseline (r = 0.36, P = 0.01) and 3 months (r = 0.46, P = 0.002). Milk antirachitic activity increased from undetectable (<20 IU L−1) to a median of 50.9 IU L−1. In conclusion, combined maternal and infant vitamin D supplementation was associated with a threefold increase in infants’ serum 25(OH)D concentrations and a 64% reduction in the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency without causing hypervitaminosis D.
Reconfiguring insufficient breast milk as a sociosomatic problem: mothers of premature babies using the kangaroo method in Brazil
Authors: Groleau Danielle , Cabral Ivone Evangelista
Published: December 2008

This study focuses on Brazilian mothers who gave birth to premature babies who were discharged from hospital using the Kangaroo Mother Care Method. While mothers left the hospital breastfeeding exclusively, once back at home, they abandoned exclusive breastfeeding because of insufficient breast milk (IBM). In this project we explored how IBM was interpreted by mothers within their social context. Participatory research using the Creative Sensitive Method was done in the homes of mothers with family members and neighbours. We described the conflicting social discourse that influenced the mothers' perception of IBM and explored their sources of distress. At the hospital and Kangaroo ward, mothers considered that clinicians recognized they were experiencing IBM and thus supported them to overcome this problem. Back at home and in their community, other sources of stress generated anxiety such as: the lack of outpatient clinical support, and conflicting local norms to care and feed premature babies. These difficulties combined with economic constraints and discontinuity in models of health care led mothers to lose confidence in their breastfeeding capacity. Mothers, thus, rapidly replaced exclusive breastfeeding by mixed feeding or formula feeding. Our analysis suggests that IBM in our sample was the result of a socio‐somatic process. Recommendations are proposed to help overcome IBM and corresponding contextual barriers to exclusive breastfeeding.
Delayed introduction of lumpy foods to children during the complementary feeding period affects child's food acceptance and feeding at 7 years of age
Authors: Coulthard Helen , Harris Gillian , Emmett Pauline
Published: December 2008

The study aimed to follow up children who had been introduced to lumpy solids (chewy foods) at different ages, and to assess their dietary intake and feeding difficulties at seven years of age. Information was collected from a geographically defined population of 7821 mothers of children born in 1991/92, part of the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC). Self‐report questionnaires were completed by the mother about her child at 6 months, 15 months, and 7 years postpartum about food foods eaten and feeding difficulties. Children were divided into three groups based on the age at which they were first introduced to ‘lumpy’ solids: 12.1% were introduced before 6 months of age, 69.8% were introduced between 6 and 9 months of age and 18.1% were introduced after 9 months. Children introduced to lumpy solids after the age of 9 months ate less of many of the food groups at seven years, including all 10 categories of fruit and vegetables, than those introduced to lumpy foods between 6–9 months (P < 0.05–0.001). In addition they were reported as having significantly more feeding problems at seven years (P < 0.05–0.001). The long‐term feeding problems and reduced consumption of important food groups such as fruit and vegetables in children who are introduced to lumpy foods after the age of 9 months is a cause for concern. Health professionals must encourage the progression from purees and exposure to important food groups.
Reconsidering childhood undernutrition: can birth spacing make a difference? An analysis of the 2002–2003 El Salvador National Family Health Survey
Authors: Gribble James N. , Murray Nancy J. , Menotti Elaine P.
Published: December 2008

It is well understood that undernutrition underpins much of child morbidity and mortality in less developed countries, but the causes of undernutrition are complex and interrelated, requiring a multipronged approach for intervention. This paper uses a subsample of 3853 children under age 5 from the most recent family health survey in El Salvador to examine the relationship between birth spacing and childhood undernutrition (stunting and underweight). While recent research and guidance suggest that birth spacing of three to five years contributes to lower levels of infant and childhood mortality, little attention has been given to the possibility that short birth intervals have longer‐term effects on childhood nutrition status. The analysis controls for clustering effects arising from siblings being included in the subsample, as well as variables that are associated with household resources, household structure, reproductive history and outcomes, and household social environment. The results of the multiple regression analyses find that in comparison to intervals of 36–59 months, birth intervals of less than 24 months and intervals of 24–35 months significantly increase the odds of stunting (<24 months Odds Ratio (OR) = 1.52; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.21–1.92; 25–36 months OR = 1.30; 95% CI: 1.05–1.64). Other factors related to stunting and underweight include standard of living index quintile, child's age, mother's education, low birthweight, use of prenatal care, and region of the country where the child lives. Policy and program implications include more effective use of health services and outreach programs to counsel mothers on family planning, breastfeeding, and well child care.
Cognitive restraint, uncontrolled eating and emotional eating: correlations between parent and adolescent
Authors: De Lauzon‐Guillain Blandine , Romon Monique , Musher‐Eizenman Dara , Heude Barbara , Basdevant Arnaud , Charles Marie Aline ,   Fleurbaix‐Laventie Ville Santé Study Group
Published: December 2008

The purpose of this study was to examine, in a general population, the resemblance in eating behaviour between adolescents and their parents. This study was based on the first examination of a community‐based epidemiological study in Northern France. Subjects were offspring aged 14–22 years (135 boys and 125 girls) and their parents (174 fathers and 205 mothers). The Three‐Factor Eating Questionnaire Revised 18‐item version (TFEQ‐R18) identified three aspects of eating behaviour: cognitive restraint of eating, uncontrolled eating and emotional eating. Familial resemblance in eating behaviour was measured by partial Spearman's correlations, adjusted for age and body mass index.

Sons' uncontrolled eating was positively related to fathers' cognitive restraint of eating (r = 0.36), but not to fathers' uncontrolled eating (r = 0.07), nor to mothers' eating behaviour. Sons' cognitive restraint of eating was related to no parental eating behaviour scores. In daughters, cognitive restraint of eating was positively related to mothers' uncontrolled eating (r = 0.26), but not to mothers' cognitive restraint of eating (r = 0.13). Daughters' uncontrolled eating and emotional eating were positively associated with the same scores in mothers. Finally, daughters' eating behaviour was not related to fathers' eating behaviour.

In conclusion, correlations in eating behaviour were higher with the parent of the same gender, and eating behaviours in adolescents seem to reflect opposition to parents' behaviour more than familial resemblance.
Nucleotide Variation in the NCED3 Region of Arabidopsis thaliana and its Association Study with Abscisic Acid Content under Drought Stress
Authors: Hao Gang‐Ping , Zhang Xiu‐Hai , Wang Yong‐Qin , Wu Zhong‐Yi , Huang Cong‐Lin
Published: December 2008

Drought tolerance is a comprehensive quantitative trait that is being understood further at the molecular genetic level. Abscisic acid (ABA) is the main drought‐induced hormone that regulates the expression of many genes related to drought responses. 9‐cis‐epoxycarotenoid dioxygenase (NCED3) is thought to be a key enzyme in ABA biosynthesis. In this paper, we measured the ABA content increase under drought stress, and sequenced and compared the sequence of AtNCED3 among 22 Arabidopsis thaliana accessions. The results showed that the fold of ABA content increase under drought stress was highly variable among these accessions. High density single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) and insertion/deletion (indel) were found in the AtNCED3 region, on average one SNP per 87.4 bp and one indel per 502 bp. Nucleotide diversity was significantly lower in the coding region than that in non‐coding regions. The results of an association study with anova analysis suggested that the 274th site (P↔S) and the 327th site (P↔R) amino acid variations might be the cause of ABA content increase of 163av accession under drought stress.
Distribution of an Ankyrin‐repeat Protein on the Endoplasmic Reticulum in Arabidopsis
Authors: Wei Liqin , Li Yan
Published: December 2008

There are many ankyrin‐repeat proteins in plant cells. However, the distribution and function of these proteins are mostly unclear. By reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction, a gene encoding an ankyrin‐like protein was cloned from Arabidopsis and named AtANK1 (GenBank accession no. NM_120340). The 6‐His‐tagged AtAnk1‐N fusion protein was affinity‐purified and its rabbit polyclonal antibody was obtained. Immuno‐blotting with the purified anti‐AtAnk1‐N polyclonal antibody revealed that the relative molecular weight of the AtANK1 protein was about 76 kDa. By immunofluorescence labeling and immuno‐gold labeling with the purified anti‐AtAnk1‐N polyclonal antibody, coupled with confocal and transmission electron microscopy observation, AtANK1 was found to be distributed on the membrane of the endoplasmic reticulum in Arabidopsis cells. Based on these results, we suggested that AtANK1 might be involved in endoplasmic reticulum‐related protein localization and sorting in plant cells.
Assessing Ground Water Development Potential Using Landsat Imagery
Authors: Mutiti Samuel , Levy Jonathan , Mutiti Christine , Gaturu Ndung'u S.
Published: December 2008

Seven villages in southeastern Kenya surround Mt. Kasigau and depend on the mountain's cloud forest for their water supply. Five of these villages have regularly experienced water shortages, and all village water supplies were contaminated with Escherichia coli bacteria. There is a need to economically find new sources of fresh ground water. Remote sensing offers a relatively quick and cost‐effective way of identifying areas with high potential for ground water development. This study used spectral properties of features on Landsat remote sensing imagery to map linear features, soil types, surface moisture, and vegetation. Linear features represented geologic or geomorphologic features indicating either shallow ground water or areas of increased subsurface hydraulic conductivity. Regarding soil type, black soils were identified as potential indicators of shallow aquifers based on their relatively lower elevation and association with river valleys. A vegetation map was created using unsupervised classification, and three of the resulting vegetation classes were observed to be commonly associated with wet areas and/or ground water discharge. A wetness map, created using tasseled cap analysis, was used to identify all areas of high ground moisture, including those that corresponded to vegetated areas. The linear features, soil type, vegetation, and wetness maps were overlaid to produce a composite that highlighted areas with the highest potential for ground water development. Electrical resistivity surveys confirmed that areas highlighted by the composite image had relatively shallow depths to the water table.

Some figures in this paper are available in color in the online version of the paper.
NMR Imaging of Fluid Exchange between Macropores and Matrix in Eogenetic Karst
Authors: Florea Lee J. , Cunningham Kevin J. , Altobelli Stephen
Published: December 2008

Sequential time‐step images acquired using nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) show the displacement of deuterated water (D2O) by fresh water within two limestone samples characterized by a porous and permeable limestone matrix of peloids and ooids. These samples were selected because they have a macropore system representative of some parts of the eogenetic karst limestone of the Biscayne Aquifer in southeastern Florida. The macroporosity, created by the trace fossilOphiomorpha, is principally well connected and of centimeter scale. These macropores occur in broadly continuous stratiform zones that create preferential flow layers within the hydrogeologic units of the Biscayne. This arrangement of porosity is important because in coastal areas, it could produce a preferential pathway for salt water intrusion. Two experiments were conducted in which samples saturated with D2O were placed in acrylic chambers filled with fresh water and examined with NMR. Results reveal a substantial flux of fresh water into the matrix porosity with a simultaneous loss of D2O. Specifically, we measured rates upward of 0.001 mL/h/g of sample in static conditions, and perhaps as great as 0.07 mL/h/g of sample when fresh water continuously flows past a sample at velocities less than those found within stressed areas of the Biscayne. These experiments illustrate how fresh water and D2O, with different chemical properties, migrate within one type of matrix porosity found in the Biscayne. Furthermore, these experiments are a comparative exercise in the displacement of sea water by fresh water in the matrix of a coastal, karst aquifer since D2O has a greater density than fresh water.
Corporate Leverage and Specialized Investments by Customers and Suppliers
Authors: Kale Jayant R. , Shahrur Husayn
Published: December 2008

A company's performance in the product market depends in part on the willingness of its suppliers and customers to invest in the relationship—to make specialized investments of human as well as financial capital that may have no value outside that relationship. Consistent with Stewart Myers's concept of debt overhang and underinvestment, the authors hypothesize that companies can encourage their suppliers and other key stakeholders to make such specialized investments by limiting their use of debt financing, thereby addressing their stakeholders' concerns about their long‐term performance and staying power.

In this article, the authors report the findings of a recently published study of a sample of U.S. industrial companies during the period 1984‐2003. Using the benchmark input‐output accounts for the U.S. economy, the authors identified supplier and customer industries for each company in their sample while also collecting data on the firm's actual suppliers and customers from Compustat's segment files. Using empirical proxies for the intensity of specialized investments, they find that companies that operate in environments requiring specialized investments by suppliers and customers tend to operate with lower levels of debt. At the same time, the authors report evidence suggesting that the suppliers and customers of highly leveraged companies make lower levels of specialized investment than the suppliers and customers of less leveraged firms.
The Fluorinated and Chlorinated Nuclear Localization Sequence of the SV 40 T Antigen
Authors: Sturzu Alexander , Heckl Stefan
Published: December 2008

Nuclear uptake of the simian virus (SV) 40 T antigen is triggered by a specific nuclear localization sequence. However, such a nuclear localization sequence is only poorly taken up by the cytoplasm of cells when administered to the culture medium. Our aim was to improve the cytoplasmic uptake of the SV 40 T antigen nuclear localization sequence. Consequently, we synthesized novel fluorescein isothiocyanate‐labelled conjugates containing the nuclear localization sequences of the SV 40 T antigen and either trichlorobenzoic or trifluorobenzoic acid. Applied at 260 μm such halogenated NLS conjugates were nuclearly taken up by 75–85% of U373 and LN18 glioma cells and resulted in cell death. Nuclear staining and cell death were also found at lower concentrations (130 and 65 μm) of halogenated nuclear localization sequence conjugates. By contrast only a low cellular staining rate and no cell death could be observed after co‐incubation with a trichlorobenzoic acid or trifluorobenzoic acid‐lacking nuclear localization sequence conjugate and free, unbound trichlorobenzoic acid or trifluorobenzoic acid at the high concentration (260 μm). Such small non‐radioactive fluorinated and chlorinated nuclear localization sequences may be used as important components for future antiglioma drug development.
The Thermolysin Family (M4) of Enzymes: Therapeutic and Biotechnological Potential
Authors: Adekoya Olayiwola A. , Sylte Ingebrigt
Published: December 2008

Zinc containing peptidases are widely distributed in nature and have important roles in many physiological processes. M4 family comprises numerous zinc‐dependent metallopeptidases that hydrolyze peptide bonds. A large number of these enzymes are implicated as virulence factors of the microorganisms that produce them and are therefore potential drug targets. Some enzymes of the family are able to function at the extremes of temperatures, and some function in organic solvents. Thereby enzymes of the thermolysin family have an innovative potential for biotechnological applications.
Ependymoblastoma: Dear, Damned, Distracting Diagnosis, Farewell!*
Authors: Judkins Alexander R. , Ellison David W.
Published: December 2008

Ependymoblastoma is a diagnostic label that has been applied to a variety of rare central nervous system (CNS) tumors over the last eight decades. Consequently, there is uncertainty about whether such an entity exists and what its characteristic features might be. The current study, based on 14 cases from our institutional archives and identified by the search terms “ependymoblastoma,”“ependymoblastomatous,”“ependymoblastic” or “PNET with ependymal differentiation,” aimed to test the hypothesis that the ependymoblastoma is a distinct and recognizable entity. Ependymoblastic rosettes are a key diagnostic feature and were present in 11/14 (79%) tumors, eight (73%) of which were embryonal tumors with abundant areas of neuropil‐like differentiation. Three other cases showed rare ependymoblastic rosettes in the histopathological setting of a typical primitive neuroectodermal tumor (PNET), medulloblastoma (MB) or atypical teratoid/rhabdoid tumor (AT/RT). The remaining cases were all embryonal tumors with structures that mimicked ependymoblastic rosettes. Our results indicate that ependymoblastic rosettes are most frequently encountered in embryonal tumors with abundant neuropil and less frequently in other CNS embryonal neoplasms, including PNET, MB and AT/RT. We believe that ependymoblastoma as a diagnosis is neither precise nor specific and that it is time once and for all to retire this diagnosis from the lexicon of neuropathology.
Relationship between exhaled nitric oxide and IgE sensitisation in patients with asthma: influence of steroid treatment
Authors: Syk Jörgen , Undén Anna‐Lena , Alving Kjell
Published: December 2008

Introduction:  The influence of the degree of immunoglobulin E (IgE) sensitisation on the fraction of expired nitric oxide (FENO) in asthma patients being treated with inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) is not well known.

Objectives:  To investigate the relationship between IgE sensitisation and FENO, and the effect of a step‐up in ICS treatment on this relationship, in patients with allergic asthma.

Methods:  A primary health care centre recruited 20 non‐smoking patients with perennial allergic asthma (18 years–50 years, six male) outside the pollen season. At every visit (0, 2, 4, 8 weeks), FENO was measured and an exposure questionnaire was completed. ICS dose was adjusted according to FENO (≥22 ppb prescribed increase in ICS). Quantitative analyses of serum IgE (eight common aeroallergens) confirmed allergy.

Results:  At baseline, FENO and the sum of IgE antibody titres for perennial allergens correlated significantly (r = 0.47, P = 0.04). After a step‐up in ICS treatment, this correlation had disappeared. Nine patients had persistently elevated FENO at last visit (mean 35 ppb vs 16 ppb). This group was more frequently exposed to relevant allergens or colds (89% vs 27% of patients, P < 0.05) and had higher IgE antibody titres (perennial allergens) compared with the normalised group (mean 28.9 kU/L vs 10.7 kU/L, P < 0.05).

Conclusion:  Serum IgE against perennial allergens and FENO correlate in patients with allergic asthma. However, this relationship disappears after a high‐dose ICS regimen, suggesting that FENO relates to bronchial inflammation and not IgE levels per se. High degree of IgE sensitisation together with allergen exposure may lead to ICS‐resistant airways inflammation.

Please cite this paper as: Syk J, Undén AL and Alving K. Relationship between exhaled nitric oxide and IgE sensitisation in patients with asthma: influence of steroid treatment. The Clinical Respiratory Journal 2009; 3: 143–151.
Individual and Community Factors Affecting Psychological Sense of Community, Attraction, and Neighboring in Rural Communities*
Authors: WILKINSON DEREK
Published: December 2008

L'échelle de Buckner, qui comporte trois dimensions—sentiment communautaire (SC), attractivité et voisinage—, fut appliquée à 1,995 personnes de 20 villages canadiens afin d'y mesurer le sentiment de cohésion sociale. Le nombre d'enfants, un revenu dépassant 20,000 $, l'âge, le lieu de naissance et le nombre d'années dans la collectivité exercent une influence positive sur le SC et l'attractivité. Le nombre d'enfants, un revenu dépassant 40,000 $, le lieu de naissance et le nombre d'années dans la collectivité influent de manière significative sur le voisinage. L'interaction accroît généralement la cohésion sociale individuelle. La localisation sur une île étant la seule variable communautaire significative, les politiques individuelles sont à privilégier pour accroître la cohésion.

One thousand nine hundred ninety‐five individuals in 20 rural Canadian communities were measured on perceived social cohesion by the three Buckner scale subdimensions: psychological sense of community (PSOC), attraction, and neighboring. Number of household children, income over $20,000, age, birthplace in, and years lived in the community significantly positively influenced PSOC and Attraction. Number of household children (positive for income over $20,000; otherwise negative), income over $40,000, birthplace, and years in the community significantly influenced neighboring. Increased interaction generally increases individuals' social cohesion. As the only significant community variable was being on an island province, individual‐oriented policies are recommended to increase cohesion.
Progress, Public Health, and Power: Foucault and the Homemakers' Clubs of Saskatchewan*
Authors: McLEAN SCOTT , ROLLWAGEN HEATHER
Published: December 2008

De 1911 à 1979, les Homemakers' Clubs de la Saskatchewan ont mobilisé et suivi une étude et une action à grande échelle dans le domaine de la santé publique. Cet article examine comment ces clubs ont poussé des femmes à lutter pour avancer et les ont encouragées à considérer de telles luttes comme étant fondamentales pour bâtir leur propre identité. Les techniques utilisées comprenaient des encouragements à partager des buts, à faire leurs de tels buts, à structurer leur démarche, à rendre compte de leurs pensées et de leurs actions, à récompenser certaines conduites et à lier ces dernières à des causes convaincantes sur le plan émotif. En s'insérant dans un cadre conceptuel foucaldien, cet article apporte une contribution à la compréhension sociologique de la gouvernance et de la formation du sujet.

From 1911 to 1979, the Homemakers' Clubs of Saskatchewan mobilized and monitored extensive study and action in the field of public health. This article explores how these clubs exhorted women to strive for progress, and encouraged women to internalize such striving as fundamental to their own identities. The techniques used included encouraging commitment to shared goals, making such goals personal, structuring action, requiring women to report their thoughts and actions, rewarding certain behaviors, and linking those behaviors with emotionally compelling causes. Rooted in a Foucauldian conceptual framework, this article contributes to the sociological understanding of subject formation and governance.
Writing Experience: Does Ethnography Convey a Crisis of Representation, or an Ontological Break with the Everyday World?
Authors: HO WING‐CHUNG
Published: December 2008

L'auteur pose comme prémisse la «brisure ontologique», telle qu'imaginée par Alfred Schutz, qui sépare deux champs: le «monde des coassociés», dans lequel la réalité sociale est directement expérimentée en face à face avec le présent intense, et l'«univers des contemporanéités», dans lequel l'autre est représenté selon des «types». Il soutient que cette coupure constitue un véhicule incitant à présenter une méta‐exposition de revendications majeures problématisant l'autorité traditionnelle en ethnographie. À la lumière de cette brisure, les tentatives postmodernistes d'acquérir ou de conserver la compréhension ici et maintenant de la signification subjective, ou de la «voix» des ethnographies, ne forment que des impossibilités épistémologiques. L'auteur conclut que le privilège postmoderniste accordéà une «ethnographie naïve» insistant sur les processus «expérimentaux», «interprétatifs», «dialogiques» et «polyphoniques» ne peut remplir sa promesse sur le plan méthodologique, pas plus qu'il n'est adaptable à la brisure ontologique de Schutz sur le plan théorique.

This paper is premised on the “ontological break” as coined by Alfred Schutz that disconnects two realms: the “world of consociates” where social reality is directly experienced face‐to‐face in the vivid present, and the “world of contemporaries” where the other is interpreted in terms of “types.” It is argued that this break is a suggestive vehicle for conducting a meta‐exposition of major claims which problematize the traditional authority of ethnography. In the light of the break, the postmodernist attempts to attain or retain the here‐and‐now understanding of subjective meaning, or “voice” in ethnographies are but epistemological impossibilities. It is concluded that the postmodernist privileging of a “naive ethnography” which emphasizes “experiential,”“interpretive,”“dialogical,” and “polyphonic” processes is neither able to deliver on its promise at the methodic level, nor amendable to Schutz's ontological break at the theoretical level.