bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Distinct effects of CGRP on typical and atypical smooth muscle cells involved in generating spontaneous contractions in the mouse renal pelvis
Authors: Hashitani Hikaru , Lang Richard J , Mitsui Retsu , Mabuchi Yoshio , Suzuki Hikaru
Published: November 2009

Background and purpose: We investigated the cellular mechanisms underlying spontaneous contractions in the mouse renal pelvis, regulated by calcitonin gene‐related peptide (CGRP).

Experimental approach: Spontaneous contractions, action potentials and Ca2+transients in typical and atypical smooth muscle cells (TSMCs and ATSMCs) within the renal pelvis wall were recorded separately using tension and intracellular microelectrode recording techniques and Fluo‐4 Ca2+imaging. Immunohistochemical and electron microscopic studies were also carried out.

Key results: Bundles of CGRP containing transient receptor potential cation channel, subfamily V, member 1‐positive sensory nerves were situated near both TSMCs and ATSMCs. Nerve stimulation reduced the frequency but augmented the amplitude and duration of spontaneous phasic contractions, action potentials and Ca2+transients in TSMCs. CGRP and agents increasing internal cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) mimicked the nerve‐mediated modulation of TSMC activity and suppressed ATSMCs Ca2+transients. Membrane hyperpolarization induced by CGRP or cAMP stimulators was blocked by glibenclamide, while their negative chronotropic effects were less affected. Glibenclamide enhanced TSMC Ca2+transients but inhibited ATSMC Ca2+transients, while both 5‐hydroxydecanoate and diazoxide, a blocker and opener of mitochondrial ATP‐sensitive K+channels, respectively, reduced the Ca2+transient frequency in both TSMCs and ATSMCs. Inhibition of mitochondrial function blocked ATSMCs Ca2+transients and inhibited spontaneous excitation of TSMCs.

Conclusions and implications: The negative chronotropic effects of CGRP result primarily from suppression of ATSMC Ca2+transients rather than opening of plasmalemmal ATP‐sensitive K+channels in TSMCs. The positive inotropic effects of CGRP may derive from activation of TSMC L‐type Ca2+channels. Mitochondrial Ca2+handling in ATSMCs also plays a critical role in generating Ca2+transients.
Differential actions of urocortins on neurons of the myenteric division of the enteric nervous system in guinea pig distal colon
Authors: Liu S , Ren W , Qu M‐H , Bishop GA , Wang G‐D , Wang X‐Y , Xia Y , Wood JD
Published: November 2009

Background and purpose:  Urocortins (Ucns) 1, 2 and 3 are corticotropin‐releasing factor (CRF)‐related neuropeptides and may be involved in neural regulation of colonic motor functions. Nevertheless, details of the neural mechanism of action for Ucns have been unclear. We have, here, tested the hypothesis that Ucns act in the enteric nervous system (ENS) to influence colonic motor behaviour.

Experimental approach:  We used intracellular recording with ‘sharp’ microelectrodes, followed by intraneuronal injection of biocytin, and immunohistochemical localization of CRF1 and CRF2 receptors in guinea pig colonic tissue.

Key results:  Application of Ucn1 depolarized membrane potentials and elevated excitability in 58% of AH‐type and 60% of S‐type colonic myenteric neurons. In most of the neurons tested, depolarizing responses evoked by Ucn‐1 were suppressed by the CRF1 receptor antagonist NBI 27914, but were unaffected by the CRF2 receptor antagonist antisauvagine‐30. The selective CRF2 receptor agonists, Ucn2 and Ucn3, evoked depolarizing responses in 12 and 8% of the AH‐type myenteric neurons, respectively, and had no effect on S‐type neurons. Antisauvagine‐30, but not NBI 27914, suppressed these Ucn2‐ and Ucn3‐evoked responses. Immunohistochemical staining identified CRF1 as the predominant CRF receptor subtype expressed by ganglion cell somas, while CRF2‐immunoreactive neuronal somas were sparse. Ucns did not affect excitatory synaptic transmission in the ENS.

Conclusions and implications:  The results suggest that Ucns act as neuromodulators to influence myenteric neuronal excitability. The excitatory action of Ucn1 in myenteric neurons was primarily at CRF1 receptors, and the excitatory action of Ucn2 and Ucn3 was at CRF2 receptors.
Electrophysiological effects of anandamide on rat myocardium
Authors: Li Qian , Ma Hui‐Jie , Zhang Hao , Qi Zhao , Guan Yue , Zhang Yi
Published: November 2009

Background and purpose:  The endocannabinoid, anandamide, has anti‐arrhythmic effects. The aim of the present study was to explore the electrophysiological effects of anandamide on rat myocardium.

Experimental approach:  Evoked action potentials (APs) were recorded using intracellular recording technique in rat cardiac papillary muscles. In addition, L‐type Ca2+ current was measured and analysed using whole‐cell patch‐clamp recording technique in isolated rat cardiac ventricular myocytes.

Key results:  In cardiac papillary muscles, anandamide (1, 10, 100 nM) decreased AP duration in a concentration‐dependent manner. Furthermore, 100 nM anandamide decreased AP amplitude, overshoot and Vmax in partially depolarized papillary muscles. These effects were abolished by AM251 (100 nM), a selective antagonist for CB1 receptors, but not AM630 (100 nM), a CB2 receptor antagonist. Furthermore, an agonist of L‐type Ca2+ channels, Bay K 8644 (0.5 µM), a K+ channel blocker tetraethylammonium chloride (20 mM) and the nitric oxide synthase inhibitor l‐NAME (1 mM) had no effect on anandamide‐induced decrease in AP duration. In isolated ventricular myocytes, anandamide (1, 10, 100 nM) decreased L‐type Ca2+ current concentration‐dependently, and shifted the current–voltage relationship curve of the Ca2+ current. Anandamide (100 nM) shifted the steady‐state inactivation curve to the left and the recovery curve to the right. Blockade of CB1 receptors with AM251 (100 nM), but not CB2 receptors with AM630 (100 nM), eliminated the effect of anandamide on L‐type Ca2+ currents.

Conclusions and implications:  These data suggest that anandamide suppressed AP and L‐type Ca2+ current in cardiac myocytes through CB1 receptors.
Electrostatic contacts in the activator protein‐1 coiled coil enhance stability predominantly by decreasing the unfolding rate
Authors: Mason Jody M.
Published: November 2009

The hypothesis is tested that Jun–Fos activator protein‐1 coiled coil interactions are dominated during late folding events by the formation of intricate intermolecular electrostatic contacts. A previously derived cJun–FosW was used as a template as it is a highly stable relative of the wild‐type cJun–cFos coiled coil protein (thermal melting temperature = 63 °C versus 16 °C), allowing kinetic folding data to be readily extracted. An electrostatic mutant, cJun(R)–FosW(E), was created to generate six Arg‐Glu interactions at e–g′+1 positions between cJun(R) and FosW(E), and investigations into how their contribution to stability is manifested in the folding pathway were undertaken. The evidence now strongly indicates that the formation of interhelical electrostatic contacts exert their effect predominantly on the coiled coil unfolding/dissociation rate. This has major implications for future antagonist design whereby kinetic rules could be applied to increase the residency time of the antagonist–peptide complex, and therefore significantly increase the efficacy of the antagonist.
Retraction: Human telomeric G‐quadruplex: targeting with small molecules
Authors: Arora Amit , Kumar Niti , Agarwal Tani , Maiti Souvik
Published: November 2009

Retraction: The following review from FEBS Journal, 'Human telomeric G‐quadruplex: targeting with small molecules' by Amit Arora, Niti Kumar, Tani Agarwal and Souvik Maiti, published online on 27th November 2009 in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com), has been retracted by agreement between the authors, the journal Editor‐in‐Chief Professor Richard Perham and Blackwell Publishing Ltd. The retraction has been agreed due to overlap between this review and the following reviews: Published in Organic & Biomolecular Chemistry, 'A hitchhiker's guide to G‐quadruplex ligands' by David Monchaud and Marie‐Paule Teulade‐Fichou. Volume 6 Issue 4, 2008, pages 627‐636. Published in BioChimie, 'Targeting telomeres and telomerase' by Anne De Cian, Laurent Lacroix, Celine Douarre, Nassima Temime‐Smaali, Chantal Trentesaux, Jean‐Francois Riou and Jean‐Louis Mergny. Volume 90 Issue 1, 2008, pages 131‐155.
Human telomeric G‐quadruplex: The current status of telomeric G‐quadruplexes as therapeutic targets in human cancer
Authors: Neidle Stephen
Published: November 2009

The 3′‐ends of human chromosomal DNA terminate in short single‐stranded guanine‐rich tandem‐repeat sequences. In cancer cells, these are associated with the telomere‐maintenance enzyme telomerase together with the end‐binding protein hPOT1. Small molecules that can compete with these proteins and induce the single‐stranded DNA to form quadruplex–ligand complexes are, in effect, able to expose these 3′‐ends, which results in the activation of a DNA damage response and selective inhibition of cell growth. Several of these G‐quadruplex binding molecules have shown promising anticancer activity in tumour xenograft models, which indicate that the approach may be applicable to the treatment of a wide range of human cancers. This minireview summarizes the available data on these compounds and the challenges posed for drug discovery.
Human telomeric G‐quadruplex: structures of DNA and RNA sequences
Authors: Phan Anh Tuân
Published: November 2009

Telomeres play an important role in cellular aging and cancer. Human telomeric DNA and RNA G‐rich sequences are capable of forming a four‐stranded structure, known as the G‐quadruplex. Such a structure might be important for telomere biology and a good target for drug design. This minireview describes the structural diversity or conservation of DNA and RNA human telomeric G‐quadruplexes, discusses structural views on targeting these G‐quadruplexes and presents some future challenges for structural studies.
Self‐Improvement
Authors: Sedikides Constantine , Hepper Erica G. D.
Published: November 2009

This article approaches the topic of improvement from a self‐evaluation perspective, namely the interplay between the self‐improvement motive and social or evaluative feedback. The self‐improvement motive is reflected in conscious desire. It is also reflected in preferences for continuous upward feedback trajectories, upward comparison feedback, and feedback that may be self‐threatening in the present but is likely to be useful in the future. The last type of feedback preference is stronger following a resource‐bolstering experience (e.g., good mood, success feedback, self‐affirmation). Moreover, both direct and indirect activation of the self‐improvement motive facilitates recall of improvement‐oriented feedback. Such feedback is associated with increased satisfaction or positive affect, a pattern qualified by individual differences (e.g., self‐esteem, self‐theories). Finally, improvement‐oriented feedback yields better performance, a pattern also qualified by individual differences (e.g., self‐enhancement, self‐appraisal) as well as feedback attributes (gradual versus sudden). This territory‐mapping review will hopefully prove useful to future theorizing and research.
The Psychology (and Economics) of Trust
Authors: Evans Anthony M. , Krueger Joachim I.
Published: November 2009

Interpersonal trust is a mental construct with implications for social functioning and economic behavior. We review contemporary theories of trust from behavioral economics and social psychology. Neoclassical economic theory considers trust in strangers to be irrational, but observed behavior reveals widespread trust and trustworthiness. Theories of social preferences and adherence to social norms have been proposed to rationalize trust. Psychological approaches investigate trusting behavior in terms of an underlying disposition, intergroup processes, and cognitive expectations. The breadth of these approaches illustrates the multi‐faceted nature of trusting behavior. The determinants of trust are related to the relevant characteristics of the individual, the situation, and their interaction.
Gastrointestinal stromal tumours: A clinico‐radiologic review from a single centre in South India
Authors: Singh A , Chatterjee P , Pai MC , Chacko RT
Published: November 2009

Gastrointestinal stromal tumours (GISTs) are rare tumours but are the commonest mesenchymal neoplasms in the gastrointestinal tract. To our knowledge, there is no large case series in Asian countries in which a clinico‐radiological descriptive analysis of these tumours has been carried out. In this retrospective study, we analysed our experience of 70 patients with histopathologically proven GISTs, who were presurgically investigated by using CT, and describe the demography, anatomical distribution, imaging features and clinical course of the GIST. We found an unusually large predominance of males in our study, stomach and small bowel appeared to have been involved similarly and small bowel tumours had a higher rate of metastases. We also highlight some unusual CT features of these tumours that we encountered during the study, such as the presence of metastatic lymphadenopathy and satellite nodules, relapse in appendices epiploicae of the bowel, metachronous liposarcoma, adrenal and lung metastases, multiplicity of lesions and aneurysmal dilatation of the bowel. Two of our patients also had multiple neurofibromas, whose association with GIST has been seen in earlier reports. To the best of our knowledge, this article presents one of the largest series of articles on GISTs, to date, in Asian countries. We conclude with a differential diagnosis of GIST, with salient features distinguishing each entity.
Reader practice in mammography screen reporting in Australia
Authors: Reed W , Poulos A , Rickard M , Brennan P
Published: November 2009

Reader variability is a problem in mammography image reporting and compromises the efficacy of screening programmes. The purpose of this exploratory study was to survey reader practice in reporting screening mammograms in Australia to identify aspects of practice that warrant further investigation. Mammography reporting practice and influences on concentration and attention were investigated by using an original questionnaire distributed to screen readers in Australia. A response rate of 71% (83 out of 117) was achieved. Demographic data indicated that the majority of readers were over 46 years of age (73%), have been reporting on screening mammograms for over 10 years (61%), take less than 1 min to report upon a screening mammogram examination (66%), report up to 200 examinations in a single session (83%) and take up to 2 h to report one session (61%). A majority report on more than 5000 examinations annually (66%); 93% of participants regard their search strategy as systematic, 87% agreed that their concentration can vary throughout a session, 64% agreed that the relatively low number of positives can lead to lapses in concentration and attention and almost all (94%) participants agreed that methods to maximise concentration should be explored. Participants identified a range of influences on concentration within their working environment including volume of images reported in one session, image types and aspects of the physical environment. This study has provided important evidence of the need to investigate adverse influences on concentration during mammography screen reporting
Guidelines for patient selection and performance of carotid artery stenting
Authors:   The Carotid Stenting Guidelines Committee
Published: November 2009

The endovascular treatment of carotid atherosclerosis with carotid artery stenting (CAS) remains controversial. Carotid endarterectomy (CEA) remains the benchmark in terms of procedural mortality and morbidity. Consensus Australasian guidelines for the safe performance of CAS were developed using the modified Delphi consensus method of iterative consultation.

Selection of patients suitable for CAS needs careful consideration of clinical and patho‐anatomical criteria. Randomised controlled trials and pooled analyses have demonstrated that CAS is more hazardous than CEA. The CGSC therefore recommends that CAS should not be performed in the majority of patients requiring carotid revascularisation. There is currently no evidence to support CAS as a treatment for asymptomatic carotid stenosis. The use of distal protection devices during CAS remains controversial with increased risk of clinically silent stroke. The knowledge requirements for the safe performance of CAS include an understanding of the evidence base from randomised controlled trials, carotid and aortic arch anatomy and pathology, and recognition and management of periprocedural complications. It is critical that all patients being considered for a carotid intervention have adequate pre‐procedural neuroimaging and peri‐procedural, independent, neurological assessment. Maintenance of proficiency in CAS requires active involvement in surgical/endovascular audit and continuing medical education programmes. These standards should apply in the public and private health‐care settings.

These guidelines represent the consensus of an intercollegiate committee in order to direct appropriate patient selection to perform CAS. Advances in endovascular technologies and the results of randomised controlled trials will guide future revisions of this document.
Peroneal tendon subluxation: the other lateral ankle injury
Authors: Roth Jennifer A , Taylor Walter C , Whalen Joseph
Published: November 2009

Ankle injuries are a frequent cause of patient visits to the emergency department and orthopaedic and primary care offices. Although lateral ligament sprains are the most common pathologic conditions, peroneal tendon subluxations occur with a similar inversion mechanism. Multiple grades of subluxation have been described with a recent addition of intrasheath subluxation. Magnetic resonance imaging is the best imaging modality to view the peroneal tendons at the retrofibular groove. Currently, point-of-care ultrasound is gaining clinical ground, especially for the dynamic viewing capability to capture an episodic subluxation. Although conservative treatment may be attempted for an acute injury, it has a low rate of success for the prevention of recurrent subluxation. Surgical procedures of various techniques have resulted in excellent recovery rates and faster return to play. The aim of this paper was to give a complete review of the current literature on peroneal tendon subluxation and to propose a clinical algorithm to help guide diagnosis and treatment. The goal of this study was to heighten clinical awareness to improve earlier detection and treatment of this sometimes elusive diagnosis.
What is the biochemical and physiological rationale for using cold-water immersion in sports recovery? A systematic review
Authors: Bleakley Chris M , Davison Gareth W
Published: November 2009

Cold-water immersion (CWI) is a popular recovery intervention after exercise. The scientific rationale is not clear, and there are no clear guidelines for its use. The aim of this review was to study the physiological and biochemical effect of short periods of CWI. A computer-based literature search, citation tracking and related articles searches were undertaken. Primary research studies using healthy human participants, immersed in cold water (<15°C), for 5 min durations or less were included. Data were extracted on body temperature, cardiovascular, respiratory and biochemical response. 16 studies were included. Sample size was restricted, and there was a large degree of study heterogeneity. CWI was associated with an increase in heart rate, blood pressure, respiratory minute volume and metabolism. Decreases in end tidal carbon dioxide partial pressure and a decrease in cerebral blood flow were also reported. There was evidence of increases in peripheral catecholamine concentration, oxidative stress and a possible increase in free-radical-species formation. The magnitude of these responses may be attenuated with acclimatisation. CWI induces significant physiological and biochemical changes to the body. Much of this evidence is derived from full body immersions using resting healthy participants. The physiological and biochemical rationale for using short periods of CWI in sports recovery still remains unclear.
Resistance training among young athletes: safety, efficacy and injury prevention effects
Authors: Faigenbaum A D , Myer G D
Published: November 2009

A literature review was employed to evaluate the current epidemiology of injury related to the safety and efficacy of youth resistance training. Several case study reports and retrospective questionnaires regarding resistance exercise and the competitive sports of weightlifting and powerlifting reveal that injuries have occurred in young lifters, although a majority can be classified as accidental. Lack of qualified instruction that underlies poor exercise technique and inappropriate training loads could explain, at least partly, some of the reported injuries. Current research indicates that resistance training can be a safe, effective and worthwhile activity for children and adolescents provided that qualified professionals supervise all training sessions and provide age-appropriate instruction on proper lifting procedures and safe training guidelines. Regular participation in a multifaceted resistance training programme that begins during the preseason and includes instruction on movement biomechanics may reduce the risk of sports-related injuries in young athletes. Strategies for enhancing the safety of youth resistance training are discussed.
Injuries among male and female World Cup alpine skiers
Authors: Flørenes T W , Bere T , Nordsletten L , Heir S , Bahr R
Published: November 2009

Background:

Limited knowledge exists on injuries among professional alpine skiers.

Objective:

To describe the risk of injury and the injury pattern among competitive World Cup alpine skiers during the competitive season.

Methods:

Retrospective interviews were performed with all World Cup athletes from 10 nations at the end of the 2006–7 and 2007–8 winter seasons, and all acute injuries occurring during the 4.5-month competitive season were recorded. If the athlete was not present, their coaches or medical personnel were interviewed.

Results:

A total of 191 acute injuries were recorded among 521 World Cup alpine skiers. As many as 86 injuries (45%) occurred during World Cup/World Ski Championship competitions, corresponding to an injury rate of 9.8 injuries per 1000 runs (95% CI 7.8 to 11.9). The injury rate was found to increase with increasing speed (slalom 4.9 injuries per 1000 runs, 95% CI 2.5 to 7.4—giant slalom 9.2, 5.1 to 13.3—super-G 11.0, 5.2 to 16.8—downhill 17.2, 11.6 to 22.7). The most frequently injured body part was the knee, with 68 injuries (36%), and 37 of these were severe. The overall injury rate was higher in males than in females, but not for knee injuries.

Conclusions

: The risk of injury among World Cup athletes in alpine skiing is even higher than previously reported. The knee is the most commonly injured body part and with many severe injuries. Injury rate increased with a higher speed and was higher among males than in females.
Combined actinomycotic and pseudoactinomycotic radiate granules in the female genital tract: description of a series of cases
Authors: Boyle D P , McCluggage W G
Published: November 2009

Background:

Both actinomycotic granules and pseudoactinomycotic radiate granules (PAMRAGs) occur in the female genital tract, most commonly in the endometrium. It is important to distinguish between these since the former may result in pelvic inflammatory disease and require antibiotic treatment while the latter is non-infectious and does not require specific treatment.

Aims:

To investigate the coexistence of actinomyces-like organisms and PAMRAGs in the same granules, and describe the presence of PAMRAGs in the cervix and the vulva.

Methods:

Six cases with actinomyces-like organisms and PAMRAGs in the same granules (four in the endometrium, one in a tubo-ovarian abscess, and one in both the endometrium and a tubo-ovarian abscess) are reported as well as seven examples of PAMRAGs in the cervix and one in a vulval abscess.

Results:

The combined granules consisted of central basophilic Gram and silver positive filamentous organisms consistent with actinomyces surrounded by radiating eosinophilic club-like formations which were Gram and silver negative, the latter consistent with PAMRAGs. The PAMRAGs in the cervix and vulva consisted entirely of Gram and silver negative radiating eosinophilic club-like formations.

Conclusions:

Although actinomycotic granules and PAMRAGs are distinct lesions which should be distinguished for patient management, they may coexist in the same granules. It is likely in such cases that the PAMRAGs form around the bacterial colonies which act as a nidus. The presence of radiating eosinophilic club-like formations characteristic of PAMRAGs does not preclude the presence of actinomyces. Careful morphological examination plus supportive Gram and silver stains, if necessary, allows the diagnosis of these combined granules. PAMRAGs also occur in the cervix, where it is likely that they form secondary to encrustation of inspissated mucus, and in the vulva.
Can MDM2 and CDK4 make the diagnosis of well differentiated/dedifferentiated liposarcoma? An immunohistochemical study on 129 soft tissue tumours
Authors: Aleixo P B , Hartmann A A , Menezes I C , Meurer R T , Oliveira A M
Published: November 2009

Background:

Well differentiated liposarcomas (WDLPS) and dedifferentiated liposarcomas (DDLPS) have been shown to have supernumerary chromosomes with amplified sequences of theMDM2andCDK4genes. MDM2 and CDK4 protein overexpression have also been identified in these tumours.

Aim:

To investigate whether immunohistochemistry (IHC) for MDM2 and CDK4 can be used to diagnose WDLPS and DDLPS.

Methods:

IHC for MDM2/CDK4 was carried out on a series of 129 paraffin-embedded lipomatous and non-lipomatous soft tissue tumours. The cases were divided into four groups: WDLPS (n = 19), DDLPS (n = 10), benign adipocytic tumours (BAT) (n = 17), and other mesenquimal tumours (OMT) (n = 83). IHC results were compared in each group and the diagnostic efficacy of the test in identifying WDLPS and DDLPS among the other soft tissue tumours was determined. A percentage of tumour cell positivity was evaluated to better characterise the pattern of tumour immunostaining.

Results:

Sensitivity and specificity of positive MDM2 and CDK4 immunostainings to identify WDLPS among BAT was 100% and 58.8%, and 68.4% and 88.2%, respectively. When distinguishing DDLPS from OMT, sensitivity and specificity of MDM2 and CDK4 were 90% and 65%, and 70% and 96.3%, respectively. The highest specificity was achieved when a case was considered positive with strong and diffuse immunoreactivity in more than 30% of the neoplastic cells (94.1% and 100%, and 77.1% and 98.8%, respectively).

Conclusion:

Detection of MDM2/CDK4 protein overexpression by IHC can be used by pathologists to diagnose WDLPS and DDLPS. Considering a strong and diffuse immunostaining pattern in most of the neoplastic cells achieves the best results in identifying these tumours.
Molecular Approaches in the Prenatal Diagnosis and Therapy of Genetic Disorders
Authors: Myrianthopoulos Ntinos C.
Published: November 2009

During the last decade a new class of DNA markers, the restriction fragment length polymorphisms (RFLPs), has been developed by molecular genetic techniques. Genetic linkage studies using RFLPs have resulted in a large number of chromosome assignments of genes, making possible prenatal diagnosis and presymptomatic testing in many genetic disorders. Even so, of the estimated 100,000 genes that comprise the human genome fewer than 2,000, or 2%, have been mapped. Studies of the molecular basis of some of these mutant genes have brought to light a remarkable multiplicity and diversity of mutations that produce relatively few clinical phenotypes. Many genetic disorders including the thalassemias, familial hypercholesterolemia, Tay-Sachs disease, cystic fibrosis, and congenital adrenal hyperplasia, have been shown to be genetically heterogeneous. It is necessary, therefore, to know the precise mutation in order to make accurate diagnosis and restore proper enzyme or gene function.
Development of Fetal Lamb Lung and Kidney in Obstructive Uropathy: A Preliminary Report
Authors: Pringle K.C. , Bonsib S.M.
Published: November 2009

Oligohydramnios, whatever the cause, results in lungs that are ‘hypoplastic’ or at least smaller than normal. The fine structure in such lungs has not been reported previously. Three fetal lambs had both ureters ligated at 60, 72 and 58 days of gestation. They were sacrificed at 117, 143 and 142 days of gestation. The lungs were fixed by tracheal perfusion at 15 mm Hg. Individual lobar volumes were determined, and the lungs were sampled for electron microscopy. Total lung volumes for 2 of the lambs were very close to those previously reported for lungs of equivalent gestation with diaphragmatic hernia. The third lamb had a twin that had been unrecognised at the time of the original procedure. This lamb’s lung volumes were normal. The morphological appearances of the lungs at the electron microscopy level are not normal but dramatically different from those previously reported in lambs with diaphragmatic hernia, phrenic nerve avulsion, and fetal tracheostomy. The lungs of the lamb with bilateral ureteric ligation and a normal twin were essentially normal. These preliminary findings point to the need for more studies of lung structure in oligohydramnios/obstructive uropathy models. However, the normal lungs in a lamb with grossly dysplastic kidneys and a normal twin argue against any important renal trophic factor in lung development in the fetal lamb. An interesting sidelight to this investigation was the unequivocal demonstration that early ureteric ligation results in true renal dysplasia in the fetal lamb. The kidneys of the lamb sacrificed at 117 days were smaller than normal and grossly dysplastic. The kidneys of the lambs that underwent ureteric ligation at 60 and 72 days were structurally different, with the ureters ligated at 60 days being small and dysplastic, while those with the ureters ligated at 72 days were larger and appeared almost polycystic.
Clinical Follow-Up of Fetal Urinary Tract Anomalies Diagnosed Prenatally by Ultrasound
Authors: Wilson R.D. , Morrison M.G. , Wittmann B.K. , Coleman G.U.
Published: November 2009

This retrospective review identified 122 cases with a prenatal diagnosis of genitourinary anomalies and categorized them into parenchymal and collecting system abnormalities. Comparisons were made between the anatomical groups for indications for ultrasound, average gestational age at positive and negative renal ultrasound diagnosis, amniotic fluid volume and pregnancy outcome with postnatal diagnosis. The results indicated that parenchymal abnormalities were detected earlier in gestation than collecting system anomalies. Additional fetal anomalies were more often present in the parenchymal group. Chromosome abnormalities were present in 5% of the urinary tract abnormalities. Parenchymal abnormalities were more likely to have oligohydramnios and a higher mortality rate.
Investigation of Hypertriglyceridemia in Small for Gestational Age Fetuses
Authors: Economides D.L. , Crook D. , Nicolaides K.H.
Published: November 2009

Plasma triglyceride, nonesterified fatty acid (NEFA), glycerol, insulin and blood glucose concentrations were measured in 32 small for gestational age (SGA) and 54 appropriate for gestational age fetuses. Although the values of plasma NEFA and glycerol concentrations were not different in the two groups, some SGA fetuses were hypertriglyceridemic, hypoglycemic and hypoinsulinemic. These findings suggest that hypertriglyceridemia in hypoxemic SGA fetuses is not due to lipolysis, nor to increased triglyceride synthesis, but rather to impaired utilization of circulating triglycerides.
Amniotic Fluid Cortisol and α-Fetoprotein in Normal and Aneuploid Pregnancies
Authors: Drugan Arie , Subramanian Marappa G. , Johnson Mark P. , Evans Mark I.
Published: November 2009

Cortisol and α-fetoprotein (AFP) levels were measured in amniotic fluid (AF) samples at 15–20 weeks of gestation from 125 normal pregnancies and 29 pregnancies affected by aneuploidy. The normal pregnancy group was further subdivided into ‘low’ AF-AFP (< 0.6 MOM, n = 60) and ‘normal’ AF-AFP (0.6 < AFP < 1.4 MOM, n = 65). A significant, inverse, linear correlation was found between cortisol and AF-AFP for both normal AFP and low AFP groups (r = ––0.26, and r = ––0.4, respectively, p < 0.05). Gestational age was significantly correlated with both cortisol and AFP levels in the normal pregnancy groups. No difference was found when cortisol levels were compared between the low and normal AFP groups. The correlation between cortisol and AFP in aneuploid pregnancies was not significant (p = 0.37). The strong association between cortisol or AFP and gestational age in normal pregnancy (p < 0.00001) was lost in trisomic gestation. We conclude that higher cortisol levels do not seem to be the cause of low AFP in normal or aneuploid pregnancies.
Heart Rate Patterns in Fetal Anemia
Authors: Sadovsky G. , Visser G.H.A. , Nicolaides K.H.
Published: November 2009

Fetal heart rate (FHR) was monitored immediately before cordocentesis on 105 occasions in 49 red cell-isoimmunized patients at 27–37 weeks of gestation. The fetal hemoglobin concentration, oxygen tension and oxygen content were measured and the values related to the FHR patterns, which were classified as reactive, non-reactive, decelerative (isolated or repetitive), terminal or sinusoidal. In 88% of non-anemic fetuses the FHR pattern was reactive. Extreme deficits in fetal hemoglobin concentration or oxygen content (> 9 standard deviations below the appropriate normal mean for gestation) were consistently associated with sinusoidal and repetitive decelerative patterns. However, with lesser degrees of fetal compromise the relationship between the various FHR patterns and fetal anemia or hypoxemia was less clearly defined.
Antenatal Phenobarbital in Preventing Intraventricular Hemorrhage in Premature Newborns
Authors: De Carolis Sara , De Carolis Maria Pia , Caruso Alessandro , Oliva Gian Carlo , Romagnoli Costantino , Ferrazzani Sergio , Muzii Umberto , Luciano Rita , Mancuso Salvatore
Published: November 2009

In a randomized prospective study, we investigated the effect of antenatal phenobarbital on neonatal intraventricular hemorrhage in 39 women destined to deliver babies of less than 32 weeks of gestation. The treatment group received an intravenous loading dose of 700 mg of phenobarbital, followed by a daily maintenance dose until delivery. The newborns were treated with phenobarbital for the first 96 h. Ultrasound examinations of the infants’ heads were performed. Intraventricular hemorrhage was significantly less frequent in the treated group: 2 of 21 (9.5%) versus 9 of 18 (50%; p < 0.006). Moreover no severe hemorrhage (grade 3–4) occurred in the treated babies: 0 of 21 versus 5 of 18 (27.7%; p < 0.01).
Mean Red Cell Volume in Normal, Anemic, Small, Trisomic and Triploid Fetuses
Authors: Nicolaides K.H. , Snijders R.J.M. , Thorpe-Beeston J.G. , Van den Hof M.C. , Gosden C.M. , Bellingham A.J.
Published: November 2009

A reference range for fetal mean red cell volume (MCV) with gestation was established from the study of samples obtained by cordocentesis from 466 pregnancies undergoing prenatal diagnosis for non-erythrocyte abnormalities. The mean MCV decreased from 145 fl at 16 weeks to 113 fl at 36 weeks of gestation. Alterations in MCV were investigated in 154 red cell isoimmunized and 231 small for gestational age (SGA) fetuses. In red cell isoimmunization, significant macrocytosis was observed when the fetal hemoglobin concentration deficit was ≥6 g/dl. In the chromosomally normal SGA fetuses (n = 178), the MCV was increased and the magnitude of macrocytosis was significantly associated with gestation and the degrees of fetal ‘smallness’ and fetal hypoxemia. However, the most severely macrocytotic SGA fetuses were those with triploidy (n = 22). In the SGA fetuses with other chromosomal defects (n = 31), the MCV was higher than the controls but lower than that of the chromosomally normal hypoxemic fetuses. It is suggested that in severe growth retardation there is developmental delay in the normal evolution from hepatic to medullary hemopoiesis and this is most marked in triploid fetuses. In contrast, in red cell isoimmunization the switch to medullary erythropoiesis is normal, but in severe anemia there is secondary recruitment of hepatic erythropoiesis.
When to Perform the Next Intra-Uterine Transfusion in Patients with Rh Allo-Immunization: Combined Intravascular and Intraperitoneal Transfusion Allows Longer Intervals
Authors: Nicolini Umberto , Kochenour Neil K. , Greco Pantaleo , Letsky Elizabeth , Rodeck Charles H.
Published: November 2009

Data from 99 intr-auterine transfusions performed in 30 patients (31 fetuses) with Rh allo-immunization have been reviewed. Mean gestational age at the first transfusion was 23.6 weeks and mean fetal haematocrit 19.8%. The number of procedures was on average 3.2 per fetus. Survival rate was 84%. Fifty-nine intravascular transfusions were combined with intraperitoneal transfusions. Combined intravascular and intraperitoneal transfusions, when compared to intravascular transfusions alone, achieved a significantly longer interval between transfusions and also maintained a higher fetal haematocrit at the subsequent transfusion. Mean fall in fetal haematocrit was 0.98% per day with a wide range. There was a general tendency towards a less marked fall during the second interval between transfusions than in the first with the exception of those cases in which the percentage of fetal red cells at the start of the second transfusion was increased compared to that which was found at the end of the first, i.e., when fetal erythropoiesis was not suppressed.
Prenatal Diagnosis of Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia: Associated Malformations and Chromosomal Defects
Authors: Thorpe-Beeston J.G. , Gosden C.M. , Nicolaides K.H.
Published: November 2009

In 36 fetuses with congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) diagnosed at 18–36 weeks’ gestation, detailed ultrasound examination was performed for the detection of associated malformations and assessment of the likelihood of pulmonary hypoplasia. In all cases karyotyping was undertaken in blood samples obtained by cordocentesis. In 11 (31 %) fetuses there were lethal chromosomal abnormalities and in 6 (17 %) of the chromosomally normal fetuses there were additional lethal malformations. Of the 17 fetuses with isolated CDH and where the pregnancy was not electively terminated. 9 (60%) survived and 6 (40%) died in the neonatal period due to pulmonary hypoplasia. The presence or absence of polyhydramnios, fetal breathing movements, mediastinal shift and thoracic position of the stomach were not useful in predicting postnatal outcome.
Fetal Tissue from Spontaneous Abortions: A New Alternative for Transplantation Research?
Authors: Thorne Emanuel D. , Michejda Maria
Published: November 2009

While transplantation of fetal tissues may alleviate a great deal of suffering, current policy bars federal funding of research using tissue from elective abortions. Using fetal tissue from spontaneous abortions would obviate the moral concerns. If existing studies of small samples are extrapolated to the US population, then each year about 750,000 fetuses are aborted spontaneously by week 28 (500,000 in the first trimester and 250,000 in the second trimester). The consensus among researchers is that spontaneously aborted fetuses are few in number, and inappropriate for transplantation because they are born dead or have defects. This intuition may not be supported by the evidence, and there is a compelling need to focus research on these issues.
Clinical Follow-Up of Prenatally Diagnosed Isolated Ventnculomegaly, Microcephaly and Encephalocele
Authors: Wilson R.D. , Hitchman D. , Wittman B.K.
Published: November 2009

This retrospective review identified all cases of isolated ventriculomegaly (without spina bifida), encephalocele and microcephaly in approximately 22,000 consecutive patients through the Ultrasound Department at the University of British Columbia, Grace Hospital. 17 cases of isolated ventriculomegaly, 16 cases of microcephaly and 6 cases of encephalocele were identified. Isolated ventriculomegaly and encephalocele were accurately diagnosed prenatally while microcephaly was not consistently identified prenatally. Patients with isolated ventriculomegaly had a positive family history for cranial abnormalities in 24 %. The prognosis is difficult to predict for fetuses with ventriculomegaly, but severe ventriculomegaly generally produced a poor outcome while mild or moderate ventriculomegaly resulted in normal development or marginal developmental delay. Chromosome analysis is recommended in all patients with central nervous system lesions and viral studies are recommended with ventriculomegaly and microcephaly.
Life Cycle Inventory Analysis of the Production of a High-performance Foam Blowing Agent HFC-245fa (1,1,1,3,3-pentafluoropropane)
Authors: Mcculloch Archie
Published: November 2009

A life cycle inventory analysis is described for the production of HFC-245fa (1,1,1,3,3-pentafluoropropane) from basic raw materials to the pure product ready for shipment to customers. The analysis was based on typical industrial operations, assumed to be located in southern USA. It showed the mineral requirements to be mainly salt, fluorspar, sulphur, and limestone, together with natural gas and oil used as feedstock. Energy required in processing totaled 4.4 tons of CO2 equivalent per ton of product, including the energy required to transport raw materials and intermediates between facilities and also a 2% contribution from the release of greenhouse gases other than CO2. Other environmental releases were waste salt brine (to the sea), mineral tailings (landfilled at the fluorspar mine) and anhydrous calcium sulphate (to inert landfill). The quantities of sulphur dioxide and volatile organic compounds released into the atmosphere were calculated to be 5 and 1 Kg per ton, respectively. Spent catalysts are not inert and were assumed to be sent to specialist contractors for reclamation or disposal; the transport and energy requirements for this were also included.

The process energy requirement amounts to <5% of the global warming potential of HFC-245fa indicating that the principal way of reducing the climate impact of HFC-245fa is to minimize emissions of the material itself during use and during disposal of equipment containing it.
The Lived Experience of Isolation for Vulnerable Workers Facing Workplace Grievances in 21st-Century Britain
Authors: Pollert Anna
Published: November 2009

In the ‘Warwick Agreement’ with trade union leaders in 2004, the British government pledged support for ‘vulnerable workers’ and developed this policy in 2006. However, there is no policy acknowledgement that weak collective organization is the cause of worker vulnerability. This article is based on a definition of vulnerability as non-unionism and low pay and presents findings based on in-depth interviews with low-paid, non-unionized workers with employment grievances who approached the major British charity providing free advice, the Citizens Advice Bureau. This is framed in a contemporaneous survey of 500 low-paid, non-unionized workers with problems at work, which provides data on the kinds of problems experienced, responses to them and the pattern of outcomes for such workers. The study found a very low level of successful resolution. The significance of the qualitative evidence is that it illuminates the lived experience of isolation and poor resolution among workers seeking external help.
Geographies of toponymic inscription: new directions in critical place-name studies
Authors: Rose-Redwood Reuben , Alderman Derek , Azaryahu Maoz
Published: November 2009

The study of place naming, or toponymy, has recently undergone a critical reformulation as scholars have moved beyond the traditional focus on etymology and taxonomy by examining the politics of place-naming practices. In this article, we provide a selective genealogy of the ‘critical turn’ in place-name studies and consider three complementary approaches to analyzing spatial inscription as a toponymic practice: political semiotics, governmentality studies, and normative theories of social justice and symbolic resistance. We conclude by proposing that future scholarship should explore the political economy of toponymic practices as a step toward expanding the conceptual horizon of critical place-name studies.
Electronic Book Collection Development in Italy: a case study
Authors: Perrone Agnese
Published: November 2009

The paper reports the results of a research project that aimed to investigate how academic librarians are managing the integration of electronic book collections in their library holdings and focuses on the selection criteria and collection development issues. The background is represented by the Italian academic libraries that have been lately involved in electronic book collection development projects, and by the Italian digital publishing e-books offer.
Internet Use in Israeli Universities: a case study
Authors: Beno David
Published: November 2009

This paper presents the results of a survey conducted in 2005—2006 regarding the extent of use of digital resources by students and researchers in five universities in Israel and the ratio of use between authorized electronic information resources provided by academic libraries, and the Surface Web. About 80 percent of respondents reported a high or very high frequency of use of the Surface Web for seeking information for their study or research. In contrast, only about 28 percent of the respondents reported high or very high use of academic e-journals, 40 percent high or very high use of digital databases, and only about 13 percent high or very high use of e-books. A situation in which academics use the Surface Web two or three times more frequently than more authoritative digital information sources provided by their library indicates a severe problem related to the quality of information used, which may severely harm the quality and credibility of research based upon it. The survey findings are worrying since much Surface Web information is not reliable or authoritative. The current research does not indicate what causes students and researchers to depend so heavily on Surface Web information for their research, but it is reasonable to assume that it derives mainly from the ease and convenience of using Internet search engines.
Journal of the American Society for Information Science and Technology (2000—2007): a bibliometric study
Authors: Mukherjee Bhaskar
Published: November 2009

The Journal of the American Society for Information Science and Technology (JASIST) has been playing a vital role in the dissemination of scholarly articles in library and information science since 1950. This paper presents the results of a bibliometric study of articles published in the JASIST from 2000 to 2007. It examines the distribution of papers under various headings, including authorship pattern and nature of collaboration, geographic distribution of articles, nature of cited and citing references, prolific authors and highly cited authors. Data were collected using the Web of Science and analyzed using Microsoft Excel. Results indicate that during the sample period the rate of publication was uneven and the most prominent form of publication was articles. The trend of authorship pattern of articles is towards collaboration and authors from 47 countries contributed articles. The country-wise distribution reveals that the highest number of contributions was made by US authors followed by the UK. The number of references cited per article increased from 2000—2007 whereas articles received citations in decreasing numbers during the same period. The results suggest that articles need to have been published for more than 2 years before they receive adequate numbers of citations.