bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence of Supraventricular Tachyarrhythmias in a Cohort of 115 Patients with Brugada Syndrome
Authors: Schimpf Rainer , Giustetto Carla , Eckardt Lars , Veltmann Christian , Wolpert Christian , Gaita Fiorenzo , Breithardt Günter , Borggrefe Martin
Published: July 2008

Background: The Brugada syndrome is characterized by ST segment elevation in leads V1 to V3 and a right bundle branch block like pattern. It is associated with an increased risk of syncope and sudden cardiac death. Initial reports in small numbers of patients suggest an association between supraventricular tachycardias and Brugada syndrome with a prevalence varying between 13% and 40%.

Objective: Aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of AV nodal reentrant tachycardia, AV reentry tachycardia, and/or atrial fibrillation in a large cohort of patients diagnosed as Brugada syndrome.

Methods and Results: From three different European centers 115 consecutive patients with a Brugada syndrome were evaluated noninvasively and invasively (mean age 45 ± 12 years, n = 82 men, n = 33 women). Nineteen of 115 patients (17%) had a history of previous cardiac arrest. Syncope was reported by 58 patients (50%), 33 patients had a positive family history of sudden cardiac death (29%). Supraventricular tachycardias were documented in 26 of the patients (23%): Eight patients (7%) had AV‐nodal reentrant tachycardias and two patients had AV‐reentry tachycardias; atrial tachycardias were documented in three patients, and another 13 patients (11%) suffered from atrial fibrillation/atrial flutter. Additionally, atrial fibrillation was inducible by programmed atrial stimulation in nine patients (8%).

Conclusions: Supraventricular tachycardias occur in 23% of patients with Brugada syndrome. Documentation of atrial fibrillation especially in the young or supraventricular tachycardias associated with syncope should give reason to screen for Brugada syndrome.
Ionic Mechanisms and Vectorial Model of Early Repolarization Pattern in the Surface Electrocardiogram of the Athlete
Authors: Barbosa Eduardo C. , Bomfim Alfredo de S. , Benchimol‐Barbosa Paulo R. , Ginefra Paulo
Published: July 2008

Background: The electrocardiogram (ECG) of the athlete displays particular characteristics as a consequence of both electrophysiological and autonomic remodeling of the heart that follows continued physical training. However, doubts persist on how these changes directly interact during ventricular activation and repolarization ultimately affecting surface ECG waveforms in athletes.

Objective: This article considers an in deep rationale for the electrocardiographic pattern known as early repolarization based on both electrophysiological mechanisms at cellular level and the vectorial theory of the cardiac activation.

Methods: The mechanism by which the autonomic remodeling influences the cardiac electrical activation is reviewed and an insight model of the ventricular repolarization based on ionic models and the vectorial theory of the cardiac activation is proposed.

Results: Considering the underlying processes related to ventricular electrical remodeling, we propose that, in athletes' heart: 1) vagal modulation increases regional electrophysiological differences in action potential phases 1 and 2 amplitudes, thus enhancing a voltage gradient between epicardial and endocardial fibers; 2) this gradient affects depolarization and repolarization timing sequences; 3) repolarization wave front starts earlier on ventricular wall and partially overcomes the end of depolarization causing an upward displacement of the J‐point, ST segment elevation, and inscription of magnified T‐waves amplitudes leading to characteristic surface ECG waveform patterns.

Conclusions: In athletes, the association between epicardial to endocardial electrophysiological differences and early repolarization ECG pattern can be demonstrated by the vectorial theory of the ventricular activation and repolarization.
QRS Alternans with 2:1 Atrioventricular Conduction Block: What Is the Mechanism?
Authors: Yamada Takumi , Tabereaux Paul B. , McElderry H. Thomas , Kay G. Neal
Published: July 2008

An 81‐year‐old woman was admitted for symptomatic bradycardia. On admission, the ECG exhibited QRS alternans, narrow QRS complex and left bundle branch block with 2:1 AV block. The patient soon had complete AV block and underwent a pacemaker implantation. An appropriate mechanism for explaining those ECG findings might be 4:1 conduction over the left bundle branch and 2:1 conduction over the right bundle branch. An ECG pattern exhibiting QRS alternans with a narrow QRS complex and bundle branch block with 2:1 AV block may suggest the coexistence of both bundle branch blocks and a high risk of complete AV block.
Bedside Detection of Urine β‐Hydroxybutyrate in Diagnosing Metabolic Acidosis
Authors: Smith Silas W. , Manini Alex F. , Szekely Tibor , Hoffman Robert S.
Published: July 2008

Objectives:  While critically important, the rapid identification of the etiology of metabolic acidosis (MA) may be labor‐intensive and time‐consuming. Alcoholic, starvation, and severe diabetic ketoacidosis (AKA, SKA, and DKA, respectively) may produce β‐hydroxybutyrate (BOHB) in marked excess of acetone (ACET) and acetoacetate (AcAc). Unfortunately, current urine dipstick technology poorly detects ACET and cannot measure BOHB. The inability to detect BOHB might delay therapy for ketoacidoses or provoke unnecessary evaluation or empiric treatment of other causes of MA, such as toxic alcohol poisoning. The authors tested the previous assertion that commonly available hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) would improve BOHB detection. The effectiveness of alkalinization and use of a silver nitrate (AgNO3) catalyst was also assessed.

Methods:  Control and urine test specimens containing from 0.5 to 800 mmol/L ACET, AcAc, and BOHB were prepared. Urine specimens were oxidized with H2O2 (3%) 1:9 (H2O2:urine), alkalinized with potassium hydroxide (KOH; 10%), exposed to AgNO3 sticks, or altered with a combination of these methods in a random fashion. Three emergency physicians (EPs) blinded to the preparation technique evaluated urine dipsticks (Multistix, Bayer Corp.) placed in the specimens for “ketones.”

Results:  Multistix detected AcAc appropriately; ACET was detected only at high concentrations of ≥600 mmol/L. Multistix failed to measure BOHB at all concentrations tested. H2O2 improved urinary BOHB detection, although not to clinically relevant levels (40 mmol/L). Alkalinization and AgNO3 sticks did not improve BOHB detection beyond this threshold.

Conclusions:  Addition of H2O2 (3%), alkalinization, or AgNO3 sticks did not improve clinically meaningful urine BOHB detection. Clinicians should use direct methods to detect BOHB when suspected.
Triage Presenting Complaint Descriptions Bias Emergency Department Waiting Times
Authors: Dutch Martin J. , Taylor David McD. , Dent Andrew W.
Published: July 2008

Objectives:  The authors aimed to determine whether certain emergency department (ED) triage “presenting complaint” descriptions are associated with shorter or longer waiting times, when compared with matched controls.

Methods:  This was a retrospective, analytical study in three tertiary referral EDs. Data relating to adult patients with Australasian National Triage Scale (NTS) Category 3–5 complaints, who presented over 1 year, were accessed. A pilot study of 25 emergency physicians (EPs) identified five most liked and five most disliked presenting complaints. For each liked or disliked complaint, “cases” were identified using key words and phrases in the triage presentation description. For each case, the previous presentation at that institution with the same NTS category was used as a “control.” Cases and controls were compared for waiting time and proportions seen within the Australasian College for Emergency Medicine (ACEM)‐recommended waiting times.

Results:  Data on 28,566 case–control pairs were examined. Compared to their controls, three of the five most liked complaints (dislocations, fractures, and palpitations) had significantly shorter waiting times, and significantly more were seen within the recommended waiting times (p < 0.05). In contrast, three of the five most disliked complaints (dizziness, constipation, and back pain) had significantly longer waiting times, and significantly fewer were seen within the recommended waiting times (p < 0.05). Other presenting complaints showed similar, although nonsignificant, trends.

Conclusions:  Waiting times for patients with certain presenting complaints are significantly associated with triage presenting complaint descriptions. It is likely that these descriptions allow EPs to selectively seek or avoid patients with liked or disliked complaints, respectively. The impact of this for patients and ED flow needs investigation.
A Double‐blind Randomized Clinical Trial Evaluating the Analgesic Efficacy of Ketorolac versus Butorphanol for Patients with Suspected Biliary Colic in the Emergency Department
Authors: Olsen Jon C. , McGrath Norine A. , Schwarz Dana G. , Cutcliffe Brian J. , Stern Jessica L.
Published: July 2008

Objectives:  Patients presenting to the emergency department (ED) with suspected biliary colic often require intravenous (IV) analgesia. The choice of IV analgesia typically includes opioids and ketorolac. Although ultrasound (US) is the initial diagnostic study in these patients, nondiagnostic scans and a high clinical suspicion may require the patient to undergo hepatobiliary scintigraphy (HIDA). Opioids such as morphine interfere with the HIDA scan and thus may limit its value as an analgesic in the ED for these patients. Analgesics that do not interfere with HIDA scanning include ketorolac and butorphanol, an opioid agonist–antagonist. This study evaluates the efficacy of IV ketorolac compared to butorphanol for the treatment of biliary colic pain in the ED.

Methods:  Between June 2005 and February 2007, a convenience sample of patients presenting to the ED with abdominal pain suspected to be biliary colic were randomized to receive either 30 mg of IV ketorolac or 1 mg of IV butorphanol. Pain level was assessed using a 1 to 10 “faces” visual analog pain scale initially, as well as 15 and 30 minutes after medication infusion. Side effect profiles and the need for rescue analgesia were also assessed. Patients and clinicians were blinded to the study drug given.

Results:  Forty‐six patients were enrolled in the study. Both groups had similar demographics and baseline pain scores. The mean (±standard deviation [SD]) pain score in the butorphanol group decreased from 7.1 (±1.7) to 2.1 (±2.2) after 30 minutes. The mean (±SD) pain score in the ketorolac group decreased from 7.4 (±2.0) to 3.1 (±3.3) after 30 minutes. Both groups had similar needs for rescue analgesia. Side effects included dizziness and sedation with butorphanol and nausea with ketorolac.

Conclusions:  Although limited by small sample size and convenience sample, this study demonstrates that both ketorolac and butorphanol provide pain relief in biliary colic. Both agents should be considered reasonable options in the ED treatment of biliary colic, especially in patients that may undergo HIDA.
A D19S433 Primer Binding Site Mutation and the Frequency in Japanese of the Silent Allele It Causes
Authors: Mizuno Natsuko , Kitayama Tetsushi , Fujii Koji , Nakahara Hiroaki , Yoshida Kanako , Sekiguchi Kazumasa , Yonezawa Naoto , Nakano Minoru , Kasai Kentaro
Published: July 2008

Abstract:  Short tandem repeat studies are powerful tools for parentage analysis and for identification of missing persons, victims of murder, and victims of mass fatalities when reference samples are unavailable. The primer in the Identifiler® kit failed to amplify an allele at the D19S433 locus, producing a silent (“null”) allele. The causal mutation is a base change (G>A) 32 nucleotides downstream from the 3′ end of the AAGG repeats. The silent alleles are problematical in parentage analysis because when transmitted, they can cause a parent–child inconsistency that is unrelated to Mendelian genetics. The inconsistency is sometimes termed an “apparent opposite homozygosity” and it produces false evidence of nonparentage. Alternative primers were designed to amplify the D19S433 locus alleles and they detect the silent allele. Frequencies of the (no longer) silent allele were determined to be 0.0114 in 176 people from Shizuoka (Honshu) and 0.0128 in 156 people from Okinawa.
Stature Reconstruction Using Fragmentary Femora in South Africans of European Descent
Authors: Bidmos Mubarak Ariyo
Published: July 2008

Abstract: It is well documented that the intact femur has the highest correlation with stature and as such has been widely used in the derivation of regression equations for stature estimation. As intact femur is not always present for analyses in forensic cases, it has become necessary to derive regression equations for the estimation of stature from fragments of this bone. Few studies have presented regression equations for stature estimation from fragments of the femur. Because these equations are population specific, it was the aim of this study to derive similar equations for estimation of stature and maximum length of femur from measurements of the femur of South Africans of European descent. A sample of 50 male and 50 female complete skeletons were obtained from the Raymond A. Dart Collection of Human Skeletons. Total skeletal height for each of the skeletons was calculated using the Fully’s method. Six variables were measured on each femur which included the vertical neck diameter, upper breadth of femur, epicondylar breadth, bicondylar breadth, lateral condyle length, and medial condyle length. Regression equations for the estimation of stature are presented. The range of standard error of estimate for these equations (3.71–5.31) was slightly higher than those obtained for intact long bones (2.13–3.79). It is therefore suggested that in the absence of intact femur, regression equations derived from the present study can provide a reliable estimate of adult stature.
Psychosocial QOL is an independent predictor of overall survival in newly diagnosed patients with multiple myeloma
Authors: Strasser‐Weippl Kathrin , Ludwig Heinz
Published: July 2008

Only few studies have analyzed quality of life (QOL) and its association with prognosis in patients with multiple myeloma. We studied QOL at start of conventional treatment to evaluate the impact of symptomatic myeloma on QOL and to determine the prognostic significance of various dimensions of QOL. Our study provided further evidence of the significant impairment of QOL in patients with multiple myeloma at onset of therapy. Furthermore, our data showed a closer correlation between the more physical QOL scales such as pain, fatigue, physical functioning and global QOL with the activity of the disease than between psychosocial dimensions such as role, emotional, social, and cognitive functioning and the status of the disease. Multivariate analyses including each a QOL scale and known prognostic parameters (response to therapy, creatinine level, calcium, LDH, Hb, β2‐microglobulin, and albumin) revealed a marked difference in the prognostic significance between psychosocial and other QOL scales. All psychosocial dimensions of QOL were found to be independent prognostic factors, while physical QOL and global QOL were eliminated by disease‐associated prognosticators. Taken together, QOL was found to be significantly impaired in myeloma patients at start of therapy. Psychosocial, but not physical dimensions of QOL were found to be independent prognostic factors.
Multiple myeloma – an update on diagnosis and treatment
Authors: Caers Jo , Vande broek Isabelle , De Raeve Hendrik , Michaux Lucienne , Trullemans Fabienne , Schots Rik , Van Camp Ben , Vanderkerken Karin
Published: July 2008

Multiple myeloma is a plasma cell (PC) malignancy characterized by the accumulation of monoclonal PCs in the bone marrow and the production of large amounts of a monoclonal immunoglobulin or paraprotein. In the past years, new approaches in the diagnosis and treatment were introduced aiming to identify high‐risk patients who need proper anti‐myeloma treatment. Intensive therapy including autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation and the new agents bortezomib, thalidomide, and lenalidomide have improved patients’ responses. Further optimalization of the different treatment schedules in well‐defined patient groups may prolong their survival. Patient stratification is currently based on patient characteristics, extent of myeloma disease, and associated cytogenetic and laboratory anomalies. More and more gene expression studies are introduced to stratify patients and to individualize therapy.
Computer‐aided skin prick test
Authors: Lamminen Heikki , Voipio Ville
Published: July 2008

Abstract:  The interpretation of the skin prick test is subject to inter‐observer variation. To remove this variation, a computerized procedure for the skin prick test is suggested. Instead of manually measuring the emerging wheals, a series of photographs is automatically taken of the forearm. The photographs thus taken are then analyzed with a digital image processing algorithm to give the measurement results. The computerized test has the added benefit of being able to produce a time series for the wheal size. This makes it possible to see the onset time of the reaction in addition to the size of the wheal. Preliminary feasibility test suggests that the simple setup described in this letter is able to perform the skin prick test automatically and to show the kinetic behaviour of the wheal. The main challenges with the test setup are related to illumination and wheal detection algorithms.
Skin physiological parameters confirm the therapeutic efficacy of pimecrolimus cream 1% in patients with mild‐to‐moderate atopic dermatitis
Authors: Aschoff Roland , Schwanebeck Uta , Bräutigam Matthias , Meurer Michael
Published: July 2008

Abstract:  In this double‐blind, within‐patient vehicle‐controlled study, patients with mild‐to‐moderate atopic dermatitis (AD) were treated for 3 weeks twice daily with pimecrolimus cream 1% on one forearm and with vehicle cream on the other forearm. Efficacy of treatment was assessed clinically using the Atopic Dermatitis Severity Index (ADSI), the Investigators Global Assessment (IGA) and the pruritus visual analogue scale. In parallel, blood microcirculation in the skin was measured as an objective parameter for skin inflammation. Skin hydration and transepidermal water loss (TEWL) were monitored as parameter relevant for the barrier function. Treatment with pimecrolimus cream 1% resulted in a quick and marked improvement of signs and symptoms of AD and a significant reduction of microcirculation from 33.90 to 15.55 AU (P < 0.0001). Skin hydration increased continually from 42.86 to 52.69 AU (P = 0.002) and TEWL decreased from 35.30 to 21.50 g/m2/h (P = 0.001), indicating restoration of skin barrier. At vehicle‐treated sites changes of skin physiological parameters were less pronounced and observed only initially with later plateau or even reversal. At the end of the study, there were significant differences for all measured skin physiological parameters between pimecrolimus cream 1% and vehicle: microcirculation 12.15 AU (P = 0.004), skin hydration 7.12 AU (P = 0.002), TEWL 11.38 g/m2/h (P = 0.004). Non‐invasive evaluation of microcirculation and barrier functionality thus represent a valuable tool for the objective assessment of treatment response to pimecrolimus cream 1%.
A study of a single variant allele (rs1426654) of the pigmentation‐related gene SLC24A5 in Greek subjects
Authors: Dimisianos Gerasimos , Stefanaki Irene , Nicolaou Vicky , Sypsa Vana , Antoniou Christina , Poulou Myrto , Papadopoulos Othon , Gogas Helen , Kanavakis Emmanouel , Nicolaidou Electra , Katsambas Andreas D. , Stratigos Alexander J.
Published: July 2008

Abstract:  The SLC24A5 gene, the human orthologue of the zebrafish golden gene, has been shown to play a key role in human pigmentation. In this study, we investigate the prevalence of the variant allele rs1426654 in a selected sample of Greek subjects. Allele‐specific polymerase chain reaction was performed in peripheral blood samples from 158 attendants of a dermatology outpatient service. The results were correlated with pigmentary traits and MC1R genotype. The vast majority of subjects (99%) were homozygous for the Thr111 allele. Only two subjects from the control group (1.26%) were heterozygous for the alanine and threonine allele. Both of these Thr111/Ala111 heterozygotes carried a single polymorphism of MC1R (one with the V92M variant and another with the V60L variant). Following reports of the rs1426654 polymorphism reaching fixation in the European population, our study of Greek subjects showed a prevalence of the Thr111 allele, even among subjects with darker skin pigmentation or phototype.
The contribution of melanocortin 1 receptor gene polymorphisms and the agouti signalling protein gene 8818A>G polymorphism to cutaneous melanoma and basal cell carcinoma in a Polish population
Authors: Brudnik Urszula , Branicki Wojciech , Wojas‐Pelc Anna , Kanas Piotr
Published: July 2008

Abstract:  In this study, we assessed the role of melanocortin‐1 receptor (MC1R) and agouti signalling protein (ASIP) polymorphisms in cutaneous melanoma and basal cell carcinoma (BCC) development in a Polish population. We enrolled 108 patients with skin malignant melanoma (MM) and 102 patients with BCC. The control group consisted of 93 non‐red haired patients, without history of skin cancers and 30 healthy individuals with red hair colour (RHC) phenotype. The complete MC1R exon was sequenced and the A8818G polymorphism of the ASIP gene was analysed using the SnaPshot protocol. Selected MC1R mutations were additionally examined using a convenient minisequencing assay. The study confirmed the important role of MC1R R variants in determining physiological variation in hair and skin colour. Our data show that individuals with R mutations had a 3.7‐fold increase in melanoma risk and a 3.3‐fold increase in BCC risk. Especially, variant R151C significantly increased the risk of both MM and BCC. The studied ASIP polymorphism was found not to be associated with MM or BCC. Stratified analysis showed that the association between MC1R mutations and the risk of MM and BCC was not significantly influenced by subjects’ pigmentation characteristics or the 8818G ASIP variant. Further research is necessary, especially involving analysis of interactions between variation in MC1R and other genes, to find out if analysis of MC1R polymorphisms could be of any importance for skin cancer prevention.
Role of protein kinase C delta in X‐ray‐induced apoptosis of keratinocyte
Authors: Lee Young‐Sook , Sohn Kyung‐Cheol , Kim Ki‐Hwan , Cho Moon‐June , Hur Gang Min , Yoon Tae‐Jin , Kim Sung Kyu , Lee Kyungmoon , Lee Jeung‐Hoon , Kim Chang Deok
Published: July 2008

Abstract:  In this study, we investigated the process of X‐ray‐induced apoptosis of skin keratinocyte, and the functional role of protein kinase C delta (PKCδ) and downstream signalling cascade. High‐dose X‐ray irradiation (10 Gy) led to the apoptosis of HaCaT keratinocyte, accompanied by PKCδ cleavage. Treatment with PKCδ inhibitor and adenoviral transduction of dominant‐negative PKCδ clearly inhibited the X‐ray‐induced apoptosis of keratinocyte. In addition, X‐ray induced the phosphorylation of extracellular signal‐regulated kinases 1/2 (ERK1/2) and inhibition by ERK1/2 inhibitor abrogated the X‐ray‐induced apoptosis. Interestingly, overexpression of dominant‐negative PKCδ markedly blocked the X‐ray‐induced phosphorylation of ERK1/2, suggesting that ERK1/2 is the functional downstream effector of PKCδ. Next, we investigated the difference between UVB and X‐ray response. UVB induced the apoptosis of keratinocyte in a PKCδ‐dependent manner, similar to X‐ray response. However, UVB irradiation induced the phosphorylation of c‐jun N‐terminal kinases (JNK) and inhibition of JNK significantly protected the UVB‐induced apoptosis. These results demonstrate that PKCδ is a key regulator in X‐ray‐induced apoptosis of keratinocyte and suggest that there is subtle difference in downstream signalling cascade between UVB and X‐ray response of keratinocyte.
Strict sun protection results in minimal skin changes in a patient with xeroderma pigmentosum and a novel c.2009delG mutation in XPD (ERCC2)
Authors: Emmert Steffen , Ueda Takahiro , Zumsteg Urs , Weber Peter , Khan Sikandar G. , Oh Kyu‐Seon , Boyle Jennifer , Laspe Petra , Zachmann Karolin , Boeckmann Lars , Kuschal Christiane , Bircher Andreas , Kraemer Kenneth H.
Published: July 2008

Abstract:  We examined the clinical, molecular and genetic features of a 16‐year‐old boy (XP2GO) with xeroderma pigmentosum (XP) and progressive neurological symptoms. The parents are not consanguineous. Increased sun sensitivity led to the diagnosis of XP at 2 years of age and a strict UV protection scheme was implemented. Besides recurrent conjunctivitis and bilateral pterygium, only mild freckling was present on his lips. He shows absent deep tendon reflexes, progressive sensorineural deafness and progressive mental retardation. MRI shows diffuse frontal cerebral atrophy and dilated ventricles. Symptoms of trichothiodystrophy (brittle hair with a tiger‐tail banding pattern on polarized microscopy) or Cockayne syndrome (cachectic dwarfism, cataracts, pigmentary retinopathy and spasticity) were absent. XP2GO fibroblasts showed reduced post‐UV cell survival (D37 = 3.8 J/m2), reduced nucleotide excision repair, reduced expression of XPD mRNA and an undetectable level of XPD protein. Mutational analysis of the XPD gene in XP2GO revealed two different mutations: a common p.Arg683Trp amino acid change (c.2047C>T) known to be associated with XP and a novel frameshift mutation c.2009delG (p.Gly670Alafs*39). The latter mutation potentially behaves as a null allele. While not preventing neurological degeneration, early diagnosis and rigorous sun protection can result in minimal skin disease without cancer in XP patients.
Automated diagnosis of fetal alcohol syndrome using 3D facial image analysis
Authors: Fang S , McLaughlin J , Fang J , Huang J , Autti‐Rämö I , Fagerlund Å , Jacobson SW , Robinson LK , Hoyme HE , Mattson SN , Riley E , Zhou F , Ward R , Moore ES , Foroud T ,   Collaborative Initiative on Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders
Published: July 2008

Structured Abstract

Authors –  Fang S, McLaughlin J, Fang J, Huang J, Autti‐Rämö I, Fagerlund Å, Jacobson SW, Robinson LK, Hoyme HE, Mattson SN, Riley E, Zhou F, Ward R, Moore ES, Foroud T, and the Collaborative Initiative on Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders.

Objectives –  Use three‐dimensional (3D) facial laser scanned images from children with fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) and controls to develop an automated diagnosis technique that can reliably and accurately identify individuals prenatally exposed to alcohol.

Methods –  A detailed dysmorphology evaluation, history of prenatal alcohol exposure, and 3D facial laser scans were obtained from 149 individuals (86 FAS; 63 Control) recruited from two study sites (Cape Town, South Africa and Helsinki, Finland). Computer graphics, machine learning, and pattern recognition techniques were used to automatically identify a set of facial features that best discriminated individuals with FAS from controls in each sample.

Results –  An automated feature detection and analysis technique was developed and applied to the two study populations. A unique set of facial regions and features were identified for each population that accurately discriminated FAS and control faces without any human intervention.

Conclusion –  Our results demonstrate that computer algorithms can be used to automatically detect facial features that can discriminate FAS and control faces.
Protein kinase Cε: function in neurons
Authors: Shirai Yasuhito , Adachi Naoko , Saito Naoaki
Published: July 2008

Protein kinase Cε is expressed at higher levels in the brain compared to other tissues such as the heart and kidney, suggesting that it plays an important role in the nervous system. Several neural functions of PKCε, including neurotransmitter release and ion channel regulation, have been identified using PKCε knockout mice. In this review, we focus on the involvement of protein kinase Cε in neurite outgrowth, presynaptic regulation, alcohol actions, ischemic preconditioning and pain.
Protein kinase Cε: multiple roles in the function of, and signaling mediated by, the cytoskeleton
Authors: Akita Yoshiko
Published: July 2008

Recent studies have established essential roles of protein kinase Cε in signaling pathways controlling various functions of microfilaments and intermediate filaments by modulating multiple cytoskeletal proteins. This review summarizes recent progress in our understanding of the roles of protein kinase Cε in the functions and signaling of microfilaments and intermediate filaments, with a focus mainly on cell–matrix and cell–cell interactions, migrations and contraction, in addition to its relevance in the development of several diseases, such as malignant tumors or cardiac disease.
Protein kinase Cε: the mitochondria‐mediated signaling pathway
Authors: Yonekawa Hiromichi , Akita Yoshiko
Published: July 2008

Mitochondria, which are the cellular energy plants, also act as the integration center of cellular signaling pathways. Apoptosis is a well‐known pathway in which mitochondria are involved. Protein kinase Cε has been classified as a novel type of protein kinase C and is involved in many cellular events regulating mitochondrial function. Much evidence has accumulated regarding the relationships between mitochondria‐mediated apoptosis and protein kinase Cε. Therefore, by focusing on these relationships, in particular the anti‐apoptotic effects of protein kinase Cε on mitochondrial function, we highlight the importance and significance of protein kinase Cε in cell survival and death.
Truncated P‐cadherin is produced in oral squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Bauer Richard , Dowejko Albert , Driemel Oliver , Boßerhoff A.‐K. , Reichert T. E.
Published: July 2008

Cadherins belong to a family of homophilic cell–cell adhesion proteins that are responsible for the establishment of a precise cell architecture and tissue integrity. Moreover, experimental data suggest that loss of intercellular adhesion is inversely correlated with cellular differentiation. Furthermore, dedifferentiation is closely linked to tumor progression. Recently, we have shown that a secreted 50 kDa N‐terminal fragment of P‐cadherin plays a role in the progression of malignant melanoma. In this study, we have detected both the full‐length and the truncated versions of P‐cadherin in cell lysates of differentiated head and neck oral squamous cell carcinoma cell lines, whereas in cell lysates of dedifferentiated cell lines, we detected only the truncated 50 kDa version of P‐cadherin. Treatment of the cell lines with a recombinantly expressed biotinylated, soluble 50 kDa form of the N‐terminal part of P‐cadherin revealed a major effect on cell aggregation and migration of oral squamous cell carcinoma cells. However, the 50 kDa N‐terminal fragment of P‐cadherin did not show any influence on cell proliferation in 2D and 3D cell culture. These results suggest that generation of truncated P‐cadherin during the progression of oral squamous carcinoma attenuates tissue integrity, facilitates cellular separation, and leads to the acquisition of a more migratory phenotype.
Preparation and Characterization of Nanocrystalline Misch‐Metal‐Substituted Yttrium Iron Garnet Powder by the Sol–Gel Combustion Process
Authors: Hosseini Vajargah Shahrzad , Madaah Hosseini Hamid Reza , Nemati Ziarat Ali
Published: July 2008

Nanocrystalline Y3−xMMxFe5O12 powders (MM denotes Misch‐metal, x=0.0, 0.25, 0.5, 0.75, and 1.0) were synthesized by a sol–gel combustion method. Magnetic properties and crystalline structures were investigated using X‐ray diffraction (XRD), a vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM), and a scanning electron microscope. The XRD patterns showed that the single‐phase garnet of Y3−xMMxFe5O12 was formed at x values ≤1.0. The saturation magnetization of powders increased with decreasing MM content and reached the maximum value at Y3Fe5O12. The crystallite size of powders calcined at 800°C for 3 h was in the range of 38–53 nm.
Effects of Preparation Conditions on the Growth of ZnO Nanorod Arrays Using Aqueous Solution Method
Authors: Wang Sea‐Fue , Tseng Tseung‐Yuen , Wang Yuh‐Ruey , Wang Chun‐Yun , Lu Hsi‐Chuan , Shih Wen‐Lin
Published: July 2008

In this study, ZnO nanorod arrays were synthesized on a seeded substrate using the aqueous solution method. The growth rate, morphology, and crystallinity of ZnO nanorods were controlled by tailoring various process parameters and the [Zn(NO3)2]/[C6H12N4] ratio. A high density of ZnO nanorods with well‐defined hexagonal facets (002) were grown almost vertically over the entire substrate surface in all cases. The largest growth rate of length was observed in the ZnO nanorods grown in solution with a [Zn(NO3)2]/[C6H12N4] ratio in the vicinity of 1, which corresponds to an environment of small excess NH3, or OH− ions, while the change in diameter of the nanorods was insignificant with the [Zn(NO3)2]/[C6H12N4] ratio. In the solution of [Zn(NO3)2]/[C6H12N4]=5, ZnO nanorod arrays with a high concentration of oxygen vacancy were formed, due to the deficiency of C6H12N4 and thus OH− concentration. The average diameter and length of ZnO nanorods increased from 43 to 70 nm and from 65 to 320 nm, respectively, as the precursor concentration was increased from 0.008 to 0.04M. Mechanical stirring of the solution doubles the growth rate and enhances the crystallinity of ZnO nanorods, because stirring reduces the thickness of the Zn2+ depletion layer surrounding the fast‐growing (002) surfaces of ZnO nanorods. Both the radial and the axial dimensions increased almost linearly with the reaction time up to 240 min. The growth rates of diameter and length are 0.21 and 2.16 nm/min, respectively.
Sintering and Crystallization Behavior of Machinable Fluorphlogopite–Gehlenite Glass–Ceramic
Authors: Eftekhari Yekta B. , Hamnabard Z.
Published: July 2008

Easy machining is a characteristic of fluorphlogopite glass–ceramics, that sets them apart from other glass–ceramic systems. However, these materials have low hardness and mechanical strength, which limit their performance as a structural ceramic. In this paper, we attempted to overcome this problem by incremental addition of calcium oxide to a base glass composition. In this way, various parameters of the resulting glasses like their sintering and crystallization behavior were investigated, using X‐ray diffractometry, differential thermal analysis, and scanning electron microscopy. According to our results, while small amounts of CaO improved the crystallization of fluorphlogopite and induced a decrease in the sinterability of glasses, higher amounts of CaO had the opposite effect, that is, it led to a reduction in the dimensions of mica crystalline particles and caused gehlenite to precipitate.
Near‐Net Shape β‐Si4Al2O2N6 Parts by Hydrolysis Induced Aqueous Gelcasting Process
Authors: Ganesh Ibram
Published: July 2008

In this paper, a new net‐shaping process, an hydrolysis‐induced aqueous gelcasting (GC) (GCHAS) has been reported for consolidation of β‐Si4Al2O2N6 ceramics from aqueous slurries containing 48–50 vol%α‐Si3N4, α‐Al2O3, AlN, and Y2O3 powders mixture. Dense ceramics of same composition were also consolidated by aqueous GC and hydrolysis assisted solidification routes. Among three techniques used, the GCHAS process was found to be superior for fabricating defect‐free thin wall β‐Si4Al2O2N6 crucibles and tubes. Before use, the as purchased AlN powder was passivated against hydrolysis. The sintered β‐Si4Al2O2N6 ceramics exhibited comparable properties with those reported for similar materials in the literature.
Significance of Aluminum on Hardness of Titanium Aluminum Nitride Deposited by Magnetron Co‐Sputtering
Authors: Jose Feby , Ramaseshan Rajagopalan , Dash Sitaram , Rajagopalan Subbiah , Tyagi Ashok Kumar
Published: July 2008

Ti1−xAlxN films were synthesized by reactive magnetron co‐sputtering with different aluminum compositions. X‐ray diffraction, secondary ion mass spectrometry, nanoindentation, and atomic force microscopy (AFM) techniques were used to analyze these films. The as‐deposited films were crystalline for concentrations of Al (35%, 40%, 55%, and 64%) and at 81% it became amorphous. Nanoindentation hardness increases with aluminum and started to decrease beyond 81% of aluminum. Continuous multicycle indentation technique is used to analyze the failure mode of the film with highest hardness. AFM topography analysis of this film exhibited edge cracks outside and inside the indentation area and sink‐in when the penetration reaches the substrate.
Constrained Sintering of Yttria‐Stabilized Zirconia Electrolytes: The Influence of Two‐Step Sintering Profiles on Microstructure and Gas Permeance
Authors: Wright Gary J. , Yeomans Julie A.
Published: July 2008

Two‐step sintering was applied to yttria‐stabilized zirconia (YSZ) electrolytes screen‐printed on primed porous prefired substrates. The YSZ layers were sintered at a range of peak and dwell temperatures. Relative density values from 0.79 to 0.97 corresponded to grain sizes ranging from 0.6 to 10 μm, indicating that grain growth was not suppressed when applying these profiles to a constrained system. However, two of the samples sintered using the two‐step technique had a lower gas permeance compared with conventional samples. As the more successful two‐step profiles had lower peak temperatures than the conventional profile, this approach may provide other benefits.
Interaction of Volatiles, Sugars, and Acids on Perception of Tomato Aroma and Flavor Descriptors
Authors: Baldwin E.A. , Goodner K. , Plotto A.
Published: July 2008

ABSTRACT:  To better understand the effect of sugars and acid levels on perception of aroma volatiles, intensity of tomato earthy/medicinal/musty, green/grassy/viney, and fruity/floral aroma and flavor descriptors were evaluated using coarsely chopped partially deodorized tomato puree. This puree was spiked with 1.5% to 3% sugar (glucose/fructose combinations), 0.1% to 0.2% acid (citric/malic acid combinations), or water and 2 levels of 12 individual food‐grade volatiles reported to contribute to tomato flavor. A panel consisting of 6 to 8 trained members rated 9 aroma, 8 taste, and 1 aftertaste descriptors of the spiked and nonspiked purees. The panelists detected significant differences (P≤ 0.1) for various individual aroma compound/sugar/acid combinations for a range of descriptors. Adding 0.2% acids alone to bland tomato puree decreased green and floral aromas as well as sweet taste. Adding 3% sugars alone increased green and musty aromas and decreased floral aroma as well as sour, citrus, and bitter tastes. Principal component analysis (PCA) explained 56.5% of the variation in the first 3 principal components (PCs) for added acids and volatiles to bland tomato puree. The effect of added acids with the various aroma compounds generally increased perception of overall and ripe tomato taste and aroma, tropical aroma, and sour taste, and decreased sweet, fruity, and bitter tastes. PCA for added sugars with volatiles explained 67.8% of the variation in first 3 PCs, and sugars generally decreased perception of sour, bitter, and citrus tastes and green aroma, while enhancing perception of flavors associated with ripe, tropical, and aromatic tomatoes. Adding sugars, acids, and volatiles together had a similar effect to addition of sugars alone.
Effect of Temperature (−5 to 130 °C) and Fiber Direction on the Dielectric Properties of Beef Semitendinosus at Radio Frequency and Microwave Frequencies
Authors: Basaran‐Akgul N. , Basaran P. , Rasco B.A.
Published: July 2008

ABSTRACT:  The dielectric properties must be defined to design efficient radio frequency (RF) and microwave (MW) processes by the food manufacturers. The objective of this study was to understand how frequency, temperature, and muscle fiber orientation influence the dielectric properties. The eye of round (Semitendinosus) muscle was selected because it contains large, relatively uniform muscle cells with similar muscle fiber orientation and relatively uniform chemical composition throughout the tissue. Dielectric properties were measured using an open‐ended coaxial probe technique at 27, 915, and 1800 MHz and temperatures between −5 and 130 °C. Power penetration depth was calculated. Since many commercially prepared, thermally processed, ready‐to‐eat entrees are made with frozen meat, dielectric property measurements were started from −5 °C. The dielectric constant and dielectric loss factors were often higher for muscle with the muscle fiber measured in a parallel orientation to the probe compared to samples of the same treatment (for example, fresh or frozen) in a perpendicular tissue orientation at the same frequency and temperature. Dielectric constant and loss values for frozen beef tended to be higher than fresh beef at the same temperature and frequency. Tissue orientation appeared to have a greater effect on dielectric loss values at lower frequencies. Penetration depth tended to be greater when the direction of propagation was perpendicular to the muscle fiber.
Water Vapor Permeability, Mechanical Properties and Antioxidant Effect of Mexican Oregano–Soy Based Edible Films
Authors: Pruneda E. , Peralta‐Hernández J.M. , Esquivel K. , Lee S.Y. , Godínez L.A. , Mendoza S.
Published: July 2008

ABSTRACT:  Water‐soluble extracts from Mexican oregano (Lippia graveolens) were incorporated into soy protein isolate (SPI) films. Water vapor permeability, mechanical properties, and antioxidant ability were evaluated. All the extracts were capable of scavenging DPPH radicals in a concentration‐dependent fashion; the IC50 values were obtained. Oregano extracts were incorporated into SPI films plasticized with sorbitol, glycerol, and glycerol–sorbitol 1:1. The addition of the extracts resulted in an increase in the water vapor permeability values and provided a dark reddish film appearance. Changes in tensile strength as well as elongation values were observed. The oregano SPI films exhibited antioxidant properties in a concentration‐dependent fashion.
Findings and Recommendations of the National Task Force on Early Childhood Education for Hispanics
Authors: Garcia Eugene E. , Miller L. Scott
Published: July 2008

ABSTRACT—
The National Task Force on Early Childhood Education for Hispanics was established in 2004 with the mission of developing recommendations for expanding and improving early childhood education for Hispanic children in ways that would enhance their school readiness and raise their academic achievement in the early years of school. On the basis of an extensive review of the evidence, the Task Force made recommendations that fell into 3 major categories: (a) increasing Hispanic children’s access to high–quality early childhood programs, (b) increasing the number of early childhood teachers who speak Spanish and English and the number of second language acquisition specialists, and (c) increasing efforts to design, test, and evaluate language and literacy development strategies across the early childhood years.
On Privileging the Role of Gaze in Infant Social Cognition
Authors: Akhtar Nameera , Gernsbacher Morton Ann
Published: July 2008

ABSTRACT—Theories of early social‐cognitive development privilege infants’ use of gaze as a cue to others’ attention and intentions. Mutual gaze is assumed to indicate social engagement, gaze following is believed to index understanding of others’ attention, and gaze alternation (between an object and a caregiver) is used to assess joint attention. This article discusses other cues (e.g., vocal and postural) on which children in other cultures and atypically developing children in Western cultures probably rely. It proposes that it is quite likely that typically developing children in Western cultures also use nongaze cues—in conjunction with gaze—in their everyday interactions with others.
Fostering Conceptual Change About Child Development in Prospective Teachers and Other College Students
Authors: McDevitt Teresa M. , Ormrod Jeanne E.
Published: July 2008

ABSTRACT—
Research findings about children and their developmental pathways have innumerable implications for teachers, other practitioners, and parents, who often learn about child development as part of college instruction. It appears, however, that courses in child development do not always have optimal effects on college students’ understandings of children. This article identifies several factors that may impede effective learning in child development courses. Then, drawing from research in numerous content domains and with diverse student populations, it offers several hypotheses for facilitating conceptual change in college students’ understandings of child development and for promoting positive transfer of those understandings to actual practices with children.
Gaps in Childhood Injury Research and Prevention: What Can Developmental Scientists Contribute?
Authors: Morrongiello Barbara A. , Schwebel David C.
Published: July 2008

ABSTRACT—
Unintentional injury is the leading cause of pediatric mortality in most of the developed world. Contributions from epidemiology, pubic health, and engineering perspectives have yielded important insights into risk and protective factors, but recent calls for research stress the need for behavioral science to advance understanding and prevention of childhood injuries. Limiting its focus to children younger than 13 years, this article identifies 4 gaps in the literature on childhood injury and discusses how developmental science might address these research needs by (a) applying developmental theory and conceptual approaches to understand the processes by which children are injured, (b) examining the role of developmental processes in injury risk, (c) identifying the bases for group differences in injury related to gender and cultural influences, and (d) exploring how family processes and relationships affect injury risk.
Support Systems in Early Childhood and How to Evaluate Their Impact
Authors: Böttcher Wolfgang , Ziegler Holger
Published: July 2008

ABSTRACT—
The debate over education and family policy has recently taken a surprising turn that runs counter to West Germany’s traditional approach in these areas. In the past, little or no attention was given to institutional interventions targeted at young children. Now the age group from birth to 6 years has become a focus of attention for policy makers and academics. This article reflects on the current debate in Germany concerning the development and well‐being of young children. It focuses on a national program aimed at at‐risk children up to age 3 and their families and describes some of the program’s basic ideas and discuss challenges involved in the evaluation of the program’s effectiveness.
A Framework for Understanding the Association Between Food Insecurity and Children’s Developmental Outcomes
Authors: Ashiabi Godwin S. , O’Neal Keri K.
Published: July 2008

ABSTRACT—
Food insecurity, defined as limited or uncertain availability of nutritionally adequate and safe foods or limited or uncertain ability to acquire acceptable foods in socially acceptable ways, is still a problem in the United States. It is associated with poor parenting practices, poor health, and socioemotional and cognitive/academic difficulties in children. This review synthesizes some of these findings and suggest links among these outcomes. In this endeavor, it describes the concept of food insecurity and propose a mediational framework to anchor our discussions. Finally, it examines the implications of the review for research and policy.