bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Protection against cell death and sustained tyrosine hydroxylase phosphorylation in hydrogen peroxide‐ and MPP+‐treated human neuroblastoma cells with melatonin
Authors: Chetsawang Banthit , Chetsawang Jirapa , Govitrapong Piyarat
Published: May 2008

Abstract:  Neuroprotective effects of melatonin against oxidative stress‐induced neuronal cell degeneration in human SH‐SY5Y neuroblastoma cells were investigated in this report. The results demonstrate that exogenous administration of H2O2 and 1‐methyl, 4‐phenyl, pyridinium ion (MPP+) significantly decreased cell viability in SH‐SY5Y cultured cells. Desipramine, a monoamine uptake blocker was able to abolish the toxic effects of MPP+ but not H2O2 in reduction of cell viability. Conversely, melatonin reversed the toxic effects of H2O2 and MPP+ on cell viability. In addition, the reduction of phosphorylation of tyrosine hydroxylase, the rate limiting enzyme in dopamine synthesis, and phosphorylation of cyclic AMP responsive element‐binding protein by H2O2 and MPP+ was also diminished by melatonin. These results demonstrate some effective roles of melatonin on neuroprotection and its action on the modulation of tyrosine hydroxylase phosphorylation.
Absence and size of massa intermedia in patients with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder
Authors: Ceyhan Meltem , Adapınar Baki , Aksaray Gokay , Ozdemir Figen , Colak Ertugrul
Published: May 2008

Objective:

To evaluate the absence and size of massa intermedia (MI), a midline thalamic structure, and its gender-specific alteration in patients with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.

Methods:

Thirty-five patients with schizophrenia (17 females and 18 males), 21 patients with bipolar disorder (15 females and 6 males) and 89 healthy controls (50 females and 39 males) were evaluated by magnetic resonance imaging. Thin-slice magnetic resonance images of the brain were evaluated. MI was determined in coronal and sagittal images, and area of the MI was measured on the sagittal plane.

Results:

Females had a significantly lower incidence of absent MI compared with males in the healthy control group. The absence of MI in schizophrenia and bipolar patients was not higher than the incidence in healthy controls. The size of MI showed a gender difference. The mean MI area size was smaller in female schizophrenia patients than in female controls, while no significant difference was observed between male schizophrenia patients and their controls.

Conclusions:

The size of MI, a gender difference midline structure, is smaller in females with schizophrenia, and the results of this study support other studies of structural aberration of the thalamus and other midline structures in the brains of patients with schizophrenia.
Influence of previous antimicrobial therapy on oral carriage of beta‐lactamase producing Capnocytophaga isolates
Authors: Jolivet‐Gougeon Anne , Guérin Jacques , Tamanai‐Shacoori Zohreh , Gandemer Virginie , Sixou Jean‐Louis , Bonnaure‐Mallet Martine
Published: June 2008

Aim: In order to assess the prevalence of beta‐lactamase producing oral bacteria in childhood, the influence of different parameters on the oral carriage of Capnocytophaga was studied in a specific population of children with cancer. The examined parameters included clinical observation of oropharyngeal mucosa, type of malignant disease and intake of chemotherapy and antimicrobial treatment.

Methods: The gingival and mucosal status of the patients was recorded before each sampling procedure. Samples were collected by oropharyngeal swabbing in children with leukaemia or other oncological diseases for isolation of Capnocytophaga strains.

Results: Capnocytophaga strains were more often isolated in samples from children with oncological diseases (71%) other than leukaemia (57%). Concomitant chemotherapy had no influence on oral Capnocytophaga carriage. A significant decrease of the prevalence of Capnocytophaga strains isolated was observed in children who received antimicrobial treatment within 8 days before the sampling procedure (15.5% vs. 28%). But, the incidence of beta‐lactamase‐producing strains was not linked to previous antimicrobial treatments.

Conclusion: Oral carriage of Capnocytophaga strains can be linked to haematological disease and previous antibiotherapy, but results did not confirm that beta‐lactamase treatments exert a selective pressure. Other factors might be involved in emerging for oral beta‐lactamase‐producing Capnocytophaga strains.
A Comparison of Stability between Delayed versus Immediately Loaded Orthodontic Palatal Implants
Authors: JACKSON AMY , LEMKE ROBERT , HATCH JOHN , SALOME NORMAN , GAKUNGA PETER , COCHRAN DAVID
Published: June 2008

Introduction:  Control of anchorage is a fundamental problem in orthodontics. Conventional means of controlling anchorage are characterized by potential disadvantages and inconveniences: visibility, compliance dependence, risk of undesirable side effects, and injury. Titanium implants have evolved as a potential clinical alternative in overcoming the limits of conventional dental orthodontic anchorage.

Methods:  This project was designed as a prospective observational study on 20 patients whose treatment plans required maximum (stable) anchorage during orthodontic treatment. The patients received palatal implants (Institut Straumann AG, Waldenburg, Switzerland: length of implant 4–6 mm, diameter 3.3 mm), which were placed into the midpalate. The goal of this study was to evaluate if the implant could be loaded immediately, or if time should be allowed for integration. Patients were randomized into two groups; one group had their implants loaded immediately with a coil spring, and the second group remained nonloaded, with an annealed coil spring, for the 8‐week experimental period. Measurement of implant stability was taken using resonance frequency analysis on both groups at the time of implant placement and at 8 weeks post‐placement.

Results:  This study demonstrated that immediate loading of the Straumann orthodontic implant is possible, based on the clinical success observed in both groups. However, compared with the nonloaded group, the stability of the immediately loaded implant was significantly less at 8 weeks. The mean implant stability quotient (ISQ) of the nonloaded group was 38.7 kHz at baseline and 47.3 kHz after 8 weeks. The mean ISQ of the loaded group was 42.0 kHz at baseline and 38.4 kHz after 8 weeks. Statistical analysis showed a significant difference between the group that was loaded and the nonloaded group after 8 weeks (p < 0.05).

Conclusion:  Based on the results of this study, an unloaded healing period provides for increased stability of the implants compared with immediately loaded palatal implants.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Patients often like to have their orthodontic treatment begin as soon as possible. This study examined if palatal implants could be loaded immediately after placement so overall treatment time could be decreased. It appears that this is possible based on the results of the study; however, an unloaded healing period results in a more stable implant.
Tear Strength of Five Elastomeric Impression Materials at Two Setting Times and Two Tearing Rates
Authors: LAWSON NATHANIEL C. , BURGESS JOHN O. , LITAKER MARK
Published: June 2008

Problem/Aims:  Thin sections of impression materials are susceptible to tearing in gingival crevices and interproximal spaces. This study measures the tear strength of six fast and regular set impression materials after different setting times and at different tearing rates.

Materials/Methods:  Tear strength specimens were prepared of four addition silicone materials: Aquasil (Dentsply, Konstanz, Germany), Imprint 3 (3M ESPE, Seefeld, Germany), Stand Out (Kerr, Orange, CA, USA), Virtual (Ivoclar Vivadent, Schaan, Liechtenstein); one polyether material: Impregum (3M ESPE); and a new hybrid material: Senn (GC, Aichi, Japan) using a split mold. Specimens were divided into four groups (N = 5). Groups 1 and 2 were immediately removed from the mold and loaded in tension until failure using an Instron testing device (Instron Corp., Canton, MA, USA). Groups 3 and 4 were tested 24 hours after fabrication. Groups 1 and 3 were tested at 1 mm/minute, and groups 2 and 4 were tested at 500 mm/minute.

Results:  A two‐factor analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey's test revealed differences among material brands (α = 0.05) in all experimental groups. The polyether and hybrid material were in the lowest statistically significant ranking group for all experimental groups. A three‐factor ANOVA determined that a 500 mm/minute tearing rate and a 24‐hour set time produced higher tear strengths and that fast set materials produced greater tear strength than regular set materials.

Conclusions:  Most addition silicone materials provide higher tear strengths than polyether and hybrid materials. Materials display higher tear strengths after longer set times and at faster tearing rates. Impressions should be removed from the mouth with the fastest possible speed.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Addition silicone materials should be used in impressions requiring replication of gingival crevices or interproximal spaces to prevent tearing of thin sheets of material. Impressions should be removed from the mouth and separated from the model with the fastest possible speed.
Questions of Life and Death
Authors: Charlton William
Published: May 2008

What sort of right is the right to life? Does it make sense to speak of a right to die, or to be allowed to die, or to be helped to die, or to die with dignity? Are life and death straightforward alternatives? Are they possible objects of desire or aversion? Can they be given as gifts? If life is a gift, have recipients of it a duty to be grateful? Answers to these questions are obtained by philosophical analysis, chiefly of the concepts of life and death.
THE CLASSLESS WORKPLACE: THE DIGERATI AND THE NEW SPIRIT OF TECHNOCAPITALISM
Authors: Fisher Eran
Published: May 2008

This article argues the formation of a new type of economic actor at the intersection of a new capitalism and a new technology: The digerati. The article is based on a discourse analysis of the popular magazine Wired, which registers the culture of contemporary technocapitalism. The article suggests that the new persona of the digerati is constructed as a rejection of the ethics, which dominated the Fordist workplace and Fordist society: Hierarchy and differentiation between workers, on the one hand and capitalists and managers, on the other hand. The article describes the transformation of these two categories—workers and capitalists—into the digerati worker and the digerati entrepreneur, respectively. Set within the context of the structural transformations of capitalism from Fordism to post‐Fordism, the article shows the ideological fit of the new ethics of the digerati to the new working arrangements of post‐Fordist capitalism, characterized by more privatizes, flexible, and precarious working arrangements.
SOMETHING DIFFERENT IN THE AIR? THE COLLAPSE OF THE SCHWARZENEGGER HEALTH PLAN IN CALIFORNIA
Authors: Mitchell Daniel J. B.
Published: May 2008

In January, 2007, California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger proposed a state universal health care plan modeled after the Massachusetts individual mandate program. A year later, the plan was dead. Although some key interest groups eventually backed the plan, it was overwhelmed by a looming state budget crisis and a lack of gubernatorial focus. Although much acclaimed for his stance on greenhouse gases, stem cells, hydrogen highways, and other Big Ideas, diffused gubernatorial priorities and a failure to resolve California's chronic fiscal difficulties let the clock run out on universal health care.
WEAVING A STRONGER FABRIC: ORGANIZING A GLOBAL SWEAT‐FREE APPAREL PRODUCTION AGREEMENT
Authors: Dirnbach Eric
Published: May 2008

There are tens of millions of workers who work under terrible sweatshop conditions in the global apparel industry. Workers are employed at apparel contractors and have been largely unsuccessful in organizing and improving their working conditions. The major apparel manufacturers and retailers have the most power in this industry, and they have adopted corporate social responsibility programs as a false solution to the sweatshop problem. The major North American apparel unions dealt with similar sweatshop conditions a century ago by organizing the contractors and brands into joint association contracts that significantly raised standards. Taking inspiration from their example, workers and their anti‐sweatshop allies need to work together to coordinate a global organizing effort that builds worker power and establishes a global production agreement that negotiates with both contractors and the brands for improved wages, benefits, and working conditions.
Delayed Surgical Repair of Penile Fracture under Local Anesthesia
Authors: Nasser Taha Abdel , Mostafa Taymour
Published: May 2008

Introduction

Penile fracture is a traumatic rupture of the tunica albuginea because of blunt injury of an erect penis.

Aim

To assess the efficacy of a simple delayed surgical repair of penile fracture after a conservative treatment under local anesthesia in patients presented after 24 hours.

Methods

Twenty-four patients with penile fracture presented after 24 hours were subjected to history taking, clinical examination, urine analysis, and penile ultrasound. They underwent conservative treatment for 7–12 days, and then a surgical repair under local anesthesia was carried out.

Main Outcome Measures

A follow-up for 6 months for sexual activity and any associated complaints in addition to local examination.

Results

All cases were presented with unilateral single tear, and the main cause of penile fracture was sexual intercourse. No intraoperative or postoperative complications were encountered. They regained their sexual activity 4–6 weeks after the repair. One case developed a mild penile deviation that did not interfere with sexual relation after the 6-month follow-up.

Conclusion

Surgical repair of penile fracture after a conservative treatment is an effective method for patients with delayed presentation devoid of urethral involvement.
Predictive and prognostic factors associated with survival outcomes in patients with stage I–III breast cancer: A report from a developing country
Authors: AZIZ Zeba , IQBAL Javaid , AKRAM Mohammad
Published: June 2008

Background:  There is a paucity of data on factors that predict relapse and survival for stages I to III breast cancer patients from developing countries. The primary purpose of our study is to correlate clinical outcomes with established prognostic and predictive factors in patients with stage I to III breast cancer.

Methods:  A total of 525 patients followed from January 1996 to December 2005 were analyzed for factors predicting relapse and mortality. These included their age, social strata, tumor size, number of positive lymph nodes, stage and histological grade, estrogen and progesterone receptor status and treatment profiles.

Results:  The patients' median age was 45 years. Only 6.7% patients presented with stage I disease. Factors that were predictive of relapse were a poor socioeconomic status P < 0.0001, T2/T3/T4 tumors P < 0.0001, N1/N2/N3 P < 0.0001, grade III P < 0.0001, initial stage II/III P < 0.0001, estrogen receptor negativity P 0.01. For overall survival significant predictive factors were poor socioeconomic status P < 0.009 T2/T3/T4 P < 0.0001, N1/N2/N3 P < 0.0001, grade III P < 0.001, initial stage II/III P < 0.0001, estrogen receptor (ER) negativity P < 0.002. Event free survival and overall survival for all patients at 5 and 10 years were 57 and 37%, and 72 and 61%, respectively.

Conclusion:  Poor prognostic markers for survival outcomes were large tumors, advanced disease, number of positive lymph nodes, grade III tumors, ER/progesterone receptor (PR) negative tumors, poor socioeconomic status and variable treatment profiles. Clinical outcomes and survival associated for each prognostic marker were inferior when compared to developed countries due to the larger tumor burden and less than optimal treatment. Early detection programs, improvements in technical expertise and quality of care, with economically feasible guidelines, need to be developed for countries with limited resources.
INFLUENCE OF VACUUM PACKAGING AND ORGANIC ACID TREATMENT ON THE CHILLED SHELF LIFE OF PEARL SPOT (ETROPLUS SURATENSIS, BLOCH 1790)
Authors: MANJU S. , MOHAN C.O. , MALLICK A.K. , RAVISHANKAR C.N. , GOPAL T.K. SRINIVASA
Published: June 2008

The present work was carried out to study the effect of vacuum packaging and organic acids drip treatment, namely, sodium acetate and potassium sorbate (2%), on the quality of pearl spot during chilled storage (1–2C). Changes in pH, drip loss, water‐holding capacity, total volatile base nitrogen (TVB‐N), trimethylamine nitrogen (TMA‐N), total plate counts, instrumental texture properties and sensory characteristics were investigated up to 18 days. Sensory evaluation revealed that the potassium sorbate‐ and sodium acetate‐treated vacuum‐packaged samples had good sensory characteristics up to 16 days compared with 7 days in control air packs (CAPs) and control vacuum packs (CVPs). The sensory shelf life followed the following order: CAP < CVP < sodium acetate‐treated vacuum pack < potassium sorbate‐treated vacuum pack. Chemical analysis demonstrated a significant (P < 0.05) reduction in TVB‐N, TMA‐N and total plate counts, and better textural properties in potassium sorbate‐ and sodium acetate‐treated vacuum‐packaged fishes than CAPs and CVPs.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Limited shelf life is one of the major problems the seafood industry faces today. The study compares the effect of vacuum packaging in combination with preservative chemical treatment on the shelf life of pearl spot. The study indicates that the use of chemical preservative treatments such as sodium acetate and potassium sorbate at 2% level, together with vacuum packaging, helps in extending the shelf life of pearl spot to 16 days compared with 7 days in control air packs and control vacuum packs. Hence, vacuum packaging, together with preservative treatment, is very effective in shelf‐life extension compared with vacuum packaging alone.
IMPROVED PROBE‐BASED ASSAY FOR THE QUANTIFICATION OF STAPHYLOCOCCUS AUREUS VIRULENCE REGULATOR, RNAIII, BOTH IN VITRO AND IN VIVO
Authors: SAWIRES Y. , GRESHAM H.
Published: June 2008

Accessory gene regulator, a quorum‐sensing operon, plays a key role in the Staphylococcus aureus pathogenesis by altering the expression of virulence determinants through its effector molecule, RNAIII. Several methods for RNAIII quantification have been described. However, methods that involve a signal amplification process are necessary to evaluate the contribution of RNAIII to the coordinate regulation of these virulence factors in specific niches, in vivo. Here, we described the development and validation of a specific probe‐based reverse transcription quantitative PCR for the quantification of RNAIII that improves upon previously published methods. Using the 2−ΔΔCt algorithm, we demonstrated the necessity for matching the efficiencies of the primer/probe sets used, as lack of this prerequisite could lead to inaccuracy in quantification with subsequent misjudging of the role of different virulence determinants in disease pathogenesis. The RNAIII expression was evaluated in both laboratory strain and clinical isolate under in vitro/in vivo conditions to verify the robustness of the technique.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

RNAIII is a global regulator that is involved and plays a key role in Staphylococcus aureus virulence. Quantifying RNAIII should be useful to understand the disease mechanisms of S. aureus in different animal models. Also, it would be useful for the screening of potential antivirulence drugs that can inhibit RNAIII‐dependent virulence determinants. Together with reverse transcription quantitative PCR assays developed for other determinants, based on the strategy adopted here, this could provide a more detailed view of the signaling pathways that control S. aureus virulence.
PAIRED PREFERENCE TESTS USING PLACEBO PAIRS AND DIFFERENT RESPONSE OPTIONS FOR CHIPS, ORANGE JUICES AND COOKIES
Authors: KIM HAE SUN , LEE HYE SEONG , O'MAHONY MICHAEL , KIM KWANG OK
Published: June 2008

Preference tests were performed for varieties of potato chips, orange juices and chocolate chip cookies using three response protocols: the traditional paired preference test with the “no preference” option, a 9‐point hedonic scale and a 6‐point hybrid hedonic/purchase intent scale. The different stimuli to be assessed were presented in pairs, but putatively identical stimuli were also presented as a “placebo” pair. Performance on the placebo pair with identical stimuli provided a measure of the hidden demand characteristics of the test protocol. The presentation of the different pairs provided a measure of preference accompanied by such hidden demand effects. Comparison between the two allowed a better measure of preference per se. The order of presentation of the identical and different pairs did show occasional slight evidence of contrast effects. For the placebo “identical” pairs, a majority of consumers reported false preferences. Liking questions with the hedonic and hybrid scales elicited fewer false preferences than preference questions with the paired preference protocol. Yet, the effects tended to be slight. The 6‐point hedonic/purchase intent scale exhibited the fewest false preferences in the placebo condition, and this was because of its fewer categories rather than any cognitive strategy change elicited by its different labels.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

A problem with paired preference testing is the tendency of consumers to give false preferences, which produces the seriously misleadingoverestimation of the proportion of consumers who have preferences for one or other of the products being assessed. The placebo condition is an important control for alleviating this problem. The statistical analysis can be improved by finding a protocol that maximizes the proportion of “no preference” responses in the placebo condition. The key finding here is that using hedonic or purchase intent questions rather than preference questions may possibly provide a way of achieving this aim.
Toward a General Model of Consumer Empowerment and Welfare in Financial Markets with an Application to Mortgage Servicers
Authors: BONE PAULA FITZGERALD
Published: May 2008

Policy makers and consumer advocates suggest that mortgage servicers are prone to mistakes and predatory practices that negatively impact consumer financial well‐being. Using this industry as a case study, a general model of consumer empowerment and welfare is developed integrating theoretical concepts related to market structure, firm orientation, and consumer information processing. The model illuminates the most distinctive characteristics of mortgage servicing: high switching costs faced by consumers and mortgage servicers’ inability to negotiate with some borrowers. Additionally, the model posits that the most common remedy in the financial services industry, information disclosure, is unlikely to directly improve consumer welfare.
Contribution of FAT/CD36 to the regulation of skeletal muscle fatty acid oxidation: an overview
Authors: Holloway G. P. , Luiken J. J. F. P. , Glatz J. F. C. , Spriet L. L. , Bonen A.
Published: May 2008

Long chain fatty acids (LCFAs) are an important substrate for ATP production within the skeletal muscle. The process of LCFA delivery from adipose tissue to muscle mitochondria involves many regulatory steps. Recently, it has been recognized that LCFA oxidation is not only dependent on LCFA delivery to the muscle, but also on regulatory steps within the muscle. Increasing selected fatty acid binding proteins/transporters on the plasma membrane facilitates a very rapid LCFA increase into the muscle, independent of any changes in LCFA delivery to the muscle. Such a mechanism of LCFA transporter translocation is activated by muscle contraction. Intramuscular triacylglycerols may also be hydrolysed to provide fatty acids for mitochondrial oxidation, particularly during exercise, when hormone‐sensitive lipase and other enzymes are activated. Mitochondrial LCFA entry is also highly regulated. This however does not involve only the malonyl CoA carnitine palmitoyltransferase‐I (CPTI) axis. Exercise‐induced fatty acid entry into mitochondria is also regulated by at least one of the proteins (FAT/CD36) that also regulates plasma membrane fatty acid transport. Among individuals, differences in mitochondrial fatty acid oxidation appear to be correlated with the content of mitochondrial CPTI and FAT/CD36. This paper provides a brief overview of mechanisms that regulate LCFA uptake and oxidation in skeletal muscle during exercise and in obesity. We focus largely on our own work on FAT/CD36, which contributes to regulating, in a coordinated fashion, LCFA uptake across the plasma membrane and the mitochondrial membrane. Very little is known about the roles of FATP1‐6 on fatty acid transport in skeletal muscle.
The role of nutrients in modulating disease
Authors: Chan D. L.
Published: May 2008

The role of nutrition in the management of diseases has often centred on correcting apparent nutrient deficiencies or meeting estimated nutritional requirements of patients. Nutrition has traditionally been considered a supportive measure akin to fluid therapy and rarely it has been considered a primary means of ameliorating diseases. Recently, however, further understanding of the underlying mechanisms of various disease processes and how certain nutrients possess pharmacological properties have fuelled an interest in exploring how nutritional therapies themselves could modify the behaviour of various conditions. Nutrients such as omega‐3 fatty acids, antioxidants and certain amino acids such as arginine and glutamine have all been demonstrated to have at least the potential to modulate diseases. Developments in the area of critical care nutrition have been particularly exciting as nutritional therapies utilising a combination of approaches have been shown to positively impact outcome beyond simply proving substrate for synthesis and energy. Application of certain nutrients for the modulation of diseases in veterinary patients is still in early stages, but apparent successes have already been demonstrated, and future studies are warranted to establish optimal approaches. This review describes the rationale of many of these approaches and discusses findings both in human beings and in animals, which may guide future therapy.
Managing Incidental Findings in Human Subjects Research: Analysis and Recommendations
Authors: Wolf Susan M. , Lawrenz Frances P. , Nelson Charles A. , Kahn Jeffrey P. , Cho Mildred K. , Clayton Ellen Wright , Fletcher Joel G. , Georgieff Michael K. , Hammerschmidt Dale , Hudson Kathy , Illes Judy , Kapur Vivek , Keane Moira A. , Koenig Barbara A. , LeRoy Bonnie S. , McFarland Elizabeth G. , Paradise Jordan , Parker Lisa S. , Terry Sharon F. , Van Ness Brian , Wilfond Benjamin S.
Published: June 2008

Researchers, institutional review boards (IRBs), participants in human subjects research, and their families face an important but largely neglected problem — how should incidental findings (IFs) be managed in human subjects research. If researchers unexpectedly stumble upon information of potential health or reproductive significance, should they seek expert evaluation, contact the participant’s physician, tell the research participant, or respond with some combination? What should consent forms and the entire consent process say about how IFs will be handled in research? What should IRBs require?
Genomic Research and Incidental Findings
Authors: Van Ness Brian
Published: June 2008

Medical practice is poised to incorporate genomescale testing into treatment decisions. However, broad genome testing in laboratories may lead to discoveries not anticipated, yet highly significant to the health of the patient. Understanding the complexity of our genome and its relationship to our health is an overwhelming task. Currently, much of the effort to unravel this complexity is in the realm of research. However, researchers are often neither qualified nor prepared to deal with incidental findings of genetic abnormalities that influence health and disease. These incidental observations, referred to recently by Issac Kohane et al. as the “incidentalome,” may lead to complex legal, ethical, and financial problems that may seriously complicate the role of the research community in medical genomics. Currently, most genetics researchers, while aware of the potential for incidental findings, simply do not want to deal with them.
The Risks and Benefits of Searching for Incidental Findings in MRI Research Scans
Authors: Royal Jason M. , Peterson Bradley S.
Published: June 2008

The question of how to handle incidental findings (IFs) has sparked a heated debate among neuroimaging researchers and medical ethicists, a debate whose urgency stems largely from the recent explosion in the number of imaging studies being conducted and in the sheer volume of scans being acquired. Perhaps the point of greatest controversy within this debate is whether the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans of all research participants should be reviewed in an active search for pathology and, moreover, whether this search should be performed by a radiologist. Resistance to routine readings performed by radiologists, as opposed to selective review of those scans on which investigators have spotted a possible IF, has been fueled in part by the obvious and enormous cost — financial and logistical — of engaging radiologists to read massive numbers of scans. This cost would be especially burdensome, even prohibitive, to investigators who are not affiliated with a medical center, because of their limited access to radiologists and other medical expertise.
Currents in Contemporary Ethics
Authors: Iltis Ana S. , Matsuo Hisako , DeVader Shannon R.
Published: June 2008

An Institute of Medicine (IOM) panel charged with reviewing the system for overseeing research involving children concluded in 2004 that Institutional Review Boards (IRBs), institutions engaged in research, and study sponsors should “adopt explicit written policies on acceptable and unacceptable types and amounts of payments related to [children’s] research participation.” We previously reported data on practices and policies in the U.S. regarding payments to children who participate in research and their parents. Here, we report additional results from our study and identify some of the decisions that must be made in developing payment plans and on which payment policies will be expected to offer guidance. We conclude that further conceptual analysis and empirical research are necessary before IRBs, institutions, and sponsors can develop specific rules on numerous aspects of payment. Nevertheless, payment policies that promote the ethical treatment of children in research and their parents can be developed. We propose a structure for such policies.
Genetic analysis of H3N2 influenza A viruses isolated in 2006–2007 in Nairobi, Kenya
Authors: Bulimo Wallace D. , Garner Jason L. , Schnabel David C. , Bedno Sheryl A. , Njenga M. Kariuki , Ochieng Walter O. , Amukoye Evans , Magana James M. , Simwa James M. , Ofula Victor O. , Lifumo Samwel M. , Wangui Julia , Breiman Robert F. , Martin Samuel K.
Published: June 2008

Background  Minimal influenza surveillance has been carried out in sub‐Saharan Africa to provide information on circulating influenza subtypes for the purpose of vaccine production and monitoring trends in virus spread and mutations.

Objective  The aim of this study was to investigate a surveillance program in Kenya to isolate and characterize influenza viruses.

Results  In the 2006–2007 influenza season, nine influenza A viruses were isolated. All were of H3N2 subtype with key amino acid (aa) changes indicating that they were more closely related to recent World Health Organization recommended vaccine strains than to older vaccine strains, and mirroring the evolution of circulating influenza A globally. Hemagglutination inhibition data showed that the 2006 Kenya isolates had titers identical to the 2005–2006 H3N2 vaccine strain but two‐ to threefold lower titers to the 2006–2007 vaccine strain, suggesting that the isolates were antigenic variants of the 2006–2007 vaccine strains. Analysis of aa substitutions of hemagglutinin‐1 (HA1) protein of the 2006 Kenyan viruses revealed unique genetic variations with several aa substitutions located at immunodominant epitopes of the HA1 protein. These mutations included the V112I change at site E, the K 173 E substitution at site D and N 278 K change at site C, mutations that may result in conformational change on the HA molecule to expose novel epitopes thus abrogating binding of pre‐existing antibodies at these sites.

Conclusion  Characterization of these important genetic variations in influenza A viruses isolated from Kenya highlights the importance of continuing surveillance and characterization of emerging influenza drift variants in sub‐Saharan Africa.
Anthocyanin Content, Antioxidant Activity, and Selected Physical Properties of Flowable Purple‐Fleshed Sweetpotato Purees
Authors: Steed L.E. , Truong V.‐D.
Published: May 2008

ABSTRACT:  With high levels of polyphenolic compounds, purple‐fleshed sweetpotatoes (PFSP) have been utilized as a healthy food commodity and source of natural food colorants in Asia. In the U.S. sweetpotato industry, there are growing interests in exploring these market opportunities for PFSP. A locally grown PFSP cultivar was analyzed for antioxidant properties. The total phenolic content ranged from 313.6 to 1483.7 mg chlorogenic acid equivalent/100 g fresh weight (fw), and anthocyanin contents were between 51.5 and 174.7 mg anthocyanins/100 g fw. The DPPH radical scavenging activities and were 47.0 to 87.4 μmol trolox equivalent (TE)/g fw, and the oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) values were between 26.4 and 78.2 μmol TE/g fw. Unlike orange‐fleshed sweetpotatoes (OFSP), the steamed roots of PFSP formed a thick paste, which required a process modification to produce flowable purees. Rheological testing indicated that adjusting the dry matter of PFSP to 18%‐21% produced purees with flow properties similar to the OFSP purees. The PFSP purees had polyphenolic content and antioxidant capacity within ranges reported for various purple‐colored fruits and vegetables.
Dynamics of Indigenous Microbial Populations of Butter Head Lettuce Grown in Mulch and on Bare Soil
Authors: Ponce A.G. , Agüero M.V. , Roura S.I. , Del Valle C.E. , Moreira M.R.
Published: May 2008

ABSTRACT:  The native microflora of lettuce cultivated in mulch and on bare soil and its evolution during storage at optimal condition were evaluated. Inner, mid, and outer leaves of the lettuce heads were analyzed separately and the evolution of the microbial populations were fitted to Gompertz and logistic models. The cultivation method (bare soil and mulch) introduced differences in the initial counts, evolution, and tolerance to refrigeration temperatures for some of the microbial populations under study. Most microbial populations from mulch lettuce presented a decline or little growth under refrigerated storage. However, populations from bare soil lettuce presented some growth phase during storage. Lactic acid bacteria from bare soil lettuce presented significant growth after 8 d of storage while LAB from mulch grown lettuce did not. Concurrently with the LAB growth, there was a decline in the coliform counts in bare soil grown lettuce. At the end of storage, the inner and mid leaves of mulch lettuce presented lower counts of psychrotrophic bacteria, LAB, and yeast and molds.
Aldehyde oxidase carrying an unusual subunit structure from Pseudomonas sp. MX‐058
Authors: Thiwthong Rungruedee , Kataoka Michihiko , Iwasaki Akira , Watanabe Hiroshi , Hasegawa Junzo , Isobe Kimiyasu , Shimizu Sakayu
Published: June 2008

Pseudomonas sp. MX‐058 produces aldehyde oxidase catalysing glyoxal to glyoxylic acid. Two aldehyde oxidases (F10 and F13) were purified to homogeneity from Pseudomonas sp. MX‐058. F10 and F13 had subunit structures, a heterotetramer and heteropentamer respectively. The N‐terminal amino acid sequences of all subunits were highly homologous to amino acid sequences of the putative oxidoreductases of Pseudomonas strains. All of these homologous oxidoreductases have a heterotrimer structure consisting of 85‐88 (α), 37‐39 (β) and 18‐23 (γ) kDa subunits. However, the α‐subunits of F10 and F13 might have decomposed into two [80 (α1) and 9 kDa (α2)] and three [58 (α1′), 22 (α1″) and 9 (α2) kDa] subunits, respectively, while the β‐ and γ‐subunits remained intact. Both F10 and F13 show high activity toward several aliphatic and aromatic aldehydes. The aldehyde oxidases of Pseudomonas sp. MX‐058 has unique protein structures, α1α2βγ for F10 and α1′α1″α2βγ for F13, a heterotetramer and heteropentamer respectively. The enzymes exhibit significantly low activity toward glyoxylic acid compared with glyoxal, which is an advantageous property for glyoxylic acid production from glyoxal.
Labor Market Transitions of Immigrant‐Born, Refugee‐Born, and Canadian‐Born Youth
Authors: WILKINSON LORI
Published: May 2008

Cet article a pour but d'analyser les expériences du marché du travail des jeunes nés de parents immigrants, réfugiés et canadiens en utilisant deux ensembles de données de 1998, l'Enquête sur la dynamique du travail et du revenu, et L'enquête sur le rétablissement des réfugiés en Alberta. Son ambition première est de comprendre leurs expériences de travail, étant donné qu'elles sont essentielles à leur intégration et à leur passage à l'âge adulte. D'un point de vue pratique, les résultats aident les fournisseurs de services de première ligne en procurant de l'information supplémentaire sur les besoins liés à l'emploi des jeunes nouveaux arrivants. Théoriquement, cette étude a pour objectif de mieux comprendre un des aspects de l'intégration — l'emploi —, étant donné que l'information actuelle ne décrit pas adéquatement les expériences de ces jeunes. Dans l'ensemble, cette recherche augmente les connaissances sur l'intégration des jeunes nés de parents immigrants et réfugiés sur le marché canadien du travail.

This paper examines the labor market experiences of immigrant‐born, refugee‐born, and Canadian‐born youth using two data sets, the 1998 Survey on Labour and Income Dynamics and the 1998 Refugee Resettlement to Alberta Survey. Its main objective is to understand their job experiences as they are crucial to their integration and transition to adulthood. On a practical level, the findings help front‐line service providers by providing additional information about the employment‐related needs of newcomer youth. Theoretically, this research aims to develop a better understanding of one aspect of the integration, employment, as current information does not adequately describe the experiences of newcomer youth. Taken together, this research increases knowledge about the integration of immigrant‐born and refugee‐born youth in the Canadian labor market.
Restructuring Municipal Government: Labor‐Management Relations and Worker Mental Health
Authors: McDONOUGH PEGGY , WORTS DIANA , FOX BONNIE , DMITRIENKO KLAUDIA
Published: May 2008

Cette étude présente une enquête selon la méthode mixte sur l'association qui existe entre les relations travail‐gestion et la santé mentale d'employés d'un secteur municipal subissant une restructuration de style nouvelle gestion publique. L'analyse des données du sondage (N=902) démontre qu'il existe une relation relativement forte et constante entre les pratiques de gestion et la santé psychologique des employés. Des interviews réalisées auprès d'un sous‐échantillon de 54 travailleurs révèlent que le contrôle excessif, l'incompétence et l'indifférence des gestionnaires combinés avec un minimum de récompenses soulignant les efforts consentis par les travailleurs ont pour conséquence que le personnel se sent dévalorisé. Nos résultats démontrent que la santé mentale des travailleurs a étéébranlée, en sapant leur estime de soi et en leur faisant perdre des possibilités d'améliorer leurs conditions de travail.

This study is a mixed‐method investigation of the association between labor‐management relations and employees' mental health in a municipal sector undergoing New Public Management‐style restructuring. Analysis of the survey data (N=902) demonstrates a relatively strong and persistent relationship between management practices and employee psychological health. Interviews with a subsample of 54 workers reveal that management's excessive control, incompetence, and unresponsiveness, combined with minimal rewards for workers' efforts, left staff feeling devalued. Our findings suggest that workers' mental health was harmed by the undermining of their sense of self‐worth and the loss of avenues to improve their working conditions.
Cytomorphologic differentiation of benign and malignant mammary tumors in fine needle aspirate specimens from irradiated female Sprague–Dawley rats
Authors: Karim Baktiar O. , Ali Syed Z. , Landolfi Jennifer A. , Mann Jill F. , Liu Guosheng , Christian Archie , Dicello John F. , Rosenthal Dorothy L. , Huso David L.
Published: June 2008

Background: Fine needle aspiration (FNA) offers a rapid and minimally invasive means to distinguish malignant from benign neoplasms. However, few studies have been published regarding the cytopathology of mammary tumors in rats despite widespread use of the rat model for breast cancer formation and inhibition.

Objective: The purpose of this study was to determine the diagnostic accuracy of FNA cytology and to develop distinguishing cytologic criteria for the diagnosis of radiation‐induced benign and malignant mammary tumors in rats.

Methods: In a study of radiation‐induced mammary carcinogenesis, 100 Sprague–Dawley rats with cutaneous masses were randomly chosen for FNA. The aspirates were smeared, fixed, and stained with a modified Papanicolaou procedure for diagnostic evaluation. Cytologic and histologic diagnoses (benign vs malignant) were compared, and diagnostic accuracy was calculated using the histologic diagnosis as the criterion standard. FNA smears were scored semiquantitatively on a scale of 1–4 for cellularity, atypia, nuclear size, chromatin pattern, nuclear membrane thickness, nucleoli, and mitoses. The background was evaluated for necrosis, hemorrhage, inflammation, and mucosecretory material. Cytomorphologic features were compared statistically between benign and malignant tumors, based on the histologic diagnosis.

Results: The sensitivity of FNA was 92.3% and specificity was 89.4% for the detection of malignancy. However, 14% of specimens, all fibroadenomas by histology, had insufficient cells for cytologic evaluation, for an overall accuracy rate of 78.0%. Malignant tumors had significantly higher scores for all cytomorphologic features, and were significantly more likely to contain cell clusters and necrotic debris.

Conclusions: FNA is an accurate method for differentiating benign and malignant rat mammary tumors.
Veterinary clinical pathologists in the biopharmaceutical industry
Authors: Schultze A. Eric , Bounous Denise I. , Bolliger Anne Provencher
Published: June 2008

Abstract: There is an international shortage of veterinary clinical pathologists in the workplace. Current trainees in veterinary clinical pathology may choose to pursue careers in academe, diagnostic laboratories, government health services, biopharmaceutical companies, or private practice. Academic training programs attempt to provide trainees with an exposure to several career choices. However, due to the proprietary nature of much of the work in the biopharmaceutical industry, trainees may not be fully informed regarding the nature of work for veterinary clinical pathologists and the myriad opportunities that await employment in the biopharmaceutical industry. The goals of this report are to provide trainees in veterinary clinical pathology and other laboratory personnel with an overview of the work‐life of veterinary clinical pathologists employed in the biopharmaceutical industry, and to raise the profile of this career choice for those seeking to enter the workforce. Biographical sketches, job descriptions, and motivation for 3 successful veterinary clinical pathologists employed in the biopharmaceutical industry are provided. Current and past statistics for veterinary clinical pathologists employed in the biopharmaceutical industry are reviewed. An overview of the drug development process and involvement of veterinary clinical pathologists in the areas of discovery, lead optimization, and candidate evaluation are discussed. Additional duties for veterinary clinical pathologists employed in the biopharmaceutical industry include development of biomarkers and new technologies, service as scientific resources, diagnostic support services, and laboratory management responsibilities. There are numerous opportunities available for trainees in veterinary clinical pathology to pursue employment in the biopharmaceutical industry and enjoy challenging and rewarding careers.
Relationship of Finishes and Wood Care Products to Color Change of Wood Surfaces after Exposure to Interior Daylight
Authors: Guerin Denise , Jones Louise
Published: June 2008

Color change can occur in the wood surface materials used in today's interiors with exposure to interior daylight. The objective of this research was to examine the color change of red oak after exposure to interior daylight in order to determine if control of color change is possible through application of a finish and/or wood care product. Results of the one year study indicated 1) no wood finishes tested prevented significant color change after exposure to interior daylight: and 2) no wood care product protected all finishes from significant additional color change (beyond that related to exposure). Therefore, the wood finish should be considered when specifying a wood care product to control color change due to exposure to interior daylight.
Design Students Plan tomorrow's office Using Participatory/Simulation
Authors: Hasell Mary Joyce , Leplin Kit
Published: June 2008

‘The Unusual Heavy Industry, Inc. (UHI, Inc.) Office Planning Participatory/Simulation’ is an alternative method of teaching beginning interior design students. A participatory/simulation is an experiential event which demonstrates a process or procedure, and incorporates both objective information and subjective values. UHI, Inc. was developed to help design students 1) make the transition from simple to complex projects, 2) work as a design team, 3) recognize both process and content in decision making and 4) use microcomputers in a studio project as a tool and tutor. Experience with conducting UHI, Inc. suggests that a participatory/simulation is an effective, supportive and stimulating way to teach neophyte students to design complex projects.
Attitudes toward Marketing and Advertising by Interior Design Professionals
Authors: Brackelsberg Paula J. , Fowles Dorothy L.
Published: June 2008

This study was developed to determine interior design practitioners’ preferences regarding marketing efforts, and more specifically, advertising among professionals. The sample population of 497 was selected from the professional membership in six midwest chapters of the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID): one hundred forty–five valid surveys were returned. The survey instrument consisted of 33 questions focusing on aspects of marketing and advertising as well as demographic information. The data were summarized using the SPSS–X computer program. Significant differences between independent groups were determined using the Chi–square test. Firms in smaller towns, larger firms and commercial firms were more active in promoting themselves than firms in larger communities, small firms or residential–oriented firms. A majority of the respondents agreed that effective marketing by interior designers will provide the distinction necessary to survive in a field that is becoming more aggressive and competitive and that their efforts have increased in recent years.