bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Endothelial dysfunction: Mechanisms of development and therapeutic options
Authors: Pesic Srdjan , Radenkovic Miroslav , Grbovic Leposava
Published: November 2006

Introduction. Vascular endothelial cells play a key role in cardiovascular regulation by producing a number of potent vasoactive agents, including the vasodilator molecule nitric oxide (NO) and the vasoconstrictor peptide endothelin (ET). Endothelial dysfunction. Endothelial dysfunction is recognized as the initial step in the atherosclerotic process. Impairment of NO synthesis, or increased inactivation of NO by superoxide radicals, may account for the increased peripheral vascular tone, as well as contribute to the clinical consequences of different pathophysiological conditions-which include vascular hypertrophy, increased platelet and monocyte adhesion to the endothelium, atherosclerosis, myocardial infarction and stroke. To date, most interventions attempting to improve endothelial dysfunction have targeted one or more of the numerous risk factors that can cause endothelial damage: hypertension (ACE inhibitors and calcium antagonists), hypercholesterolemia (lipid-lowering agents), cigarette smoking (cessation), sedentary lifestyle (increased physical activity), menopause (estrogen replacement therapy), and diabetes mellitus (control of metabolic abnormalities). Several pharmacologic agents have been suggested to achieve vascular protection through mechanisms that go beyond their primary therapeutic actions (ACE-and HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors). Beneficial changes to the endothelium might result from promotion of vasorelaxation, inhibition of vasoconstriction, reduction in the production of free radicals, or other mechanisms that protect the endothelium from injury. Conclusion. This study deals with the results of many experimental and clinical investigations. The possibility of using different classes of drugs was also established, including ACE inhibitors, Ca-antagonists, AT and endothelin receptor antagonists, direct activator of adenyl cyclase, statins, antioxidants, L-arginine, phosphodiesterase inhibitors, beta-blockers and organic nitrates. .
The role of physical training in patients after myocardial infarction
Authors: Lazovic Milica , Devecerski Gordana , Lazovic Marko , Zivkovic Vesna
Published: November 2006

Introduction. Physical training is an optimal method of rehabilitation of cardiovascular patients, especially in patients with myocardial infarction. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of physical training in patients with myocardial infarction during the post-hospital phase and prolonged rehabilitation by determining the lest exercise parameters. Material and methods. This prospective clinical study included 230 patients after myocardial infarction. Group A (180 patients) participated in organized forms of exercise (post-hospital rehabilitation and prolonged rehabilitation at home) for 48?6.4 months, while the control group was without physical training. The first clinical examination and the exercise test were performed in group A after post-hospital rehabilitation and after 191?16.4 days in the control group. In all patients the last control was performed 48?6.4 months after myocardial infarction. Results. After the first control, the mean physical workload in group A was significantly higher compared with the control group (p<0.05). After a 48 month follow-up period the physical work?load was significantly higher in group A (p<0.01), while in the control group a significant increase of workload was not observed (p>0.05). Comparing the duration of exercise testing, significant differences were found after the first and last control (p<0.05; p<0.01, respectively). The double product was significantly higher in group A than in the control group after the first and last control (p<0.05; p<0.01, respectively). Conclusion. Prolonged physical training is beneficial for patients after myocardial infarction, because it improves cardiovascular functions and physical work capacity, improves angina threshold and the patient's general health. .
Arthrogryposis multiplex congenita - a rare congenital stiff joints syndrome
Authors: Velisavljev-Filipovic Gordana
Published: November 2006

Introduction: Arthrogryposis multiplex congenita is not a disease but a term describing multiple congenital contractures. Etiological factors include neurological and primary myogenic diseases. This rare syndrome is present at birth and is characterized by reduced mobility of many joints. The contractures involve two or more joints with ankylosis. The accompanying musculature is hypoplastic, but multiple pterygia are also present. Arthrogryposis multiplex congenita is a heterogeneous group of disorders with the incidence rate of 6.2/100000 liveborn infants. The true incidence cannot be established, because many cases result in spontaneous miscarriages or stillbirth. More than 90% of cases are associated with birth defects. The cause of this syndrome is unknown. Many forms are not hereditary, though there are hereditary forms as well. Case report. This paper presents a case with arthrogryposis multiplex congenita. The pregnancy was not controlled regularly. During the pregnancy, oligohydramnion was detected. Due to contractures, labor ended is cesarean section. The child was born in the 34th week of gestation. Flexion and extension joint contractures were observed. Active and passive mobility of the afflicted joints was reduced. There was a limited motor function in the shoulder, elbow and wrist joints with a slight internal rotation of the shoulder joint and lower arm joints during pronation. The hips were subluxated; the feet were in equinovarus position and the fingers in ulnar deviation with partial syndactyly of the 4th and 5th fingers on the left hand. The infant had abnormal dermatoglyphics. The neck was short, and the 2nd and 3rd cervical vertebrae were fused. There was also a slight left-sided thoracic scoliosis. Trismus was present due to the existing ankylosis of the temporomandibular joint. The karyotype was normal. The serum creatinine phosphokinase was slightly elevated. The electromyographic picture indicate non-specific signs of myopathy. Discussion and conclusion. This is a case report of a "stiff joint syndrome". Due to the fact that data from the family history were unavailable, we could not establish the type of syndrome. However, heredity, growth and development at later age, as well as IQ, might significantly help in definite differentiation of this syndrome. In pregnancy, oligohydramnion should indicate more detailed ultrasonographic examination, as ankylosed joints can be detected in utero. .
An inventory model for deteriorating items under the condition of permissible delay in payments
Authors: Chang Horng-Jinh , Dye Chung-Yuan , Chuang Bor-Ren
Published: November 2006

In economic order quantity (EOQ) models, it is often assumed that the payment of an order is made on the receipt of items by the inventory system. However, such an assumption is not quite practical in the real world. Under most market behaviors, it can be easily found that a vendor provides a credit period for buyers to stimulate demand. In this paper, a varying rate of determination and the condition of permissible delay in payments used in conjunction with the economic order quantity model are the focus of discussion. Numerical examples are presented to illustrate the proposed models.
On a second-order step-size algorithm
Authors: Djuranovic-Milicic Nada
Published: November 2006

In this paper we present a modification of the second-order step-size algorithm. This modification is based on the so called 'forcing functions'. It is proved that this modified algorithm is well-defined. It is also proved that every point of accumulation of the sequence generated by this algorithm is a second-order point of the nonlinear programming problem. Two different convergence proofs are given having in mind two interpretations of the presented algorithm.
Applicability of an agent-based modeling concept to modeling of transportation phenomena
Authors: Kikuchi Shinya , Rhee Jongho , Teodorovic Dusan
Published: November 2006

Today's transportation problems are found in the complex interactions of social, financial, economic, political, and engineering issues. The traditional approach to analyzing transportation problems has been the top-down approach, in which a set of overall objectives is defined and specific parts are fitted in the overall scheme. The effectiveness of this analysis process has been challenged when many issues need to be addressed at once and the individual parts participants to decisions have greater autonomy. A factor contributing to this phenomenon is the greater opportunity and power for individual parts to communicate and to interact with one another. As a result, it has become increasingly difficult to predict or control the overall performance of a large system, or to diagnose particular phenomena. In the past decade, the concept of agent-based modeling has been developed and applied to problems that exhibit a complex behavioral pattern. This modeling approach considers that each part acts on the basis of its local knowledge and cooperates and/or competes with other parts. Through the aggregation of the individual interactions, the overall image of the system emerges. This approach is called the bottom-up approach. This paper examines the link between today's transportation problems and agent-based modeling, presents the framework of agent based modeling, notes recently used examples applied to transportation, and discusses limitations. The intent of this paper is to explore a new avenue for the direction of modeling and analysis of increasingly complex transportation systems.
An illustration of harmonic regression based on the results of the fast Fourier transformation
Authors: Bertfai Imre
Published: November 2006

The well-known methodology of the Fourier analysis is put against the background in the 2nd half of the century parallel to the development of the time-domain approach in the analysis of mainly economical time series. However, from the author's point of view, the former possesses some hidden analytical advantages which deserve to be re-introduced to the toolbox of analysts. This paper, through several case studies, reports research results for computer algorithm providing a harmonic model for time series. The starting point of the particular method is a harmonic analysis (Fourier-analysis or Lomb-periodogram). The results are optimized in a multifold manner resulting in a model which is easy to handle and able to forecast the underlying data. The results provided are particularly free from limitations characteristic for that methods. Furthermore, the calculated results are easy to interpret and use for further decisions. Nevertheless, the author intends to enhance the procedure in several ways. The method shown seems to be very effective and useful in modeling time series consisting of periodic terms. An additional advantage is the easy interpretation of the obtained parameters.
Simulation of machine interference in randomly changing environments
Authors: Sztrik J. , Moeller O.
Published: November 2006

The simulation tool lcpSim can be used to investigate special level crossing problems of queuing systems of type HYPOk / HYPOr / 1 // n embedded in different Markovian environments (recently referred to as Markov modulated ones). Our observed system consists of n heterogeneous machines (requests) and a server that 'repairs' the broken machines according to the most commonly used service disciplines, such as FIFO, LIFO, PPS, HOL, Preemptive Priorities (Resume, Repeat), Transfer, Polling, Nearest. We specify a maximum number of stopped machines for an operating system and our aim is to give the main steady-state performance measures of the system, such as, server utilization, machine utilization, mean waiting times, mean response times, the probability of an operating system and the mean operating time of the system. These values can be calculated by lcpSim level crossing problem Simulation package for different random environment types and service disciplines.
A non-recursive algorithm for polygon triangulation
Authors: Stanimirovic Predrag , Krtolica Predrag , Stanojevic Rade
Published: November 2006

In this paper an algorithm for the convex polygon triangulation based on the reverse Polish notation is proposed. The formal grammar method is used as the starting point in the investigation. This idea is "translated" to the arithmetic expression field enabling application of the reverse Polish notation method. .
Reliability analysis of a two-unit standby system by computer simulation
Authors: Davidovic Tatjana , Jankovic Slobodanka
Published: November 2006

We study the two-unit standby system with repair and with preventive maintenance. Preventive maintenance is introduced in order to make the lifetime of the system longer. Using Monte-Carlo method we simulate the work of the two-unit system and we analyze the influence of different types of preventive maintenance on reliability of the system. Monte-Carlo method enables us to find estimates of various parameters relevant to the system for which there exist no explicit formulas in the literature. .
Applying coefficients of preference in ranking (CPR)
Authors: Radojicic Zoran , Vukmirovic Dragan , Vukovic Nahod , Vojinovic Milos
Published: November 2006

In marketing or medical research, especially in psychiatrics, it is very often necessary to define preference of examinees against defined object (persons, products, or phenomena). A question that is related to the object of preference is defined as like degree of like (positive preference) or as like degree of dislike (negative preference), where estimation is done as in scholar system (nominal or ordinal characteristics), with marks 1 through 5. Rank of objects achieved is very often expressed as average, which is not a good measure for realistic object ranking. In this paper, a coefficient of preference is presented as an effort to rank object more efficiently than average or other methods for ranking, especially in the meaning of preference. Preference is essential for humankind for decision making. One of the measures is Coefficients of Preference in Ranking (CPR) as shown. .
An expert system for ranking companies and investments: wood industry case
Authors: Hliadis Lazaros , Koutroumanidis Theodoros , Arabatzis Garyfallos , Arapatsakos Charalambos
Published: November 2006

Wood industry is a very important part of both the Greek Rural and industrial sector. The discovery of the differentiation in the level of growth and in the quality of financial management between the Greek wood companies can provide very important aid in the design of an effective rural development policy. The evaluation and ranking of Greek wood companies based on actual financial data is a very complicated task and it requires expertise knowledge and skills. On the other hand a computer expert system can perform validation and evaluation in an efficient way and can substitute human experts. An expert system was designed and developed towards this direction. It uses multicriteria analysis for each one of the wood companies based on actual financial data and it applies fundamental principles of fuzzy logic in order to calculate the expected intervals of flows for the following years. .
Further notes on convergence of the Weiszfeld algorithm
Authors: Brimberg Jack
Published: November 2006

The Fermat-Weber problem is one of the most widely studied problems in classical location theory. In his previous work, Brimberg (1995) attempts to resolve a conjecture posed by Chandrasekaran and Tamir (1989) on a convergence property of the Weiszfeld algorithm, a well-known iterative procedure used to solve this problem. More recently, Canovas, Marin and Canavate (2002) provide counterexamples that appear to reopen the question. However, they do not attempt to reconcile their counterexamples with the previous work. We now show that in the light of these counterexamples, the proof is readily modified and the conjecture of Chandrasekaran and Tamir reclosed. .
Stochastic modeling of the number of trees and the number of felled trees in selection stands
Authors: Mitrovic Slobodanka
Published: November 2006

This paper solves the problem of forecasting the number of trees in the selection stands predicted for harvesting in a future period, so that the present resource of the number of trees is sustained. This is achieved by stochastic modeling of the number of trees and the number of felled trees and by solving the partial differential equation.
The multicriteria method for environmentally oriented business decision-making
Authors: Cancer Vesna
Published: November 2006

Stimulated by the expressed managers? need for some completed methods for environmental management in enterprises, we present the method for environmentally oriented business decision-making. It is based on simulations where optimization models of business processes are used as scenarios. The possibilities for an integrated approach to environmental protection are introduced and ? decomposed according to the type of the considered element by using zero-one variables ? included in the optimization models. The method is completed for multicriteria decision-making where in the simulations obtained optimal values are included. In a real-life case where the Analytic Hierarchy Process technique is used to evaluate environmentally oriented business processes, special attention is given to criteria and weights: we consider preferences and survey findings on the environmental impact of business processes in the enterprise, survey findings on environmental management in the processing industry, and ecobalances.
Experimental evaluation of user performance in a pursuit tracking task with multimodal feedback
Authors: Obrenovic Zeljko
Published: November 2006

In this paper we describe the results of experimental evaluation of user performance in a pursuit-tracking task with multimodal feedback. Our experimental results indicate that audio can significantly improve the accuracy of pursuit tracking. Experiments with 19 participants have shown that addition of acoustic modalities reduces the error during pursuit tracking for up to 19%. Moreover, experiments indicated the existence of perceptual boundaries of multimodal HCI for different scene complexity and target speeds. We have also shown that the most appealing paradigms are not the most effective ones, which necessitates a careful quantitative analysis of proposed multimodal HCI paradigms.
New algorithm for moving object detection
Authors: Zeljkovic Vesna , Trpovski Zeljen , Senk Vojin
Published: November 2006

A new, simple, fast and effective method for moving object detection in outdoor environments, invariant to extreme illumination changes is presented as an improvement to the shading model method described in [8]. It is based on an analytical parameter introduced in the shading model, background updating technique and window processing.
Build to order and entry/exit strategies under exchange rate uncertainty
Authors: Lin Chin-Tsai , Wu Cheng-Ru
Published: November 2006

Under uncertainty of exchange rate, we extend the build to order production model of Lin et al. (2002) by considering the export-oriented manufacturer to make decisions to switch production location freely between domestic and foreign ones. The export-oriented manufacturer is risk neutral and has rational expectations. When we transfer the production location from domestic (foreign) to foreign (domestic), and the production location transferring cost and the drift of real exchange rate are both equal to zero, then the optimal entry and exit threshold value of Cobb-Douglas production function are equal, no matter whether we use real options or net present value method. Thus export-oriented manufacturer can make decisions at the optimal transfer threshold value for transferable locations wherever the production locations are. It provides the export-oriented manufacturer with another way of thinking.
Applications of a special polynomial class of TSP
Authors: Brimberg Jack , Korach Ephraim , Amami Mokhtar
Published: November 2006

A hypothetical problem which we call a "buried treasure problem" is presented where the objective is to locate m objects among N fixed equi-spaced caches in order to minimize a measure of the risk of loss. The general problem is shown to be NP-hard. However, a sub problem may be solved as a special class of TSP in O (N log N) time. Several applications are noted.
Mathematical models and a constructive heuristic for finding minimum fundamental cycle bases
Authors: Liberti Leo , Amaldi Edoardo , Maffioli Francesco , Maculan Nelson
Published: November 2006

The problem of finding a fundamental cycle basis with minimum total cost in a graph arises in many application fields. In this paper we present some integer linear programming formulations and we compare their performances, in terms of instance size, CPU time required for the solution, and quality of the associated lower bound derived by solving the corresponding continuous relaxations. Since only very small instances can be solved to optimality with these formulations and very large instances occur in a number of applications, we present a new constructive heuristic and compare it with alternative heuristics.
On-line blind separation of non-stationary signals
Authors: Todorovic-Zarkula Slavica , Todorovic Branimir , Stankovic Miomir
Published: November 2006

This paper addresses the problem of blind separation of non-stationary signals. We introduce an on-line separating algorithm for estimation of independent source signals using the assumption of non-stationary of sources. As a separating model, we apply a self-organizing neural network with lateral connections, and define a contrast function based on correlation of the network outputs. A separating algorithm for adaptation of the network weights is derived using the state-space model of the network dynamics, and the extended Kalman filter. Simulation results obtained in blind separation of artificial and real-world signals from their artificial mixtures have shown that separating algorithm based on the extended Kalman filter outperforms stochastic gradient based algorithm both in convergence speed and estimation accuracy.
Forecasting telecommunication new service demand by analogy method and combined forecast
Authors: Lin Feng-Jenq
Published: November 2006

In the modeling forecast field, we are usually faced with the more difficult problems of forecasting market demand for a new service or product. A new service or product is defined as that there is absence of historical data in this new market. We hardly use models to execute the forecasting work directly. In the Taiwan telecommunication industry, after liberalization in 1996, there are many new services opened continually. For optimal investment, it is necessary that the operators, who have been granted the concessions and licenses, forecast this new service within their planning process. Though there are some methods to solve or avoid this predicament, in this paper, we will propose one forecasting procedure that integrates the concept of analogy method and the idea of combined forecast to generate new service forecast. In view of the above, the first half of this paper describes the procedure of analogy method and the approach of combined forecast, and the second half provides the case of forecasting low-tier phone demand in Taiwan to illustrate this procedure's feasibility.
An EOQ model for a deteriorating item with non-linear demand under inflation and a trade credit policy
Authors: Manna S.K. , Chaudhuri K.S.
Published: November 2006

This paper develops an infinite time-horizon deterministic economic order quantity (EOQ) inventory model with deterioration based on discounted cash flows (DCF) approach where demand rate is assumed to be non-linear over time. The effects of inflation and time-value of money are also taken into account under a trade-credit policy of type "?/T1 net T". The results are illustrated with a numerical example. Sensitivity analysis of the optimal solution with respect to the parameters of the system is carried out.
Models and standards for production systems integration: Technological process and documents
Authors: Lecic Danica
Published: November 2006

Electronic business demands from production companies to collaborate with customers, suppliers and end users and start electronic manufacturing. To achieve this goal companies have to integrate their subsystems (Application to Application-A2A) and they have to collaborate with their business partners (Business to Business - B2B). For this purpose models and unique standards for integration are necessary. In this paper, ebXML and OAGI specifications have been used to present metamodel process by UML class diagram and standardized model of document Working Order for technological process in the form of OAGI BOD XML document. Based on it, from an example, model of technological process is presented by activity diagram (DA) in XML form and an appearance of document Working Order. Just as well, rules of transformation DA to XML are presented.
On the single-server retrial queue
Authors: Djellab Natalia
Published: November 2006

In this work, we review the stochastic decomposition for the number of customers in M/G/1 retrial queues with reliable server and server subjected to breakdowns which has been the subject of investigation in the literature. Using the decomposition property of M/G/1 retrial queues with breakdowns that holds under exponential assumption for retrial times as an approximation in the non-exponential case, we consider an approximate solution for the steady-state queue size distribution.
Prenatal detection of subtelomeric rearrangements by multi‐subtelomere FISH in a cohort of fetuses with major malformations
Authors: Gignac Jennifer , Danis Karine , Tihy Frédérique , Lemyre Emmanuelle
Published: November 2006

Cryptic unbalanced subtelomeric rearrangements have been identified as an important contributor (∼6%) to the etiology of mental retardation and dysmorphism. Our objective was to study the role of these rearrangements in the development of fetal malformations. Multi‐subtelomere FISH was performed on cells from 48 fetuses with major malformations diagnosed by prenatal ultrasound with a normal karyotype at a minimal 400 band resolution. We developed a method of performing multi‐subtelomere FISH on a single slide of amniocyte metaphase spreads. We identified five subtelomeric abnormalities: two derivative chromosomes inherited from a parent carrying a balanced translocation, two known polymorphisms, and one novel familial variant. These results show a similar frequency (4%) of clinically significant subtelomeric rearrangements to that found in children with multiple malformations. This study adds to a growing number of reports of cryptic subtelomeric rearrangements associated with congenital malformations and highlights the relevance and technical feasibility of multi‐subtelomere FISH screening of prenatal samples. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Phenotypic definition of Chiari type I malformation coupled with high‐density SNP genome screen shows significant evidence for linkage to regions on chromosomes 9 and 15
Authors: Boyles Abee L. , Enterline David S. , Hammock Preston H. , Siegel Deborah G. , Slifer Susan H. , Mehltretter Lorraine , Gilbert John R. , Hu‐Lince Diane , Stephan Dietrich , Batzdorf Ulrich , Benzel Edward , Ellenbogen Richard , Green Barth A. , Kula Roger , Menezes Arnold , Mueller Diane , Oro' John J. , Iskandar Bermans J. , George Timothy M. , Milhorat Thomas H. , Speer Marcy C.
Published: November 2006

Chiari type I malformation (CMI; OMIM 118420) is narrowly defined when the tonsils of the cerebellum extend below the foramen magnum, leading to a variety of neurological symptoms. It is widely thought that a small posterior fossa (PF) volume, relative to the total cranial volume leads to a cramped cerebellum and herniation of the tonsils into the top of the spinal column. In a collection of magnetic resonance imagings (MRIs) from affected individuals and their family members, we measured correlations between ten cranial morphologies and estimated their heritability in these families. Correlations between bones delineating the PF and significant heritability of PF volume (0.955, P = 0.003) support the cramped PF theory and a genetic basis for this condition. In a collection of 23 families with 71 affected individuals, we performed a genome wide linkage screen of over 10,000 SNPs across the genome to identify regions of linkage to CMI. Two‐point LOD scores on chromosome 15 reached 3.3 and multipoint scores in this region identified a 13 cM region with LOD scores over 1 (15q21.1‐22.3). This region contains a biologically plausible gene for CMI, fibrillin‐1, which is a major gene in Marfan syndrome and has been linked to Shprintzen–Goldberg syndrome, of which CMI is a distinguishing characteristic. Multipoint LOD scores on chromosome 9 maximized at 3.05, identifying a 40 cM region with LOD scores over 1 (9q21.33‐33.1) and a tighter region with multipoint LOD scores over 2 that was only 8.5 cM. This linkage evidence supports a genetic role in Chiari malformation and justifies further exploration with fine mapping and investigation of candidate genes in these regions. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Validation of plaster endocast morphology through 3D CT image analysis
Authors: Schoenemann P. Thomas , Gee James , Avants Brian , Holloway Ralph L. , Monge Janet , Lewis Jason
Published: November 2006

A crucial component of research on brain evolution has been the comparison of fossil endocranial surfaces with modern human and primate endocrania. The latter have generally been obtained by creating endocasts out of rubber latex shells filled with plaster. The extent to which the method of production introduces errors in endocast replicas is unknown. We demonstrate a powerful method of comparing complex shapes in 3‐dimensions (3D) that is broadly applicable to a wide range of paleoanthropological questions. Pairs of virtual endocasts (VEs) created from high‐resolution CT scans of corresponding latex/plaster endocasts and their associated crania were rigidly registered (aligned) in 3D space for two Homo sapiens and two Pan troglodytes specimens. Distances between each cranial VE and its corresponding latex/plaster VE were then mapped on a voxel‐by‐voxel basis. The results show that between 79.7% and 91.0% of the voxels in the four latex/plaster VEs are within 2 mm of their corresponding cranial VEs surfaces. The average error is relatively small, and variation in the pattern of error across the surfaces appears to be generally random overall. However, inferior areas around the cranial base and the temporal poles were somewhat overestimated in both human and chimpanzee specimens, and the area overlaying Broca's area in humans was somewhat underestimated. This study gives an idea of the size of possible error inherent in latex/plaster endocasts, indicating the level of confidence we can have with studies relying on comparisons between them and, e.g., hominid fossil endocasts. Am J Phys Anthropol, 2007. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Enamel microstructure of the hominid KB 5223 from Kromdraai, South Africa
Authors: Lacruz Rodrigo S.
Published: November 2006

The Plio‐Pleistocene site of Kromdraai, South Africa, is well known for the recovery of the holotype of Paranthropus robustus, one of nine individual hominids recovered from this site to date. Among the Kromdraai sample, the specimen KB 5223 comprises several isolated deciduous and permanent lower teeth assigned to Paranthropus, the only recognized genus at this site. However, a more recent analysis of this specimen suggested that it should be classified as Homo. The lower right first permanent molar of KB 5223 had been previously sectioned along the tips of the mesial cusps, exposing its enamel microstructure. Previous studies had indicated differences between Homo and Paranthropus at the microstructural level. A portable confocal scanning microscope was used to describe details of the enamel microstructure of the M1 and I1 of this specimen. Angles formed between the striae of Retzius and the enamel dentine junction (EDJ), daily secretion rates in cuspal enamel of the protoconid and metaconid and crown formation time of the RM1 are provided. The number of perikymata on the right I1 was counted. Results indicate that some features recorded in the KB 5223 molar differ from those of Paranthropus. However, the number of perikymata on the I1 is lower than values so far reported for early Homo but similar to Paranthropus. Crown formation time of KB 5223 M1 was markedly lower than mean values of M1 in H. sapiens, but similar to other early hominids. Daily secretion rates in the cuspal enamel of KB 5223 M1 were higher than in modern humans. Am J Phys Anthropol, 2007. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Heterogeneity of glycinergic and gabaergic interneurons in the granule cell layer of mouse cerebellum
Authors: Simat Marija , Parpan Franziska , Fritschy Jean‐Marc
Published: November 2006

Interneurons of the cerebellum granule cell layer (GCL) form distinct populations. Golgi cells extend dendrites in the molecular layer (ML) and innervate granule cells. In contrast, Lugaro cells have dendrites confined to the GCL but innervate interneurons in the ML, and globular cells have both their dendrites and axons in the ML. The latter cells were described recently and remain poorly characterized. Although several neurochemical markers have been associated selectively with GCL interneurons, it is unclear how they relate to their morphological classification and neurochemical phenotype (glycinergic and/or γ‐aminobutyric acid [GABA]ergic). Here, we performed a detailed characterization of GCL interneurons in mice expressing enhanced green fluorescent protein (GFP) in glycinergic and GABAergic neurons, respectively. By using immunofluorescence for metabotropic glutamate receptor 2 (mGluR2) and neurogranin as markers, we demonstrate the existence of five non‐overlapping subsets of Golgi cells: about 65% are glycinergic/GABAergic and co‐express both markers. Two small subsets (5–10%) also contain both neurotransmitters but express only mGluR2; they are distinguished by cell body size and location in the GCL. The fourth subset (15%) is GABAergic only and expresses neurogranin. The fifth subset (5%) is glycinergic only and lacks both markers. Thus, the heterogeneity of Golgi cells suggests that they belong to specific functional circuits and are differentially regulated by mGluRs and Ca2+‐calmodulin‐dependent signaling pathways. In contrast to Golgi cells, Lugaro and globular cells are glycinergic/GABAergic and lack mGluR2 and neurogranin. They each represent at least 15% of GCL interneurons and extensively innervate stellate and basket cells, but not Purkinje cells, emphasizing their contribution to inhibitory control of ML interneurons. J. Comp. Neurol. 500:71–83, 2007. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Development and morphology of the clock‐gene‐expressing lateral neurons of Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Helfrich‐Förster Charlotte , Shafer Orie T. , Wülbeck Corinna , Grieshaber Eva , Rieger Dirk , Taghert Paul
Published: November 2006

The clock‐gene‐expressing lateral neurons are essential for the locomotor activity rhythm of Drosophila melanogaster. Traditionally, these neurons are divided into three groups: the dorsal lateral neurons (LNd), the large ventral lateral neurons (l‐LNv), and the small ventral lateral neurons (s‐LNv), whereby the latter group consists of four neurons that express the neuropeptide pigment‐dispersing factor (PDF) and a fifth PDF‐negative neuron. So far, only the l‐LNv and the PDF‐positive s‐LNv have been shown to project into the accessory medulla, a small neuropil that contains the circadian pacemaker center in several insects. We show here that the other lateral neurons also arborize in the accessory medulla, predominantly forming postsynaptic sites. Both the l‐LNv and LNd are anatomically well suited to connect the accessory medullae. Whereas the l‐LNv may receive ipsilateral photic input from the Hofbauer‐Buchner eyelet, the LNd invade mainly the contralateral accessory medulla and thus may receive photic input from the contralateral side. Both the LNd and the l‐LNv differentiate during midmetamorphosis. They do so in close proximity to one another and the fifth PDF‐negative s‐LNv, suggesting that these cell groups may derive from common precursors. J. Comp. Neurol. 500:47–70, 2007. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Distribution of neuropeptide S receptor mRNA and neurochemical characteristics of neuropeptide S‐expressing neurons in the rat brain
Authors: Xu Yan‐Ling , Gall Christine M. , Jackson Valerie R. , Civelli Olivier , Reinscheid Rainer K.
Published: November 2006

Neuropeptide S (NPS) and its receptor (NPSR) constitute a novel neuropeptide system that is involved in regulating arousal and anxiety. The NPS precursor mRNA is highly expressed in a previously undescribed group of neurons located between the locus coeruleus (LC) and Barrington's nucleus. We report here that the majority of NPS‐expressing neurons in the LC area and the principal sensory trigeminal nucleus are glutamatergic neurons, whereas many NPS‐positive neurons in the lateral parabrachial nucleus coexpress corticotropin‐releasing factor (CRF). In addition, we describe a comprehensive map of NPSR mRNA expression in the rat brain. High levels of expression are found in areas involved in olfactory processing, including the anterior olfactory nucleus, the endopiriform nucleus, and the piriform cortex. NPSR mRNA is expressed in several regions mediating anxiety responses, including the amygdaloid complex and the paraventricular hypothalamic nucleus. NPSR mRNA is also found in multiple key regions of sleep neurocircuitries, such as the thalamus, the hypothalamus, and the preoptic region. In addition, NPSR mRNA is strongly expressed in major output and input regions of hippocampus, including the parahippocampal regions, the lateral entorhinal cortex, and the retrosplenial agranular cortex. Multiple hypothalamic nuclei, including the dorsomedial and the ventromedial hypothalamic nucleus and the posterior arcuate nucleus, express high levels of NPSR mRNA, indicating that NPS may regulate energy homeostasis. These data suggest that the NPS system may play a key role in modulating a variety of physiological functions, especially arousal, anxiety, learning and memory, and energy balance. J. Comp. Neurol. 500:84–102, 2007. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Amygdala interconnections with the cingulate motor cortex in the rhesus monkey
Authors: Morecraft Robert J. , McNeal David W. , Stilwell‐Morecraft Kimberly S. , Gedney Matthew , Ge Jizhi , Schroeder Clinton M. , van Hoesen Gary W.
Published: November 2006

Amygdala interconnections with the cingulate motor cortices were investigated in the rhesus monkey. Using multiple tracing approaches, we found a robust projection from the lateral basal nucleus of the amygdala to Layers II, IIIa, and V of the rostral cingulate motor cortex (M3). A smaller source of amygdala input arose from the accessory basal, cortical, and lateral nuclei, which targeted only the rostral region of M3. We also found a light projection from the lateral basal nucleus to the same layers of the caudal cingulate motor cortex (M4). Experiments examining this projection to cingulate somatotopy using combined neural tracing strategies and stereology to estimate the total number of terminal‐like immunoreactive particles demonstrated that the amygdala projection terminates heavily in the face representation of M3 and moderately in its arm representation. Fewer terminal profiles were found in the leg representation of M3 and the face, arm, and leg representations of M4. Anterograde tracers placed directly into M3 and M4 revealed the amygdala connection to be reciprocal and documented corticofugal projections to the facial nucleus, surrounding pontine reticular formation, and spinal cord. Clinically, such pathways would be in a position to contribute to mediating movements in the face, neck, and upper extremity accompanying medial temporal lobe seizures that have historically characterized this syndrome. Alterations within or disruption of the amygdalo‐cingulate projection to the rostral part of M3 may also have an adverse effect on facial expression in patients presenting with neurological or neuropsychiatric abnormalities of medial temporal lobe involvement. Finally, the prominent amygdala projection to the face region of M3 may significantly influence the outcome of higher‐order facial expressions associated with social communication and emotional constructs such as fear, anger, happiness, and sadness. J. Comp. Neurol. 500:134–165, 2007. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Histologic characteristics and tumor spread of recurrent glottic carcinoma: Analysis on whole‐organ sections and comparison with tumor spread of primary glottic carcinomas
Authors: Zbären Peter , Nuyens Michel , Curschmann Jürgen , Stauffer Edouard
Published: November 2006

Background

The assessment of the precise tumor extent of recurrent glottic carcinomas is a challenge.

Methods

The histologic characteristics of 29 recurrent glottic carcinomas after radiation failures, initially classified as T1 and T2, were analyzed on whole‐organ slices. The growth patterns of 21 recurrent prT3 and prT4 and 52 primary pT3 and pT4 carcinomas were compared.

Results

Fifteen of 29 (52%) recurrent carcinomas were understaged by imaging studies and endoscopy. Most recurrent carcinomas presented with multicentric tumor foci, whereas most primary carcinomas with a concentric tumor growth pattern (p < .05). Undifferentiated dissociated tumor cells were observed more often in the vicinity of recurrent tumor foci than of the primary tumor mass (p < .05).

Conclusion

Recurrent glottic carcinomas are often understaged and present with multiple tumor foci dispersed in different regions of the larynx. If voice‐preserving salvage surgery is considered as a treatment option, these facts should be kept in mind. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 2007
Synthesis of hydrophilic isotactic polypropylenes promoted by metallocene catalysts
Authors: Caporaso Lucia , Oliva Leone
Published: November 2006

In this paper, the synthesis of isotactic polypropylenes (i‐PP) modified with OH groups in sides (iPP‐OH), by combination of polyinsertion ansa‐metallocene catalysis and ring opening of propene oxide (PO), is described. i‐PP sequences interrupted by isolated ethylene/p‐methylstyrene units forms the backbone. This enchainment is obtained by controlled copolymerization of propene with ethylene and p‐methylstyrene comonomers in the presence of rac‐ethylenebis(1‐indenyl)zirconiumdichloride/methylalumoxane system. The metallation reaction of the p‐methyl group with sec‐BuLi generates an anionic center that can be reacted with PO. The iPP‐OH is the result of the monoaddition reaction of PO followed by hydrolysis with acidified methanol. By changing experimental conditions in the backbone synthesis, a tuned number of the functionalizable sites as well as polypropylene sequence lengths can be obtained. As a consequence, iPP samples with a different number of OH groups for the backbone can be synthesized after the PO monoaddition reaction. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 44: 7008–7013, 2006
Synthesis and optical and electrochemical properties of copolymers consisting of 9,9‐dihexylfluorene and aromatic triazole chromophores
Authors: Chen Shinn‐Horng , Chen Yun , Shiau Chuen‐Shiou , Tsai Cheng‐Jang
Published: November 2006

Aromatic triazole chromophores were incorporated into polyfluorene in an attempt to increase electron affinity, to promote emission efficiency, and to diminish excimer formation. Poly(9,9‐dihexylfluorene) (P1) and new copolymers with aromatic triazoles (P2–P4) were prepared by Suzuki coupling polymerization. In P2, the aromatic triazole (3.8 mol %) was attached exclusively as terminal groups, whereas P3 and P4 were main‐chain copolymers containing 3.9 and 10.3 mol % aromatic triazole chromophores, respectively. The copolymers were soluble in common organic solvents and showed high decomposition temperatures (437–458 °C). The twisted structure between the triazole and fluorene increased the emission efficiency and effectively prevented excimer formation in P2–P4. After the introduction of the triazole units, the absorption spectra showed a blueshift (from 388 to 381 nm in chloroform) due to confined conjugation, but the photoluminescence spectra remained almost the same (417–418 nm); this was attributed to oligofluorene segments. No emission of triazole fluorophores was observed because of efficient energy transfer from the triazole to oligofluorene segments. However, incomplete energy transfer was observed in CH3COOH. The optical stability upon thermal annealing was also improved by the incorporation of aromatic triazole segments. From cyclic voltammetry results, P2–P4, containing triazole groups, showed greater electron affinity (lowest unoccupied molecular orbital level = −2.67 to −2.71 eV) than P1 (−2.52 eV). Electroluminescence devices of P1–P4 all exhibited excimer emissions (483–521 nm), which could also be diminished by the introduction of aromatic triazole chromophores. © 2006Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 45: 136–146, 2007
Ethical Issues in Cancer Genetics: 1) Whose Information Is It?
Authors: Schneider Katherine A. , Chittenden Anu B. , Branda Kelly J. , Keenan Meredith A. , Joffe Steven , Patenaude Andrea Farkas , Reynolds Hazel , Dent Karin , Eubanks Sonja , Goldman Jill , Leroy Bonnie , Warren Nancy Steinberg , Taylor Kelly , Vockley Cate Walsh , Garber Judy E.
Published: November 2006

This article presents and discusses four clinical cases that exemplify the complexity of ethical dilemmas concerning the provider's obligation to disclose or withhold genetic information from patients.

Case 1: What is the responsibility of the cancer genetics provider to ensure that a positive test results is shared with distant relatives?

Case 2: To ensure that results go to at‐risk relatives, do we have the right to ignore the wishes of the designated next‐of‐kin?

Case 3: Do we have the right to reveal a familial BRCA1 mutation to a patient's relative, who is at 50% risk?

Case 4: Do we have an obligation to reveal that a patient is not a blood relative and therefore, not at risk to have inherited a familial mutation?

These cases form the basis for discussing the provider's dual obligations to keeping patient confidentiality and informing patients and families about risk (i.e. duty to warn). We also provide a summary of consensus points and additional discussion questions for each case.
Why Me? Why Not Me?
Authors: Valverde Kathleen D.
Published: November 2006

The decision to undergo BRCA testing is very complex and emotionally laden. This decision can be further complicated by the loss of a mother at an early age. The following personal account by a genetic counselor discusses the testing process and the struggle to accept the results and reframe one's self‐identity. The sensitive nature of this testing and the implications for other family members is explored.