bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Insulin Receptor Substrate Gene Polymorphism Is Associated With Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome in Men
Authors: Bayazit Yildirim A. , Erdal Mehmet Emin , Yilmaz Metin , Ciftci Tansu Ulukavak , Soylemez Fatma , Gokdoğan Tuba , Kokturk Oguz , Kemaloglu Yusuf K. , Koybasioglu Ahmet
Published: November 2006

Objective: The objective of this study was to assess significance of insulin receptor substrate (IRS) ‐1 gene polymorphism (Gly972Arg) at codon 972 in obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS).

Methods: Using the polymerase chain reaction technique, the codon 972 polymorphism of the IRS‐1 gene was analyzed in the DNA obtained from leukocytes of 50 patients and 143 healthy controls.

Results: An overall comparison between the genotypes and allele frequencies of the patients and controls did not reveal any statistically significant difference between the patients and controls (P > .05). Gender‐specific comparisons were not significantly different except for a significant difference between the genotypes and allele frequencies of the male patients and male controls (P < .05). The heterozygous, Gly/Arg variant of the IRS‐1 gene was overrepresented and the homozygous, Gly/Gly variant was less frequent in male patients compared with male controls. In the patients with OSAS, there was no correlation between the genotypes and polysomnography parameters on correlation analyses (P > .05). There was no relationship between the genotypes and diabetes mellitus (P > .05). Body mass indices and polysomnography parameters of the patients with and without diabetes mellitus were not significantly different (P > .05).

Conclusion: The polymorphism of the IRS‐1 gene at codon 972, especially Gly/Arg variant, or the presence of the allele for Arg appears to be associated with occurrence of OSAS in male patients, whereas this polymorphism is not related to severity of OSAS.
Microdebrider Decompression of Schwannoma: A Novel Method of Excising a Neck Mass
Authors: Chennupati Sri Kiran , Schipor Ioana , Mirza Natasha
Published: November 2006

Objective: This case report describes the excision of a large neck neurofibroma causing compression of the esophagus and airway in a young patient with neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2). At the conclusion of this article, readers should be able to describe a novel method of excising large encapsulated neck masses using microdebridement for decompression. The safety and efficacy of this method is discussed.

Study Design: The subject of this report was a 26‐year‐old woman with NF2. She presented with an enlarging right neck mass extending from the mandible to theclavicle that was compressing both her airway and esophagus. Given her auditory brainstem implant, unipolar cautery was contraindicated. Therefore, it was planned to decompress the patient's neck mass using a microdebrider before attempting to fully dissect out the mass.

Methods: The neck mass was exposed and then entered. Using a Xomed XPS microdebrider (Medtronic Inc., Minneapolis, MN), the mass was debrided and debulked in all directions taking care not to violate the capsule. After this, the entire capsule was dissected out using only bipolar cautery and suture ligatures for hemostasis.

Results: Microdebrider decompression of the neck neurofibroma allowed for preservation of the capsule without injuring vital structures in the neck. Postoperatively, the patient's swallowing and laryngeal function improved markedly.

Conclusion: Microdebrider debulking before dissection of the patient's large neck mass safely relieved compression of the airway and esophagus. This method may be applied to other large benign masses in the neck as well.
A New Antistuttering Device: Treatment of Stuttering Using Bone Conduction Stimulation With Delayed Temporal Feedback
Authors: Stidham Katrina R. , Olson Lisa , Hillbratt Martin , Sinopoli Teri
Published: November 2006

Objectives: Stuttering is a communication disorder affecting approximately 1% of the adult population, some with severe manifestations. Speech therapy improves stuttering, but many do not receive enough benefit to communicate fluently. Antistuttering devices have been available for several years, but available technology has been limited in long‐term success and reliability. The current study evaluates the effects of a prototype device using a modification of a currently used bone conduction hearing device with delayed auditory feedback on adult patients with significant stuttering problems.

Study Design: A prospective nonrandomized study evaluating effects of a prototype device on stuttering in adult subjects.

Methods: Ten stutterers ≥18 years of age were fit with a bone conduction device on a headband with temporal feedback delayed according to patient preference between 5 and 130 msec. Patients were asked to wear the device at least 4 hours per day for 4 weeks. Stuttering Severity Index‐3 (SSI‐3) tests were completed at prefit, immediate postfit, and at 2‐week, 4‐week, and 6‐week intervals. Questionnaires were also completed at each visit.

Results: Nine patients completed the entire study. A statistically significant decline in SSI‐3 scores was documented from prefit compared with immediate postfit and 4 weeks follow up (P < .001) using the Tukey test method. Statistical significance was approached but not reached at 2 weeks. There was no significant difference between prefit and the 6‐week follow up when patients had returned the device. Patients subjectively noted improvement in their speech and confidence using the device.

Conclusions: A new antistuttering prototype using a modification of a bone conduction device with delayed temporal feedback is effective in decreasing stuttering in patients over a short time course. Further studies need to be completed to evaluate the long‐term effects of the device.
Temporal Bone Histopathologic Abnormalities Associated With Mitochondrial Mutation T7511C
Authors: Ishikawa Kotaro , Tamagawa Yuya , Takahashi Katsumasa , Iino Yukiko , Murakami Yoshihiko , Kakizaki Keiko , Kimura Hiroshi , Kusakari Jun , Hara Akira , Ichimura Keiichi
Published: November 2006

Objectives: We previously reported a mitochondrial T7511C mutation in the tRNASer(UCN) gene in a Japanese family with nonsyndromic hearing loss (HL). However, the temporal bone histopathology associated with T7511C has not been reported. The aim of the present study is to report histopathologic findings of a temporal bone from a patient in the Japanese family with this mutation.

Study Design: Single case study.

Methods: A temporal bone was obtained from the right ear of a male subject with progressive HL from 5 years of age and who died at 60 years of age from cerebral infarction. The bone was embedded, sectioned, and stained with hematoxylin‐eosin for light microscopic study. Graphic reconstruction of the cochlea was performed using the method described by Schuknecht to determine loss of the stria vascularis and neurosensory elements including hair cells and spiral ganglion neurons.

Results: The most significant histopathologic finding was severe loss of spiral ganglion cells in all turns of the cochlea. Severe loss of neuronal filaments in Rosenthal's canal was also observed. The organ of Corti showed scattered loss of inner and outer hair cells in the basal turn. Partial atrophy of the stria vascularis was observed in all turns of the cochlea.

Conclusion: Our results suggest that severe loss of spiral ganglion cells was the main cause of sensorineural HL associated with the T7511C mutation.
Reconstruction of the Lateral Mandibulectomy Defect: Management Based on Prognosis and Location and Volume of Soft Tissue Resection
Authors: Deleyiannis Frederic W.‐B. , Rogers Carolyn , Lee Edward , Russavage James , Gastman Brian , Dunklebarger Joshua , Lai Stephen , Ferris Robert , Myers Eugene N. , Johnson Jonas
Published: November 2006

Objective: To examine how the accompanying soft tissue resection of the oral cavity, oropharynx, neck, or face affects the reconstructive management of the lateral mandibulectomy defect.

Study Design: Retrospective review of 76 consecutive patients.

Methods: Patient and tumor variables were extracted from the medical records. Outcomes that were examined included method of reconstruction, medical complications, flap complications, and survival.

Results: Age greater than 70 years (P = .03), moderate or severe comorbidity (P = .01), and tumor involvement of the base of tongue (P = .03) were significantly associated with decreased use of a free flap and with decreased 3‐year survival rates. For choice of free (osteocutaneous radial forearm free flap or fibula vs. rectus abdominis) and regional flaps (pectoralis or cervicodeltopectoral), lateral defects could be classified into one of three types: type 1 (n = 60), lateral defect with a soft tissue resection limited to the oral cavity and oropharynx; type 2 (n = 11), lateral defect with a through and through defect of the lower one third of the face (skin overlying the mandible) or neck; and type 3 (n = 5), lateral defect with an associated large‐volume resection of the midface, parotid, or cheek skin.

Conclusion: When the lateral mandible is resected with an accompanying large soft tissue defect of the neck or face (type 2 or type 3 defect), the reconstructive challenge becomes the determination of how best to cover the planned bony reconstruction or whether to perform only a soft tissue reconstruction. When placed in the context of expected prognosis, the proposed classification system based on the location and volume of the associated soft tissue resection can help guide the reconstructive options for these decisions.
Histochemical and genetic analysis of host and non‐host interactions of Arabidopsis with three Botrytis species: an important role for cell death control
Authors: VAN BAARLEN PETER , WOLTERING ERNST J. , STAATS MARTIJN , VAN KAN JAN A. L.
Published: November 2006

Susceptibility was evaluated of host and non‐host plants to three pathogenic Botrytis species: the generalist B. cinerea and the specialists B. elliptica (lily) and B. tulipae (tulip). B. tulipae was, unexpectedly, able to infect plant species other than tulip, and to a similar extent as B. cinerea. To study host and non‐host interactions in more detail, the three Botrytis species were inoculated on Arabidopsis wild‐types and 23 mutant genotypes. Disease development was monitored macroscopically by quantifying the lesion area and microscopically by bright‐field and fluorescence microscopy following histochemical staining. B. cinerea and B. tulipae were very similar in their ability to infect the tested Arabidopsis genotypes, whereas B. elliptica caused disease only on a few Arabidopsis mutant genotypes. Arabidopsis mutants with a delayed or reduced cell death response were generally more resistant to Botrytis infection, whereas mutants in which cell death was accelerated were more susceptible. Differences in susceptibility between genotypes were generally gradual. Only the camalexin‐deficient mutant pad3 was fully susceptible to all three Botrytis species. Cellular changes were monitored during compatible and incompatible interactions. The formation of papillae, the presence of lysosome‐like vesicles and the intracellular accumulation of H2O2 and nitric oxide were visualized in the infection zones using fluorescent probes. Based on histology and responses of Arabidopsis mutants, a model is proposed in which resistance against Botrytis, besides the production of camalexin, depends on the balance between cell death and survival.
Fumagillin, a new P‐glycoprotein‐interfering agent able to modulate moxidectin efflux in rat hepatocytes1
Authors: DUPUY J. , LESPINE A. , SUTRA J. F. , ALVINERIE M.
Published: November 2006

We have tested the ability of two compounds licensed in veterinary medicine: fumagillin and diminazene diaceturate to increase intracellular moxidectin quantity in rat hepatocytes. These compounds significantly increased the quantity of 14C‐moxidectin (expressed as area under the time curve concentrations) in cultured rat hepatocytes by 44% and 65% for diminazene and fumagillin treatments respectively. In addition, we have tested these drugs for their interference with P‐glycoprotein (P‐gp) function in porcine kidney epithelial cells transfected with murine mdr1a (Mdr1a‐LLCPK1). We examined the intracellular accumulation of rhodamine 123 (Rho 123) as a functional test to evaluate the effects of these two drugs on P‐gp activity. In this model, only fumagillin led to a marked intracellular accumulation of Rho 123. After transforming the data to express the results as a percentage of the accumulation in the presence of the P‐gp inhibitor valspodar (VSP), the maximal Rho 123 accumulation was 47% of that with VSP for 100 μm fumagillin. The EC50, the concentration needed to determine 50% of the maximal effect was 34 μm. Fumagillin interacts with P‐gp function and appears as a promising compound among registered drugs available, which may optimize the therapeutic use of macrocyclic lactones (MLs).
Comparison of bovine in vivo bioavailability of two sulfamethazine oral boluses exhibiting different in vitro dissolution profiles
Authors: MARTINEZ M. N. , KAWALEK J. C. , HOWARD K. D. , WARD J. L. , MARROUM P. , MARNANE W. , BENSLEY D. , PELSOR F. R. , HOAG S. , TATAVARTI A. S. , XIE L. , FAHMY R.
Published: November 2006

The bolus (or oblet) is a dosage form that can be used for the oral administration of pharmaceutical compounds to ruminating species. Unlike traditional tablets, oral boluses may contain quantities of drug on the order of grams rather than milligrams. Due to its size, it is only recently that USP‐like in vitro dissolution methods have been developed for this dosage form. However, whether or not these dissolution tests can predict product in vivo performance has yet to be determined. The importance of this issue is apparent when the U.S. Food and Drug Administration Center for Veterinary Medicine is faced with the decision of whether to require additional in vivo bioequivalence study data to support the approval of changes in product chemistry or manufacturing method. The current study was undertaken to determine whether an in vivo/in vitro correlation can be established for bovine sulfamethazine oral boluses and to acquire insight into the magnitude of changes in in vitro product performance that can occur before corresponding changes are seen in in vivo blood level profiles. Based upon the results of this investigation, it is concluded that marked changes in in vitro sulfamethazine bolus performance can be tolerated before resulting in altered in vivo blood level profiles. However, the data also suggest that rumenal absorption may occur for some compounds. Therefore the degree to which variation in product in vitro dissolution profiles can be tolerated may be compound specific.
Metabolism and depletion of albendazole in the muscle tissue of channel catfish following oral treatment
Authors: SHAIKH B. , RUMMEL N. , GIESEKER C. , REIMSCHUESSEL R.
Published: November 2006

The residue depletion of albendazole (ABZ) and its metabolites was studied in channel catfish muscle tissue. Channel catfish were dosed once with 10 mg/kg ABZ via stomach tube with manual restraint. Muscle tissue samples were collected at 8, 16, 24, 48, 72, 96 and 120 h postdose. A high‐performance liquid chromatographic method was used to assay ABZ and its major metabolites: ABZ sulfoxide (ABZ‐SO), ABZ sulfone (ABZ‐SO2) and ABZ aminosulfone (ABZ‐2‐NH2SO2) in the muscle tissue. The results indicate that ABZ and ABZ‐SO were present in low concentrations, i.e. <15 and <10 μg/kg, respectively, at 8 h postdose in catfish muscle with and without skin. ABZ‐SO2 was present at 1 μg/kg concentration levels until 48 h in muscle alone and 72 h in muscle with skin. ABZ‐2‐NH2SO2 was not detected at any withdrawal periods.
Homeostasis of cell composition during prolonged darkness
Authors: MONTECHIARO FEDERICO , HIRSCHMUGL CAROL J. , RAVEN JOHN A. , GIORDANO MARIO
Published: November 2006

The chemical composition of organisms in relation to their environmental resource availability is an area of intense research activity. We studied the changes in cell composition of the cyanobacterium Phormidium autumnale in response to prolonged darkness. Cells allocated their internal resources in a homeostatic manner, oxidizing all the three major cellular constituents in a proportional way. This resulted in constant C/N and carbohydrates, lipids and proteins ratios that remained unaltered throughout the whole incubation period. We propose the maintenance of balanced cell composition (homeostasis) as an evolutionary strategy related to environmental transitory changes.
Chloroplast Hsp70s are not involved in the import of ferredoxin‐NADP+ reductase precursor
Authors: Rial Daniela V. , Arakaki Adrián K. , Almará Adriana M. , Orellano Elena G. , Ceccarelli Eduardo A.
Published: November 2006

Heat‐shock protein 70 (Hsp70) chaperones function as molecular motors pulling precursor proteins across membranes. Although several Hsp70s have been identified in chloroplasts, their participation in protein translocation is still uncertain. A phylogenetic analysis of the peptide‐binding domain from plant Hsp70s shows that they can be classified into defined groups related to their subcellular localizations, allowing differences in substrate specificities to be inferred. Using an algorithm developed by Blond‐Elguindi et al. we detected three regions in the transit peptide of the pea ferredoxin‐NADP+ reductase precursor (preFNR) that are related to binding with immunoglobulin heavy‐chain binding protein (BiP), one of the members of the Hsp70 family resident in the endoplasmic reticulum. We constructed a mutant transit peptide in which prolines 18, 20 and 28 were substituted by serines. Thus, the theoretical probability of BiP‐type binding of the peptide was abolished without modifying the sites for Hsp70 with DnaK‐type binding. The stromal Hsp70 homolog CSS1 displayed lower affinity for this mutant transit peptide than for the wild‐type presequence. Nevertheless, preFNR containing the mutant transit peptide was imported into isolated chloroplasts from pea with initial rates similar to that observed for the wild‐type precursor, and only an 18% decrease in the total number of imported molecules was observed after 20 min of reaction. Our results support an import model for the preFNR in which neither DnaK‐ nor BiP‐like Hsp70 molecular chaperones play a central role as motor of the translocation machinery in chloroplasts.
Modulation of SAMDC expression in Arabidopsis thaliana alters in vitro shoot organogenesis
Authors: Hu Wen‐Wei , Gong Haibiao , Pua Eng‐Chong
Published: November 2006

S‐Adenosylmethionine decarboxylase (SAMDC, EC 4.1.4.50) is a rate‐limiting enzyme in the biosynthesis of polyamines (PAs) from putrescine. To gain more insight into the role of PAs in shoot organogenesis, a reverse genetic approach has been used to study in vitro shoot organogenesis by manipulating SAMDC expression in Arabidopsis. Up‐ and downregulation of SAMDC expression was achieved by transferring sense, antisense and double‐stranded Arabidopsis SAMDC complementary DNA constructs back into Arabidopsis via Agrobacterium tumefaciens. Results show that the biosynthesis of PAs and ethylene is mutually antagonistic by manipulation of SAMDC expression. Further results demonstrate that increased shoot organogenesis seems to be directly related to PA accumulation. This effect of PA may be further enhanced with reduced ethylene. It also suggests that spermidine is involved in the process of acquiring organogenesis competence through downregulation of ethylene production and shoot organogenesis, which might result from the concerted action of PAs and plant hormones such as auxin, cytokinins and ethylene.
Pacifiers: A microbial reservoir
Authors: Comina Elodie , Marion Karine , Renaud François N. R. , Dore Jeanne , Bergeron Emmanuelle , Freney Jean
Published: November 2006

Abstract The permanent contact between the nipple part of pacifiers and the oral microflora offers ideal conditions for the development of biofilms. This study assessed the microbial contamination on the surface of 25 used pacifier nipples provided by day‐care centers. Nine were made of silicone and 16 were made of latex. The biofilm was quantified using direct staining and microscopic observations followed by scraping and microorganism counting. The presence of a biofilm was confirmed on 80% of the pacifier nipples studied. This biofilm was mature for 36% of them. Latex pacifier nipples were more contaminated than silicone ones. The two main genera isolated were Staphylococcus and Candida. Our results confirm that nipples can be seen as potential reservoirs of infections. However, pacifiers do have some advantages; in particular, the potential protection they afford against sudden infant death syndrome. Strict rules of hygiene and an efficient antibiofilm cleaning protocol should be established to answer the worries of parents concerning the safety of pacifiers.
A historical comparison of the development of specialist genetic nursing in the United Kingdom and Japan
Authors: Skirton Heather , Arimori Naoko , Aoki Mikiko
Published: November 2006

Abstract  This paper reports the development of specialist genetic nursing in the UK and Japan. Between 1970 and 1990, significant technical advances in genetic testing occurred. These advances offered many families affected by genetic conditions more choices in diagnostic, predictive, and prenatal testing. It was recognized that genetic testing could significantly alter the life of the family and that supportive health services were required to accompany such testing. Nurses began to offer specialist services in this setting, but considerable professional development was required to ensure practitioners were competent. In the UK, the profession grew slowly over several decades. Concern to establish minimum standards of practice in this new professional setting culminated in the establishment of a set of competencies and a formal registration process. By comparison, in Japan, developments in genetic nursing have occurred over a shorter period of time, but minimum standards of competence already have been agreed upon.
Nurses as providers of emotional support to patients with MDR‐TB
Authors: Chalco K. , Wu D. Y. , Mestanza L. , Muñoz M. , Llaro K. , Guerra D. , Palacios E. , Furin J. , Shin S. , Sapag R.
Published: November 2006

Aim:  To identify the forms and means of emotional support that nurses provide to patients living with multidrug‐resistant tuberculosis (MTR‐TB) in Lima, Peru.

Background:  A fundamental role of nurses is to provide emotional support, defined as all the strategies that a health team employs to assure the psychosocial well‐being of the patient. However, neither the forms of emotional support nor the means used by nurses in resource‐poor settings have been much written about. This paper describes a qualitative study of a team of seven nurses working in a programme that provides individualized MDR‐TB treatment to patients in Lima, Peru. It describes the various forms of support that facilitated the ability of patients to adhere to treatment despite socio‐economic difficulties, social stigma, drug side effects, problems related to different stages of treatment and concurrent illnesses/special situations.

Methods:  Qualitative study methods were employed over the course of 8 years to observe nurses and patients in an MDR‐TB treatment programme. These included participant observation, structured observation sessions of nurses with their patients and focus groups with seven nurses.

Conclusion:  Through theme and content analyses of qualitative data, ten situations related to MDR‐TB treatment were found. These ten issues served as an analytical framework used to identify and discuss the various types of emotional support provided by both formal and informal means. This type of support focused on problems related to different stages of treatment, social stigma of the illness, treatment adherence, side effects, socio‐economic difficulties, death and concurrent illnesses/special situations.

Practice implications:  The essential role of the nurse as a provider of emotional support in the development or implementation of similar programmes with MDR‐TB should, in future, be taken into account.
Projecting future fish supplies using stock dynamics and demand
Authors: Briones Roehlano M.
Published: November 2006

Supply–demand models, which are commonly used in food policy analysis, have been recently applied to generate projections of future fish supplies. However, these models routinely ignore stock dynamics; hence, threats to sustainability due to declining fish stocks are addressed, at best, by exogenous changes in resource productivity. Such a device is ad hoc, as it is unclear whether the assumed shifts are consistent with known patterns of population adjustment. On the other hand, bioeconomic models incorporate stock dynamics, but typically omit price adjustment arising from the interaction of demand and supply.

An applied supply–demand model with stock dynamics combines the strengths of both approaches. However, data problems constrain the formulation of such a model. Instead, this study presents a prototype bioeconomic supply–demand model. Simulations show trends in fish supply that fail to appear in either supply–demand or bioeconomic models. Secular demand growth causes initial production growth, followed by stagnation, and then persistent decline. Moreover, under constant pressure from rising demand, capture production fails to recover completely from adverse population shock (such as may be induced by climate change). The prototype model highlights the potential usefulness of an applied bioeconomic supply–demand model for food policy and fisheries management, and provides a template for future work.
Family Matters: A Discussion of the Bangladeshi and Pakistani Extended Family and Community in Supporting the Children's Education
Authors: Crozier Gill , Davies Jane
Published: November 2006

This paper looks beyond an individualised type of parental involvement and discusses the role of the extended family in relation to school. We draw on the different social capital theories to explain its implications and also to discuss its efficacy. Our focus is on the Bangladeshi community and the Pakistani community in two towns in the North East of England. British South Asian parents are variously accused of having too high educational expectations of their children or not being interested at all and that Pakistani and Bangladeshi parents in particular have no or limited relationships with their children's schools. In this paper we demonstrate that parental involvement in these two communities resides not simply in the hands of the parents but within the wider family. We challenge the deficit model of British South Asian families as indifferent to the education of their children and we identify the potential resource of the extended family.
Bilateral hand amyotrophy with PMP‐22 gene deletion
Authors: Gochard A. , Guennoc A. M. , Praline J. , Malinge M. C. , De Toffol B. , Corcia P.
Published: November 2006

Hereditary neuropathy with liability to pressure palsies (HNPP) phenotypes are heterogeneous. We report the case of a 52‐year‐old woman without medical history, who complained of bilateral hand weakness suggestive first of a motor neuron disorder. The presence of a diffuse predominant distal demyelinating neuropathy suggested a deletion of PMP‐22 gene, which was confirmed by genetic analysis. This case report underlines a novel phenotype related to the deletion of PMP‐22 gene.
PARADIGMS BEHIND (AND BEFORE) THE MODERN CONCEPT OF RELIGION
Authors: BELL CATHERINE
Published: November 2006

This essay identifies five paradigms that are basic to understanding the historical emergence and uses of the generic idea of “religion” in the Christian cultures of Europe and America. The spread of this concept has been sufficiently thorough in recent centuries as to make religion appear to be a “social fact,” to use Durkheim's phrase, rather than so many cultural expressions and different social practices. The supremacy of Euro‐American culture—and an academy still saturated with Christian ideas—has enjoined other cultures and forms of religiosity to conform to this idea of religion; for these cultures contentment with the status quo can vie with the anxieties of influence, including “modernization.” The key paradigms discussed are the following: Christianity as the prototype; religion as the opposite of reason; the modern formulation of “world religions”; the cultural necessity of religion; and critical analysis of the Western “construction” of religion. These paradigms demonstrate the limits on theoretical variety in the field, the difficulty in making real changes in set ways of thinking, and productive foci for interdisciplinary methods of study.
MODERNITY IN RELIGION: A RESPONSE TO CONSTANTIN FASOLT'S “HISTORY AND RELIGION IN THE MODERN AGE”
Authors: CLADIS MARK S.
Published: November 2006

Contrary to Constantin Fasolt, I argue that it is no longer useful to think of religion as an anomaly in the modern age. Here is Fasolt's main argument: humankind suffers from a radical rift between the self and the world. The chief function of religion is to mitigate or cope with this fracture by means of dogmas and rituals that reconcile the self to the world. In the past, religion successfully fulfilled this job. But in modernity, it fails to, and it fails because religion is no longer plausible. Historical, confessional religions, then, are no longer doing what they are supposed to do; yet the need for religion is still very much with us.

Fasolt's account would be a tragic tale, if not for his claim that there is a new religion for the modern age, a religion that fulfills the true reconciling function of religion. That new religion is the reading and writing of history. Indeed, for Fasolt, reading history is religiously redemptive, and writing history is a sacred act. The historian, it turns out, is the priest in modernity.

In my response, I challenge both Fasolt's remedy (history as religiously redemptive) and its justification (the fall of historical religions). Indeed, I reject both his romantic view of past religion as the peaceful reconciler, as well as his pessimistic view of present religion as the maker of “enemies” among modern people. In the end, I argue that the way Fasolt employs his categories—“alienation,”“salvation,”“religion,”“history”— is too vague to do much useful work. They are significant categories and they deserve our attention. But in my view, the story Fasolt tells is both too grim (on human alienation) and too cheerful (on historian as modern savior).
Relating root structure and anatomy to whole‐plant functioning in 14 herbaceous Mediterranean species
Authors: Hummel Irène , Vile Denis , Violle Cyrille , Devaux Jeremy , Ricci Benoît , Blanchard Alain , Garnier Éric , Roumet Catherine
Published: November 2006

This study investigated the relationships between root structure and anatomy and whole‐plant functioning in herbaceous species.

Fourteen annual and perennial species representative of a Mediterranean old‐field succession were grown in monocultures in a common‐garden experiment. Whole‐plant functioning was assessed by inherent relative growth rate (RGRmax), measured in standardized conditions, and maximum height (Hmax). Root tissue density (TMDr), considered as a major component of root structure, was measured on roots harvested within in‐growth cores. Anatomical characteristics were analysed on cross‐sectional areas (CSA).

TMDr was correlated positively with Hmax and negatively with RGRmax. Root CSA explained interspecific variation in Hmax but not that in TMDr and RGRmax. Root xylem CSA and xylem proportion in root CSA were positively correlated with TMDr and Hmax and negatively with RGRmax. Mean xylem vessel CSA did not account for variations in TMDr, Hmax and RGRmax.

These results suggested that RGRmax and Hmax are constrained by opposite root structural and anatomical traits, which have potential links with hydraulic conductance, support and longevity.
Large variation in whole‐plant water‐use efficiency among tropical tree species
Authors: Cernusak Lucas A. , Aranda Jorge , Marshall John D. , Winter Klaus
Published: November 2006

It is well known that whole‐plant water‐use efficiency (transpiration efficiency of carbon gain, TEC) varies among plant species with different photosynthetic pathways. However, less is known of such variation among tree species within the C3 group. Here we measured the TEC of seven C3 tropical tree species. Isotopic analyses (δ13C, δ18O, and δ15N) and elemental analyses (carbon and nitrogen) were undertaken to provide insight into sources of variation in TEC.

Plants were grown over several months in approx. 80% full sunlight in individual 38‐l containers in the Republic of Panama. Soil moisture content was nonlimiting.

Significant variation was observed in TEC among the C3 tree species. Values ranged from 1.6 mmol C mol−1 H2O for teak (Tectona grandis) to 4.0 mmol C mol−1 H2O for a legume, Platymiscium pinnatum.

Variation in TEC was correlated with both leaf N concentration, a proxy for photosynthetic capacity, and oxygen‐isotope enrichment, a proxy for stomatal conductance. The TEC varied with C‐isotope discrimination within species, but the relationship broke down among species, reflecting the existence of species‐specific offsets.
Correlated evolution of genome size and seed mass
Authors: Beaulieu Jeremy M. , Moles Angela T. , Leitch Ilia J. , Bennett Michael D. , Dickie John B. , Knight Charles A.
Published: November 2006

Previous investigators have identified strong positive relationships between genome size and seed mass within species, and across species from the same genus and family.

Here, we make the first broad‐scale quantification of this relationship, using data for 1222 species, from 139 families and 48 orders. We analyzed the relationship between genome size and seed mass using a statistical framework that included four different tests.

A quadratic relationship between genome size and seed mass appeared to be driven by the large genome/seed mass gymnosperms and the many small genome size/large seed mass angiosperms. Very small seeds were never associated with very large genomes, possibly indicating a developmental constraint. Independent contrast results showed that divergences in genome size were positively correlated with divergences in seed mass.

Divergences in seed mass have been more closely correlated with divergences in genome size than with divergences in other morphological and ecological variables. Plant growth form is the only variable examined thus far that explains a greater proportion of variation in seed mass than does genome size.
Virtual reality simulation training can improve technical skills during laparoscopic salpingectomy for ectopic pregnancy
Authors: Aggarwal R , Tully A , Grantcharov T , Larsen CR , Miskry T , Farthing A , Darzi A
Published: November 2006

Objectives  To assess the first commercially available virtual reality (VR) simulator to incorporate procedural modules for training of inexperienced gynaecological surgeons to perform laparoscopic salpingectomy for ectopic pregnancy.

Design  Prospective cohort study.

Setting  Departments of surgery and gynaecology in central London teaching hospitals.

Sample  Thirty gynaecological surgeons were recruited to the study, and were divided into novice (<10 laparoscopic procedures), intermediate (20–50) and experienced (>100) groups.

Methods  All subjects were orientated to the VR simulator with a basic skills task, followed by performing ten repetitions of the virtual ectopic pregnancy module, in a distributed manner.

Main outcome measures  Operative performance was assessed by the time taken to perform surgery, blood loss and total instrument path length.

Results  There were significant differences between the groups at the second repetition of the ectopic module for time taken (median 551.1 versus 401.2 versus 249.2 seconds, P= 0.001), total blood loss (median 304.2 versus 187.4 versus 123.3 ml, P= 0.031) and total instrument path length (median 17.8 versus 8.3 versus 6.8 m, P= 0.023). The learning curves of the experienced operators plateaued at the second session, although greater numbers of sessions were necessary for intermediate (seven) and novice (nine) surgeons to achieve similar levels of skill.

Conclusions  Gynaecological surgeons with minimal laparoscopic experience can improve their skills during short‐phase training on a VR procedural module. In contrast, experienced operators showed nonsignificant improvements. Thus, VR simulation may be useful for the early part of the learning curve for surgeons who wish to learn to perform laparoscopic salpingectomy for ectopic pregnancy.
Short telomeres: cause or consequence of aging?
Authors: Hornsby Peter J.
Published: November 2006

Questions about mechanisms, about the direction of causality, and about cellular heterogeneity complicate interpretation of claims associating short telomeres with adverse health outcomes.
THE INTERACTION OF MONETARY POLICY AND STOCK RETURNS
Authors: Crowder William J.
Published: November 2006

The “irrational exuberance” of the stock market in the late 1990s led to a discussion of the appropriate policy response by monetary authorities. Any response would be contingent on the stock market reaction to policy shocks. In this study, I employ a structural vector autoregression to estimate the response of the stock market returns to innovations in the federal funds rate. The role of the stock market in the Federal Reserve policy rule can also be examined empirically.
Unionization and plant closure in Canada
Authors: Fang Tony , Heywood John S.
Published: November 2006

Abstract This paper examines for the first time the role of unionization as a determinant of plant closings in Canada. Using the 1999 to 2001 Canadian Workplace and Employee Survey, the paper contributes to the North American evidence by showing that the share of a plant's workers covered by collective bargaining has a robust positive partial correlation with the probability of larger plants closing. For smaller plants, the extent of unionization tends to be much lower and its variation plays no role in plant closure. The study highlights the theoretical and statistical importance of examining closure separately for large and small plants.
Another look at the linear q model: an empirical analysis of aggregate business capital spending with maintenance expenditures
Authors: Kalyvitis Sarantis
Published: November 2006

Abstract The paper revisits the empirical investment literature, which has established that aggregate business fixed investment is not found to be related linearly to marginal or average Tobin's q. The theoretical background is extended here by developing a supply‐side model where the depreciation rate of private capital is determined endogenously. The firm can either invest in ‘new’ capital, which adds directly to the existing capital stock at the presence of convex adjustment costs, or extend the durability of installed capital through maintenance expenditure, which affects its depreciation rate. The model shows that Tobin's q is then a positively related sufficient statistic for both components of aggregate capital expenditures. This central implication is tested empirically using aggregate time‐series survey data from Canada on ‘new’ investment and maintenance expenditures covering the period 1956–93. The estimated relationships produce significant and plausible parameter estimates for the structural parameters of the q model.
Global terrorism: deterrence versus pre‐emption
Authors: Sandler Todd , Siqueira Kevin
Published: November 2006

Abstract This paper analyses two anti‐terrorism policies when a targeted nation's people and property are in jeopardy at home and abroad. A country's deterrence decision involves both external benefits and costs as the terrorist threat is deflected, while its preemption decision typically gives external benefits when the threat is reduced for all potential targets. With damages limited to home interests, a country will overdeter, while, for globalized terror, a country will underdeter. Pre‐emption is usually undersupplied. Leader‐follower behaviour is apt to lessen inefficiency for deterrence, but worsen inefficiency for pre‐emption, compared with simultaneous‐choice equilibrium allocations. Targeted nations can never achieve the proper counterterrorism policy through leadership.
Repeat Transseptal Catheterization After Ablation for Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: MARCUS GREGORY M. , REN XIUSHUI , TSENG ZIAN H. , BADHWAR NITISH , LEE BYRON K. , LEE RANDALL J. , FOSTER ELYSE , OLGIN JEFFREY E.
Published: November 2006

Introduction: A substantial number of patients require a second left atrial procedure after ablation for atrial fibrillation (AF), either for left atrial flutter or recurrent AF. The success and complication rates of repeat transseptal catheterization in these patients are unknown. The aim of this study was to determine the difficulty and/or success rates of repeat transseptal catheterization after left atrial ablation for AF.

Methods and Results: Consecutive patients undergoing repeat left atrial procedures after ablation for AF over a 1‐year period were enrolled. Difficulties with, success rates, and complications of the first and second transseptal catheterizations were recorded. Sixteen patients underwent a repeat transseptal catheterization. Of the 4 in whom the first procedure was performed with an ablation catheter across a patent foramen ovale (PFO), 3 required a transseptal puncture for their repeat procedure. The remaining 12 underwent transseptal puncture without difficulty for their first procedure, and, despite the same operators for each patient, the repeat transseptal was noted to be difficult in 5. Of those 5, the transseptal puncture was unsuccessful due to increased interatrial septal thickness in 2 patients. One repeat transseptal attempt was aborted after posterior right atrial puncture with the transseptal needle occurred, attributed to distorted interatrial septal anatomy not observed prior to the first case.

Conclusions: Compared with the first procedure, repeat transseptal catheterization after ablation for AF, whether initially performed across a PFO or via a transseptal puncture, is more difficult, less often successful, and potentially associated with more complications.
Passive knee joint range of motion is unrelated to the mechanical properties of the patellar tendon
Authors: Bojsen‐Møller J. , Brogaard K. , Have M. J. , Stryger H. P. , Kjaer M. , Aagaard P. , Magnusson S. P.
Published: November 2006

The physiological factors that govern passive joint range of motion (ROM) are poorly understood. The present study investigated the relation between passive knee joint ROM and the mechanical properties of the patellar tendon. Knee joint ROM was assessed in 43 individuals, and the subjects with the greatest ROM (flexible group, n=10) and lowest ROM (inflexible group, n=10) were selected for further analysis. In these groups an overall “lower extremity joint ROM score” was determined with 11 clinical tests. The elongation of the patellar tendon was assessed during graded maximal isometric knee extensor contractions using ultrasonography, and the mechanical properties of the patellar tendon were determined from corresponding load and tendon deformation data. The two groups were similar with respect to weight, height, tendon cross‐sectional area and length, and were, furthermore, equally physically active. The knee joint ROM and lower extremity joint ROM score was significantly different between the groups (flexible: 136±7° vs inflexible: 76±16°, P<0.001 and flexible: −4.7±1.3 vs inflexible: 3.1±4.1, P<0.001). There was no difference between groups in maximal knee extensor force or the corresponding tendon deformation. The tendon stiffness (flexible: 3269±1591 vs inflexible: 3185±1457 N/mm), stress (flexible: 22.4±6.5 vs inflexible: 34.0±17.6 N/mm2), strain (flexible; 6.5±1.6 vs inflexible: 7.2±1.9%) and Young's modulus (flexible: 0.81±0.35 vs inflexible: 1.22±0.52 GPa) were not different between the two groups of subjects. These data suggest that differences in knee joint ROM cannot be explained by the mechanical properties of the patellar tendon.
LYMPHOMA AFFECTING THE URINARY BLADDER IN THREE DOGS AND A CAT
Authors: BENIGNI LIVIA , LAMB CHRISTOPHER R. , CORZO‐MENENDEZ NURIA , HOLLOWAY ANDREW , EASTWOOD JANE M.
Published: November 2006

Three dogs and one cat with lymphoma affecting the urinary bladder are reported and the findings on abdominal radiographs and ultrasound are described. Mural lesions representing lymphoma affecting the urinary bladder were identified ultrasonographically in all animals. The most common complications associated with urinary bladder lymphoma were hydronephrosis and hydroureter. In two patients contrast radiography was necessary to detect leakage of urine in the peritoneal and retroperitoneal space. The radiographic and ultrasonographic signs were similar to those reported with other urinary bladder neoplasms; hence urinary bladder lymphoma could not be distinguished from the more common urinary bladder neoplasms, such as transitional cell carcinoma. It is important to include lymphoma in the differential diagnosis of urinary bladder wall thickening and mural mass in dogs and cats.
The Law: The President “Shall Nominate”: Exclusive or Shared Constitutional Power?
Authors: SOLLENBERGER MITCHEL A.
Published: November 2006

The power to nominate has often been a delicate issue to analyze. No doubt the Constitution gives to the president the ability to make formal nominations, but the question lingers as to whether or not the Senate can involve itself before that decision is made. This article examines the advice and consent clause through a constitutional, historical, and institutional perspective to address this question. Saying that the president has the final judgment in nominating does not preclude the Senate (or even the House of Representatives) from giving counsel during the decision‐making process for selecting a nominee. A president, however, may well decide to ignore congressional advice, but he should be mindful of the fact that the Constitution gives to the Senate the ability to reject his nominations and block other White House objectives, including legislation and treaties.
Influence of the Two-Component System SaeRS on Global Gene Expression in Two Different
Staphylococcus aureus
Strains
Authors: Rogasch Kathrin , Rühmling Vanessa , Pané-Farré Jan , Höper Dirk , Weinberg Christin , Fuchs Stephan , Schmudde Mareike , Bröker Barbara M. , Wolz Christiane , Hecker Michael , Engelmann Susanne
Published: November 2006

The two-component system SaeRS consisting of the histidin kinase SaeS and the response regulator SaeR is known to act on virulence gene expression in
Staphylococcus aureus
. In order to get a more comprehensive picture on SaeR-regulated genes, we studied the contribution of the two-component system on global gene expression by using both the proteomic and transcriptomic approach. Altogether, a loss of SaeRS resulted in a decreased amount of at least 17 extracellular proteins and two cell surface-associated proteins, among them several important virulence factors such as HlgA, HlgB, HlgC, LukF, and LukM. SaeRS activates the expression of these genes at the transcriptional level. The amount of the five proteins Aur, SspA, SsaA, Plc, and GlpQ was negatively influenced by SaeRS. However, the transcription of the corresponding genes was not affected by the two-component system. SaeRS had also no measurable influence on the transcription of the regulatory genes
agr
,
sarA
,
arlRS
, and
sigB
that contribute to the regulation of SaeRS-dependent virulence factors identified in this investigation. Our results clearly show that SaeRS is strongly involved in the tight temporal control of virulence factor expression in
S. aureus
. Its precise role within the regulatory network remains to be determined.