bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cholesterol imbalance in adipocytes: a possible mechanism of adipocytes dysfunction in obesity
Authors: Yu B.‐L. , Zhao S.‐P. , Hu J.‐R.
Published: December 2009

Studies of the past decade have increased our understanding of the role of adipose tissue dysfunction in obesity and obesity‐related insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. Although adipose tissue is the body's largest pool of free cholesterol, adipocytes have limited activity in cholesterol synthetic pathway. Thus, the majority of adipocyte cholesterol originates from circulating lipoproteins. To maintain cholesterol homeostasis, adipocytes have developed multiple pathways for cholesterol efflux. Several transcriptional factors, such as sterol regulatory element‐binding proteins and liver X receptors may be responsible for the regulation of cholesterol homeostasis in adipocytes. Most notably, because altering cholesterol balance profoundly modifies adipocyte metabolism in a way resembling that seen in hypertrophied adipocytes, cholesterol imbalance is recognized as a characteristic for enlarged adipocytes per se in the obese state. In addition, plasma membrane cholesterol normalization by chromium picolinate can fully restore inslin‐stimulated glucose transport, further supporting the role of the adipocyte cholesterol imbalance in obesity and insulin resistance.
The natural history of epilepsy in tuberous sclerosis complex
Authors: Chu‐Shore Catherine J. , Major Philippe , Camposano Susana , Muzykewicz David , Thiele Elizabeth A.
Published: December 2009

Background: Although epilepsy affects most patients with tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC), little is known about the natural history of epilepsy in this genetic disease.

Methods: A retrospective chart review of all patients with TSC seen between January 2002 and October 2008. Charts were reviewed for a history of infantile spasms (IS), seizure other than IS, refractory epilepsy, Lennox‐Gastaut syndrome (LGS), anticonvulsant medication use, ages of seizure onset, last seizure, last clinic visit, clinical seizure phenotype(s), cognitive impairment, and genetic mutation.

Results: Two hundred ninety‐one patients were included. Among these patients, 37.8% had a history of IS; 85.2% had a history of seizure; 54.1% developed multiple seizure types, not including IS; 63.2% had seizure onset in the first year of life; and 12.1% of adults without a seizure history developed epilepsy. Of epilepsy patients, 62.5% developed refractory epilepsy and 33.5% achieved epilepsy remission; 37.5% of these patients achieved medication freedom. IS was a risk factor for refractory epilepsy (p<0.0001) and LGS (p<0.0001). History of seizure, IS, age at seizure onset, and refractory epilepsy each correlated with poor cognitive outcome (p<0.0001). Epilepsy remission correlated with better cognitive outcome (p<0.0001).TSC2was a risk factor for IS and epilepsy; patients without an identified mutation were more likely to achieve remission.

Conclusion: Most patients with TSC develop epilepsy and most develop multiple seizure types. Onset typically occurs in the first year of life; however, adults remain at risk. Although refractory epilepsy is common, many patients achieve seizure control. Many features of seizure history are predictive of cognitive and epilepsy outcome.
The effects of nocturnal compared with conventional hemodialysis on mineral metabolism: A randomized‐controlled trial
Authors: WALSH Michael , MANNS Braden J. , KLARENBACH Scott , TONELLI Marcello , HEMMELGARN Brenda , CULLETON Bruce
Published: December 2009

Hyperphosphatemia is common among patients receiving dialysis and is associated with increased mortality. Nocturnal hemodialysis (NHD) is a long, slow dialytic modality that may improve hyperphosphatemia and disorders of mineral metabolism. We performed a randomized‐controlled trial of NHD compared with conventional hemodialysis (CvHD); in this paper, we report detailed results of mineral metabolism outcomes. Prevalent patients were randomized to receive NHD 5 to 6 nights per week for 6to 10 hours per night or to continue CvHD thrice weekly for 6 months. Oral phosphate binders and vitamin D analogs were adjusted to maintain phosphate, calcium and parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels within recommended targets. Compared with CvHD patients, patients in the NHD group had a significant decrease in serum phosphate over the course of the study (0.49 mmol/L, 95% confidence interval 0.24–0.74; P=0.002) despite a significant reduction in the use of phosphate binders. Sixty‐one percent of patients in the NHD group compared with 20% in the CvHD group had a decline in intact PTH (P=0.003). Nocturnal hemodialysis lowers serum phosphate, calcium‐phosphate product and requirement for phosphate binders. The effects of NHD on PTH are variable. The impact of these changes on long‐term cardiovascular and bone‐related outcomes requires further investigation.
Endovascular Treatment of Distal Anterior Cerebral Artery Aneurysms: Technical Results and Review of the Literature
Authors: Vora Nirav , Thomas Ajith J. , Gupta Rishi , Gologorsky Yakov , Panapitiya Narendra , Jovin Tudor , Jankowitz Brian , Kassam Amin , Horowitz Michael
Published: December 2009

BACKGROUND

We sought to report our technical success and complications in treating distal anterior cerebral artery (ACA) aneurysms with coil embolization.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed all patients undergoing coil embolization of distal ACA aneurysms from September 1999 to March 2008. Patients were assessed for subarachnoid hemorrhage, fundus size, and fundus‐to‐neck ratio (F/N) < 2 or ≥ 2. Technical success for aneurysms was assessed according to established criteria immediately post‐procedure and at 6‐month angiographic follow‐up. Post‐procedural outcomes were measured using the modified Rankin Scale (mRS) at discharge. A mRS ≤ 2 for ruptured aneurysms or no change from baseline for unruptured aneurysms was considered a good clinical outcome.

RESULTS

Based on an intention‐to‐treat principle, we attempted embolization of 28 distal ACA aneurysms in 26 patients and were technically successful in 26 aneurysms (93%). Our mean age was 58 ± 11 years. Thirteen presented with acute rupture. Average aneurysm size was 5.7 ± 2.8 mm in our cohort with 20/28 (71%) having an F/N ≥ 2. Seventeen aneurysms with an F/N ≥ 2 and 5 with an F/N < 2 were completely obliterated or had minimal neck remnants at the end of the procedure (79%). Fourteen aneurysms underwent 6‐month angiographic follow‐up and were either completely obliterated or had a minimal residual neck remnant. Clinical outcomes were good in 12/13 unruptured patients (93%) at the time of discharge and in 6/13 ruptured patients (46%) with 90‐day follow‐up. Three patients had ischemic complications that were considered non‐disabling, and 2 patients died from complications related to their initial subarachnoid hemorrhage. Two patients had an aborted procedure from failure to catheterize the aneurysm.

CONCLUSION

Endovascular treatment of distal ACA aneurysms can achieve good technical and clinical outcomes.

J Neuroimaging 2010;20:70‐73.
Modulation of Cortical Activity in Patients Suffering from Upper Arm Spasticity following Stroke and Treated with Botulinum Toxin A: An fMRI Study
Authors: Šenkárová Zuzana , Hluštík Petr , Otruba Pavel , Herzig Roman , Kaňovský Petr
Published: December 2009

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Botulinum toxin (BTX) treatment can relieve focal arm spasticity after stroke, presumably through dynamic changes at multiple levels of the motor system, including the cerebral cortex. However, the neuroanatomical correlate of BTX spasticity relief is not known and should be reflected in changes of cortical activation during motor tasks assessed using repeated functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI).

METHODS

Four patients (2 males, 2 females, mean age 25.5 years) with hemiplegia and distal arm spasticity after chronic ischemic stroke sparing the motor cortex were studied. fMRI during mental movement simulation of the impaired hand was performed in 2 sessions before and 4 weeks after BTX treatment. The change in arm spasticity was assessed using the modified Ashworth scale (MAS).

RESULTS

BTX treatment significantly decreased arm spasticity across the group (mean MAS change 2.1). Whereas fMRI during imagined movement pre‐BTX treatment showed extensive bilateral network of active areas, post‐BTX activation was confined to the midline and contralateral sensorimotor cortices. The pre‐ > post‐BTX contrast revealed a significant decrease in activation of the posterior cingulate/precuneus region after BTX treatment.

CONCLUSION

This small study suggests that structures outside the classical motor system, such as the posterior cingulate/precuneus region, may be associated with the relief of poststroke arm spasticity.
Static Stress Redesign of Plates by Large Admissible Perturbations
Authors: Kristanto Bhineka M. , Bernitsas Michael M.
Published: December 2009

The purpose of this paper is to develop further the large admissible perturbation (LEAP) methodology to solve the static stress redesign problem for shell elements. The static stress general perturbation equation, which expresses the unknown stresses of the objective structure in terms of the baseline structure stresses, is derived first. This equation depends on the redesign variables for each element or group of elements, namely, the plate thickness. LEAP enables the designer to redesign a structure to achieve specifications on modal properties, static displacements, forced response amplitudes, and static stresses. LEAP is implemented in code RESTRUCT, which postprocesses the finite element analysis FEA results of the baseline structure. Changes on the order of 100% in the above performance particulars and in redesign variables can be achieved without repetitive FEAs. Several numerical applications on a simple plate and an offshore tower are used to verify the effectiveness of the LEAP algorithm for stress redesign.
Additional Separated-Variable Solutions of the Biharmonic Equation in Polar Coordinates
Authors: Stampouloglou I. H. , Theotokoglou E. E.
Published: December 2009

From the biharmonic equation of the plane problem in the polar coordinate system and taking into account the variable-separable form of the partial solutions, a homogeneous ordinary differential equation (ODE) of the fourth order is deduced. Our study is based on the investigation of the behavior of the coefficients of the above fourth order ODE, which are functions of the radial coordinate r. According to the proposed investigation additional terms, φ¯−m(r,θ)(1≤m≤n) other than the usually tabulated in the Michell solution (1899, “On the Direct Determination of Stress in an Elastic Solid, With Application to the Theory of Plates,” Proc. Lond. Math. Soc., 31, pp. 100–124) are found. Finally the stress and the displacement fields due to each one additional term of φ¯−m(r,θ) are determined.
On the Tangential Displacement of a Surface Point Due to a Cuboid of Uniform Plastic Strain in a Half-Space
Authors: Fulleringer B. , Nélias D.
Published: December 2009

The elastic solution of a tangentially loaded contact is known as Cerruti’s solution. Since the contact surfaces could be easily discretized in small rectangles of uniform shear stress the elastic problem is usually numerically solved by summation of well known integral solution. For soft metallic materials, metals at high temperature, rough surfaces, or dry contacts with high friction coefficient, the yield stress within the material could be easily exceeded even at low normal load. This paper presents the effect of a cuboid of uniform plastic strain in a half-space on the tangential displacement of a surface point. The analytical solutions are first presented. All analytical expressions are then validated by comparison with the finite element method. It is found that the influence coefficients for tangential displacements are of the same order of magnitude as the ones describing the normal displacement (Jacq et al., 2002, “Development of a Three-Dimensional Semi-Analytical Elastic-Plastic Contact Code,” ASME J. Tribol., 124(4), pp. 653–667). This result is of great importance for frictional contact problem when coupling the normal and tangential behaviors in the elastic-plastic regime, such as stick-slip problems, and also for metals and alloys with low or moderate yield stress.
Eyeglasses in the Classroom
Authors: Huang Ding-wei , Huang Wei-neng , Tseng Hsiang-chi
Published: December 2009

Optical phenomena can be divided into two categories: ray optics and wave optics. The former is also known as geometrical optics, and examples are reflection and refraction, while the latter is also known as physical optics and includes interference and diffraction. In most textbooks, these two topics are presented in separate chapters.1 To help students grasp corresponding principles, instructors often emphasize the contrast between these two categories. For example, the length scale of objects encountered by light beams is taken as an indicator to differentiate these two. When the scale is microscopic (down to the wavelength at 550 nm for green light), the light shall be treated as a wave, while at a macroscopic scale (start from a few mm for a tiny lens), the light shall be taken as a ray. Diffraction effects are almost always negligible in the formation of images by lens, and refraction effects can also be neglected safely in the discussions of interference. As a result, some students get the wrong impression that these two phenomena must manifest in quite different regimes. In this paper, we show that eyeglasses can be a very handy tool to demonstrate these two phenomena at the same time, working as a lens for light rays and also showing interference of light waves from reflections off the lens coating. According to a recent survey, more than 80% of college students in Taiwan are nearsighted, and eyeglasses are easily accessible in the classroom. Students are guided to observe, describe, and then provide qualitative explanations. And some of the students might take the challenge to work out quantitative calculations as exercises after class.
Regulation of Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Trafficking by Lysine Deacetylase HDAC6
Authors: Lissanu Deribe Yonathan , Wild Philipp , Chandrashaker Akhila , Curak Jasna , Schmidt Mirko H. H. , Kalaidzidis Yannis , Milutinovic Natasa , Kratchmarova Irina , Buerkle Lukas , Fetchko Michael J. , Schmidt Philipp , Kittanakom Saranya , Brown Kevin R. , Jurisica Igor , Blagoev Blagoy , Zerial Marino , Stagljar Igor , Dikic Ivan
Published: December 2009

HDAC6 sets a brake that slows down the delivery of activated epidermal growth factor receptors to the degradative compartment.
Construction of a doramectin producer mutant from an avermectin-overproducing industrial strain of Streptomyces avermitilis
Authors: Zhao Xuejin , Wang Yuanxin , Wang Shiwei , Chen Zhi , Wen Ying , Song Yuan
Published: December 2009

The avermectin analogue doramectin (CHC-B1), which is produced in mutants that have an altered biosynthesis pathway of avermectin, is one of the most effective agricultural pesticides and antiparasitics. We report here the construction of a bkdF olmA double-deletion mutant lacking one of the branched-chain α-keto acid dehydrogenase encoding genes (bkdF) and the oligomycin PKS encoding gene cluster (olmA) in Streptomyces avermitilis 76-05. We then characterized the production of various antibiotics in cultures of the deletion mutant. In a fermentation medium supplemented with cyclohexanecarboxylic acid, this double mutant produced doramectin and its analogues but no oligomycin. The mutant proved to be genetically stable, without any antibiotic resistance markers inserted into its chromosome, and could potentially become an industrial doramectin-producing strain after further improvement.
Askin's Tumor in an Adult: Case Report and Findings on 18F-FDG PET/CT
Authors: Kara Gedik Gonca , Sari Oktay , Altinok Tamer , Tavli Lema , Kaya Bugra , Ozcan Kara Pelin
Published: December 2009

Primitive neuroectodermal tumor (PNET) of the chest wall or Askin's tumor is a rare neoplasm of chest wall. It most often affects children and adolescents and is a very rare tumor in adults. In this case report, we present an Askin's tumor occurred in a 73-year-old male. The patient was admitted with a history of 3-month lower back pain and cough. In computed tomography, there was a lesion with dimensions of70×40×65 mm in the superior segment of the lower lobe of the left lung. Positron emission tomography/computed tomography with 18F-flourodeoxyglucose revealed a pleural-based tumor in the left lung with a maximum standardized uptake value of 4.36. No distant or lymph node metastases were present. The patient had gone through surgery, and wedge resection of the superior segment of left lobe and partial resection of the ipsilateral ribs were performed. Pathology report with immunocytochemistry was consistent with PNET and the patient received chemotherapy after that.
Transmission of 3D Scenes over Lossy Channels
Authors: Zanuttigh Pietro , Zanella Andrea , Maguolo Federico , Cortelazzo Guido Maria
Published: December 2009

This paper introduces a novel error correction scheme for the transmission of three-dimensional scenes over unreliable networks. We propose a novel Unequal Error Protection scheme for the transmission of depth and texture information that distributes a prefixed amount of redundancy among the various elements of the scene description in order to maximize the quality of the rendered views. This target is achieved exploiting also a new model for the estimation of the impact on the rendered views of the various geometry and texture packets which takes into account their relevance in the coded bitstream and the viewpoint required by the user. Experimental results show how the proposed scheme effectively enhances the quality of the rendered images in a typical depth-image-based rendering scenario as packets are progressively decoded/recovered by the receiver.
Noonan Syndrome: Introduction and Basic Clinical Features
Authors: Rohrer T.
Published: December 2009

Noonan syndrome (NS) is a fairly common (1 per 1,000–2,500 live births) autosomal dominantly inherited disorder and the most common syndromal cause of congenital heart disease after Down’s syndrome. The clinical features vary with age, but typical signs of NS include characteristic facial features with hypertelorism, down-slanting palpebral fissures, low-set posteriorly rotated ears, chest and spinal deformities, short stature, specific heart defects, learning disabilities and mild mental retardation. This article gives a brief introduction to NS and its basic clinical features using the established and generally accepted NS scoring system based on family history and facial, cardiac, growth, chest wall and other criteria. Aspects discussed include the definition, epidemiology, etiology, diagnosis and genetics of NS, as well as growth, skeletal and gonadal anomalies, pubertal development, ophthalmic and cutaneous abnormalities and the incidence of cancer in patients with NS.
Growth Hormone Therapy in Noonan Syndrome: Growth Response and Characteristics
Authors: Westphal Otto
Published: December 2009

Growth hormone treatment in Noonan syndrome increases growth velocity significantly during the first 2 years of treatment and, to some extent, until puberty. This increase is more pronounced if treatment is started at an early age. Treatment before the age of 5 years is not recommended due to an increased risk of malignancies. In contrast to other growth hormone-treated patients, a slight but significant further increase in height gain can be expected during pubertal growth (at least in boys). Final height improvement varies between 1 and 2 SDS in different studies. Cardiac function does not seem to be impaired during treatment. No significant adverse events have been reported.
Response to Growth Hormone in Short Children with Noonan Syndrome: Correlation to Genotype
Authors: Binder Gerhard
Published: December 2009

Short stature is a major characteristic of Noonan syndrome (NS), the biological basis of which is not yet clear. In around half of all individuals with NS, the cytoplasmic tyrosine phosphatase SHP2 encoded by PTPN11 is mutated and predicted to be overactive. While SHP2 enhances Ras-MAPK signaling, it downregulates Jak2/STAT5b signaling of the growth hormone (GH) receptor, according to in vitro data. Decreased IGF-I levels have been measured in those children with NS who carried PTPN11 mutations suggesting a mode of mild GH insensitivity. The short-term responsiveness to GH therapy in NS with respect to PTPN11 mutations has been addressed in 3 studies in the past. The number of treated children was small and gene analysis was restricted to PTPN11, excluding the recent discovered candidate genes KRAS, RAF1 and SOS1. All 3 studies showed that GH responsiveness was mildly reduced in the presence of PTPN11 mutations; relevant long-term data, however, are missing. In a small subgroup of patients with NS, tumor risk is increased and related to specific mutations of Ras-MAPK pathway genes, including PTPN11. Therefore, when long-term GH therapy is intended to promote growth in children with NS, it has to be considered in relation to the genotype, the effective promotion of growth and the potentially increased tumor risk. Progress in the understanding of cell regulation by Ras-MAPK signaling will hopefully provide more evidence on which therapy might be helpful in the care of children with NS.
In-Office Thermachoice III Ablation: A Comparison of Two Anesthetic Techniques
Authors: Chapa Hector O. , Venegas Gonzalo , VanDuyne Charles P. , Suvunrungsi Luke , Antonetti Alfred G. , Sandate Jeffrey
Published: December 2009

Background: Patient comfort and safety are prerequisites for office procedures. Study objective: comparison of the fentanyl transdermal patch with injection of local anesthesia for intraoperative/postoperative pain from in-office Thermachoice III ablations. Methods: Single-center prospective randomized (1:1) cohort study. Primary endpoint: intraoperative and postoperative VAS pain scores (0 as no pain, 10 as extreme pain). Secondary endpoints: patient satisfaction between cohorts and adverse events. Results: 41 patients were randomized [21 patch protocol (FP), 20 injection protocol (IP)]. For patch users, the median VAS scores were 2.60 (range 1–4) intraoperatively and 3.30 (range 2–5) postoperatively (p = 0.09, CI = –0.8 to 0.4), with the most common adverse events being nausea (62%) and vomiting (38%). Compared to injection, there was no significant difference in intraoperative VAS score (FP median VAS = 2.60, IP median VAS = 2.59; p = 0.15, CI = –0.05 to 0.48), but a significant difference postoperatively (FP median VAS = 3.30, IP median VAS = 6.0; p = 0.01, CI = –2.6 to –1.4). Less NSAIDs were used postoperatively with the FP. At 24 h, more FP patients were ‘very satisfied’ or ‘satisfied’ than IP patients. Conclusion: Patch intraoperative VAS pain scores are comparable to uterine block scores; postoperative VAS pain scores were statistically lower with the FP. FP resulted in more favorable ‘satisfaction’ rates compared to IP.
Association Analysis under Population Stratification: A Two-Stage Procedure Utilizing Population- and Family-Based Analyses
Authors: Lin Hui-Wen , Chen Yi-Hau
Published: December 2009

Objective: The association analysis based on a population-based case-control study is convenient and powerful, but may be biased under population stratification (PS), namely the study population consists of strata heterogeneous in disease rates and allele frequencies. On the other hand, a family-based (e.g. case-parents) study is robust against the PS bias, but may be less convenient to implement. We propose an association analysis that preserves the full robustness property of the family-based analysis while allowing for borrowing information from a population-based analysis. Methods: A two-stage procedure is proposed. In the first stage, one selects a population-based case-control sample and performs a traditional case-control association analysis. In the second stage, one randomly selects a subset of the first-stage cases and recruits their family controls (e.g. parents), and performs a family-based association analysis. An overall two-stage analysis is then performed to utilize information from the two stages. Results: The proposed two-stage analysis achieves higher power than the second-stage family-based analysis by utilizing information in the first-stage population study, while maintaining the full robustness of the family study and hence is still valid under PS. The proposal can also accommodate parental missingness when the case-parents study is used as the second-stage family study. Conclusion: The two-stage analysis facilitates efficient and robust association analysis under PS. Its computation- and cost-effectiveness render it very promising in genome-wide association studies.
The Association of African Ancestry and Elevated Creatinine in the Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults (CARDIA) Study
Authors: Peralta Carmen A. , Risch Neil , Lin Feng , Shlipak Michael G. , Reiner Alex , Ziv Elad , Tang Hua , Siscovick David , Bibbins-Domingo Kirsten
Published: December 2009

Whether genetic factors account for differences in early kidney disease among blacks in a young healthy population is not well known. We evaluated the association of self-reported race and genetic African ancestry with elevated creatinine (≧1.3 mg/dl for men, ≧1.1 mg/dl for women) among 3,113 black and white participants in the Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults (CARDIA) study, ages 38–50 years. We estimated individual African ancestry using 42 ancestry informative markers. Blacks were more likely to have elevated creatinine than whites, and this effect was more pronounced in men: adjusted odds ratio (AOR) for black versus white men = 7.03, 4.15–11.91; AOR for women = 2.40, 1.15–5.02. Higher African ancestry was independently associated with elevated creatinine among black men (AOR = 1.53,1.08–2.16 per SD increase in African ancestry), but not women. A graded increase in odds of elevated creatinine by African Ancestry was observed among black men compared with white men: AOR = 4.27 (2.26–10.06) for black men with 40–70% African ancestry; AOR = 8.09 (4.19–15.61) for black men with 70–80% African ancestry; AOR = 9.05 (4.81–17.02) for black men with >80% African ancestry. Genetic factors common to African ancestry may be associated with increased risk of early kidney dysfunction in a young, healthy population, particularly among black men.
Open Heart Surgery in Patients With Sickle Cell Hemoglobinopathy
Authors: Yousafzai Sajjad M. , Ugurlucan Murat , Al Radhwan Omar A. , Al Otaibi Amal L. , Canver Charles C.
Published: December 2009

Background—

In patients with sickle cell trait or disease, reduced life expectancy and a tendency for complications are believed to negatively affect likelihood of survival after open heart surgery. The aim of this study was to review retrospectively the perioperative results of patients undergoing cardiac surgery at our institution.

Methods and Results—

Between January 1995 and December 2006, 47 patients with either sickle cell disease or sickle cell trait underwent open heart surgery at our institution. The average age of the 29 male and 18 female patients was 20 years. Patient outcomes were analyzed through the use of the institutional database. Clinical and echocardiographic follow-up was complete in all patients except 3, with a mean follow-up period of 46 months. Current status could be confirmed in 32 patients. The most common operations included the treatment of congenital and valvular heart diseases. There were no coronary artery bypass grafting procedures. Average weight of the patients was 45 kg. Exchange transfusion was performed both preoperatively and during surgery. Mean preoperative hemoglobin S concentration was 30.4±3.2% and decreased to 8.1±2.6% while on pump. Average on-pump hematocrit value was 25.4±3.7%; in the postoperative period, it increased to 32.7±4.9%. Mean cardiopulmonary bypass and cross-clamp times were 95 and 69 minutes, respectively. None of the patients had sickling crisis or acidosis. Postoperative complications included exploration for hemorrhage in 3 patients (6.4%), stroke in 2 patients (4.3%), renal failure in 2 patients (4.3%), and prolonged ventilation in 1 patient (2.1%). Average hospital stay was 8.3 days (range, 4 to 27 days). Early in-hospital death occurred in 1 patient (2.1%); currently, 31 patients (66%) remain alive and free of cardiac symptoms.

Conclusion—

Heart valve surgery and surgery for congenital heart diseases can be performed safely in patients with sickle cell disease or sickle cell trait with acceptable outcome and survival rates.
A Global Survey of Static Stability in the Stratosphere and Upper Troposphere
Authors: Grise Kevin M. , Thompson David W. J. , Birner Thomas
Published: December 2009

Static stability is a fundamental dynamical quantity that measures the vertical temperature stratification of the atmosphere. However, the magnitude and structure of finescale features in this field are difficult to discern in temperature data with low vertical resolution. In this study, the authors apply more than six years of high vertical resolution global positioning system radio occultation temperature profiles to document the long-term mean structure and variability of the global static stability field in the stratosphere and upper troposphere.

The most pronounced feature in the long-term mean static stability field is the well-known transition from low values in the troposphere to high values in the stratosphere. Superposed on this general structure are a series of finer-scale features: a minimum in static stability in the tropical upper troposphere, a broad band of high static stability in the tropical stratosphere, increases in static stability within the core of the stratospheric polar vortices, and a shallow but pronounced maximum in static stability just above the tropopause at all latitudes [i.e., the “tropopause inversion layer” (TIL)].

The results shown here provide the first global survey of static stability using high vertical resolution data and also uncover two novel aspects of the static stability field. In the tropical lower stratosphere, the results reveal a unique vertically and horizontally varying static stability structure, with maxima located at ∼17 and ∼19 km. The upper feature peaks during the NH cold season and has its largest magnitude between 10° and 15° latitude in both hemispheres; the lower feature exhibits a weaker seasonal cycle and is centered at the equator. The results also demonstrate that the strength of the TIL is closely tied to stratospheric dynamic variability. The magnitude of the TIL is enhanced following sudden stratospheric warmings in the polar regions and the easterly phase of the quasi-biennial oscillation in the tropics.
Delving into the Probation Journal: Portrayals of women probation officers and women offenders
Authors: Annison Jill
Published: December 2009

The electronic back catalogue of the Probation Journal (1929—present) has recently become available via the publisher’s website (http://prb.sagepub.com/ archive/). This article provides a descriptive and analytical critique of portrayals of women probation officers and women offenders by drawing from the range of editions of the Probation Journal.
Evidencing sexual assault: Women in the witness box
Authors: Burman Michele
Published: December 2009

Drawing on recent research conducted in Scottish criminal courts, this article discusses the evidencing of sexual crimes through victim testimony. Despite significant reforms, complainers in sexual offence trials still find the process traumatic; the amount of sexual evidence introduced into the trial has increased; and the nature of such evidence draws on pervasive and outmoded rape myths.
Goal attainment scaling: a direct comparison of alternative rating methods
Authors: Turner-Stokes Lynne , Williams Heather
Published: December 2009

Purpose: To compare two alternative rating systems for goal attainment scaling (GAS) intended to improve capture of goal underachievement.

Setting: A tertiary inpatient neurorehabilitation unit.

Design: Secondary comparative analysis of prospective cohort data.

Participants: A total of 243 patients were included, with 977 goals between them; M:F ratio 146:97, mean age 44.8 (SD 14.2) years. Diagnosis: 200 (82%) acquired brain injury, 21 (9%) spinal cord injury, 22 (9%) other neurological conditions.

Methods: Goal attainment scaling-rated achievement of 1—6 patient-selected goals was collected using the standard 5-point scale (—2 to +2) and formula to derive aggregated T-scores, as recommended by its originators. Two alternative 6-point rating systems were applied retrospectively. Version 1 set all baseline scores at ‘—2’ and added ‘—3’ to denote ‘worsening’. Version 2 added a ‘—0.5’ score to denote ‘partial achievement’ for goals starting at ‘—1’, without change to range or baseline scores.

Results: Baseline scores were identical for standard rating and version 2 (median 34.9, interquartile range (IQR) 31.9—35.5), but lower for version 1 (median 21.0, IQR 19.8—22.6), which was reflected in the change scores. While median achieved T-scores were 50.0 for all three methods, version 2 marginally overestimated goal attainment (Wilcoxon z —6.8, P<0.001), while version 1 underestimated it (Wilcoxon z —7.2, P<0.001), in comparison with standard goal rating.

Conclusion: Different goal rating methods may have significant impact on goal attainment scaling results. Version 2 provided the closest match to standard rating, supporting documentation of partial goal achievement without affecting score range. For analysis and reporting, ‘0.5’ scores should be converted to ‘—1’, to maintain parity with standard rating systems.
Acculturation and Polysubstance Abuse in Arab-American Treatment Clients
Authors: Arfken Cynthia L. , Kubiak Sheryl P. , Farrag Mohamed
Published: December 2009

Acculturation to U.S. culture by Latinos and Asian Americans has been associated with increased prevalence of substance abuse. However, little is known about the association between acculturation and substance use among Arab Americans, or more specifically, among Arab-American treatment clients. In 156 Arab-American male treatment clients, we found that higher levels of U.S. acculturation were positively associated with increased prevalence of polysubstance abuse. This first report on a large series of Arab-American clients also found considerable within-group variability. These results can be used to develop treatment plans and work-force training on the importance of U.S. acculturation and variability within Arab Americans.
Is ‘modern culture’ bad for our health and well-being?
Authors: Hanlon Phil , Carlisle Sandra
Published: December 2009

Evidence is accumulating that well-being in high-income societies may be static or in decline. One influential theory argues that this is because ‘modern’ societies are influenced by values of materialism, individualism and consumerism. Does this intellectual critique resonate with ordinary people? This article reports on interviews with purposefully selected groups in Scotland, where the relevance of the cultural critique was explored. Participants in the study believed that cultural values such as individualized consumerism do exert a damaging influence on well-being. They suggested that such values are given particular power in the context of widespread social change and increasing inequalities. Nevertheless, they also believed that individuals and communities possess the capacity to resist such trends. This article concludes that efforts to achieve material improvement for disadvantaged people may not suffice in redressing deep-seated inequalities, if the contribution of some subtle but pernicious effects of contemporary culture remains neglected. However, the research does suggest that positive responses are also possible. (Global Health Promotion, 2009; 16(4): pp. 27—34)
Mislocalization of SLP-76 leads to aberrant inflammatory cytokine and autoantibody production
Authors: Sonnenberg Gregory F. , Mangan Paul R. , Bezman Natalie A. , Sekiguchi Debora R. , Luning Prak Eline T. , Erikson Jan , Maltzman Jonathan S. , Jordan Martha S. , Koretzky Gary A.
Published: December 2009

Central and peripheral tolerance is required to prevent immune responses to self-antigens. We now present a mouse model in which wild-type (WT) SH2 domain-containing leukocyte phosphoprotein of 76 kDa (SLP-76) has been constitutively targeted to the membrane, where CD4+ T cells become spontaneously dysregulated and develop an inflammatory phenotype. Mice bearing membrane-targeted SLP-76 (MTS) have a partial T-cell lymphopenia and impaired signaling though the mature T-cell receptor. The CD4+ T cells that develop in these mice possess an activated-like phenotype and are skewed toward the inflammatory TH1 and TH17 lineages. MTS mice also spontaneously develop autoantibodies at an early age. To rule out abnormal thymic selection as the sole cause of the MTS phenotype, we expressed WT SLP-76 along with the MTS followed by deletion of the WT allele in peripheral T cells. The peripheral MTS-expressing T cells demonstrate skewed cytokine responses when transferred into lymphopenic hosts. Thus, the abnormal effector T-cell phenotype still occurs in the presence of preserved central and peripheral tolerance, suggesting that diminished T-cell receptor signaling can promote skewed T-cell responses.
In Silico Evaluation of Predicted Regulatory Interactions in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Nero Damion , Katari Manpreet S , Kelfer Jonathan , Tranchina Daniel , Coruzzi Gloria M
Published: December 2009

Background

Prediction of transcriptional regulatory mechanisms in Arabidopsis has become increasingly critical with the explosion of genomic data now available for both gene expression and gene sequence composition. We have shown in previous work [1], that a combination of correlation measurements and cis-regulatory element (CRE) detection methods are effective in predicting targets for candidate transcription factors for specific case studies which were validated. However, to date there has been no quantitative assessment as to which correlation measures or CRE detection methods used alone or in combination are most effective in predicting TF→target relationships on a genome-wide scale.

Results

We tested several widely used methods, based on correlation (Pearson and Spearman Rank correlation) and cis- regulatory element (CRE) detection (≥1 CRE or CRE over-representation), to determine which of these methods individually or in combination is the most effective by various measures for making regulatory predictions. To predict the regulatory targets of a transcription factor (TF) of interest, we applied these methods to microarray expression data for genes that were regulated over treatment and control conditions in wild type (WT) plants. Because the chosen data sets included identical experimental conditions used on TF over-expressor or T-DNA knockout plants, we were able to test the TF→target predictions made using microarray data from WT plants, with microarray data from mutant/transgenic plants. For each method, or combination of methods, we computed sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive value and the F-measure of balance between sensitivity and positive predictive value (precision). This analysis revealed that the ≥1 CRE and Spearman correlation (used alone or in combination) were the most balanced CRE detection and correlation methods, respectively with regard to their power to accurately predict regulatory-target interactions.

Conclusion

These findings provide an approach and guidance for researchers interested in predicting transcriptional regulatory mechanisms using microarray data that they generate (or microarray data that is publically available) combined with CRE detection in promoter sequence data.
Functional diversity of human protein kinase splice variants marks significant expansion of human kinome
Authors: Anamika Krishanpal , Garnier Nicolas , Srinivasan Narayanaswamy
Published: December 2009

Background

Protein kinases are involved in diverse spectrum of cellular processes. Availability of draft version of the human genomic data in the year 2001 enabled recognition of repertoire of protein kinases. However, over the years the human genomic data is being refined and the current release of human genomic data has helped us to recognize a larger repertoire of over 900 human protein kinases represented mainly by splice variants.

Results

Many of these identified protein kinases are alternatively spliced products. Interestingly, some of the human kinase splice variants appear to be significantly diverged in terms of their functional properties as represented by incorporation or absence of one or more domains. Many sets of protein kinase splice variants have substantially different domain organization and in a few sets of splice variants kinase domains belong to different subfamilies of kinases suggesting potential participation in different signal transduction pathways.

Conclusions

Addition or deletion of a domain between splice variants of multi-domain kinases appears to be a means of generating differences in the functional features of otherwise similar kinases. It is intriguing that marked sequence diversity within the catalytic regions of some of the splice variant kinases result in kinases belonging to different subfamilies. These human kinase splice variants with different functions might contribute to diversity of eukaryotic cellular signaling.
Retention of Pax3 Expression in Satellite Cells of Muscle Spindles
Authors: Kirkpatrick Lisa J. , Yablonka-Reuveni Zipora , Rosser Benjamin W.C.
Published: December 2009

Intrafusal fibers within muscle spindles retain features characteristic of immaturity, unlike the larger and more numerous extrafusal fibers constituting the bulk of skeletal muscle. Satellite cells (SCs), myogenic progenitors, are detected on the surfaces of both intrafusal and extrafusal fibers, but little is known of spindle SCs. We have recently demonstrated that, like their extrafusal counterparts, SCs in muscle spindles of posthatch chickens express paired box transcription factor 7 (Pax7) protein. During vertebrate embryogenesis, myogenic progenitors express both Pax7 and Pax3 proteins. In postnatal mice, Pax3 appears in rare SC subsets, whereas Pax7 is expressed by all SCs within extrafusal fibers. Here we test the hypothesis that Pax3 protein maintains localized expression within SCs of muscle spindles. Immunohistochemical techniques were used to identify SCs by their Pax7 expression within anterior latissimus dorsi muscle excised from posthatch chickens of various ages. A greater percentage of SCs express Pax3 within intrafusal than extrafusal fibers at each age, and the proportion of SCs expressing Pax3 declines with aging. This is the first study to localize Pax3 expression in posthatch avian muscle and within SCs of muscle spindles. We suggest that Pax3-positive SCs are involved in fiber maintenance.
Structure and Epigenetics of Nucleoli in Comparison With Non-nucleolar Compartments
Authors: Bártová Eva , Horáková Andrea Harničarová , Uhlířová Radka , Raška Ivan , Galiová Gabriela , Orlova Darya , Kozubek Stanislav
Published: December 2009

The nucleolus is a nuclear compartment that plays an important role in ribosome biogenesis. Some structural features and epigenetic patterns are shared between nucleolar and non-nucleolar compartments. For example, the location of transcriptionally active mRNA on extended chromatin loop species is similar to that observed for transcriptionally active ribosomal DNA (rDNA) genes on so-called Christmas tree branches. Similarly, nucleolus organizer region–bearing chromosomes located a distance from the nucleolus extend chromatin fibers into the nucleolar compartment. Specific epigenetic events, such as histone acetylation and methylation and DNA methylation, also regulate transcription of both rRNA- and mRNA-encoding loci. Here, we review the epigenetic mechanisms and structural features that regulate transcription of ribosomal and mRNA genes. We focus on similarities in epigenetic and structural regulation of chromatin in nucleoli and the surrounding non-nucleolar region and discuss the role of proteins, such as heterochromatin protein 1, fibrillarin, nucleolin, and upstream binding factor, in rRNA synthesis and processing.
Instability dependent upon bias and temperature stress in amorphous‐indium gallium zinc oxide (a‐IGZO) thin‐film transistors
Authors: Choi Kwang‐Il , Nam Dong‐Ho , Park Jeong‐Gyu , Park Sung‐Su , Choi Won‐Ho , Han In‐Shik , Jeong Jae‐Kyeong , Lee Hi‐Deok , Lee Ga‐Won
Published: December 2009

Abstract— The effects of gate‐bias stress, drain‐bias stress, and temperature on the electrical parameters of amorphous‐indium gallium zinc oxide (a‐IGZO) thin‐film transistors have been investigated. Results demonstrate that the devices suffer from threshold‐voltage instabilities that are recovered at room temperature without any treatments. It is suggested that these instabilities result from the bias field and temperature‐assisted charging and discharging phenomenon of preexisting traps at the near‐interface and the a‐IGZO channel region. The experimental results show that applying a drain‐bias stress obviously impacts the instability of a‐IGZO TFTs; however, the instability caused by drain bias is not caused by hot‐electron generation as in conventional MOSFETs. And the degradation trend is affected by thermally activated carriers at high temperature.
Evaluation of LCD local‐dimming‐backlight system
Authors: Chen Hanfeng , Ha Tae Hyeun , Sung Jun Ho , Kim Hyung Rae , Han Baik Hee
Published: December 2009

Abstract— Local‐dimming backlight techniques can significantly improve the static contrast and power consumption of LCD panels. Several local‐dimming backlight systems have been previously reported. However, there is currently no comprehensive description regarding the evaluation of such systems. This paper proposes some methods for evaluating the power consumption, brightness, and contrast performance of local‐dimming backlight systems and discusses the general artifacts affecting the image quality for these systems.
Birefringent properties of cyclic block copolymers and low‐retardation‐film development
Authors: Zhou Weijun , Diehl Charles , Murray Dan , Koppi Kurt A. , Hahn Stephen , Wu Shin‐Tson
Published: December 2009

Abstract—Cyclic block copolymers (CBCs) are a new class of optical polymers made by fully hydrogenating block copolymers of styrene and conjugated diene. This class of materials has excellent optical transparency, photostability, and good thermal resistance. By changing the copolymer composition and the resulting block‐copolymer morphology, a unique set of birefringence properties can be achieved. The focus of this work was to study various sources of birefringence in block copolymers using a series of model CBC materials. One particularly interesting finding relates to the development of an ultra‐low‐phase‐retardation CBC film. Unlike the conventional approach of using an additive or blend, a CBC film prepared by melt extrusion can readily achieve near‐zero retardation in both the film plane and thickness direction. This nearly isotropic CBC film is useful as a polarizer protection film in flat‐panel displays. When used as the inner protective layer of a polarizer, CBC film helps to reduce the color shift of IPS‐LCDs at oblique angles and offer a wider viewing angle.