bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A survey of Quality Engineering–Management journals by bibliometric indicators
Authors: Franceschini Fiorenzo , Maisano Domenico
Published: December 2009

This paper analyses some of the most popular scientific journals in the Quality field from the point of view of three bibliometric indicators: the Hirsch (h) index for journals, the total number of citations and the h‐spectrum. In particular, h‐spectrum is a novel tool based on h, making it possible to (i) identify a reference profile of the typical authors of a journal; (ii) compare different journals; and (iii) provide a rough indication of their ‘bibliometric positioning’ in the scientific community. Results of this analysis can be helpful for guiding potential authors and members of the scientific community in the Quality Engineering/Management area. A large amount of empirical data are presented and discussed. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Enrichment and analysis of phosphopeptides under different experimental conditions using titanium dioxide affinity chromatography and mass spectrometry
Authors: Aryal Uma K. , Ross Andrew R. S.
Published: December 2009

Titanium dioxide metal oxide affinity chromatography (TiO2‐MOAC) is widely regarded as being more selective than immobilized metal‐ion affinity chromatography (IMAC) for phosphopeptide enrichment. However, the widespread application of TiO2‐MOAC to biological samples is hampered by conflicting reports as to which experimental conditions are optimal. We have evaluated the performance of TiO2‐MOAC under a wide range of loading and elution conditions. Loading and stringent washing of peptides with strongly acidic solutions ensured highly selective enrichment for phosphopeptides, with minimal carryover of non‐phosphorylated peptides. Contrary to previous reports, the addition of glycolic acid to the loading solution was found to reduce specificity towards phosphopeptides. Base elution in ammonium hydroxide or ammonium phosphate provided optimal specificity and recovery of phosphorylated peptides. In contrast, elution with phosphoric acid gave incomplete recovery of phosphopeptides, whereas inclusion of 2,5‐dihydroxybenzoic acid in the eluant introduced a bias against the recovery of multiply phosphorylated peptides. TiO2‐MOAC was also found to be intolerant of many reagents commonly used as phosphatase inhibitors during protein purification. However, TiO2‐MOAC showed higher specificity than immobilized gallium (Ga3+), immobilized iron (Fe3+), or zirconium dioxide (ZrO2) affinity chromatography for phosphopeptide enrichment. Matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry (MALDI‐MS) was more effective in detecting larger, multiply phosphorylated peptides than liquid chromatography/electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry (LC/ESI‐MS/MS), which was more efficient for smaller, singly phosphorylated peptides. Copyright © 2009 Crown in the right of Canada. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Maximizing Functional Photoreceptor Differentiation From Adult Human Retinal Stem Cells
Authors: Inoue Tomoyuki , Coles Brenda L.K. , Dorval Kim , Bremner Rod , Bessho Yasumasa , Kageyama Ryoichiro , Hino Shinjiro , Matsuoka Masao , Craft Cheryl M. , McInnes Roderick R. , Tremblay Francois , Prusky Glen T. , van der Kooy Derek
Published: December 2009

Retinal stem cells (RSCs) are present in the ciliary margin of the adult human eye and can give rise to all retinal cell types. Here we show that modulation of retinal transcription factor gene expression in human RSCs greatly enriches photoreceptor progeny, and that strong enrichment was obtained with the combined transduction of OTX2 and CRX together with the modulation of CHX10. When these genetically modified human RSC progeny are transplanted into mouse eyes, their retinal integration and differentiation is superior to unmodified RSC progeny. Moreover, electrophysiologic and behavioral tests show that these transplanted cells promote functional recovery in transducin mutant mice. This study suggests that gene modulation in human RSCs may provide a source of photoreceptor cells for the treatment of photoreceptor disease.
Grounding and the influence of the total pressure losses in ducted wind turbines
Authors: Georgiou D. P. , Theodoropoulos N. G.
Published: December 2009

Ducted wind turbines are known to exceed the Betz limit for the power that may be extracted from free currents per unit cross‐sectional area of their rotors. The present study points to another advantage: the fact that the turbine rotor (and the associated subassemblies) need not be lifted up on the air and rotated to align with the wind. They can function just as effectively by installing them on the ground and sucking air inside it. The analysis evaluates the efficiency of a ducted wind turbine plant, exhausting into the wake of a bluff body, under both ideal and realistic component performance. The results indicate that there exists a strong need to develop diffusers with a very low loss coefficient (e.g. by employing suction or transpiration techniques). Under such conditions and by employing the above exhaust assist techniques, the ducted wind turbine concept may deliver efficiencies more than an order of magnitude larger than those of the conventional plants. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Most, but not all, yeast strains in the deletion library contain the [PIN+] prion
Authors: Manogaran Anita L. , Fajardo Viviana M. , Reid Robert J. D. , Rothstein Rodney , Liebman Susan W.
Published: December 2009

The yeast deletion library is a collection of over 5100 single gene deletions that has been widely used by the yeast community. The presence of a non‐Mendelian element, such as a prion, within this library could affect the outcome of many large‐scale genomic studies. We previously showed that the deletion library parent strain contained the [PIN+] prion. [PIN+] is the misfolded infectious prion form of the Rnq1 protein that displays distinct fluorescent foci in the presence of RNQ1–GFP and exists in different physical conformations, called variants. Here, we show that over 97% of the library deletion strains are [PIN+]. Of the 141 remaining strains that have completely (58) or partially (83) lost [PIN+], 139 deletions were able to efficiently maintain three different [PIN+] variants despite extensive growth and storage at 4 °C. One strain, cue2Δ, displayed an alteration in the RNQ1–GFP fluorescent shape, but the Rnq1p prion aggregate shows no biochemical differences from the wild‐type. Only strains containing a deletion of either HSP104 or RNQ1 are unable to maintain [PIN+], indicating that 5153 non‐essential genes are not required for [PIN+] propagation. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A novel kanamycin/G418 resistance marker for direct selection of transformants in Escherichia coli and different yeast species
Authors: Agaphonov Michael , Romanova Nina , Choi Eui‐Sung , Ter‐Avanesyan Michael
Published: December 2009

We have developed a set of cloning vectors possessing a modified Tn903 kanamycin resistance gene that enables the selection of both kanamycin‐resistant transformants in Escherichia coli and G418‐resistant transformants in the yeasts Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Hansenula polymorpha and Pichia pastoris. Expression of this gene in yeast is controlled by the H. polymorpha glyceraldehyde‐3‐phosphate dehydrogenase promoter, while expression in E. coli is governed by an upstream E. coli lacZ promoter. Applicability of the vectors for gene disruption in H. polymorpha and S. cerevisiae was demonstrated by inactivation of the HpMAL1 and URA3 genes, respectively. One of the vectors possesses a H. polymorpha ARS allowing plasmid maintenance in an episomal state. The small size of the vectors (2–2.5 kb) makes them convenient for routine DNA cloning. In addition, we report a novel approach for construction of gene disruption cassettes. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Hsp70/Hsp90 co‐chaperones are required for efficient Hsp104‐mediated elimination of the yeast [PSI+] prion but not for prion propagation
Authors: Moosavi Behrooz , Wongwigkarn Jintana , Tuite Mick F.
Published: December 2009

The continued propagation of the yeast [PSI+] prion requires the molecular chaperone Hsp104 yet in cells engineered to overexpress Hsp104; prion propagation is impaired leading to the rapid appearance of prion‐free [psi−] cells. The underlying mechanism of prion loss in such cells is unknown but is assumed to be due to the complete dissolution of the prion aggregates by the ATP‐dependent disaggregase activity of this chaperone. To further explore the mechanism, we have sought to identify cellular factors required for prion loss in such cells. Sti1p and Cpr7p are co‐chaperones that modulate the activity of Hsp70/Ssa and Hsp90 chaperones and bind to the C‐terminus of Hsp104. Neither Sti1p nor Cpr7p is necessary for prion propagation but we show that deletion of theSTI1andCPR7genes leads to a significant reduction in the generation of [psi−] cells by Hsp104 overexpression. Deletion of theSTI1andCPR7genes does not modify the elimination of [PSI+] by guanidine hydrochloride, which inhibits the ATPase activity of Hsp104 but does block elimination of [PSI+] by overexpression of either an ATPase‐defective mutant of Hsp104 (hsp104K218T/K620T) or a ‘trap’ mutant Hsp104 (hsp104E285Q/E687Q) that can bind its substrate but can not release it. These results provide support for the hypothesis that [PSI+] elimination by Hsp104 overexpression is not simply a consequence of complete dissolution of the prion aggregates but rather is through a mechanism distinct from the remodelling activity of Hsp104. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Comparison of Carotid Surgery in Northern Europe and Northern Africa
Authors: Taha Ashraf G. , Vikatmaa Pirkka , Soinne Lauri , Thabet Bahgat A. , Lepäntalo Mauri
Published: December 2009

Background

Although the indications for carotid endarterectomy (CEA) are clearly defined by major trials, CEA has not been properly implemented in many developing regions, including Northern Africa represented in this study by Upper Egypt. This study was designed to estimate the need for CEA in symptomatic patients with significant internal carotid artery stenosis in Upper Egypt. The estimated needs and actual provision of CEA in Upper Egypt were compared with those of Uusimaa (Finland) and Wessex (England) regions, representing Northern Europe.

Methods

Incidence rates were derived from a community‐based door‐to‐door survey in Upper Egypt, Oxford Community Stroke Project, and epidemiological Finnish studies. The provision of CEA was derived from the local registry of Vascular Surgery Department, Assiut University Hospitals in Upper Egypt; HUSVASC data registry at Helsinki University Central Hospital, and the published data of the Wessex region. The estimated needs were calculated using previously published proportions of patients eligible for CEA.

Results

The population at risk of cerebral ischemic events (≥65 years old) is 4% of the Egyptian population compared with 16% and 15% of the British and Finnish populations, respectively. The incidence of stroke and transient ischemic attack (TIA) is comparable in England and Finland but higher than the Egyptian rates (1.9‰ and 2.1‰ vs. 1.2‰ for stroke; 0.5‰ and 0.6‰ vs. 0.2‰ for TIA, respectively). The ratio of the actual provision of CEA to the estimated need in Wessex and Uusimaa is the same (0.5), whereas it is much lower (0.003) in Upper Egypt.

Conclusions

Despite the low incidence of stroke and TIA, there is a huge unmet need for CEA in Upper Egypt. Yet, Wessex and Uusimaa also seemed to be at a suboptimal level compared with the estimated need. If CEA could be offered annually to those 1,650 patients with severe symptomatic ICA stenosis, 275 strokes could be prevented in Upper Egypt in 5‐year duration, provided that the operative morbidity and mortality rates are equal to those reported in the large, randomized, controlled trials.
Residual Skin Tags Following Procedure for Prolapse and Hemorrhoids: Differentiation from Recurrence
Authors: Gao Xian Hua , Fu Chuan Gang , Nabieu Paul Fallah‐wandalachi
Published: December 2009

Purpose

The aim of this study was to compare the incidence of recurrence and residual skin tag after the procedure for prolapse and hemorrhoids (PPH) versus conventional hemorrhoidectomy (CH) in the Chinese‐ and English‐language literature to explore the definition of recurrence after PPH.

Methods

Related Chinese‐ and English‐language literature was collected by several methods. Meta‐analysis was used to compare the incidence of recurrence and residual skin tag of PPH versus CH.

Results

In China, 13.94% of hemorrhoids had a skin tag after PPH. The mean recurrence rate after PPH was 3.23% (range 0.40–26.44%). Our meta‐analysis of PPH versus CH of the Chinese studies showed that PPH had a significantly lower recurrence rate—13 studies, odds ratio (OR) 0.27, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.17–0.42, p < 0.00001—and a higher incidence of skin tags with no significance—6 studies, OR 3.42, 95% CI 0.49–24.04, p = 0.22. Our meta‐analysis of PPH versus CH among the English‐language studies showed that PPH had a significantly higher recurrence rate—17 studies, 636 patients in the PPH group vs. 625 patients in the CH group, OR 2.96, 95% CI 1.57–5.56, p = 0.0008—and a significantly higher incidence of residual skin tags—8 studies, 297 patients in the PPH group vs. 289 patients in the CH group, OR 1.88, 95% CI 1.15–3.05, p = 0.01. However, the recurrence of prolapse was stated to be ascertained by anorectal examination in only six studies; meta‐analysis of the six studies showed that PPH was not associated with a higher recurrence—six studies, 230 patients in the PPH group vs. 220 patients in the CH group; OR 1.87, 95% CI 0.70–5.00, p = 0.22.

Conclusions

PPH is not associated with a higher recurrence rate but is associated with a higher incidence of skin tags compared with CH. The reported high recurrence rates are probably caused by improper inclusion of residual skin tags into the recurrence data. Surgeons should perform anorectal examinations to differentiate a residual skin tag from a recurrence.
Performance of a Computerized Protocol for Trauma Shock Resuscitation
Authors: Sucher Joseph F. , Moore Frederick A. , Sailors R. Matthew , Gonzalez Ernest A. , McKinley Bruce A.
Published: December 2009

Background

A computerized protocol was developed and used to standardize bedside clinician decision making for resuscitation of shock due to severe trauma during the first day in the intensive care unit (ICU) at a metropolitan Level I trauma center. We report overall performance of a computerized protocol for resuscitation of shock due to severe trauma, incorporating two options for resuscitation monitoring and intervention intensity, according to: (1) duration of use and (2) acceptance of computerized protocol‐generated instructions.

Methods

A computerized protocol operated by clinicians, using a personal computer (PC) at the bedside, was used to guide clinical decision making for resuscitation of patients meeting specific injury and shock criteria. The protocol generated instructions that could be accepted or declined. Clinician acceptance of the protocol instructions was stored by the PC software in a database for each patient. A rule‐based, data‐driven protocol was developed using literature evidence, expert opinion, and ongoing protocol performance analysis. Logic–flow diagrams were used to facilitate communication among multidisciplinary protocol development team members. The protocol was computerized using standard programming methods and implemented using cart‐mounted PCs with a touch screen and keyboard interfaces. Protocol progression began with patient demographic data and criteria entry, confirmation of hemodynamic monitor instrumentation, request for specific hemodynamic performance data, and instructions for specific interventions (or no intervention). Use and performance of the computerized protocol was recorded in a protocol execution database. The protocol was continuously maintained with new literature evidence and database performance analysis findings. Initially implemented in 2000, the computerized protocol was refined in 2004 with two options for resuscitation intensity: pulmonary artery catheter‐ and central venous pressure‐directed resuscitation.

Results

Over 2 years ending at August 2006, a total of 193 trauma patients (mean Injury Severity Score was 27, survival rate 89%) were resuscitated using the computerized protocol. Protocol duration was 4400 hours or 22.7 ± 0.4 hours per patient. The computerized protocol generated 3724 instructions (19 ± 1 per patient) that required a bedside clinician response. In all, 94% of these instructions were accepted by the bedside clinician users.

Conclusions

A computerized protocol to guide decision making for trauma shock resuscitation in a Level 1 trauma center surgical ICU was developed and used as standard of care. During 2 years ending at August 2006, 94% of computer‐generated instructions for specific interventions or measurements of hemodynamic performance were accepted by bedside clinicians, indicating appropriate, useful design and reliance on the computerized protocol system.
Evaluation of the Adequacy of Lymph Node Dissection in Pylorus‐Preserving Gastrectomy for Early Gastric Cancer Using the Maruyama Index
Authors: Yoo Moon‐Won , Park Do Joong , Ahn Hye Seong , Jeong Sang‐Ho , Lee Hyuk‐Joon , Kim Woo Ho , Kim Hyung‐Ho , Lee Kuhn Uk , Yang Han‐Kwang
Published: December 2009

Background

The Maruyama computer program predicts the percentage likelihood of disease in lymph node stations left undissected by a surgeon, according to the age and sex of the patient and the gross type, size, location, depth of invasion, and histology of the tumor. The Maruyama index (MI) is defined as the sum of the predictions of the percentage likelihood of disease in undissected regional lymph node station (station 1–12). It has been shown that an MI < 5 is a strong predictor of survival and that the MI is an independent predictor of overall survival and relapse risk. We used the MI to evaluate the adequacy of lymph nodes dissection in pylorus‐preserving gastrectomy (PPG) for early gastric cancer (EGC) performed at Seoul National University Hospital.

Methods

From March 2003 to September 2007, PPG was performed for patients with EGC of the middle third of the stomach when the distal resection margin was greater than 2 cm and preservation of 3 cm antral segment was possible. MIs and pathologic data such as TNM stage and the presence of metastatic lymph node for each station were reviewed.

Results

PPG were performed on 24 patients. The mean age of the patients was 55 years. The median tumor size was 2.1 cm. The median and mean MI were 0 and 0.8, respectively. There were 23 cases of T1N0M0 tumor and one case of T2N0M0 tumor postoperatively. There were no recurrences (mean follow‐up period: 27.2 months).

Conclusions

The MI indicates that lymph node dissection during PPG performed in these 24 patients was adequate.
Multimedia Abstract Generation of Intensive Care Data: The Automation of Clinical Processes Through AI Methodologies
Authors: Jordan Desmond , Rose Sydney E.
Published: December 2009

Medical errors from communication failures are enormous during the perioperative period of cardiac surgical patients. As caregivers change shifts or surgical patients change location within the hospital, key information is lost or misconstrued. After a baseline cognitive study of information need and caregiver workflow, we implemented an advanced clinical decision support tool of intelligent agents, medical logic modules, and text generators called the “Inference Engine” to summarize individual patient’s raw medical data elements into procedural milestones, illness severity, and care therapies. The system generates two displays: 1) the continuum of care, multimedia abstract generation of intensive care data (MAGIC)—an expert system that would automatically generate a physician briefing of a cardiac patient’s operative course in a multimodal format; and 2) the isolated point in time, “Inference Engine”—a system that provides a real‐time, high‐level, summarized depiction of a patient’s clinical status. In our studies, system accuracy and efficacy was judged against clinician performance in the workplace. To test the automated physician briefing, “MAGIC,” the patient’s intraoperative course, was reviewed in the intensive care unit before patient arrival. It was then judged against the actual physician briefing and that given in a cohort of patients where the system was not used. To test the real‐time representation of the patient’s clinical status, system inferences were judged against clinician decisions. Changes in workflow and situational awareness were assessed by questionnaires and process evaluation. MAGIC provides 200% more information, twice the accuracy, and enhances situational awareness. This study demonstrates that the automation of clinical processes through AI methodologies yields positive results.
John Jones, M.D.: Pioneer, Patriot, and Founder of American Surgery
Authors: Griesemer Adam D. , Widmann Warren D. , Forde Kenneth A. , Hardy Mark A.
Published: December 2009

John Jones was a pioneer of American Surgery. Born in Long Island, New York in 1729, he received his medical degree in France from the University of Rheims. He returned to the colonies and helped to establish the medical school that would later become Columbia University’s College of Physicians and Surgeons where he was appointed the first Professor of Surgery in the New World. He used his position to assert that surgeons trained in America should be familiar with all facets of medicine and not be mere technicians. Before the outbreak of the American Revolution, he wrote a surgical field manual, which was the first medical text published in America. A believer in the principles of the American Revolution, he would go on to count Benjamin Franklin and George Washington as his patients. Despite achieving many firsts in American medicine, his influence on surgical training is his most enduring legacy.
Residual Nodal Disease in Biopsy Proven N1/N2 Breast Cancer Following Neoadjuvant Systemic Therapy
Authors: Al Mushawah Fatema , Tan Marcus C. , Margenthaler Julie A.
Published: December 2009

Background

The purpose of this study was to determine the rate of complete pathologic response in axillary lymph nodes after neoadjuvant therapy and the clinicopathologic factors associated with a complete response.

Methods

Clinical, demographic, and pathologic data from all patients with breast cancer treated at our institution are prospectively recorded in a database. We reviewed this database from 2000 to 2007 and identified 90 patients who were node‐positive before neoadjuvant therapy based on image‐guided fine needle aspiration biopsy; all 90 patients underwent axillary lymph node dissection (ALND) after neoadjuvant therapy. Data were compared using chi‐square and Fisher’s exact test.

Results

Of 90 patients with breast cancer who were node‐positive before neoadjuvant therapy, 71 (79%) had positive nodal disease on final ALND pathology and 19 (21%) had a complete nodal pathologic response. Age, race, tumor grade, clinical T and N stage, and estrogen/progesterone receptor and Her‐2neu status were not predictive of a complete nodal response. The only factor predictive of a complete nodal response was the type of neoadjuvant therapy used; all 19 patients with a complete response received neoadjuvant chemotherapy and none received neoadjuvant endocrine therapy (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Twenty‐five percent of patients who underwent neoadjuvant chemotherapy had a complete pathologic response in the nodal basin, whereas no patient who underwent neoadjuvant endocrine therapy experienced a complete nodal response.

Twenty‐five percent of patients who underwent neoadjuvant chemotherapy had a complete pathological response in the nodal specimen, whereas no patient who underwent neoadjuvant endocrine therapy experienced a complete nodal response.
Fundamental and intensive care of acute pancreatitis
Authors: Hirota Morihisa , Takada Tadahiro , Kitamura Nobuya , Ito Tetsuhide , Hirata Koichi , Yoshida Masahiro , Mayumi Toshihiko , Kataoka Keisho , Takeda Kazunori , Sekimoto Miho , Hirota Masahiko , Kimura Yasutoshi , Wada Keita , Amano Hodaka , Gabata Toshifumi , Arata Shinju , Yokoe Masamichi , Kiriyama Seiki
Published: December 2009

Patients who have been diagnosed as having acute pancreatitis should be, on principle, hospitalized. Crucial fundamental management is required soon after a diagnosis of acute pancreatitis has been made and includes monitoring of the conscious state, the respiratory and cardiovascular system, the urinary output, adequate fluid replacement and pain control. Along with such management, etiologic diagnosis and severity assessment should be conducted. Patients with a diagnosis of severe acute pancreatitis should be transferred to a medical facility where intensive respiratory and cardiovascular management as well as interventional treatment, blood purification therapy and nutritional support are available. The disease condition in acute pancreatitis changes every moment and even symptoms that are mild at the time of diagnosis may become severe later. Therefore, severity assessment should be conducted repeatedly at least within 48 h following diagnosis. An adequate dose of fluid replacement is essential to stabilize cardiovascular dynamics and the dose should be adjusted while assessing circulatory dynamics constantly. A large dose of fluid replacement is usually required in patients with severe acute pancreatitis. Prophylactic antibiotic administration is recommended to prevent infectious complications in patients with severe acute pancreatitis. Although the efficacy of intravenous administration of protease inhibitors is still a matter of controversy, there is a consensus in Japan that a large dose of a synthetic protease inhibitor should be given to patients with severe acute pancreatitis in order to prevent organ failure and other complications. Enteral feeding is superior to parenteral nutrition when it comes to the nutritional support of patients with severe acute pancreatitis. The JPN Guidelines recommend, as optional continuous regional arterial infusion and blood purification therapy.
Diverse population trajectories among coexisting species of subarctic forest moths
Authors: Kozlov Mikhail V. , Hunter Mark D. , Koponen Seppo , Kouki Jari , Niemelä Pekka , Price Peter W.
Published: December 2009

Records of 232 moth species spanning 26 years (total catch of ca. 230,000 specimens), obtained by continuous light‐trapping in Kevo, northernmost subarctic Finland, were used to examine the hypothesis that life‐history traits and taxonomic position contribute to both relative abundance and temporal variability of Lepidoptera. Species with detritophagous or moss‐feeding larvae, species hibernating in the larval stage, and species pupating during the first half of the growing season were over‐represented among 42 species classified as abundant during the entire sampling period. The coefficients of variation in annual catches of species hibernating as eggs averaged 1.7 times higher than those of species hibernating as larvae or pupae. Time‐series analysis demonstrated that periodicity in fluctuations of annual catches is generally independent of life‐history traits and taxonomic affinities of the species. Moreover, closely related species with similar life‐history traits often show different population dynamics, undermining the phylogenetic constraints hypothesis. Species with the shortest (1 year) time lag in the action of negative feedback processes on population growth exhibit the largest magnitude of fluctuations. Our analyses revealed that only a few consistent patterns in the population dynamics of herbivorous moths can be deduced from life‐history characteristics of the species. Moreover, the diversity of population behaviour in one moth assemblage challenges any conventional wisdom suggesting predictable patterns. Our results raise several questions about perceptions and paradigms in insect population dynamics and stress the need for research on detritivorous insect population dynamics, as well as the need for more assemblage‐wide studies using common trapping methods to provide comparative data on related and unrelated species with different life‐history traits.
Effect of Sonication on the Thermotropic Behavior of DODAB Vesicles Studied by Fluorescence Probe Solubilization
Authors: Feitosa Eloi , Benatti Carlos Roberto , Tiera Marcio José
Published: December 2009

The effect of sonication on fluorescence probe solubilization in cationic vesicles of dioctadecyldimethylammonium bromide (DODAB) was investigated by steady‐state fluorescence of pyrene (Py), trans‐diphenylpolyenes—diphenylbutadiene (DPB), diphenylhexatriene (DPH), and their corresponding 4,4′‐dialkyl derivatives 4B4A and 4H4A fluorescence probes. The data indicate that sonication affects the bilayer polarity, the melting temperature (Tm), and the cooperativity of the melting process due to changes in vesicle morphology. The effect of temperature on the fluorescence intensity and yielding Φf and anisotropy  shows that the ionizable probes 4B4A and 4H4A are solubilized close to the vesicle interfaces, whereas the non‐ionizable DPH and DPB are deeper in the bilayers. Py solubilization indicates that sonicated vesicles exhibit less densely packed bilayers.
Le moment pascalien dans la querelle de la grâce
Authors: De Franceschi Sylvia Hermann
Published: December 2009

À partir de 1643, la querelle catholique de la grâce voit l’affrontement de trois partis théologiques, celui des jésuites, acquis au molinisme, celui des dominicains, défenseurs du thomisme, et celui des jansénistes, partisans d’un retour au strict augustinisme mais soucieux également de se défendre des accusations d’hérésie en mettant en avant leur conformité au thomisme. Le présent article tente de suivre l’évolution des différents courants au temps de la crise de 1655-1657 en utilisant les textes contemporains de Blaise Pascal comme observatoire et en montrant comment les jansénistes ont peu à peu liquidé la solution moyenne d’un thomisme molinisant.
Humanisme juridique et science du droit au xve siècle.
Authors: Gili Patrick
Published: December 2009

La question de l’humanisme juridique a souvent été traitée sous la forme des avancées méthodologiques apportées successivement par les découvertes philologiques. Les juristes convertis aux bienfaits de l’approche savante des textes auraient ainsi modifié à la fois leur technique exégétique et leur façon d’enseigner (le mas docendi). En partant des différentes questions soulevées par le retour ad fontes, l’article cherche à préciser la portée politique de l’implantation de la jurisprudentia cultior qui fut bien plus qu’une conquête philologique. Il s’agissait d’ajuster le droit aux nouveaux défis de la culture politique, notamment à la lente émergence de la souveraineté qui trouvera son accomplissement chez Bodin.
Computer-aided Detection in Computed Tomography Colonography with Full Fecal Tagging: Comparison of Standalone Performance of 3 Automated Polyp Detection Systems
Authors: Hein Patrick A. , Krug Lasse D. , Romano Valentina C. , Kandel Sonja , Hamm Bernd , Rogalla Patrik
Published: December 2009

Purpose

We sought to compare the performance of 3 computer-aided detection (CAD) polyp algorithms in computed tomography colonography (CTC) with fecal tagging.

Methods

CTC data sets of 33 patients were retrospectively analysed by 3 different CAD systems: system 1, MedicSight; system 2, Colon CAD; and system 3, Polyp Enhanced View. The polyp database comprised 53 lesions, including 6 cases of colorectal cancer, and was established by consensus reading and comparison with colonoscopy. Lesions ranged from 6-40 mm, with 25 lesions larger than 10 mm in size. Detection and false-positive (FP) rates were calculated.

Results

CAD systems 1 and 2 could be set to have varying sensitivities with higher FP rates for higher sensitivity levels. Sensitivities for system 1 ranged from 73%–94% for all lesions (78%–100% for lesions ≥10 mm) and, for system 2, from 64%–94% (78%–100% for lesions ≥10 mm). System 3 reached an overall sensitivity of 76% (100% for lesions ≥10 mm). The mean FP rate per patient ranged from 8–32 for system 1, from 1–8 for system 2, and was 5 for system 3. At the highest sensitivity level for all polyps (94%), system 2 showed a statistically significant lower FP rate compared with system 1 ( P = .001). When analysing lesions ≥10 mm, system 3 had significantly fewer FPs than systems 1 and 2 ( P < .012).

Conclusions

Standalone CTC-CAD analysis in the selected patient collective showed the 3 systems tested to have a variable but overall promising performance with respect to sensitivity and the FP rate.
Obox4 regulates the expression of histone family genes and promotes differentiation of mouse embryonic stem cells
Authors: Kim Hae-Mi , Ahn Hee-Jin , Lee Hyun-Seo , Lee Kyung-Ah , Lee Su-Man , Kim Hwan-Hee , Kim Kwang-Soo , Park Kyung-Soon
Published: December 2009

Obox genes are preferentially expressed in the ovary, testis and oocyte, and play important roles in many developmental processes. In this study, we report that Obox4 and Obox6 are expressed in mouse embryonic stem cells (mESCs) and that Obox4 regulates histone family gene expression in mESCs. Obox4 protein expressing mESCs formed colonies with a flattened and irregular morphology, and exhibited decreased expression levels of self‐renewal related proteins, such as Oct4 and Sox2, as well as reduced alkaline phosphatase activity. The results of microarray analysis and siRNA mediated knockdown experiments suggest that Obox4 is an upstream regulator of the histone gene family.
Structural requirements of anthocyanins in relation to inhibition of endothelial injury induced by oxidized low‐density lipoprotein and correlation with radical scavenging activity
Authors: Yi Long , Chen Chun-ye , Jin Xin , Mi Man-tian , Yu Bin , Chang Hui , Ling Wen-hua , Zhang Ting
Published: December 2009

Anthocyanins may play an important role in atherosclerosis prevention. However, the structure–function relationships are not well understood. The objective of this study was to compare the inhibitory effect of 21 anthocyanins against oxidized low‐density lipoprotein‐induced endothelial injury to understand the relationship between anthocyanin chemical structure and the endothelial protective properties, measured as cell viability, MDA production and NO release. Additionally, the intracellular anti‐radical activity of the selected anthocyanins was investigated to identify the correlation with endothelial protection. Our results provide evidence that the number of –OH in total or in B‐ring, 3′,4′‐ortho‐dihydroxyl and 3‐hydroxyl are the main structural requirements of anthocyanins in suppressing oxidative stress‐induced endothelial injury and such inhibitory effect was significantly correlated with the intracellular radical scavenging activity.
Do Women Need Women Representatives?
Authors: Campbell Rosie , Childs Sarah , Lovenduski Joni
Published: December 2009

This article analyses the relationship between the representatives and the represented by comparing elite and mass attitudes to gender equality and women’s representation in Britain. In so doing, the authors take up arguments in the recent theoretical literature on representation that question the value of empirical research of Pitkin’s distinction between substantive and descriptive representation. They argue that if men and women have different attitudes at the mass level, which are reproduced amongst political elites, then the numerical under-representation of women may have negative implications for women’s substantive representation. The analysis is conducted on the British Election Study (BES) and the British Representation Study (BRS) series.
Movement analyses of wood cricket (Nemobius sylvestris) (Orthoptera: Gryllidae)
Authors: Brouwers N.C. , Newton A.C.
Published: December 2009

Information on the dispersal ability of invertebrate species associated with woodland habitats is severely lacking. Therefore, a study was conducted examining the movement patterns of wood cricket (Nemobius sylvestris) (Orthoptera: Gryllidae) on the Isle of Wight, UK. Juvenile (i.e. nymphs) and adult wood crickets were released and observed over time within different ground surface substrates. Their movement paths were recorded and subsequently analysed using random walk models. Nymphs were found to move more slowly than adults did; and, when given a choice, both nymphs and adults showed a preference for moving through or over leaf litter compared to bare soil or grass. A correlated random walk (CRW) model accurately described the movement pattern of adult wood crickets through leaf litter, indicating a level of directional persistence in their movements. The estimated population spread through leaf litter for adults was 17.9 cm min−1. Movements of nymphs through leaf litter could not accurately be described by a random walk model, showing a change in their movement pattern over time from directed to more random movements. The estimated population spread through leaf litter for nymphs was 10.1 cm min−1. The results indicate that wood cricket adults can be considered as more powerful dispersers than nymphs; however, further analysis of how the insects move through natural heterogeneous environments at a range of spatio-temporal scales needs to be performed to provide a complete understanding of the dispersal ability of the species.
Genetic variation among Helicoverpa armigera populations as assessed by microsatellites: a cautionary tale about accurate allele scoring
Authors: Weeks A.R. , Endersby N.M. , Lange C.L. , Lowe A. , Zalucki M.P. , Hoffmann A.A.
Published: December 2009

The existence of genetic differences among Australian populations of the pest moth Helicoverpa armigera based on microsatellite markers is contentious. To resolve this issue, we analyzed microsatellite variation in moth samples from multiple locations simultaneously in two laboratories that have previously reported contrasting patterns. Alleles and allele numbers detected in the laboratories differed, as did the genetic differences found between the samples. The automated scoring system used in one of the laboratories combined with non-denaturing polyacrylamide gels led to inaccurate identification of alleles and high FST values between the populations. However, H. armigera in Australia is probably not structured geographically, with high gene flow between populations. This influences management of H. armigera and the development of area-wide control options, as populations need to be considered as one panmictic unit. The results also highlight potential problems of automated scoring systems when these are not checked carefully.
Immature development and adult eclosion ofUfens principalisOwen (Hymenoptera: Trichogrammatidae), an egg parasitoid ofHomalodiscaspp. (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae) in southern California
Authors: Al-Wahaibi A.K. , Morse J.G.
Published: December 2009

The biology of the immature stages and adult eclosion ofUfens principalisOwen, an important parasitoid ofHomalodiscaeggs in southern California, were studied. The duration of the egg, larval and pupal stages at 26.7°C were 0–1, 7 and 9 days, respectively. Sacciform larvae, which developed gregariously within host eggs, were motile until about five days of age, and then became sessile. Parasitized host eggs changed from whitish and soft when freshly-laid to yellow-orange and hard at five days and older. This change was accompanied by formation of septal walls separating the mature larvae and pupae. The rate of immature development had a strong positive linear relationship (R2=0.853,n=98) with temperatures in the range of 20.0–30.3°C. The theoretical minimum threshold for immature development was 13.5°C, and the required heat units were 241.0 degree-days. Adult eclosion from host eggs occurred mostly (85%) on the first two days of emergence. Although most females emerged during the morning hours (0600–1200 h), males tended to emerge earlier than females with equal emergence during the morning and late night hours (2400–0600 h). The rate of successful adult emergence was high (88%). The ratio of eclosed adults to the number of exit holes was 1.18, indicating that most adults tended to independently cut their exit holes. The number of exit holes had a strong negative relationship (R2=0.711,n=125) with exit hole size, suggesting that larger numbers of developing immatures per host egg result in an overall decrease in adult size.
Evolution of solitary waves in a two-pycnocline system
Authors: NITSCHE M. , WEIDMAN P. D. , GRIMSHAW R. , GHRIST M. , FORNBERG B.
Published: December 2009

Over two decades ago, some numerical studies and laboratory experiments identified the phenomenon of leapfrogging internal solitary waves located on separated pycnoclines. We revisit this problem to explore the behaviour of the near resonance phenomenon. We have developed a numerical code to follow the long-time inviscid evolution of isolated mode-two disturbances on two separated pycnoclines in a three-layer stratified fluid bounded by rigid horizontal top and bottom walls. We study the dependence of the solution on input system parameters, namely the three fluid densities and the two interface thicknesses, for fixed initial conditions describing isolated mode-two disturbances on each pycnocline. For most parameter values, the initial disturbances separate immediately and evolve into solitary waves, each with a distinct speed. However, in a narrow region of parameter space, the waves pair up and oscillate for some time in leapfrog fashion with a nearly equal average speed. The motion is only quasi-periodic, as each wave loses energy into its respective dispersive tail, which causes the spatial oscillation magnitude and period to increase until the waves eventually separate. We record the separation time, oscillation period and magnitude, and the final amplitudes and celerity of the separated waves as a function of the input parameters, and give evidence that no perfect periodic solutions occur. A simple asymptotic model is developed to aid in interpretation of the numerical results.
Topical 5-fluorouracil for granular myringitis: a double-blinded study
Authors: Atef A M , Hamouda M M , Mohamed A H A , Fattah A F A
Published: December 2009

Background:

Granular myringitis is a poorly understood disease which causes considerable discomfort and concern to affected individuals. Some cases may progress to inflammatory obliteration of the deep ear canal. Treatment options are diverse, and no single accepted treatment modality exists. Local application of 5-fluorouracil has recently been trialled in the treatment of chronic otitis media, with promising results.

Aim:

To investigate the efficacy and safety of topical 5-fluorouracil in cases of granular myringitis.

Methods:

Sixty patients with granular myringitis were enrolled in this controlled, double-blinded study. Patients were divided randomly into two equal groups. Patients in the study group (n = 30) received three successive applications of topical 5-fluorouracil 5 per cent cream, with two-week intervals between treatments. Patients in the control group (n = 30) received only local petroleum jelly cream packing at the same intervals. Follow-up appointments were scheduled every two weeks for the first three months; patients were then seen again after two years for evaluation of any persistent disease. Outcome measures were: (1) after three months, symptomatic response to treatment (i.e. quantity of aural discharge as reported by patient) and change in the amount of granulation tissue (as assessed by the physician via endoscopic examination); and (2) persistent disease after two years.

Results:

There was a highly statistically significant difference in the studied outcomes, comparing the study and control groups.

Conclusion:

Local application of 5-fluorouracil is a new treatment method for granular myringitis. In this study, it proved safe and efficacious, with no serious local reactions or complications.
Functional status after total laryngectomy: cross-sectional survey of 79 laryngectomees using the Performance Status Scale for Head and Neck Cancer
Authors: Oozeer N B , Owen S , Perez B Z , Jones G , Welch A R , Paleri V
Published: December 2009

Introduction:

Total laryngectomy affects patients' post-operative speech and swallowing functions. We aimed to assess these outcomes.

Materials and methods:

Patients' normalcy of diet, ability to eat in public and speech comprehensibility were assessed using the Performance Status Scale for Head and Neck Cancer, in a cross-sectional survey of disease-free laryngectomees.

Results and analysis:

Seventy-nine laryngectomees (72 men and seven women), with a mean age of 64 years (range 37 to 96), were included. Mean scores were 81.6 (standard deviation 29.2) for normalcy of diet, 77.8 (standard deviation 30.2) for eating in public and 65.2 (standard deviation 23.5) for speech. Normalcy of diet achieved higher scores within six months of laryngectomy and remained stable. There was a statistically significant difference between scores for the speech and public eating domains, comparing patients less and more than six months post-laryngectomy. This trend was maintained beyond 12 months.

Conclusions:

In post-laryngectomy patients, Performance Status Scale for Head and Neck Cancer scores improved over time, especially those for the speech and public eating domains, reflecting increasing confidence in social interactions and familiarity with surgical voice restoration.
A non-traumatic, blue-purple auricle: case report
Authors: Sewnaik A , Kamarashev J , Peters N S , van Rijswijk J B
Published: December 2009

Objective:

We report a typical case of earlobe lymphocytoma.

Method:

A case report and literature review are presented.

Results:

A 10-year-old girl presented with a blue-coloured earlobe. A diagnosis of Lyme disease was confirmed by serological tests. Lyme borreliosis is the most common tick-borne disease in the northern hemisphere. It is caused by the spirochete Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato. The patient was successfully treated with antibiotics.

Conclusion:

The diagnostic process and ENT symptomatology of Lyme disease and borrelial lymphocytoma are summarised and discussed.
Common carotid artery pseudoaneurysm formation following foreign body ingestion
Authors: Mathur N N , Joshi R R , Nepal A , Rauniyar R K
Published: December 2009

Objective:

To report an unusual case of pseudoaneurysm formation following ingestion of a thin wire.

Method:

Case report, including management, and review of the world literature concerning pseudoaneurysm and its management.

Results:

A 15-year-old boy presented as an emergency with a two-week history of painful swallowing, and a one-week history of a progressively enlarging, right-sided swelling of the lower neck. A foreign body had been ingested two weeks previously. Radiological investigation showed a pseudoaneurysm of the right common carotid artery. The neck was explored, the foreign body removed and the common carotid artery repaired. The patient was discharged on the 10th post-operative day without neurovascular complication.

Conclusion:

This is an unusual presentation of pseudoaneurysm of the common carotid artery following accidental ingestion of a foreign body, reported for its rarity and management.
Oncogenic osteomalacia in a patient with an ethmoid sinus tumour
Authors: Kurien R , Manipadam M T , Rupa V
Published: December 2009

Objective:

To highlight the clinical presentation and management of a rare case of oncogenic osteomalacia due to an ethmoid sinus tumour.

Materials and methods:

We examined the case records of a 55-year-old man who presented with progressive fatigue, weakness and bone pain, and noted the clinical presentation, laboratory investigations, computed tomography findings, operative notes and follow-up details.

Conclusion:

Oncogenic osteomalacia secondary to a paranasal sinus neoplasm is a rare entity. The causative tumour is often occult and may be missed by routine clinical examination. This case report illustrates the appropriate pattern of evaluation and management to ensure a successful outcome.