bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cytoplasmic calcium regulation and the electrocardiogram in patients with primary hyperparathyroidism
Authors: Lind L. , Ridefelt P. , Rastad J. , Åkerström G. , Ljunghall S.
Published: April 2008

Summary. Primary hyperparathyroidism (HPT) is a disease caused by an abnormal cytosolic regulation of calcium concentration [Ca++]i leading to an increased secretion of parathyroid hormone and thereby increased levels of extracellular calcium. It is well known that the QT‐interval measured at electrocardiography (ECG) is shortened in HPT subjects. Whether this is due to an abnormal intracellular handling of calcium also in the heart or to the raised extracellular calcium levels is not known.

In order to study the extent to which the deranged extra‐ and intracellular levels of calcium in HPT patients were related to ECG characteristics, [Ca++]i was determined in vitro by microfluorometry in surgery‐removed parathyroid cells at extracellular calcium concentrations of 0–5 mM and 30‐0 mM and ECG was recorded preoperatively in 42 HPT patients and in 15 subjects operated on for atoxic goitre. Serum calcium and plasma‐ionized calcium also were measured preoperatively.

The QT‐interval and ST‐segment duration were both shortened in the HPT patients compared to controls (P < 0–001).

[Ca++]i at 3‐0 mM extracellular calcium divided by that at 0–5 mM was correlated to the QT‐interval, when measured at the onset of the T‐wave (QoT, r= 0–39, P < 0–03) and early diastolic phase (end of T‐wave to onset of p‐wave, r= ‐0–34, P= 0–05). Plasma ionized calcium was related inversely to the QT‐interval, when measured to the apex of the T‐wave (QaT, r= ‐0–48, P < 0–04), while the non‐ionized form of calcium in serum was correlated to the length of the PQ‐interval (r= 0–53, P< 002).

The study described here showed the altered cytosolic calcium levels in the HPT subjects to be related to QoT‐interval and early diastolic phase implying that a defect intracellular handling of calcium could be present also in the heart to cause these ECG changes. On the other hand, the levels of plasma ionized and serum non‐ionized calcium were related to ECG characteristics suggesting that the extracellular levels of this ion are important.,
Biochemical changes in relation to a maximal exercise test in patients with fibromyalgia
Authors: Nørregaard J. , Btilow P. M. , Mehlsen J. , Danneskiold‐Samsøe B.
Published: April 2008

Summary. Patients with fibromyalgia often complain of fatigue and pain during exercise and of worsening of pain days after exercise. The aim of the study described here was to determine if abnormal changes in potassium or lactate could be observed during an exercise test in fibromyalgia. Whether an abnormal incline in plasma creatine kinase or myoglobin could be observed days after the test was studied also.

Fifteen female fibromyalgia patients and 15 age‐ and sex‐matched controls performed a stepwise incremental maximal bicycle‐ergometer test. Blood samples were collected from a catheter in a cubital vein. The changes in heart rate, potassium levels, and haematocrit during the exercise test were similar in the two groups. The maximal obtained lactate concentration was 4‐2 mmol 1‐1 (3–5‐5‐6) in the patients as compared to 4–9 mmol l‐1 (3–9‐5‐9) in the controls (NS). The estimated anaerobic threshold of 2 mmol 1‐1 was reached at a heart rate of 124 min‐1 in the patients with fibromyalgia as compared to 140 min‐1 in the controls (P= 0–02). In relation to workload, the patients scored higher on a Borg scale for perceived exertion during exercise, but if the Borg score was related to lactate no significant difference was found. The patients reported 86% and 79% of maximal pain in the thighs on the visual analogue scale 1 and 2 days after the test, but the creatine kinase and myoglobin concentrations were not increased.,
Pulmonary venous systolic flow fraction in patients with mitral regurgitation: transoesophageal echocardiography findings in relation to haemodynamic and angiographic evaluation
Authors: Karp K. , Holm S. , Teien D. , Backman C. , Eriksson P.
Published: April 2008

Summary. In patients with mitral regurgitation (MR), pulmonary venous systolic flow fraction (PVSFfr) recorded using pulsed Doppler transoesophageal echocardiography (TEE) was compared with PVSFfr in normal subjects, to angiographic grading and to haemodynamic parameters. PVSfr was calculated as the systolic flow velocity integral divided by total inflow integral. PVSfr is negative when systolic flow is reversed. Forty patients with MR were studied. PVSFfr<0 was 100% sensitive for angiographic severe MR (specificity 83%). In 35 patents heart rate differed by 10 bpm or less between TEE and cath, either at rest or during stress. PVSFfr was correlated with angiographic grade (r=‐0.69, P<0.0001), with mean PCW (r=‐0.61, P<0.0001), with the v‐wave (r=‐0.72, P<0.0001), with systolic blood pressure (r=0.48, P<0.005) and with left atrial diameter (r= ‐0.52, P<0.005). Stepwise forward multiple linear regression analysis revealed the v‐wave, angiographic grading and systolic blood pressure to be independent predictors of PVSFfr. PVSFfr differed in normal subjects, patients with 0–2+ and patients with 3–4+ regurgitation. PVSFfr is a valuable index in assessing mitral regurgitation. This index may be less dependent on equipment and operator than colour flow imaging.
Variability in airway conductance and lung volume in subjects with asthma
Authors: Bylin G. , Lagerstrand L. , Hedenstierna G. , Wagner P. D.
Published: April 2008

Summary. Variability in airway conductance (Gaw) and lung volume (TGV) was studied in 26 subjects with moderately severe asthma during a 9‐week period. Specific airway conductance (SGaw) was calculated as Gaw:TGV. There was considerable inter‐individual variability in airway conductance, and a smaller variability in TGV. Airway conductance (SGaw) showed an eight‐fold difference and TGV a three‐fold difference between smallest and largest values. The intra‐individual variability was less, with a range of ±55% (SGaw) and ±12% (TGV) of the grand mean, respectively. The error of the method contributed only marginally to the variations in airway conductance. These data for spontaneous variability of conductance facilitate, for example, the assessment of the clinical importance of changes in lung function seen after exposure to air pollutants in chamber studies. Furthermore, the substantial inter‐individual variability in conductance argues against comparing samples of asthmatic subjects in polluted and non‐polluted areas, and in favour of prospective studies of cohorts of subjects with asthma.
Beat‐to‐beat agreement of non‐invasive finger artery and invasive radial artery blood pressure in hypertensive patients taking cardiovascular medication
Authors: Lindqvist A.
Published: April 2008

Summary. The aim of this study was to investigate and quantify the agreement between simultaneous and ipsilateral non‐invasive finger artery blood pressure (Finapres®) and intra‐arterial radial blood pressure among 13 volunteer hypertensive patients, aged 36–71 years and taking cardiovascular medication, during steady‐state fluctuation of arterial blood pressure and during an increase in blood pressure induced by static exercise. Eight patients were being treated with beta‐blocking agents, eight with calcium antagonists, four with angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors, four with diuretics and one with prazosin in combination therapy. Their auscultatory brachial artery blood pressures ranged in systole from 142 to 206 mmHg and in diastole from 88 to 120 mmHg during the treatment. The mean systolic finger artery blood pressure deviated by ‐14±5 mmHg (P=0.02, mean value±SEM) and the diastolic finger artery blood pressure deviated by 0.6±3 mmHg (P=0.70) from the corresponding radial artery pressure. The maximal beat‐to‐beat difference between systolic and diastolic finger and radial artery pressure, respectively, showed that a range of less than 10 mmHg in the steady state after individual adjustment for bias. In general, neither systolic nor diastolic differences between the methods exceeded the limits of ±10 mmHg, and the bias did not significantly increase (P≥0.12) during a 10‐mmHg increase in arterial blood pressure caused by static exercise. Among three subjects, an increase in bias and poorer agreement was associated with atrial fibrillation and steplike changes in the Finapres output after autocalibration. The results support usage of the Finapres technique to measure beat‐to‐beat changes of peripheral arterial blood pressure in hypertensive patients taking cardiovascular medication, with a feasible agreement with beat‐to‐beat radial artery blood pressure.
Saline contrast and colour Doppler transoesophageal echocardiography in detecting a patent foramen ovale and right‐to‐left shunts in stroke patients
Authors: Luotolahti M. , Saraste M. , Hartiala J.
Published: April 2008

Summary. A paradoxical embolism due to right‐to‐left shunt through a patent foramen ovale (PFO) can be responsible for stroke and other ischaemic cerebral events. We studied the usefulness of saline contrast transoesophageal echocardiography after the Valsalva manoeuvre in detecting PFO and right‐to‐left shunts in 28 adult patients without known reason for a recent stroke. The results were compared with conventional transthoracic colour Doppler and with transoesophageal colour Doppler techniques. A PFO was found in 24 patients (86%) of our selected study population, whereas in four patients no PFO was found. A PFO with left‐to‐right shunt could be diagnosed by transthoracic colour Doppler echocardiography in only one case. A PFO with left‐to‐right shunt was found by transoesophageal colour Doppler echocardiography in 17 patients (61%), but in only three of them was a right‐to‐left shunt detected, even after the Valsalva manoeuvre. In contrast, a PFO with right‐to‐left shunt could be detected in 21 patients (75%) by using saline contrast transoesophageal echocardiography with the Valsalva manoeuvre. However, the method was unable to detect three cases of PFO with only left‐to‐right shunt, which were detected by colour Doppler transoesophageal echocardiography. In conclusion, our results show that saline contrast transoesophageal echocardiography with the Valsalva manoeuvre greatly improves the echocardiographic detection of PFO with right‐to‐left shunts in stroke patients.
The influence of body composition on left ventricular mass and other echocardiographic and Doppler measurements in 70‐year‐old males
Authors: Andrén B. , Lind L. , Larsson K. , Hedenstierna G. , Ljunghall S. , Lithell H.
Published: April 2008

Summary. Heart morphology and function are often related to body size. The most common way to standardize for body composition is to divide these measures by body surface area (BSA). It has, however, been suggested that left ventricular mass (LV mass) ought to be indexed for height and that cardiac output is influenced by the body fat distribution.

As part of a health screening programme of 70‐year‐old males in Uppsala, Sweden, 100 consecutive men were investigated with echocardiography and Doppler with regard to cardiac morphology and function. These measures were related to an evaluation of body composition using an X‐ray method (dual energy X‐ray absorptiometry).

Lean body mass was strongly related to BSA and body weight (r=0.90 and 0.89, respectively; P<0.001), and to a lesser degree to height (r=0.70, P<0.0001). In the healthy part of the population (n=39), relationships between LV mass on the one hand and lean body mass, BSA and height on the other were seen (r=0.51, 0.51 and 0.50, respectively; P<0.01). Stroke volume calculated according to Teichholtz (but not when calculated with Doppler) showed a significant correlation to lean body mass (r=0.38, P<0.05). Also, left ventricular diameter and the thickness of the free wall were related to lean body mass (r=0.40 and 0.39, respectively; P<0.05). All of the evaluated relationships were generally weaker and in most cases no longer significant when evaluated in the part of the population with diseases known to affect the heart.

No significant correlations were seen between the size of the left atrium, septal thickness or indices of diastolic function (E/A‐ratio, isovolumic relaxation time, deceleration time) and the indices of body composition. No measures of cardiac morphology and function were significantly related to the amount of body fat or body bone.

LV mass, stroke volume and left ventricular diameter were found to be correlated with lean body mass, but not with the amount of fat, in healthy 70‐year‐old males.
Cerebral blood flow and resistances during hypotensive haemorrhage in the rabbit: transcranial Doppler and laser‐Doppler flowmetry
Authors: Leftheriotis G. , Geraud J. M. , Preckel M. P. , Saumet J. L.
Published: April 2008

Summary. Transcranial Doppler (TCD) determined cerebral blood flow velocity and laser Doppler flowmetry (LDF) measured cortical perfusion were simultaneously assessed during hypotensive haemorrhage in 15 anaesthetized rabbits. Systolic (Fsys), diastolic (Fdia) and mean (Fmean) blood flow velocities were recorded into the intracranial internal carotid (ICA) and basilar artery (BA). Resistance (RI=Fsys‐Fdia/Fsys) and pulsatility (PI=Fsys‐Fdia/Fmean) indices were calculated. Step decreases of 10 mmHg of mean arterial pressure (MAP) from 80 to less than 30 mmHg provoked a fall of LDF signal below 50 mmHg. Blood velocities decreased into B A below 40 mmHg, and below 50 mmHg into ICA indicating regional differences in cerebral autoregulation. Cortical resistances (resLDF=MAP/LDF) fell below 60 mmHg whereas RI and PI increased when MAP decreased into BA below 40 mmHg and ICA below 50 mmHg. A weak correlation was found between Fmean and LDF (BA: r=0.55, P<0.01 and ICA=0.46, P<0.01). Both RI and PI were poorly correlated to resLDF into BA (RI‐resLDF: r=‐0.39, P0.01; PI‐resLDF: r=‐0.39, P<0.01) and ICA (RI‐resLDF: r=‐0.18, ns; PI‐resLDF: r=‐0.22, ns). Pulse pressure (systolic‐diastolic pressure) correlated with RI (ICA: r= ‐0.62, P<0.001; BA: r= ‐0.61, P<0.001) and PI (ICA: r= ‐0.61, P<0.001; B A: r=‐0.62, P<0.001). In conclusion, during haemorrhagic shock, TCD correlates with LDF and indicates regional differences in autoregulatory settings. However, Doppler indices do not reflect the changes in cerebral resistances because they are influenced by the changes in pulsatile pressure.
Effective role of the renin‐angiotensin system in the control of prostanoid synthesis and renal function in healthy women with moderate salt depletion
Authors: Agnoli G. C. , Borgatti R. , Cacciari M. , Ikonomu E. , Lenzi P. , Marinelli M.
Published: April 2008

Summary. The interaction between moderate salt depletion and urinary excretions of prostanoids (PGE2, 6‐keto‐PGF1α and TXB2), as well as the effective role of the activated renin‐angiotensin system (RAS), in the control of renal function and urinary prostanoid excretions have been investigated in healthy women. Salt depletion (SD, n = 8) was induced by low sodium chloride dietary intake (≤60 mmol per day) and combined treatment with natriuretic and potassium sparing drugs. The cumulative sodium deficit was 381 ±55 mmol. The renal function and urinary excretion of prostanoids were evaluated during hypotonic polyuria (oral water load) and subsequent moderate anti‐diuresis (lysine‐8‐vasopressin (LVP) low‐dose infusion). Basal plasma renin activity (PRA) and urinary aldosterone excretion were determined, before the water load, in both the SD group and control studies in normal balance of sodium and potassium (N, n = 20). Paired studies were performed in the absence and in the presence of enalapril in the same SD group, as well as in a subgroup, with normal sodium and potassium balance, previously studied (N3, n = 6).
Three‐dimensional cross‐sectional velocity distribution in the ascending aorta in cardiac patients
Authors: Kvitting P. , Hessevik I. , Matre K. , Segadal L.
Published: April 2008

Summary. Knowledge of the distribution of velocities across the ascending aorta is important for measurements of cardiac output; for understanding the function of normal and diseased valves and for the evaluation of prosthetic valves. The aim of this study was to investigate, in detail, the spatial distribution of axial velocities in the human ascending aorta, covering a nearly complete cross‐section of the lumen in a time continuous modus. During open‐heart surgery, blood velocities in the ascending aorta were mapped in 10 patients. All patients had aortic valves with no significant clinical evidence of disease. Pulsed Doppler ultrasound technique was used to measure blood velocity using an intraluminal probe with a 1 mm, 10 MHz crystal connected to a position‐sensitive device. The distribution of blood velocity in the aorta 6–8 cm above the valve was characterized by a skewed and irregular peak systolic flow, with maximum velocity posteriorly. There was a positive correlation (n=0.854, P < 0.002) between the maximum skewness slope and the stroke volume. Significant retrograde flow was recorded in all patients in the left posterior part of aorta in late systole and early diastole. The rotation of the point of maximal velocity was anticlockwise in six patients, clockwise in three and alternating in one. The present study shows that there is a considerable individual variation in the velocity distribution in the ascending aorta, with no plane symmetric features, and that large sampling volumes are required for reliable estimates of mean velocity.
Transfer of carbon monoxide during an inspiratory pause procedure in mechanically ventilated pigs
Authors: te Nijenhuis F. C. A. M. , Jansen J. R. C. , Versprille A.
Published: April 2008

SUMMARY. We studied the effect of forced inflation at different alveolar volumes (VA) on carbon monoxide diffusing capacity (DLco) m anaesthetized, paralysed and mechanically ventilated healthy pigs. An inspiratory pause procedure (equivalent of the single‐breath technique) consisting of a pause between an inflation and expiration, both at a constant flow rate, was used. The procedure was computer‐controlled and could easily be standardized. In five pigs, VA was varied at constant inflation volume by increasing positive end‐expiratory pressure (PEEP) from 2 to 10 cml^O. Inspiratory pause time was varied from 1 to 8 s to verify whether the decay of CO was exponential. In nine pigs, Dhco was estimated at four different VA values by inflating with 15–30 ml kg‐1 at 2 cmH2O PEEP. An exponential decay of CO was always obtained. With increasingVA by either an increase in PEEP or inflation volume, DLco remained constant. Since the diffusing capacity of the pulmonary membrane is expected to increase with increasing VA constant DLco may be attributed to a decrease in capillary blood volume.
An automatic waste‐water disinfection system for an amphibian captive‐breeding and research facility
Authors: ROBERTSON H. , EDEN P. , GAIKHORST G. , MATSON P. , SLATTERY T. , VITALI S.
Published: April 2008

When amphibians are brought into an amphibian facility, every precaution should be taken to prevent the introduction of diseases, including testing for chytrid fungus Batrachochytriumdendrobatidis. Equal consideration is recommended for the disinfection of waste products, including water, to prevent the spread of disease both within and between facilities, and to complete the biosecurity cycle. The disinfection of all waste products is particularly important when the facility houses amphibians from remote locations. This report describes an automated waste‐water disinfection system (AWWDS) to disinfect waste water from amphibian enclosures and research facilities. The AWWDS is reliable as it does not rely on an individual's compliance to dosing protocols and it is economical because it reduces labour time. The AWWDS also provides an efficient infrastructure to disinfect the amounts of water produced by a moderate‐sized busy amphibian captive‐breeding and research facility.
South Asian amphibians: taxonomy, diversity and conservation status
Authors: MOLUR S.
Published: April 2008

The global conservation crisis facing amphibians requires regional taxonomic‐based assessments of conservation status. The current and probable future needs for captive‐breeding facilities in zoos and other institutions are revealed by the number, habitat and life‐cycle types of threatened candidate species in the region. The geopolitical region of South Asia is home to four biodiversity hotspots with very high faunal, floral and fungal diversity. A total of 348 amphibians is currently described from the eight countries of the region, and India and Sri Lanka show very high amphibian diversity. In this paper, I compare and contrast the first regional amphibian biodiversity assessments from 1997 with more recent assessments. This includes a checklist of all amphibians in the region, with new taxonomic information added, especially from the Global Amphibian Assessment. A summary of amphibian biodiversity statistics, the kinds of threats facing amphibians and the current status of species in South Asia is given. Twenty species are Extinct, 26 Critically Endangered, 66 Endangered, 26 Vulnerable, 11 Near Threatened, 30 Least Concern and 77 Data Deficient. The cooperation and contributions of the more than 250 amphibian biologists, academics, taxonomists, amateurs, photographers and educators in the Amphibian Network of South Asia (ANSA) were essential for the assessments and this comparative study. The successful model of a networking principle and activities of the ANSA are also discussed. The role of chytridiomycosis in species declines is unknown owing to a lack of surveys on the presence of chytrid fungus Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis. Although most of the threatened and Extinct species are anurans, the bush frog group of frogs seems to be the most speciose and also the most threatened group owing to highly restricted distributions. The Philautus genus would be an ideal group to breed in captivity owing to its direct development cycle.
Optimal harvesting considering biological and economic objectives
Authors: Bue Brian G , Hilborn Ray , Link Michael R
Published: April 2008

Most examinations of optimal harvesting policies have considered only biological objectives, yet it is increasingly recognized that a primary objective of many fisheries is economic profitability. Using Bayesian risk analysis, we compare policies that combine fish harvesting, the revenue brought in by fish sales, the cost of harvesting and processing, and processing and fishing capacity to find policies that maximize biological yield and economic profit to the processing and harvesting sectors for a major Pacific salmon (Oncorhynchus spp.) fishery in Bristol Bay, Alaska. We show that although average catch is maximized by a fixed escapement policy, total revenue is maximized by a policy that includes some harvesting at stock sizes below that required to produce maximum average catch. In addition, there is a wide range of policies that provide 90% of the maximum for any of the biological and economic objectives considered. Economic profitability is enhanced by limitations on processing and harvesting capacity.
AN INVESTIGATION INTO THE FABRICATION AND ELECTRICAL PROPERTIES OF Ni–Al INTERMETALLIC COMPOUND THIN FILMS
Authors: ZHOU JICHENG , ZHU JINBO , YAN JIANWU
Published: April 2008

Ni – Al intermetallic compounds nanocrystalline thin films were deposited by direct current magnetron co-sputtering from elemental Ni and Al targets. The integrity of the thin films and their elemental compositions were assessed using a scanning electron microscope (SEM) equipped with an energy dispersive spectroscope analyzer. The morphologies of thin alloy films are density and smoothing characterized by atomic force microscope and SEM. The preferred (111) orientation in both as-deposited and annealed films are identified using X-ray diffractometer (XRD). The electrical properties of the alloy films were studied, and show good metallic conduction characteristics. From room temperature to 200°C, the resistance of the thin films are assumed to be linear as a function of varying temperature. All the thin films show a positive temperature coefficient of resistance (TCR). As 1% O 2 was introduced into the vacuum chamber during sputtering, the root mean square roughness of the films increased, grain size turned out to be smaller, and the crystallization process was blocked. The amorphous Al 2 O 3 phase was found in XRD patterns. The results of TCR measurement show a different electric conduction mechanism compared with alloy films.
A NEW CHAOTIC CRYPTOGRAPHY BASED ON ERGODICITY
Authors: WANG XINGYUAN , DUAN CHAOFENG , GU NINI
Published: April 2008

This paper analyzes the encryption and weaknesses of E. Álvarez cryptography. On the basis of this, a new chaotic cryptography based on ergodicity is presented. The control parameter and the initial condition of the chaotic system are chosen as a secret key. A bit chain is generated by iterating the chaotic map, and the location where a plaintext grouping appears in the chain is found. We then write down the number of iterations of the chaotic map as the ciphertext grouping. Several weaknesses of the E. Álvarez cryptography are avoided in the new scheme, and the security of the new scheme is improved. In the end, the new cryptography is studied experimentally using the Logistic map, where the new cryptography's confusion and diffusion is validated, and its effectiveness is also illuminated.
CHARACTERIZATION OF THERMALLY ASSISTED MAGNETIC PROBE RECORDING ON A CoNi/Pt MULTILAYERED FILM
Authors: ZHANG LI
Published: April 2008

A method of thermally assisted magnetic probe recording on a perpendicular medium was characterized. Field emission current from a scanning tunneling microscope (STM) tip was used as a heating source. A strongly-coupled CoNi / Pt multilayered film was used as a recording medium. Pulses with amplitude of 3–7 V were applied between the STM tip and the recording medium. Experiments show that magnetic marks were formed for voltages of 5–7 V, with an average size of 170 nm. No marks were observed for lower voltages. The model is built to simulate the dynamic process of domain formation in probe-based magnetic recording system. Simulation results agree with experiments.
DYNAMICS OF LEUCINE-RICH REPEAT PROTEINS
Authors: LAHIRI ANSUMAN , BASU SOUMALEE
Published: April 2008

We have studied the collective dynamics of leucine-rich repeat (LRR) proteins using an elastic network approximation. The slowest mode of the porcine ribonuclease inhibitor (pRI) protein could be visualized as bending fluctuations of a curved elastic strip leading to a planar opening–closing motion of the horseshoe which largely corresponded to the deformation of the protein on ligand binding. The second slowest mode however exhibited a significant out of plane splaying. The distribution of the lowest eigenvalues of different LRR proteins as a function of their repeat number was found to be close to the dispersion curve obtained from pRI whereas that of the leucine-rich variant (LRV) protein showed considerable deviation. The differing mechanical properties of these structurally similar solenoid proteins may have relevance to their function.
Protein and Amino Acid Metabolism in the Human Newborn
Authors: Kalhan Satish C. , Bier Dennis M.
Published: April 2008

Birth and adaptation to extrauterine life involve major shifts in the protein and energy metabolism of the human newborn. These include a shift from a state of continuous supply of nutrients including amino acids from the mother to cyclic periodic oral intake, a change in the redox state of organs, thermogenesis, and a significant change in the mobilization and use of oxidative substrates. The development of safe, stable isotopic tracer methods has allowed the study of protein and amino acid metabolism not only in the healthy newborn but also in those born prematurely and of low birth weight. These studies have identified the unique and quantitative aspects of amino acid/protein metabolism in the neonate, thus contributing to rational nutritional care of these babies. The present review summarizes the contemporary data on some of the significant developments in essential and dispensable amino acids and their relationship to overall protein metabolism. Specifically, the recent data of kinetics of leucine, phenylalanine, glutamine, sulfur amino acid, and threonine and their relation to whole-body protein turnover are presented. Finally, the physiological rationale and the impact of nutrient (amino acids) interventions on the dynamics of protein metabolism are discussed.
Metabonomics Study of Intestinal Transplantation Using Ultrahigh-Performance Liquid Chromatography Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Li Qiurong , Zhang Qiang , Xu Guowang , Yin Peiyuan , Li Ning , Li Jieshou
Published: April 2008

Background: Intestinal transplantation is a potential treatment for patients with irreversible intestinal failure. However, the long-term outcome is still unsatisfactory compared with transplantation of other solid organs because of transplantation rejection. Therefore, early detection and accurate diagnosis of rejection is essential. Recently, metabonomics has become a platform for monitoring of the process of organ transplantation. Methods: The metabolite profiling in the plasma was measured by ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography time-of-flight mass spectrometry in a patient with intestinal transplantation and it was analyzed by principal component analysis and SIMCA-P. Results: The differences between the patient and controls were achieved in the principal component analysis score plot. The potential biomarkers of rejection, including lysophosphatidyl choline, phenylalanine and tryptophan, were identified in the transplantation patient. Conclusion: The analysis here may provide a fundamental and powerful approach to inspect the disease metabolic status and screening tool for marker candidates.
Comparison of the Long-Term Efficacy of Subcutaneous and Sublingual Immunotherapies in Perennial Rhinitis
Authors: Tahamiler Rauf , Saritzali Gkioukxel , Canakcioglu Salih , Özcora Engin , Dirican Ahmet
Published: April 2008

Background: Both sublingual and subcutaneous immunotherapies have a documented clinical efficacy, but only a few comparative studies have been performed. Objectives: To evaluate and compare the long-term efficacies of subcutaneous and sublingual immunotherapy. Methods: One hundred and ninety-three patients with house dust mite allergies, out of an original total of 230, were treated with subcutaneous and sublingual house dust mite-specific immunotherapies for 3 years and also observed for 3 years after discontinuation of the treatment. The patients were randomized into 2 groups: the sublingual group (97 patients) and the subcutaneous group (96 patients). The therapy’s success was evaluated using the symptom score, skin prick test results, and the nasal allergen challenge score. The patients were evaluated at the beginning of the study, at the end of years 1, 2, and 3, and also at the end of the 1st and 3rd years after discontinuation of the specific immunotherapy treatment. Results: Immunotherapy induced a significant improvement during the treatment and the follow-up period. We found a greater improvement in the subcutaneous group compared to the sublingual group when we looked at the comparative results of the total 6 years. Conclusion: We suggest subcutaneous immunotherapy for patients with perennial allergic rhinitis due to the better results that were obtained during our study period. Nevertheless, sublingual immunotherapy is now accepted by WHO as a valid alternative to the subcutaneous route and should be used in all patients who require immunotherapy and do not accept the subcutaneous route of allergen administration.
Acoustic Stapedial Reflex in Normal Adults: Biological Behavior and Determination of Threshold Levels
Authors: Ferekidou Elisa , Eleftheriadou Anna , Zarikas V. , Kandiloros Dimitrios , Yiotakis Ioannis , Ferekidis Eleftherios , Korres Stavros
Published: April 2008

Objective: To record acoustic reflex thresholds for admittance (Y) and its components, susceptance (B) and conductance (G) in healthy subjects and to establish normative data. StudyDesign: Acoustic reflex threshold was determined in 100 healthy persons, divided into 5 age groups of 20 persons each (20–29, 30–39, 40–49, 50–59 and 60–69 years old). Detection was performed for Y, B, and G at 226-, 678- and 1,000-Hz probe tones, using 500-, 1,000-, 2,000- and 4,000-Hz stimuli. Results: Statistically significant differences in acoustic reflex thresholds were revealed between different components, stimuli and tones. The lowest threshold level was recorded for Y at 226 Hz using stimulus 1,000 Hz. Four percent missing values were observed at 226 Hz. Subjects belonging to different age groups had different reflex thresholds. Conclusion: Inclusion of acoustic reflex detection for B and G offers more detailed information about the middle ear status compared with Y alone, and appears to be sensitive in detecting subtle diseases.
Effect of Adenoidectomy and/or Tonsillectomy on Cardiac Functions in Children with Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Authors: Ugur Mehmet Birol , Dogan Sait Mesut , Sogut Ayhan , Uzun Lokman , Cinar Fikret , Altin Remzi , Aydin Mustafa
Published: April 2008

Background/Aims: We aimed to determine the effects of adenoidectomy and/or tonsillectomy (AT) on cardiac functions in children with adenoid and/or tonsillary hypertrophy and obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) by using echocardiography with tissue Doppler imaging facility (TDI). Methods: Twenty-nine children with adenoid and/or tonsillary hypertrophy and OSAS and 26 children with primary snoring entered the study. Cardiac functions were assessed by echocardiography with TDI in both groups. Tests were repeated in the OSAS group 6 months after treatment with AT. Results: Echocardiography showed a decrease in estimated pulmonary artery systolic pressure from 31 ± 4.2 to 13.1 ± 2.3 (p < 0.001). In TDI, tricuspid Em and Em/Am increased from 11.0 ± 2.7 to 13.5 ± 2.7 cm/s (p < 0.001), and 1.46 ± 0.52 to 1.82 ± 0.53 (p = 0.004), respectively, following AT, indicating improvement in right ventricular diastolic dysfunction. Similarly, mitral Em and Em /Am increased from 12.3 ± 2.1 to 16.3 ± 2.7 cm/s, and from 1.65 ± 0.51 to 2.30 ± 0.54, respectively (p < 0.001). There was no significant difference between postoperative values and control group values. Conclusion: TDI is a technique able to detect diastolic dysfunction unnoticeable by conventional echocardiography. Following AT, we observed improvement in both left and right ventricular diastolic functions using TDI.
Body Temperature Regulation By Care of the Fur in Rats, Rattus Norvegicus Albinus
Authors: Nijssen A.
Published: April 2008

Contrary to the expectation, rats at an ambient temperature of 40°C displayed less care of the fur than rats do at an ambient temperature of 24°C. Rats in the 40°C environment curtailed their activities by lying flat; the autonomic response salival secretion appeared excessively, but the saliva was not spread on the fur by means of washing or licking. In a 4°C environment the rats displayed as much care of the fur as they do in a 24°C environment. In the 4°C environment the location of body contact for grooming changed compared to the 24°C environment. Scratching did not play a role according the lining up of the hairs during piloerection.
Em Sokha and Cambodian Satirical Cartoons
Authors: Marston John
Published: April 2008

The article examines the work of one Cambodian satirical cartoonist, Em Sokha, in the context of the historical background of cartooning in Cambodia and the developments in Cambodian print media since 1979. In particular, it looks at how Em Sokha's work has evolved in relation to alternating periods of freedom and control over the press during times of dramatic political change. It explores the implications of Em Sokha's use of distortion and the grotesque to express the violence of relations of power.
The Revitalization of Eurasian Identity in Singapore
Authors: Pereira Alexius
Published: April 2008

This paper accounts for the revitalization of Eurasian identity in the 1990s. The revitalization was instrumental, as Eurasians had found themselves socially marginalized, particularly since the other ethnic groups were becoming more assertive about their respective ethnic identities since the 1980s. To counter this, the Eurasians selectively constructed a set of cultural practices and outlooks which were unique to the group, but not necessarily reviving practices that were "lost". The revitalization was therefore not a deep-seated emotional or primordial attachment to their identity; instead, it was used to improve the position of the community in Singapore.
Chinese Identities in Malaysia
Authors: Chee-Beng Tan
Published: April 2008

This paper discusses the types of Chinese identities in Malaysia, which have been influenced by localization — the process of becoming local, involving cultural adjustment to a local geographical and social environment as well as identifying with the locality. The important role of socialization in ethnic identification is discussed, illustrated by the experience of the Malay-speaking Chinese called Baba. The Chinese in Malaysia are both ethnic Chinese (Huaren) and Malaysians. As Huaren, they are both territorially bounded as Chinese Malaysians and unbounded as transnational Chinese. Ethnic Chinese identities are both bounded and unbounded. The bounded identity as Malaysians of Chinese origin reflects the diverse localization experience of the Chinese.
The Kindred Spirit: The Ties that Bind Indonesian Children and Their Parents
Authors: Frankenberg Elizabeth , Saputra Muda , Beard Victoria
Published: April 2008

This paper uses panel data from two rounds of the Indonesia Family Life Survey (IFLS1 and IFLS2) to examine the correlates of shared living arrangements between adult children and older parents. We consider the question from two perspectives: that of prime-age adults (under 60) and that of elderly (60 and above). For both groups, we find that opportunities to co-reside are strong determinants of whether coresidence occurs in 1993. That is, for prime-age adults, the number of living siblings is strongly negatively associated with the presence of a parent in the household. For the elderly, the number of living children is strongly positively associated with whether a child is present in the household. Households headed by elderly respondents are also more likely to contain a child if they are in urban areas or in areas where housing costs are relatively high. We also examine the correlates of the transition to shared living arrangements by 1997. For the elderly, although socioeconomic factors play a role in coresidence in 1993, they are not related to a transition to coresidence by 1997. Among prime-age adults, it is the younger and better educated household heads who are more likely to transition to coresidence by 1997, but these factors do not explain coresidence in 1993.
Life in the Crypt or Why Bother With Biblical Studies?
Authors: Coleridge Mark
Published: April 2008

We usually assume the importance, even the necessity, of what we do as students of the Bible, yet it is not clear to many that our assumption is justified these days. The essay poses the question, Why bother with biblical studies now? Answers that might once have been given no longer apply in a moment when the great master-narratives of (at least) Western culture have collapsed and when the only alternative seems to be that everyone create his or her own myth. The essay considers exegesis under the aspect of mourning and asks whether there might be any life in the crypt, whether mourning might somehow be experienced as morning. The answer to this question will depend upon whether or not we are able to discover the Bible as a new kind of meta-narrative, one that is (in Bakhtin's sense) not monologic but dialogic.
Biblical Criticism and the Challenge of Postmodernism
Authors: Keegan Terence J.
Published: April 2008

Postmodernism involves recognizing that the objective certitude sought by modern scientific and humanistic methods is not possible. Deconstruction paved the way for postmodernism in literary studies, but it is most evident in the work of some reader-response critics. Many reader-response critics utilize the indeterminacy of postmodern insight but are hesitant to accept its subjectivist implications. Biblical scholars tend to prefer methods that yield verifiable results, but some have successfully used postmodern approaches. Christian scholars, though committed to an idea of transcendence to which postmodernism seems to deny access, can still profitably use postmodern approaches but must be prepared to deal with such questions as inspiration and the relation of scholarship to the Church.
Not Either/or But Both/and in Paul's Areopagus Speech
Authors: Given Mark D.
Published: April 2008

Paul's Areopagus speech has long fascinated New Testament readers. Historical-critical issues have received the most attention as scholars focused on "the question whether the Paul who speaks here is the Paul of the letters." Investigations of narrational and rhetorical techniques have played a subservient role. This essay eclectically combines ancient and modern literary-critical methods in order to lift narrational and rhetorical matters out of their role of subserviency. A literary-critical investigation of the narrative of Paul in Athens allows us to appreciate better its subtlety and sophistication and suggests that historical and theological arguments both for and against the essential authenticity of the speech are based on inadequate reading strategies. Specifically, historical-critical scholars have failed to occupy the position of the implied reader when interpreting the Areopagus speech, a position that distinguishes between the oratees of the speech-a group of philosophically inclined pagans who are uninformed outsiders in relation to Christianity-and the narratee-Theophilus-who is an informed insider on the basis of his reading of Luke/Acts to this point. We often speak of the omniscient narrator, but in this case we would do well to speak of the omniscient narratee. This sets up a situation which the narrator fully exploits to create a highly entertaining reading experience. Much of that entertainment is derived from the deliberate use of double entendre, words and phrases which have one set of associations for insiders in the Christian movement, such as the orator, and another for outsiders, such as the oratees of the speech.
The Redemption of Yhwh: a Literary Critical Function of the Songs of Hannah and David
Authors: Bailey Randall C.
Published: April 2008

The Songs of Hannah and David have been noted to function as hermeneutical frames for the book of Samuel, serving the purpose of guiding the reader's interpretation of the history of Israel presented in the rest of the book. This article, while agreeing with the framing principle, argues that these pieces of poetry serve the function of presenting a theologically orthodox picture of Yhwh, which attempts to offset the depiction of Yhwh found in the narrative sections of the book. The argument is developed by performing a character analysis of Yhwh, as suggested by the contours of the narrative. Specifically the article looks at two aspects of the narrative: the choices of leaders made by Yhwh and the speeches and actions of Yhwh. In addition, there is a focus on what the writer of the book of Samuel is telling the exiles in Babylon about their deity by presenting them with such stories in the structured arrangement of the final form of the book.
He-Bibles and She-Bibles: Reflections On the Violence Done To Texts By Productions of English Translations of the Bible
Authors: Carroll Robert P.
Published: April 2008

The political nature of English Bibles (Geneva Bible, Douai-Rhemes, KingJames Bible) in the long history of biblical translation is often neglected in the analysis of Bibles as ideological weapons ofwar in the theopolitical struggles of the time of their production. The eventual triumph of the KJB centuries later inscribed ideological traces of partisan versions of those struggles in "the English Bible." Violence is done to the biblical text and by readers of the text in the perpetuation of such Bibles as translations. Some examples of these kinds of violence are discussed, with observations on the hermeneutic constraints built into such translations.
Husband Hunting: Characterization and Narrative Art in the Gospel of John
Authors: Brant JO-ANN A.
Published: April 2008

Direct approaches to the characterization of Jesus in the Gospel of John produce E. Käsemann's glorified Lord. If one looks at Jesus through the eyes of two of the female characters, the Samaritan woman and Mary of Bethany, one encounters a potential lover or mate, a man capable of being loved and loving in return. By employing a mimetic theory of characterization and approaching the character of Jesus indirectly through the secondary characters, the reader constructs a "round" person. This reading of Jesus' character is supported by the exploration of these women's motives for their actions. In both cases, έρωζ, the desire to have and to keep that which is good or beautiful for one's own, compels them to act. In the first case, the result is comedy; in the second case, pathos. In either case, Jesus' response to their words and acts provides them with sufficient motivation to proceed with their overtures of love.
What Will Ye See in the Shulammite? Women, Power and Panopticism in the Song of Songs
Authors: Polaski Donald C.
Published: April 2008

The Song of Songs, until recently imprisoned in male-dominated allegorical interpretations, has now become an important resource for feminist readers. By and large, these critics have understood the female figure(s) in the Song as its empowered Subject-a reflection of the Song's gynocentric social context. Such readings presuppose that this female Subject is a self-constituting individual. Another approach to the question of the Subject, that of Michel Foucault, results in a different reading of the female Subject of the Song. Foucault's use of the Panopticon serves as a model for reading the Song. The Panopticon, an ideal prison, renders prisoners constantly and unavoidably available to be watched by an unseen watcher. The prisoners thus assume they are always being watched and become their own guards; they internalize the disciplinary gaze. By doing so, they are constituted as Subjects within a field of power relations. The Shulammite is, in this reading, shown to be the object of a male gaze from which she cannot escape, unlike the male figure. Thus she becomes a Subject through a regime of discipline. While the female figure is the Subject of the Song, this status does not mean that the Song must be heard as liberating for women. Indeed, just the opposite may be true.
Quests of the Historical Jesus in New Historicist Perspective
Authors: Marsh Clive
Published: April 2008

This article looks at the way that the so-called Third Quest relates to past versions of the Quest of the Historical Jesus. Nine different forms of the Quest are uncovered. The history of the Quest is then re-examined in the light of this mapping exercise, drawing on New Historicist insights. Five themes are taken up: the dominance of white, male European/North American contributors to the Quest; its close alliance with Western bourgeous capitalism and individualism; issues surroundings the Quest's marketability and popularity; the consequences of reading the Quest less as a single narrative than as a collection of local ideological explorations; the necessity and dangers of re-writing the Quest's own history. In conclusion, it is suggested that the future of the Quest lies with greater attention to ideology, not less. This in turn invites a reconsideration of the christological framework within which Jesus Research must inevitably be placed.