bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rat liver chromatin phospholipids
Authors: Albi E. , Mersel M. , Leray C. , Tomassoni M. L. , Viola‐Magni M. P.
Published: November 2006

To shed light on the question whether the phospholipids present in chromatin are native or are due to contamination from nuclear membranes, we labeled the phospholipids of isolated nuclei and determined the amount of phospholipids (PL) and PL fatty acid composition in nuclei and chromatin. The hepatocyte nuclei were isolated and radioiodinated by the lactoperoxidase method under saturating and nonsaturating conditions, and the radioactivity associated with chromatin extracted from these nuclei was monitored. Whereas 97% the label was recovered in the nuclear membranes, only 0.08–0.6% was found in chromatin. The PL present in chromatin were relative to the amounts present in the entire nuclei and calculated as percentage of total, phosphatidylethanolamine (10%), phosphatidylserine (22%), phosphatidylinositol (19%) phosphatidylcholine (14%), and sphingomyelin (35%). In sphingomyelin of chromatin‐associated PL an enrichment in polyunsaturated fatty acids was seen. The data indicated that the PL found in isolated chromatin do not seem to be due to contamination from the nuclear membrane.
Preparation of defined molecular species of lactosylceramide by chemical deacylation and reacylation withN‐succinimidyl fatty acid esters
Authors: Kadowaki Hiroko , Grant Marianne A.
Published: November 2006

A procedure for the preparation of specific molecular species ofd‐erythro‐lactosylceramide involving deacylation and reacylation of lactosylceramide prepared from bovine brain gangliosides is described. Lactosylceramide wasN‐deacylated by alkaline hydrolysis and the resulting four lysolactosylceramides, which contained d18∶1, d20∶1, d18∶0 and d20∶0 long‐chain bases, were simultaneously re‐N‐acylated with theN‐succinimidyl ester of either 16∶0, 18∶0, 20∶0, 24∶0, 20∶1, 22∶1 or 24∶1 fatty acid. The resulting lactosylceramide contained four molecular species of lactosylceramides, i.e., d18∶1, d20∶1, d18∶0 and d20∶0 long‐chain bases coupled with the fatty acid that was introduced. Lactosylceramides prepared in this manner were separated into four individual molecular species by high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Each of the purified molecular species of lactosylceramide was quantitated by HPLC after derivatization with benzoylchloride and was characterized by mass spectrometry. The yields of reacylated lactosylceramide were 38–58% relative to the starting lactosylceramide; the purity of each of the molecular species of lactosylceramide was greater than 95%.
Alkyl glycerol monoethers in the marine spongeDesmapsamma anchorata
Authors: Quijano Leovigildo , Cruz Francisco , Navarrete Irma , Gómez Patricia , Rios Tirso
Published: November 2006

1‐O‐Hexadecylglycerol (chimyl alcohol), 1‐O‐heptadecylglycerol and 1‐O‐octadecylglycerol (batyl alcohol) have been identified as the major native constituents of a mixture of free alkyl glycerol ethers isolated from the contained water and the methanolic extract of the spongeDesmapsamma anchorata. Minor components were the free C14, C15, C19, C20 and C21 alkyl glycerol monoethers. The alkyl glycerol monoethers were analyzed and identified by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry of their isopropylidene derivatives. This is the first report on the occurrence of free C15, C19, C20 and C21 alkyl glycerol monoethers in a sponge.
Parametric probabilistic transition systems for system design and analysis
Authors: Lanotte Ruggero , Maggiolo-Schettini Andrea , Troina Angelo
Published: November 2006

We develop a model of parametric probabilistic transition Systems (PPTSs), where probabilities associated with transitions may be parameters. We show how to find instances of the parameters that satisfy a given property and instances that either maximize or minimize the probability of reaching a certain state. As an application, we model a probabilistic non-repudiation protocol with a PPTS. The theory we develop allows us to find instances that maximize the probability that the protocol ends in a fair state (no participant has an advantage over the others).
Aggregation of polyphagous predators in response to multiple prey: ladybirds (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) foraging in alfalfa
Authors: Evans Edward W. , Toler Trent R.
Published: November 2006

The spatial distribution of polyphagous predators may often reflect the integration of aggregative responses to local densities of multiple species of prey, and as such may have consequences for the indirect linkages among the prey sharing these predators. In a factorial field experiment in which we manipulated local prey densities within a field of alfalfa in Utah (USA), we tested whether aphidophagous ladybirds would aggregate not only in response to their primary aphid prey, but also in response to an abundant alternative prey, the alfalfa weevil (Hypera postica [Gyllenhal]). Native North American ladybirds (primarily Hippodamia convergens Guerin and H. quinquesignata quinquesignata [Kirby]) responded only to spatial variation in aphid density. In contrast, the introduced ladybird, Coccinella septempunctata L., aggregated also at local concentrations of the weevil late in the experiment when weevil density was high and aphid density was relatively low throughout all experimental plots. The results support the hypothesis that C. septempunctata is more responsive than are native ladybirds to the availability of alternative prey in alfalfa, which may account in part for the displacement of native ladybirds from alfalfa by the introduced species as aphid numbers have declined. The differing responses of the native and introduced ladybirds to spatial patterns of the alternative prey underscore the importance of extending the study of predator aggregation to understand better how polyphagous predators distribute themselves in response to spatial patterns of multiple species of potential prey.
Nanocrystal and surface alloy properties of bimetallic Gold-Platinum nanoparticles
Authors: Mott Derrick , Luo Jin , Smith Andrew , Njoki Peter N. , Wang Lingyan , Zhong Chuan-Jian
Published: November 2006

We report on the correlation between the nanocrystal and surface alloy properties with the bimetallic composition of gold-platinum(AuPt) nanoparticles. The fundamental understanding of whether the AuPt nanocrystal core is alloyed or phase-segregated and how the surface binding properties are correlated with the nanoscale bimetallic properties is important not only for the exploitation of catalytic activity of the nanoscale bimetallic catalysts, but also to the general exploration of the surface or interfacial reactivities of bimetallic or multimetallic nanoparticles. The AuPt nanoparticles are shown to exhibit not only single-phase alloy character in the nanocrystal, but also bimetallic alloy property on the surface. The nanocrystal and surface alloy properties are directly correlated with the bimetallic composition. The FTIR probing of CO adsorption on the bimetallic nanoparticles supported on silica reveals that the surface binding sites are dependent on the bimetallic composition. The analysis of this dependence further led to the conclusion that the relative Au-atop and Pt-atop sites for the linear CO adsorption on the nanoparticle surface are not only correlated with the bimetallic composition, but also with the electronic effect as a result of the d-band shift of Pt in the bimetallic nanocrystals, which is the first demonstration of the nanoscale core-surface property correlation for the bimetallic nanoparticles over a wide range of bimetallic composition.
Effect of therapeutic pulsed ultrasound on parameters of oxidative stress in skeletal muscle after injury
Authors: Freitas Luciana S. , Freitas Tiago P. , Silveira Paulo C. , Rocha Luís G. , Pinho Ricardo A. , Streck Emilio L.
Published: November 2006

Contusion injuries are a very common form of both athletic and non‐athletic injury, that effect muscle function. Treatments to augment the normal repair and regeneration processes are important for a wide variety of patients. Therapeutic ultrasound has been claimed to promote tissue repair, especially by enhancing cell proliferation and protein synthesis. The present study aimed to investigate the effect of therapeutic pulsed ultrasound (TPU) on parameters of oxidative stress, namely thiobarbituric acid‐reactive substances (TBARS), protein carbonyl content and the activities of antioxidant enzymes, catalase and superoxide dismutase (SOD), in skeletal muscle after injury. Wistar rats were submitted to an animal model of muscle (gastrocnemius) laceration. TPU was used once a day. One, three or five days after muscle laceration, the animals were killed by decapitation and oxidative stress parameters were evaluated. Serum CK levels were increased in muscle‐injured animals, indicating that the laceration animal model was successful. TBARS were not altered after muscle injury, when compared to the sham group. Protein carbonyl content was increased after muscle laceration. Catalase and SOD activities were increased 1 day after muscle injury and not altered at days 3 and 5. TPU decreased TBARS levels after muscle laceration when compared to injured muscle animals without treatment. Protein carbonyl content evaluation presented similar results. It is tempting to speculate that TPU seems to protect the tissue from oxidative injury. TPU diminished catalase and SOD activities, especially on the first day following muscle laceration.
Down‐regulation of IGF‐IR using small, interfering, hairpin RNA (siRNA) inhibits growth of human lung cancer cell line A549 in vitro and in nude mice
Authors: Dong Ai‐Qiang , Kong Min‐Jian , Ma Zhi‐Yuan , Qian Jian‐Fang , Xu Xiao‐Hong
Published: November 2006

Type I insulin‐like growth factor receptor (IGF‐IR), which is frequently overexpressed in a variety of human cancers including lung cancer, mediates cancer cell proliferation and tumor growth. In this study, we used a human U6 promoter‐driven DNA‐template approach to induce hairpin RNA (hpRNA)‐triggered RNAi to silence IGF‐IR gene expression in the human lung cancer cell line A549, and then evaluate its effects on apoptosis, apoptosis‐related gene expression, and the growth of tumor cells in vitro and in nude mice. IGF‐IR expression levels were found to markedly decrease in cells transfected with a plasmid expressing hairpin siRNA for IGF‐IR (by more than 78.9%). Down‐regulation of IGR‐IR concomitantly accompanied reduction of bcl‐2 as well as pERK and pAkt levels, activation of caspase‐3, apoptosis and growth inhibition of A549 cells in vitro. Direct intratumoral injections of plasmid DNA expressing hpRNA for IGF‐IR significantly regressed pre‐established tumors in nude mice. Our results support the therapeutic potential of RNAi as a method for gene therapy in treating lung cancer.
A simple centrifugal dehydration force method to characterize water compartments in fresh and post‐mortem fish muscle
Authors: Cameron Ivan L. , Short Nicholas J. , Fullerton Gary D.
Published: November 2006

A centrifugal dehydration force (CDF) method to quantify changes in tissue hydration in fresh and in post‐mortem muscular fish tail tissue is presented. The data obtained were used to assess fluid flow rate from tissues and the size of hydration compartments expressed in g water/g dry mass (DM). Curve fit analysis demonstrated that muscle tissue has three detectable water compartments. Application of the method to the fresh fish indicated the presence of a large non‐bulk water compartment (3.14 g water/g DM) with a much smaller (0.11 g water/g DM) inner non‐bulk water sub‐compartment in addition to a comparatively small bulk water compartment (0.99 g water/g DM). At 10 min and at 4 h post‐mortem, no significant change in size or flow rate of the water compartments was observed. At 24 h post‐mortem the muscular fish tissue, stored in water, swelled with statistically significant increase in total water and in the bulk water compartment but no significant change in the size of the non‐bulk water compartments. The water flow rate from the non‐bulk water compartment was, however, increased significantly in the 24 h dead tissue. This simple CDF method has application for quantization of bulk and non‐bulk water compartments in other biological and non‐biological systems.
Verification of simple hydration/dehydration methods to characterize multiple water compartments on Tendon Type 1 Collagen
Authors: Cameron Ivan L. , Short Nicholas J. , Fullerton Gary D.
Published: November 2006

A molecular model of collagen hydration is used to validate centrifugal dehydration force (CDF) and re‐hydration isotherm (RHI) methods to measure and characterize hydration compartments on bovine tendon. The CDF method assesses fluid flow rate from flexor and extensor tendons expressed in (g‐water/g‐dry mass‐minute) and hydration capacity of compartments in (g‐water/g‐dry mass). Measured water compartment capacities agree with the molecular model of collagen hydration [Fullerton GD, Rahal A. Collagen structure: the molecular source of tendon magic angle effect. J Mag Reson Imag 2007;25:345–361; Fullerton GD, Amurao MR. Evidence that collagen and tendon have monolayer water coverage in the native state. Cell Biol Int 2006;30(1):56–65]. Native tendon hydration has monolayer coverage on collagen h
m= 1.6 g/g which divides into primary hydration on polar surfaces hpp= 0.8 g/g and secondary hydration hs= 0.8 g/g bridging over hydrophobic surfaces. Primary hydration is hydrogen bonded tocollagen polar side chains hpsc= 0.54 g/g with small free energy or to the protein main chain hydration hpmc= 0.26 g/g with greater free energy of binding. The CDF method replaces the more time consuming water proton NMR spin‐lattice dehydration (NMR titration) method, confirms the presence ofthree non‐bulk water compartments on collagen (hpmc= 0.26 g/g, hpp= 0.8 g/g and hm= 1.6 g/g). This CDF method provides the most reproducible experimental measure of total tissue non‐bulk water (TNBW). The re‐hydration isotherm method, on the other hand, provides the most accurate measure of the Ramachandran water‐bridge capacity hRa= 0.0656 g/g. The only equipment needed are: microfilterfuge tubes, a microcentrifuge capable of 14,000 × g or 4 MPa, a vacuum drying oven, an accurate balance and curve fitting ability. The newly validated methods should be useful for characterizing multiple water compartments in biological and non‐biological materials by allowing direct measurement of water compartment changes induced by pH, co‐solute salt, glycation and protein cross‐linking.
Effect of NYD‐SP27 down‐regulation on ATP‐induced Ca2+‐dependent pancreatic duct anion secretion in cystic fibrosis cells
Authors: Zhu Jin Xia , Yang Ning , Zhu Hu , Chung Yiu Wa , Chan Hsiao Chang
Published: November 2006

Our previous study demonstrated that NYD‐SP27 is a novel inhibitory PLC isoform expressed endogenously in human pancreas and upregulated in CFPAC‐1 cells. The present study investigated the effect of NYD‐SP27 down‐regulation on the ATP‐stimulated and Ca2+‐dpendent pancreatic anion secretion by CFPAC‐1 cell line using short‐circuit current (I SC) recording. NYD‐SP27 antisense‐transfected CFPAC‐1 (AT‐CF) cells exhibited a significantly higher basal transmembrane potential difference and current than those of empty vector‐transfected CFPAC‐1 (VT‐CF) cells. Cl− channel blocker, DPC or Glibenclamide (1 mM), and inhibitor of Na+‐K+‐Cl− cotransporter, bumetanide (100 μM) significantly inhibited the basal current in AT‐CF cells. The inhibitor of adenylate cyclase, MDL12330A (20 μM), and Ca2+‐dependent Cl− channel (CaCC) blocker, DIDS (100 μM) also significantly reduced the basal current in AT‐CF. Apical application of ATP (10 μM) stimulated a fast transient I SC increase in VT‐CF cells, but a more sustained rise with slower decline in AT‐CF cells. Pretreatment with BAPTA‐AM (50 μM) reduced the ATP‐induced I SC response in AT‐CF cells by 77.9%. PMA (1 μM), a PKC activator, inhibited the ATP‐stimulated current increase (the transient peak) in VT‐CF cells, but had no effect on the AT‐CF cells. However, PKC inhibitor, staurosporine (40 μM) could inhibit the ATP‐induced I SC response in AT‐CF cells. The present results confirm the previously proposed inhibitory role of NYD‐SP27 in the PLC pathway and demonstrate that the suppression of its expression could result in an enhancement of ATP‐stimulated Ca2+ dependent pancreatic anion secretion.
Reversine inhibits spontaneous synaptic transmission in cultured rat hippocampal neurons
Authors: Li Ruxin , Zhu Shaoqing , He Xiangping , Xie Zuoping
Published: November 2006

The dedifferentiation agent “reversine” [2‐(4‐morpholinoanilino)‐N6‐cyclohexyladenine 2], which can induce myogenic lineage‐committed cells to become multipotent mesenchymal progenitor cells, was discovered by Shuibing Chen et al. in 2003. But its effects on neurons were unknown. Using patch‐clamp technique, we found that reversine inhibits spontaneous synaptic transmission in cultured rat hippocampal neurons without influencing the dynamics function of potassium, sodium and calcium channels. This result suggests that reversine may also act as a dedifferentiation agent in neurons, and inhibiting the synaptic transmission maybe the early step of neuronal dedifferentiation.
Heavy daily smoking among under 18-year-old psychiatric inpatients is associated with increased risk for suicide attempts
Authors: Riala Kaisa , Viilo Kaisa , Hakko Helinä , Räsänen Pirkko
Published: November 2006

Purpose

To investigate the relationship between heavy daily smoking and suicidality among adolescent psychiatric inpatients in Finland.

Methods

Data were collected from 411 patients (age 12–17 years) admitted to inpatient psychiatric hospitalization between April 2001 and July 2005. The number of daily cigarettes (>15) and the time of first cigarette after waking up (within 30 min) were used as indicators of heavy daily smoking.

Results

After adjusting for psychiatric diagnoses an over twofold risk for suicide attempts was found among adolescents who smoked over 15 cigarettes a day. Additionally, if an adolescent also smoked the first cigarette immediately after waking up the risk was over threefold. Suicidal ideation was not associated with smoking behaviour.

Discussion and conclusions

Among adolescents with severe psychiatric illnesses, heavy daily smoking may increase the risk of suicidal behaviour independently of current psychiatric diagnosis. The degree of nicotine dependence of an adolescent should therefore be carefully assessed as part of psychiatric evaluation.
Challenging DSM-IV criteria for hypomania: Diagnosing based on number of no-priority symptoms
Authors: Benazzi Franco
Published: November 2006

Background

DSM-IV definition of hypomania of bipolar-II disorder (BP-II), which includes elevated/irritable mood change as core feature (i.e., it must always be present), is not based on sound evidence.

Study aim

Following classic descriptions of hypomania, was to test if hypomania could be diagnosed on the basis of its number (9) of DSM-IV symptoms, setting no-priority symptom.

Methods

Consecutive 422 depression-remitted outpatients were re-interviewed by a mood specialist psychiatrist using the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV Axis I Disorders-Clinician Version [a semi-structured interview modified by Benazzi and Akiskal (J Affect Disord, 2003; J Clin Psychiatry, 2005) to improve the probing for BP-II] in a private practice. History of episodes of subthreshold (i.e., 2 or more symptoms) and threshold (i.e., meeting DSM-IV criteria of elevated mood plus at least 3 symptoms, or irritable mood plus at least 4) hypomania, lasting at least 2 days, and which were the most common symptoms during the episodes, were systematically assessed.

Results

Bipolar-II disorder (BP-II) patients (according to DSM-IV criteria, apart from hypomania duration) were 260, and major depressive disorder (MDD) patients were 162. Mood change was present in all BP-II by definition. The most common symptoms were overactivity, which was present in almost all BP-II, followed by elevated mood and racing thoughts. ROC analysis of the number of hypomanic symptoms predicting BP-II found that a cut point of 5 or more symptoms over 9 had the best combination of sensitivity (90%) and specificity (84%), and the highest figure of correctly classified (87%) BP-II. History of episodes of 5 or more hypomanic symptoms was met by almost all BP-II.

Limitations

Single interviewer.

Conclusions

Following classic descriptions of hypomania, not setting any priority among the three basic domains of hypomania (mood, thinking, behavior), results suggest that a cutoff number of 5 symptoms over 9 (of those listed by DSM-IV) could be used to diagnose hypomania of BP-II. Diagnosing hypomania by counting a checklist of symptoms should make it easier to diagnose BP-II, and should reduce the current high misdiagnosis of BP-II as MDD, significantly impacting the treatment of depression.
Outcome and its predictors in schizophrenia within the Northern Finland 1966 Birth Cohort
Authors: Lauronen E. , Miettunen J. , Veijola J. , Karhu M. , Jones P.B. , Isohanni M.
Published: November 2006

Purpose

We report clinical and social outcomes of schizophrenia in the longitudinal, population-based Northern Finland 1966 Birth Cohort, and describe associated demographic, developmental and illness-related factors.

Subjects and methods

Subjects with DSM-III-R schizophrenia (n = 59) were followed prospectively from mid-gestation up to age 35 years. Outcome measures included positive and negative symptoms, psychiatric hospitalisations, social and occupational functioning. Several definitions of good and poor outcome were explored, and developmental, socio-demographic and clinical predictors of outcomes were analysed.

Results

Good clinical outcome varied from 10% to 59%, and good social outcome 15–46%, depending on definition. Poor clinical outcome varied 41–77% and poor social 37–54%. Lack of friends in childhood, father's high social class, lower school performance and earlier age of illness onset predicted poor outcomes.

Discussion

The outcomes of schizophrenia in this study depended on definitions used but were relatively poor. The age of illness onset, father's social class, school performance and poor social contacts in childhood were only statistically significant predictors.

Conclusion

Definitions of outcome have a major effect on estimates for proportions of good and bad outcomes and on the predictors of outcomes. However, regardless of which definitions were used, the outcome of schizophrenia in this population-based sample was generally bleak.
Temperament and character dimensions of the relatives of schizophrenia patients and controls: The relationship between schizotypal features and personality
Authors: Bora Emre , Veznedaroglu Baybars
Published: November 2006

Purpose

Previous findings indicated that schizophrenia patients might have a different personality structure from the general population on several dimensions of temperament and character. Some authors proposed that HA might be a marker of underlying genetic vulnerability to schizophrenia. Studies on high-risk subjects and first degree relatives of patients is essential to test the value of a measure as a marker of genetic vulnerability to a disease. Few studies tested the biopsychosocial model of personality on unaffected relatives of schizophrenia.

Subjects and methods

We compared the Temperament and Character (TCI) profiles of 94 first degree relatives of schizophrenia and 75 controls. We also investigated the relationship between schizotypy and TCI dimensions in the study sample.

Results

The harm avoidance scores of the relatives of schizoprenia patients with schizotypal features were significantly higher. Self transcendence scores were also significantly higher among relatives with schizotypal features. In contrast, the relatives of the patients with schizophrenia who did not have schizotypal features had higher SD and C scores than the control group.

Discussion and conclusion

This finding is consistent with the previous findings which suggested harm avoidance as a vulnerability indicator of schizophrenia. Some character features like self transcendence might be also associated with schizotypal features.
Schizophrenic subtype, seasonality of birth and social class: A preliminary analysis
Authors: Gallagher Bernard J. , Jones Brian J. , McFalls Joseph A. , Pisa Anthony M.
Published: November 2006

Objective

The neurodevelopmental model of schizophrenia includes the etiological impact of fetal brain stressors possibly connected with birth seasonality. Specification of social class of origin (SES) as a related risk factor remains unexamined as does type of schizophrenia as an outcome variable. The objective of this study was to test for an interconnection between SES, type of schizophrenia and seasonality of birth.

Methods

Patients (N = 436) from a United States psychiatric hospital were separated into deficit/nondeficit presentation and bifurcated into poor/nonpoor SES. Birth seasonality was assessed by months hypothetically connected with winter-related trimesters of gestation.

Results

Results showed that there is a significant difference (p = 0.0411) in the monthly birth patterns of poor vs. nonpoor patients and that the difference connects with the likelihood of deficit vs. nondeficit schizophrenia. Specifically, an elevated proportion of patients with deficit schizophrenia were born to impoverished women who likely conceived in January. Findings were confirmed by multiple levels of statistical assessment including log linear analysis.

Conclusion

The resultant model suggests the environmental location (lower SES) and timing (winter conception) of adult schizophrenia with poor outcome (deficit).
Open Reduction of the Radial Head with Ulnar Osteotomy and Annular Ligament Reconstruction for Bilateral Congenital Radial Head Dislocation: A Case with Long-Term Follow-Up
Authors: YAMAZAKI H. , KATO H.
Published: November 2006

We report the 9 year follow-up results of treatment of a 5 year-old boy with bilateral congenital radial head dislocation by open reduction of the radial head and ulnar osteotomy with annular ligament reconstruction and discuss the management of this condition.
The Use of a Proximally Based Posterior Interosseous Adipofascial Flap to Prevent Recurrence of Synostosis of the Elbow Joint and Forearm
Authors: JONES M. E. , RIDER M. A. , HUGHES J. , TONKIN M. A.
Published: November 2006

We report on four children in whom a proximally based, posterior interosseous artery adipofascial flap was used as an adjunct to surgical resection of synostoses of the forearm and elbow. Three traumatic radio-ulnar and one congenital humero-radial synostoses were treated. The postoperative pronation to supination arc of motion was excellent in all of the traumatic cases and fair in the congenital case.
Mallet Fractures: A Novel Approach to Internal Fixation Using A Hook Plate
Authors: TEOH L. C. , LEE J. Y. L.
Published: November 2006

A new treatment of mallet fractures of the distal phalanx is presented. Open reduction and internal fixation was performed using a “hook” plate fabricated from a 1.3 mm AO hand modular system straight plate. This technique avoids the need to place implants or wires through the small avulsion fragment while still being able to achieve a stable “tension-plate” type of fixation construct strong enough to allow protected early active motion of the distal interphalangeal joint. In minimising the need for prolonged splinting, patient comfort is also improved. In a consecutive series of nine fractures, union was achieved in all cases. At an average follow-up period of 17 months, four had excellent and five had good results using the Crawford rating scale. Using the Warren and Norris scale, all patients had a successful result. The final average active range of flexion of the distal interphalangeal joint was 64° and there was no extensor lag.
Reconstruction of The Digital Flexor Pulley System: A Retrospective Comparison of Two Methods of Treatment
Authors: ARORA R. , FRITZ D. , ZIMMERMANN R. , LUTZ M. , KAMELGER F. , KLAUSER A. S. , GABL M.
Published: November 2006

The rare injury of closed rupture of the A2 and A3 flexor pulleys was treated using two non-encircling techniques of pulley reconstruction. Thirteen patients were treated with an extensor retinaculum graft (Group A). At a mean follow-up time of 48 months, the average PIP flexion was 97%, the power grip strength 96%, the pinch grip strength 100% and the thickening 94% of the uninjured side. Ten patients were treated with a free palmaris longus tendon grafts (Group B). At a mean follow-up time of 57 months, the average PIP flexion was 94%, the power grip strength 98%, the pinch grip strength 100% and the thickening 95% of the uninjured side. In both groups, finger extension was unrestricted. The Buck Gramcko score included 10 excellent, two good and one fair result in Group A and seven excellent, two good and one fair result in Group B. Both techniques proved beneficial. All climbers returned to their previous standard and all non-climbers regained full finger dexterity in their previous job.
Relocation of Painful End Neuromas and Scarred Nerves from the Zone II Territory of the Hand
Authors: ATHERTON D. D. , LEONG J. C. S. , ANAND P. , ELLIOT D.
Published: November 2006

This paper reports the results of treatment by proximal relocation of 46 painful end-neuromas or scarred nerves in 33 patients from the pre-defined Zone II of the hand. The relocated nerves included four palmar cutaneous branches of the median nerve, 17 dorsal branches of the ulnar nerves and 25 digital nerves. If no pain at the original site and no pain or only mild pain at the relocation site are considered an adequate treatment of these difficult problems, these relocation procedures achieve complete control of spontaneous baseline pain, complete control of spontaneous spikes of pain, 93% control of direct pressure pain, complete control of movement pain (excluding the extremes of movement of the wrist into extension, supination and, less frequently, pronation) and 96% control of hypersensitivity of the overlying skin.
Vom Überbringen schlechter Nachrichten – drei Kurzgeschichten
Authors: Hürny
Published: November 2006

Das Überbringen schlechter Nachrichten ist eine schwierige ärztliche Aufgabe. Anhand von drei Kurzgeschichten von Krebspatienten werden häufige, wiederkehrende Schwierigkeiten und Fehler bei der Information über Diagnose und Prognose aufgezeigt. Krebs hat neben seiner medizinischen immer auch eine metaphorische Bedeutung, was die Verständigung von Patient und Arzt erheblich erschweren kann. Deshalb gilt es den Begriff Krebs im Gespräch zu gebrauchen und seine reale Bedeutung für den Patienten zu klären. Beim Abschätzen der Prognose ist Vorsicht am Platz, weil durch falsche Voraussagen das Vertrauen des Patienten in den Arzt schwer erschüttert und die weitere Behandlung in Frage gestellt werden kann. Schlechte Nachrichten müssen also nicht nur mitgeteilt, sondern die Reaktionen der Patienten angenommen, verstanden und aufgefangen werden.
Kieferhöhleninfekt mit Kopfemphysem als «red herring» bei Steroid-assoziierter Kolonperforation
Authors: Frei  , Fatio  , Fenner  , Stäubli
Published: November 2006

Jede kurz- oder langfristige Steroidtherapie ist ein Risikofaktor für eine Steroid-assoziierte Kolonperforation. Insbesondere unter einer Steroidtherapie kann die Perforation absolut asymptomatisch verlaufen und ein Emphysem das erste Zeichen der Perforation sein. Deshalb sollte eine Kolonperforation immer differential-diagnostisch in Betracht gezogen werden beim Auftreten eines Emphysems jeglicher Lokalisation, auch bei fehlender Abdominalsymptomatik.
Explodierende Nekrosen
Authors: Kruse  , Frey
Published: November 2006

Die Krankengeschichte einer Patientin mit Calciphylaxie (Calcific Uremic Arteriolopathy) wird dargestellt. Die Pathogenese und therapeutischen Modalitäten werden diskutiert.
Die Bedeutung von Caring aus der Sicht von Patienten mit chronischen Wunden bei Peripher Arteriellen Verschlusskrankheiten
Authors: Perini Corina , Stauffer Yvonne , Grunder Margrit , Gandon Marianne , Dätwyler Barbara , Hantikainen Virpi
Published: November 2006

Diese Untersuchung beschreibt die Bedeutung von Caring aus der Sicht der Patienten mit chronischen Wunden bei Peripher Arteriellen Verschlusskrankheiten (PAVK). Folgende Fragestellungen wurden formuliert: 1) Welche Bedeutung haben chronische Wunden für die Alltagsbewältigung der Patienten? 2) Welche Bedeutung hat Caring für Patienten mit chronischen Wunden? Für die Untersuchung wurde der qualitative Forschungsansatz in Anlehnung an Mayring gewählt. Die Auswahl der zu befragenden Personen erfolgte nach der Methode der zweckgebundenen Stichprobe. Es wurden 12 Interviews durchgeführt bei sieben Frauen und fünf Männern im Alter zwischen 69 und 86 Jahren. Die Datenanalyse wurde mittels der qualitativen Inhaltsanalyse nach Mayring vorgenommen. Die Ergebnisse zeigen, dass der Alltag der Patienten von den Auswirkungen der chronischen Wunden stark beeinträchtigt ist (u.a. infolge Schmerzen, Schlafmangel, eingeschränkter Mobilität) und verschiedene Bewältigungsstrategien eingesetzt werden (u.a. die Situationen annehmen, positives Denken, Hoffen). Bezüglich Caring: Diese Dimension der Pflege wurde von den Betroffenen sowohl im Kontakt mit Fachpersonen als auch mit den Angehörigen erlebt. Um das Erleben von Caring zu schildern, benützten die Patienten die gleichen Ausdrücke (beispielsweise «sich kümmern, mit jemandem sprechen») für das Verhalten der Angehörigen und das der Fachpersonen. Die Betroffenen erwarten von den Fachpersonen insbesondere eine wertschätzende Haltung. Diese wird von den Patienten häufig als «lieb und nett sein» umschrieben, eine von den Pflegenden wenig geschätzte Zuweisung. In dieser Untersuchung drückten die Patienten damit aber explizit aus, dass sie sich ernst genommen und umsorgt fühlten. Dies sind wichtige Voraussetzungen, damit die Patienten fähig sind, ihre Behandlungskonzepte zu verstehen und umzusetzen. Fazit: Caring hat einen maßgeblichen Einfluss auf die Qualität der Pflege und muss deshalb bewusster Bestandteil der Pflegehandlungen sein.
Wie schätzen leitende Mitarbeiter ambulanter Pflegedienste die Palliativversorgung ein?
Authors: Schneider Nils , Amelung Volker Eric , Buser Kurt
Published: November 2006

Der gegenwärtige Stand der Palliativversorgung im häuslichen Bereich wird von Experten In Deutschland erheblich kritisiert. Sie fordern neben verbesserten Aus-, Fort- und Weiterbildungsmaßnahmen für alle beteiligten Berufsgruppen auch den Auf- und Ausbau spezieller Strukturen (Hospize, Palliativdienste u.a.). Über die Einstellungen und Sichtweisen der Mitarbeiter von ambulanten Pflegediensten, die maßgeblich in die Palliativversorgung involviert sind, ist in diesem Kontext wenig bekannt. Deshalb wurden im Rahmen einer evaluativen Meinungsumfrage Telefoninterviews mit Leitungspersonal ambulanter Pflegedienste im Bundesland Brandenburg durchgeführt. Von 100 geplanten Interviews kamen 88 zustande. Die Einschätzungen der gegenwärtigen Versorgungslage fielen überwiegend gut aus und spiegelten die Expertenmeinungen aus der Literatur nicht wider. Gleichwohl sahen die Befragten einen großen Verbesserungsbedarf vor allem in der psychosozialen Betreuung. Obwohl Palliativpatienten zahlenmäßig im Arbeitsalltag der ambulanten Pflegekräfte eher im Hintergrund zu stehen scheinen, zeigten die Befragten große Motivation und Offenheit für zusätzliche Qualifikationen und neue Versorgungsstrukturen in diesem Bereich. Bislang beschäftigen nur wenige Dienste Mitarbeiter mit einer Zusatzqualifikation in Palliative Care.
Noninvasive and Three-Dimensional Imaging of CMRO2 in Rats at 9.4 T: Reproducibility Test and Normothermia/Hypothermia Comparison Study
Authors: Zhu Xiao-Hong , Zhang Yi , Zhang Nanyin , Ugurbil Kamil , Chen Wei
Published: November 2006

Ability to image cerebral metabolic rate of oxygen (CMRO2) is essential for studying the fundamental role of oxidative metabolism in brain function and disease. We have demonstrated recently that three-dimensional (3D) CMRO2 images can be obtained in the rat brain during a 2-min 17O2 inhalation using the 17O MR spectroscopic imaging (MRSI) approach at high field. The feasibility for establishing a completely noninvasive approach for imaging CMRO2 has also been demonstrated. In this study, we further explored the feasibility of 17O MRSI approach for performing repeated CMRO2 measurements within a short period of time and evaluated the reproducibility of the repeated measurements. Subsequently, we applied the 17O MRSI approach to measure CMRO2 and cerebral blood flow (CBF) values at two brain temperatures in the α-chloralose anesthetized rat brain at 9.4 T. Finally, we tested the validity of simplified model for noninvasively determining CMRO2 in normothermic and hypothermic rat brain. The results show (i) an excellent reproducibility among repeated measurements of 3D CMRO2 images under the same physiologic condition; (ii) a 44% decrease of CMRO2 across the rat brain at mild hypothermic (32°C) condition as compared with normothermic (37°C) condition; and (iii) a close correlation between CMRO2 and CBF within a relatively wide physiologic range. This study demonstrates the capability of 17O MRSI approach for noninvasively imaging CMRO2 and its changes caused by physiologic perturbation. This approach, thus, should provide a promising neuroimaging modality for studying oxidative metabolism and bioenergetics associated with brain functions and diseases.
A co–Evolutionary Complex Systems Perspective on Information Systems
Authors: Allen Peter M , Varga Liz
Published: November 2006

The co-evolution of information systems (IS) and the processes that underpin the construction and development of IT systems are explained from a complex systems perspective. Evolution operates at the microscopic level; in organizations, this is the individual or agent. Each agent has an idiosyncratic view of the organization, using to some extent personal constructs in dealing with the reality of organizational life. These objects or constructs can be described and measured by most agents; they are well defined. Many of these objects are represented in electronic, IT systems. Each agent also has their own view as to how they know what they know, that is, their epistemology, which we argue is their IS, and is wider than the IT systems they use. The IS of each agent co-evolves, by interaction with other agents, based on the agent's view of reality. The interaction of all agents constitutes the organization. Even more importantly, different values and interests motivate each agent. This is their axiology and it is what motivates them to learn and to develop their IS. An agent-based axiological framework is essential to understanding the evolution of organizations. It is the interaction of agents that builds consensus as to the shared reality of the organization, and this affects each agent's ability and motivation to evolve IS further. In addition, we propose that it is time that IT systems included modelling capabilities, based on multi-agent representations of the organization and its context, to explore and support strategic thinking and decision making.
An Agent–Based Model of the Impact of Computer–Mediated Communication on Organizational Culture and Performance: An example of the Application of Complex Systems Analysis Tools to the Study of CIS
Authors: Canessa Enrique , Riolo Rick L.
Published: November 2006

Organizations that make use of computer information systems (CIS) are prototypical complex adaptive systems (CAS). This paper shows how an approach from Complexity Science, exploratory agent-based modeling (ABM), can be used to study the impact of two different modes of use of computer-mediated communication (CMC) on organizational culture (OC) and performance. The ABM includes stylized representations of (a) agents communicating with other agents to complete tasks; (b) an OC consisting of the distribution of agent traits, changing as agents communicate; (c) the effect of OC on communication effectiveness (CE), and (d) the effect of CE on task completion times, that is, performance. If CMC is used in a broad mode, that is, to contact and collaborate with many, new agents, the development of a strong OC is slowed, leading to decreased CE and poorer performance early on. If CMC is used in a local mode, repeatedly contacting the same agents, a strong OC develops rapidly, leading to increased CE and high performance early on. However, if CMC is used in a broad mode over longer time periods, a strong OC can develop over a wider set of agents, leading to an OC that is stronger than an OC which develops with local CMC use. Thus broad use of CMC results in overall CE and performance that is higher than is generated by local use of CMC. We also discuss how the dynamics generated by an ABM can lead to a deeper understanding of the behavior of a CAS, for example, allowing us to better design empirical longitudinal studies.
Complexity and Information Systems: The Emergent Domain
Authors: Merali Yasmin
Published: November 2006

This paper is concerned with the emergence of the information systems (IS) domain as a central feature of the management research landscape in the networked world. It shows that emergence of the network economy and network society necessitates a paradigm shift in the IS discipline, and that complexity science offers the apposite concepts and tools for effecting such a shift. To avoid confusion of fundamental complexity science concepts with the more colloquial uses of complexity terminology, the paper provides an introduction to concepts from complexity science for those in the IS field who are unacquainted with complexity theory. It then proceeds to explore the utility of these concepts for developing IS theory and practice for the emergent networked world.
Germination and dormancy states of seeds in the environmental weed Rumex vesicarius (Polygonaceae). I. Seed polymorphism and germination of extracted seeds
Authors: Schatral Andrea , Osborne Joan M.
Published: November 2006

In Australia, Rumex vesicarius (Ruby Dock; subgenus Acetosa, section Vesicarii, family Polygonaceae) is an environmental weed, with the potential to have a significant impact on the natural flora and fauna in areas where it grows. Ruby Dock seeds are polymorphic (light and dark of various shades) and of high potential viability. Seeds are enclosed within showy, papery fruiting valves at maturation. Extracted seeds are characterised by non-deep physiological dormancy. Light and dark seeds usually require an after-ripening period of several months, but thereafter germinate at any time of the year in a light–dark rhythm. Light seeds also show excellent germination in constant darkness; they are non-dormant. Dark seeds show conditional dormancy, where germination is inhibited in darkness, but not in a light–dark rhythm. Scarification experiments indicate that the conditional dormancy of dark seeds is related to the pericarp. The pericarp may restrict oxygen consumption by the embryo, contain chemical inhibitors and/or impede radicle protrusion. A range of environmental variables is likely to affect the specific germination requirements of particular seed types. Environmental conditions may induce secondary dormancy, in both light and dark seeds.
Dynamics of pollen release in relation to anther-wall structure among species of Solanum (Solanaceae)
Authors: Passarelli Lilian , Cocucci Andrea
Published: November 2006

Dynamics of pollen release in relation to anther-wall structure among species of Solanum (sects Brevantherum, Cyphomandropsis and Pachyphylla) were studied. Differences in anther-wall qualities (multi-layered and rigid v. single-layered and flexible) were correlated with shifts between vibratory and pneumatic mechanisms. The species presented different exploitation mechanisms for bees to obtain their pollen. The number of replications (strokes on the bellows and buzzing actions) needed to empty the anthers and the total amount of pollen per flower were significantly different among the species. However, the differences were not correlated with differences in structural anther features. The pollination syndrome was related only to the total amount of pollen per flower, which was larger in the pollen flowers. We propose that the pneumatic mechanisms may have played a role simultaneously with the vibratory mechanism as an unclogging device or as a means of increasing male fitness by the pattern of pollen distribution. The pre-existence of the pneumatic principle in pollen flowers must have opened the possibility of pollen deposition on visitors without vibratory capabilities such as a male bee. Parallel to this change a shift in the reward system must have occurred.
Relict islands of the temperate rainforest tree Aextoxicon punctatum (Aextoxicaceae) in semi-arid Chile: genetic diversity and biogeographic history
Authors: Núñez-Ávila Mariela C. , Armesto Juan J.
Published: November 2006

Aextoxicon punctatum, the only representative of the family Aextoxicaceae, is a tree species endemic to temperate forests of western South America. This species exhibits a disjunct distribution pattern, with few isolated populations occurring on coastal hilltops of the Chilean semi-arid zone (SAZ), 30–32°S; small populations mixed with sclerophyllous forest in some gorges of the central Chilean Mediterranean coastal range (MCR), 32–39°S; more continuous forests extended along the southern temperate coastal range (TCR), 39–43°S; and fragmented populations eastward in the south temperate central depression and Andean foothills (TAF), 39–41°S. This geographic disjunction is the result of climatic and tectonic changes that took place in southern South America since the late Tertiary, leading to the isolation of forest fragments in the SAZ from the rest of the distribution. According to palynological evidence, populations of TCR and TAF originated from postglacial population expansions from refuges located on the coastal range, north of 40°S. We examined how the present genetic structure and diversity of Aextoxicon populations in Chile reflects this biogeographic history. Random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) markers were used to characterise genetic differences within and among 16 populations of this species throughout its natural range. AMOVA and UPGMA analysis showed high genetic differentiation between the geographically closer SAZ and MCR populations, suggesting a long history of restricted genetic exchange between populations in these two zones. Estimates of Shannon’s genetic diversity and percentage polymorphism were relatively low compared with other southern temperate forest trees (mainly conifers) that were less affected by the glaciations. Positive correlations between genetic and geographic distances were found for TCR but not for TAF populations, suggesting earlier postglacial population expansion southwards along the TCR and more recent eastward migration from coastal locations to TAF during the Holocene.