bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Direct observation of electrically active interfacial layer defects which may cause threshold voltage instabilities in HfO2 based metal-oxide-silicon field-effect transistors
Authors: Ryan J. T. , Lenahan P. M. , Robertson J. , Bersuker G.
Published: March 2008

We show that a Si∕HfO2 interfacial layer defect with an electron spin resonance spectrum similar to that of some E′ center variants responds to oxide bias consistent with an amphoteric defect. The spectrum is weakly orientation dependent indicating that the defect does not reside in a completely amorphous matrix. The defect’s spin lattice relaxation time is much shorter than that of conventional E′ centers suggesting that the defect involves some coupling of a Hf atom to a nearby oxygen deficient silicon dangling bond defect. This defect very likely plays an important role in widely reported instabilities in HfO2 based transistors.
Evaluation of Copper(II) Eriochrome Cyanine R (ECR) Complex Immobilized in Anion Exchange Membrane as a Potential Nitric Oxide Optical Sensor
Authors: Dacres Helen , Narayanaswamy Ramaier
Published: March 2008

The immobilization of the copper(ii) complex of Eriochrome cyanine R (Cu(ECR)2) in anion exchange membranes was investigated in the development of an optical sensor for nitric oxide (NO) gas. The change in the absorbance spectrum of Cu(ECR)2 membranes was monitored at 445 nm on exposure to NO gas and a steady-state response was obtained following a 400 s exposure time. This response was highly linear (r2 = 0.996) up to 6 ppm NO and the detection limit was calculated to be 0.848 ppm (~28.28 μM in solution). This response was 4.7 times more sensitive to changing NO gas concentrations (0–6 ppm) compared with that of Cu(ECR)2 immobilized in silicone rubber films. This response was fully reversible by resubmersion of the membranes in copper(ii) solution following NO exposure and this reversibility was extremely reproducible (0.81%, relative standard deviation, n = 3). These anion exchange membranes were more selective to NO gas rather than O2 (80:1), NO2 (3:1), and CO (7:1) and these gases were shown not to interfere with the reaction of Cu-ECR membranes with NO itself.
Formation of the C6 - N - C20 Bridge for Entry into the Hetisane Skeleton
Authors: Hutt Oliver E. , Mander Lewis N.
Published: March 2008

As a result of recent investigations into the total synthesis of the complex diterpene alkaloid nominine, the preparation of two new heterocyclic intermediates is now described. The cyclic ether 10 was derived from an intramolecular Mitsunobu reaction. The precursor hydroxylated compound 9 was the minor product of the hydroboration of alkene 7, which proceeded with an unexpected stereochemical outcome. The lactam 3 was derived from the hydrogenation of oxime 18 through presumed cyclization of the amino ester.
Constraints on the early uplift history of the Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Wang Chengshan , Zhao Xixi , Liu Zhifei , Lippert Peter C. , Graham Stephan A. , Coe Robert S. , Yi Haisheng , Zhu Lidong , Liu Shun , Li Yalin
Published: March 2008

The surface uplift history of the Tibetan Plateau and Himalaya is among the most interesting topics in geosciences because of its effect on regional and global climate during Cenozoic time, its influence on monsoon intensity, and its reflection of the dynamics of continental plateaus. Models of plateau growth vary in time, from pre-India-Asia collision (e.g., ≈100 Ma ago) to gradual uplift after the India-Asia collision (e.g., ≈55 Ma ago) and to more recent abrupt uplift (<7 Ma ago), and vary in space, from northward stepwise growth of topography to simultaneous surface uplift across the plateau. Here, we improve that understanding by presenting geologic and geophysical data from north-central Tibet, including magnetostratigraphy, sedimentology, paleocurrent measurements, and40Ar/39Ar and fission-track studies, to show that the central plateau was elevated by 40 Ma ago. Regions south and north of the central plateau gained elevation significantly later. During Eocene time, the northern boundary of the protoplateau was in the region of the Tanggula Shan. Elevation gain started in pre-Eocene time in the Lhasa and Qiangtang terranes and expanded throughout the Neogene toward its present southern and northern margins in the Himalaya and Qilian Shan.
Mapping H5N1 highly pathogenic avian influenza risk in Southeast Asia
Authors: Gilbert Marius , Xiao Xiangming , Pfeiffer Dirk U. , Epprecht M. , Boles Stephen , Czarnecki Christina , Chaitaweesub Prasit , Kalpravidh Wantanee , Minh Phan Q. , Otte M. J. , Martin Vincent , Slingenbergh Jan
Published: March 2008

The highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 virus that emerged in southern China in the mid-1990s has in recent years evolved into the first HPAI panzootic. In many countries where the virus was detected, the virus was successfully controlled, whereas other countries face periodic reoccurrence despite significant control efforts. A central question is to understand the factors favoring the continuing reoccurrence of the virus. The abundance of domestic ducks, in particular free-grazing ducks feeding in intensive rice cropping areas, has been identified as one such risk factor based on separate studies carried out in Thailand and Vietnam. In addition, recent extensive progress was made in the spatial prediction of rice cropping intensity obtained through satellite imagery processing. This article analyses the statistical association between the recorded HPAI H5N1 virus presence and a set of five key environmental variables comprising elevation, human population, chicken numbers, duck numbers, and rice cropping intensity for three synchronous epidemic waves in Thailand and Vietnam. A consistent pattern emerges suggesting risk to be associated with duck abundance, human population, and rice cropping intensity in contrast to a relatively low association with chicken numbers. A statistical risk model based on the second epidemic wave data in Thailand is found to maintain its predictive power when extrapolated to Vietnam, which supports its application to other countries with similar agro-ecological conditions such as Laos or Cambodia. The model's potential application to mapping HPAI H5N1 disease risk in Indonesia is discussed.
X-ray crystal structure of the polymerase domain of the bacteriophage N4 virion RNA polymerase
Authors: Murakami Katsuhiko S. , Davydova Elena K. , Rothman-Denes Lucia B.
Published: March 2008

Coliphage N4 virion RNA polymerase (vRNAP), which is injected into the host upon infection, transcribes the phage early genes from promoters that have a 5-bp stem–3 nt loop hairpin structure. Here, we describe the 2.0-Å resolution x-ray crystal structure of N4 mini-vRNAP, a member of the T7-like, single-unit RNAP family and the minimal component having all RNAP functions of the full-length vRNAP. The structure resembles a “fisted right hand” with Fingers, Palm and Thumb subdomains connected to an N-terminal domain. We established that the specificity loop extending from the Fingers along with W129 of the N-terminal domain play critical roles in hairpin-promoter recognition. A comparison with the structure of the T7 RNAP initiation complex reveals that the pathway of the DNA to the active site is blocked in the apo-form vRNAP, indicating that vRNAP must undergo a large-scale conformational change upon promoter DNA binding and explaining the highly restricted promoter specificity of vRNAP that is essential for phage early transcription.
Role of diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging in differentiation between the viable and necrotic parts of head and neck tumors
Authors: Razek A. A. K. Abdel , Megahed A. Salam , Denewer A. , Motamed A. , Tawfik A. , Nada N.
Published: March 2008

Background: Differentiation between the viable and necrotic parts of a tumor is essential for accurate biopsy results and for treatment planning.

Purpose: To determine the role of diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance (MR) imaging in differentiation between the viable and necrotic parts of head and neck tumors.

Material and Methods: Thirty patients with malignant head and neck tumors underwent postcontrast MR imaging. Diffusion MR imaging was done on a 1.5T unit using multislice single-shot echo-planar imaging. Diffusion-weighted MR images were acquired with a diffusion-weighted factor b of 0, 500, and 1000 s/mm2, and an apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) map was reconstructed. The ADC value was measured within the enhanced and nonenhanced part of the tumor, and the mean ADC values were calculated. The ADC value was correlated with biopsy results.

Results: The mean ADC value of a viable part of the tumor was 1.17±0.33×10−3 mm2/s, and of the necrotic parts of the tumor 2.11±0.05×10−3 mm2/s. The difference in the ADC value between the viable and necrotic parts of the head and neck tumors was statistically significant ( P<0.001). Sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of the ADC value were 92.9%, 93%, and 94.6%, respectively.

Conclusion: Creation of an ADC map is an excellent method for differentiation between the viable and necrotic parts of head and neck tumors. Thus, the ADC map can be used to select the best biopsy site and to detect tumor viability in post-treatment follow-up of patients after radiation therapy.
Reduction in dose from CT examinations of liver lesions with a new postprocessing filter: a ROC phantom study
Authors: Martinsen A. C. Trægde , Sæther H. Kjernlie , Olsen D. R. , Skaane P. , Olerud H. M.
Published: March 2008

Background: It is desirable to lower the dose from computed tomography (CT) examinations as much as possible without reducing diagnostic performance. Mathematical postprocessing filters are one tool to achieve dose reduction.

Purpose: To evaluate the possibilities of reducing CT doses from liver examinations using a new postprocessing filter.

Material and Methods: An anthropomorphic upper-abdomen phantom was used in receiver operating characteristic (ROC) studies of the detectability of liver lesions. A standard abdominal CT protocol was used. Only mA settings were changed; all other scan parameters were constant. The postprocessing filter used was SharpView CT, which provides context-controlled restoration of digital images using adaptive filters. Six readers were given a set of 10 images obtained at five different dose levels, each image with 32 predefined areas to be evaluated on a five-point scale. In total, 1920 areas were evaluated. At each dose level, the readers evaluated five images without enhancement and five images based on postprocessing filters. All images were randomized with respect to dose level.

Results: The postprocessing filter improved the diagnostic performance significantly compared to the unenhanced images at all dose levels. Radiation dose for abdominal CT examinations of liver lesions in the range 2–7 mm was reduced by 30% using postprocessing filters, while diagnostic performance of the examination was maintained or even improved.

Conclusion: This study indicates great potential for lowering doses for CT examinations of liver lesions using the new postprocessing filter. The software must be fully tested clinically to reliably assess the benefits of this filtration.
Value of the vertebrogram in predicting cement filling patterns with unipedicular percutaneous vertebroplasty
Authors: Ormsby E. L. , Dublin A. B.
Published: March 2008

Background: Unipedicular vertebroplasty can be successful in selected patients to decrease procedure time, sedation amounts, and cost.

Purpose: To evaluate the value of the antecedent unipedicular vertebrogram in predicting patterns of cement deposition to decide whether unipedicular vertebroplasty will be successful, or if a bipedicular vertebroplasty is needed.

Material and Methods: 75 fractured vertebral levels were injected by a unipedicle approach with iodinated contrast material (vertebrogram). This filling pattern was then compared to the cement deposition pattern, via the same pedicle, of the percutaneous vertebroplasty.

Results: 35 levels showed excellent cross-filling and matched pattern by vertebrogram and cement deposition (47%). Twelve levels (16%) showed cross-filling by both techniques, with less than 100% matched pattern, but cement deposition was considered adequate for fracture treatment. Four levels (5%) showed predominantly matched central filling, considered adequate for fracture treatment. Twenty-one levels (28%) showed only matched filling of half of the vertebral body with both techniques, necessitating a bipedicle approach for treatment with cement. The remaining three levels (4%) demonstrated mismatched patterns between the vertebrogram and the cement deposition, necessitating a bipedicular approach.

Conclusion: The unipedicular vertebrogram was helpful in predicting adequate cement deposition, using a single pedicle, in 51 of 75 cases (68%). The vertebrogram was also accurate in predicting the need for a double-pedicle technique in an additional 21 cases (28%). Therefore, the vertebrogram was very helpful in predicting the route of cement deposition in 72 of 75 (96%) cases, and should be considered as an adjunct to percutaneous vertebroplasty.
What is the optimal composition of an athlete's diet?
Authors: Broad Elizabeth M. , Cox Gregory R.
Published: March 2008

Designing the most suitable diet for an athlete requires an intimate knowledge of the relevant scientific literature, the training and competition demands of the sport, the individual athlete's preferences and social situation. The scientific literature contains an abundance of information on nutritional demands of athletes undertaking endurance or strength training programmes, but much less information is available on sprint/power sports, team, racquet, weight‐making, aesthetic (diving, gymnastics), and skill‐based events. Furthermore, most research has been undertaken on adult males, with the assumption that females and adolescent athletes follow the same patterns of fuel usage and requirements. Consequently, assessing the optimal composition of an athlete's diet relies at best on an informed interpretation of the scientific data, plus individually collected observations. The aims of this article are to provide an overview of the current evidence on macronutrient requirements for day‐to‐day training for a range of different athletes, provide some recommendations regarding formulating an athlete's diet, and highlight areas where more research is required.
OX40 triggering blocks suppression by regulatory T cells and facilitates tumor rejection
Authors: Piconese Silvia , Valzasina Barbara , Colombo Mario P.
Published: March 2008

Regulatory T (T reg) cells are the major obstacle to cancer immunotherapy, and their depletion promptly induces conversion of peripheral precursors into T reg cells. We show that T reg cells can be functionally inactivated by OX40 triggering. In tumors, the vast majority of CD4+ T cells are Foxp3+ and OX40bright. However, intratumor injection of the agonist anti-OX40 monoclonal antibody (mAb) OX86, but not anti-CD25 mAb, induces tumor rejection in 80% of mice, an effect that is abrogated by CD8 depletion. Upon intratumor OX40 triggering, increased numbers of infiltrating dendritic cells (DCs) migrate to draining lymph nodes and generate a new wave of tumor-specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes, as detected by tetramer and CD44 staining of node CD8+ T lymphocytes. Tumor-bearing Rag1-knockout (KO) mice reconstituted with OX40-deficient T reg cells and wild-type (WT) effector T cells, or the reciprocal combination, showed that both T reg and effector T cells must be triggered via OX40 for the tumor to be rejected. Accordingly, WT but not OX40-KO mice receiving intratumor coinjection of OX86 and ovalbumin protein were able to revert tumor-induced tolerization of adoptively transferred OX40-competent OTII T lymphocytes. In conclusion, OX40-mediated inactivation of T reg cell function unleashes nearby DCs, allowing them to induce an adaptive immune response. In addition, the known OX40-dependent delivery of fitness signals to activated T cells is boosted by concurrent T reg cell inhibition. OX40 triggering thus has multiple effects that converge to mediate tumor rejection.
Distinct cell-specific control of autoimmunity and infection by FcγRIIb
Authors: Brownlie Rebecca J. , Lawlor Kate E. , Niederer Heather A. , Cutler Antony J. , Xiang Zou , Clatworthy Menna R. , Floto R. Andres , Greaves David R. , Lyons Paul A. , Smith Kenneth G.C.
Published: March 2008

FcγRIIb is an inhibitory Fc receptor expressed on B cells and myeloid cells. It is important in controlling responses to infection, and reduced expression or function predisposes to autoimmunity. To determine if increased expression of FcγRIIb can modulate these processes, we created transgenic mice overexpressing FcγRIIb on B cells or macrophages. Overexpression of FcγRIIb on B cells reduced the immunoglobulin G component of T-dependent immune responses, led to early resolution of collagen-induced arthritis (CIA), and reduced spontaneous systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). In contrast, overexpression on macrophages had no effect on immune responses, CIA, or SLE but increased mortality after Streptococcus pneumoniae infection. These results help define the role of FcγRIIb in immune responses, demonstrate the contrasting roles played by FcγRIIb on B cells and macrophages in the control of infection and autoimmunity, and emphasize the therapeutic potential for modulation of FcγRIIb expression on B cells in inflammatory and autoimmune disease.
Phylogeny of Y chromosomes from bovine species
Authors: Nijman Isaäc J. , Van Boxtel Dick C. J. , Van Cann Lisette M. , Marnoch Yindee , Cuppen Edwin , Lenstra Johannes A.
Published: March 2008

The Bovini tribe contains domestic and wild cattle‐like species, several of which are cross‐fertile. We present a completely resolved Y‐chromosomal phylogeny, which is better in agreement with autosomal phylogeny, morphological data, cross‐fertility and estimates of divergence times than mitochondrial data. The tree links Bos grunniens (yak) to Bison, so the commonly accepted Bos genus is not monophyletic. Therefore, we advocate the term Poephagus as designation of yak. This work illustrates the resolving power of Y‐chromosomal variation for cladistic studies of closely related species.

© The Willi Hennig Society 2008.
PLASMA TESTOSTERONE AND ANDROSTENEDIONE LEVELS DURING MONITORED INDUCTION OF OVULATION IN INFERTILE WOMEN WITH ‘SIMPLE’ AMENORRHOEA AND WITH THE POLYCYSTIC OVARY SYNDROME
Authors: LAWRENCE DAPHNE M. , McGARRIGLE H. H. G. , RADWANSKA EWA , SWYER G. I. M.
Published: March 2008

Twenty‐seven infertile patients with ‘simple’ amenorrhoea‐oligomenorrhoea and eighteen with the polycystic ovary (PCO) syndrome were treated for induction of ovulation with clomiphene, human menopausal gonadotrophin and human chorionic gonadotrophin. The treatment was monitored by plasma oestradiol, testosterone, andfostenedione and progesterone estimation. Women with PCO had significantly higher plasma androgen levels than women with ‘simple’ amenorrhoea (P < 0.01 to P < 0.001) both before treatment and during induction of ovulation. When ovulation was induced the pregnancy rate for women with the PCO syndrome with elevated androgens was 21% while for those with uncomplicated amenorrhoea it was 75%. It is concluded that high levels of circulating androgens might be a factor preventing conception in some patients in whom ovulation is apparently successfully induced.
THE RADIOIMMUNOASSAY OF 3,3‘,5’‐TRHODOTHYRONINE (REVERSE T3) IN UNEXTRACTED HUMAN SERUM
Authors: RATCLIFFE W. A. , MARSHALL J. , RATCLIFFE J. G.
Published: March 2008

A specific, sensitive and simple double antibody radioimmunoassay for total serum 3,3′,5′,‐triiodothyronine (reverse T3, rT3) in small volumes of unextracted human serum is described. High titre antisera were raised in rabbits using dl‐rt3 or l‐rT3 conjugated to bovine serum albumin. The selected antisera cross reacted less than 0–003% with triiodothyronine (T3) and 0–14% with thyroxine (T4). A stable high activity rT3 tracer was prepared by iodination of 3,3′‐diiodo‐l‐thyronine by the chloramine‐T method, and purified by column chromatography on Sephadex LH‐20. Binding of rT3 to endogenous serum proteins was blocked by including 8‐anilino‐l‐naphthalene sulphonic acid (ANS) in the assay. Mean rT3 levels in healthy euthyroid adults are 0.27 nmol/1 (range 015–0.42); in euthyroid patients 0.29 nmol/1 (range 0.11–0.80); in thyrotoxic subjects 1.26 nmol/1 (range 0.41–4.66); in T3 thyrotoxic subjects 0.47 nmol/1 (range 0.21–1.18); in cord sera 3.67 nmol/1 (range 2.30–7.45) and in amniotic fluid taken during the second trimester 4.70 nmol/1 (range 2.22–8.00). In approximately half the hypothyroid subjects, rT3 levels were undetectable (<0.05 nmol/1) and in the remaining subjects the mean rT3 level was 0.10 nmol/1 (range 0.05–0.25).
PROLACTIN LEVELS DURING THE MENSTRUAL CYCLE*
Authors: FRANCHIMONT P. , DOURCY C. , LEGROS J. J. , REUTER A. , VRINDTS‐GEVAERT Y. , CAUWENBERGE J. R. VAN , GASPARD U.
Published: March 2008

The levels of prolactin, FSH, LH, oestradiol and progesterone were measured daily during fourteen ovulatory cycles. The behaviour of FSH, LH, oestradiol and progesterone was classical. Non‐systematic changes occurred in prolactin levels during the course of the menstrual cycle with the highest level being either during the ovulatory period or during the luteal phase. However, the mean level of prolactin was significantly higher during the ovulatory and luteal phases than during the follicular phase. A direct relationship between oestradiol and prolactin levels was noted, although there was no correlation between prolactin on the one hand and FSH, LH and progesterone on the other.
LHRH‐PITUITARY PLASMA MEMBRANE BINDING: THE PRESENCE OF SPECIFIC BINDING SITES IN OTHER TISSUES
Authors: MARSHALL J. C. , SHAKESPEAR R. A. , ODELL W. D.
Published: March 2008

Two specific binding sites for LHRH are present on plasma membranes prepared from rat and bovine anterior pituitary glands. One site is of high affinity (K = 2 ±108 1/mol) and the second is of lower affinity (8.5 ±105 1/mol) and much greater capacity. Studies on membrane fractions prepared from other tissues showed the presence of a single specific site for LHRH. The kinetics and specificity of this site were similar to those of the lower affinity pituitary receptor. These results indicate that only pituitary membranes possess the higher affinity binding site and suggest that the low affinity site is not of physiological importance in the regulation of gonadotrophin secretion. After dissociation from membranes of non‐pituitary tissues 125I‐LHRH rebound to pituitary membrane preparations. Thus receptor binding per se does not result in degradation of LHRH and the function of these peripheral receptors remains obscure.
BASAL AND TRH‐STIMULATED PROLACTIN IN PATIENTS WITH PITUITARY TUMOURS
Authors: LAMBERTS S. W. J. , BIRKENHÄGER J. C. , KWA H. G.
Published: March 2008

The diagnostic value of the assessment of prolactin (PRL) secretion in reaction to thyrotrophin releasing hormone (TRH) was investigated in twenty‐four patients who had all radiological signs of a pituitary tumour and symptoms of hypogonadism and/or galactorrhoea. It was found that in these patients a PRL response to TRH can be present or absent, independent of the size of the tumour and/or the presence of suprasellar extension of the tumour. The measurement of several basal plasma PRL concentrations in combination with lateral tomography of the sella turcica seem to be a good screening for the existence of a prolactin producing pituitary adenoma and no important additional information is obtained by a TRH‐test.
STIMULATION OF GROWTH HORMONE RELEASE BY LUTEINIZING HORMONE‐RELEASING HORMONE AND MELANOCYTE‐STIMULATING HORMONE‐RELEASE INHIBITING HORMONE IN THE HYPOPHYSECTOMIZED RAT BEARING AN ECTOPIC PITUITARY
Authors: PANERAI A. E. , COCCHI D. , GIL‐AD I. , LOCATELLI V. , ROSSI G. L. , MÜLLER E. E.
Published: March 2008

Intrajugular administration of LHRH (0.6 and 1.2 μg) in hypophysectomized rats which received renal grafts of anterior pituitary induced a small but significant rise in plasma GH 5 and 10 min post‐treatment. LHRH, at the same dose levels, was ineffective in weight‐matched intact controls. MIF, at the dose of 1.2 μg, induced a slight GH rise 5 min after treatment in hypophysectomized‐transplanted rats, while it was ineffective in intact controls. Unlike the two hypothalamic peptides, α‐MSH (0.6 and 1.2 μg) was ineffective as a GH‐releaser in both transplanted and intact rats.
BROMOCRIPTINE POTENTIATION OF GASTRIC ACID SECRETION IN CATS
Authors: HIRST BARRY H. , REED J. DAVID , GOMEZ‐PAN ANTONIO , LABIB L. ALBERT
Published: March 2008

Bromocriptine administered both orally and intravenously potentiated gastric acid secretion in response to submaximal pentagastrin stimulation in cats. Bromocriptine did not increase the maximum acid secretion in response to pentagastrin, nor did it stimulate basal acid secretion. Potentiation was observed in normal and vagotomized animals which precludes involvement of the vagi in the response. The mechanism of action of this compound on the stomach does not appear to be mediated through stimulation of dopaminergic receptors as no potentiation was observed with dopamine infusions. It is argued that the bromocriptine potentiation of gastric acid secretion may be a demonstration of 5‐hydroxytryptamine or a‐adrenergic antagonism. However, the potentiation observed with daily oral bromocriptine treatment had disappeared by the eighth day and may correlate with the disappearance of gastric side effects noted in patients on bromocriptine treatment.
EFFECT OF METOCLOPRAMIDE ON SERUM PROLACTIN LEVELS IN HUMANS
Authors: DELITALA G. , MASALA A. , ALAGNA S. , DEVILLA L.
Published: March 2008

The effect of acute and chronic administration of metoclopramide on serum prolactin levels in normal subjects was studied. Metoclopramide 10 mg i.v. induced a prompt rise in serum prolactin levels in all subjects. At 180 min the levels remained high. Prolactin levels were markedly elevated during a 5 day course of treatment with metoclopramide in six subjects. It is suggested that metoclopramide could be used in the functional exploration of the hypothalamic‐pituitary axis.
Contact phase of blood coagulation in diabetes mellitus
Authors: PATRASSI G. M. , VETTOR R. , PADOVAN D. , GIROLAMI A.
Published: March 2008

Abstract. The first phase of the intrinsic coagulation system was studied in twenty‐six diabetic outpatients. The parameters tested were kallicrein, prekallicrein, factor XI and factor XII activities. Kallicrein and factor XI showed significantly elevated activities as compared with a normal control group (P<0·05 and <0·001, respectively). Factor XI and factor XII levels were higher in non‐insulin dependent than in insulin dependent diabetics. We found that the kallicreinprekallicrein system was activated in our diabetic patients and that such activation could probably be secondary to lesions of the vascular endothelium present in long‐term diabetics. No correlation was found between glycaemia and activity levels of this system. Our data represent another demonstration of the existence of a hypercoagulable state in diabetes mellitus.
Effects of intravenous somatostatin and motilin on the blood glucose and hormonal response to oral glucose
Authors: LONG R. G. , CHRISTOFIDES N. D. , FITZPATRICK M. L. , O'SHAUGHNESSY D. J. , BLOOM S. R.
Published: March 2008

Abstract. Exogenous intravenous infusions of control saline, somatostatin, motilin and somatostatin and motilin together were compared in normal volunteers for their effects on the rise of blood glucose following 50 g oral glucose and for their effects on gastric emptying and plasma hormone concentrations. All regulatory peptide infusions increased the rate of gastric emptying by between 182% and 198% at 60 min post‐ingestion. The glucose response during the oral glucose tolerance test was suppressed when somatostatin with or without motilin was infused but was increased during motilin. The somatostatin infusion reduced concentrations of motilin, insulin, gastric inhibitory polypeptide, gastrin and neurotensin whilst the motilin infusion was associated with an increased initial rise in insulin and gastric inhibitory polypeptide. The metabolic effects of the motilin infusion were overriden by the effects of somatostatin when both peptides were infused together; this suggests that somatostatin inhibits both the effects and secretion of motilin.
The interaction of zinc and vitamin A in human schistosomiasis
Authors: MIKHAIL MARY M. , MANSOUR MOUSTAFA M.
Published: March 2008

Abstract. Levels of vitamin A and components of its transport protein complex, retinol binding protein and prealbumin, as well as zinc and its major binding proteins albumin and α 2‐macroglobulin were measured in plasma of ninety‐one male Egyptian patients with active schistosomal infection and thirty‐two healthy adult males. Patients were divided into four groups: Group I had active schistosomiasis without associated complications; Group II had schistosomiasis complicated by colonic polyposis; Group III had advanced schistosomiasis, hepatosplenomegaly and/or ascites; and Group IV had chronic salmonella septicaemia in addition to schistosomiasis.

Results showed that all patient groups had subnormal levels of plasma vitamin A, retinol binding protein, prealbumin, zinc and albumin (P<0·005 for all parameters) but elevated α2‐macroglobulin (P<0·001) when compared to the control group. Alterations in the vitamin A transport proteins increased with schistosomal complications and were closely correlated to changes in vitamin A (P<0·005), but alterations of albumin and α2‐macroglobulin were less consistent and did not correlate with changes in zinc levels. There was a highly significant correlation, however, between plasma zinc concentrations and those of vitamin A, retinol binding protein and prealbumin (P<0·001 for all correlations) in all groups of patients as well as the control group.

These findings indicate that the binding and transport proteins of both zinc and vitamin A were adversely affected by schistosomiasis and its various complications. Deficiencies of both zinc and vitamin A seem to be interrelated in this disease and the vitamin A transport system may be largely dependent on zinc status.
Information systems practice, education and research
Authors: Avison DE , Fitzgerald G.
Published: March 2008

Abstract. The launch of a new journal in information systems prompts thought and debate concerning the state of the subject area and some contemplation on its past and future. This introductory paper reflects the views of the editors, views which will not be shared by all. We find a wide spectrum of interpretations and experiences concerning the nature of information systems and this wide range of views is both a strength and a weakness. It is a weakness in the sense that it is very difficult to put boundaries around the area and establish common definitions and accepted norms. The latter are usually associated with more stable and established disciplines that have accepted underlying theories. It is a strength in the sense that the wide variety of views, experiences and background subjects adds richness to the discipline. From the point of view of the Journal of Information Systems this should mean a wide variety of interesting topics from which we can draw. Our paper begins with an introduction to the debate about the nature of information systems, a debate which is continued in the following paper. We also give an overview of practice, education and research in information systems. In order to keep the paper to a reasonable length, this overview will necessarily be selective and will probably be Anglocentric.
To model objects in information systems and user interfaces: implications for object‐oriented methods
Authors: Kaasboll J.
Published: March 2008

Abstract. A general way of contrasting the object‐oriented to the function‐oriented approach, called ‘object‐order’ and ‘function‐order’, is proposed in this paper. In addition, when modelling information systems, there is a third principle of ordering, ‘subject‐order’. Object and function‐order are used to define the two approaches to modelling information systems and in human‐computer interaction, in ways that are compatible to the corresponding distinction in programming. The conditions for selecting either of the two approaches are, however, not discussed here.

By means of an object‐ordered method, e.g. Jackson System Development (JSD), an object‐ordered model is produced, and the user interface that can be derived from the model is object‐ordered too. However, other guidelines in JSD support subject‐order. A function‐ordered interface can be derived from the subject‐ordered model. A computer system designed by means of an object‐organized method may therefore obtain an interface that is partially object‐ordered and partially function‐ordered. Other object‐oriented methods give guidelines for designing function‐oriented interfaces without relating these guidelines to the model.

The system designer may benefit from having three principles of ordering when modelling a system. However, a user may be confused by an interface that sometimes gives preference to objects, sometimes to functions.
An exploration of expertise of knowledge workers: towards a definition of the universe of discourse for knowledge acquisition
Authors: Ngwenyama O. K. , Klein H. K.
Published: March 2008

Abstract. Knowledge systems development and use have been significantly encumbered by the difficulties of eliciting and formalizing the expertise upon which knowledge workers rely. This paper approaches the problem from an examination of the knowledge competencies of knowledge workers in order to define a universe of discourse for knowledge elicitation. It outlines two categories and several types of knowledge that could serve as the foundations for the development of a theory of expertise.
Causal modelling as a tool for problem framing within a group decision support system: an object‐oriented approach
Authors: Heintz T. J. , Acar W.
Published: March 2008

Abstract. This paper contributes toward the design of intelligent group decision support systems (GDSS). It suggests a GDSS architecture that would enable a group of managers to discuss, learn from each other and possibly develop consensus about decisions or their causes. It shows how an object‐oriented approach can be used in producing interactive software to support managerial debate about problem solving. The method uses comprehensive situation mapping causal mapping to represent each manager's perceptions of the relationships between key variables of a firm's strategic situation. The paper presents a prototype implementation and, based on experiences from it, discusses issues concerning future development and use.
Formalized systems development methodologies: a critical perspective
Authors: Fitzgerald Brian
Published: March 2008

Abstract. Systems development issues occupy a position of central importance in the information systems field and much has been prescribed in the quest for successful systems development. However, given the well‐documented ‘software crisis’, success is far from guaranteed for systems development projects. Many researchers see the solution to the software crisis in terms of increased control and the more widespread adoption of rigorous and formalized system development methodologies. This paper presents some arguments and pressures which support the use of methodologies and some evidence of the literature bias which favours methodologies is provided. However the problems associated with the use of methodologies have not perhaps received as much attention in previous research. This paper identifies a number of arguments and pressures which question the value of methodologies, and reports the results of a field study which investigated the role of methodologies in practice. The critical perspective adopted throughout shows that, contrary to the predominant view in literature, the assumption that increased adoption of methodologies addresses the problems inherent in systems development is by no means proven.
Requirements capture and IS methodologies
Authors: Chatzoglou P.D. , Macaulay L. A.
Published: March 2008

Abstract. The problem of not using a methodological approach during the development process is well known and its implications for organizations clearly identified. This paper reports on a survey of information systems practice carried out to provide recent evidence about the use of development methodologies by different organizations. Data from 72 projects was obtained through a mail survey within the UK. The focus of the analysis is on the discovery of potential relationships between the use of methodologies for requirements capture and analysis and the characteristics of the projects
Novel coiled‐coil cell division factor ZapB stimulates Z ring assembly and cell division
Authors: Ebersbach Gitte , Galli Elisa , Møller‐Jensen Jakob , Löwe Jan , Gerdes Kenn
Published: March 2008

Formation of the Z ring is the first known event in bacterial cell division. However, it is not yet known how the assembly and contraction of the Z ring are regulated. Here, we identify a novel cell division factor ZapB in Escherichia coli that simultaneously stimulates Z ring assembly and cell division. Deletion of zapB resulted in delayed cell division and the formation of ectopic Z rings and spirals, whereas overexpression of ZapB resulted in nucleoid condensation and aberrant cell divisions. Localization of ZapB to the divisome depended on FtsZ but not FtsA, ZipA or FtsI, and ZapB interacted with FtsZ in a bacterial two‐hybrid analysis. The simultaneous inactivation of FtsA and ZipA prevented Z ring assembly and ZapB localization. Time lapse microscopy showed that ZapB–GFP is present at mid‐cell in a pattern very similar to that of FtsZ. Cells carrying a zapB deletion and the ftsZ84ts allele exhibited a synthetic sick phenotype and aberrant cell divisions. The crystal structure showed that ZapB exists as a dimer that is 100% coiled‐coil. In vitro, ZapB self‐assembled into long filaments and bundles. These results raise the possibility that ZapB stimulates Z ring formation directly via its capacity to self‐assemble into larger structures.
Bacitracin sensing in Bacillus subtilis
Authors: Rietkötter Eva , Hoyer Diana , Mascher Thorsten
Published: March 2008

The extracellular presence of antibiotics is a common threat in microbial life. Their sensitive detection and subsequent induction of appropriate resistance mechanisms is therefore a prerequisite for survival. The bacitracin stress response network of Bacillus subtilis consists of four signal‐transducing systems, the two‐component systems (TCS) BceRS, YvcPQ and LiaRS, and the extracytoplasmic function (ECF) σ factor σM. Here, we investigated the mechanism of bacitracin perception and the response hierarchy within this network. The BceRS–BceAB TCS/ABC transporter module is the most sensitive and efficient bacitracin resistance determinant. The ABC transporter BceAB not only acts as a bacitracin detoxification pump, but is also crucial for bacitracin sensing, indicative of a novel mechanism of stimulus perception, conserved in Firmicutes bacteria. The Bce system seems to respond to bacitracin directly (drug sensing), whereas the LiaRS TCS and σM respond only at higher concentrations and indirectly to bacitracin action (damage sensing). The YvcPQ–YvcRS system is subject to cross‐activation via the paralogous Bce system, and is therefore only indirectly induced by bacitracin. The bacitracin stress response network is optimized to respond to antibiotic gradients in a way that maximizes the gain and minimizes the costs of this stress response.
The multiple phenylpropene synthases in both Clarkia breweri and Petunia hybrida represent two distinct protein lineages
Authors: Koeduka Takao , Louie Gordon V. , Orlova Irina , Kish Christine M. , Ibdah Mwafaq , Wilkerson Curtis G. , Bowman Marianne E. , Baiga Thomas J. , Noel Joseph P. , Dudareva Natalia , Pichersky Eran
Published: March 2008

Many plants synthesize the volatile phenylpropene compounds eugenol and isoeugenol to serve in defense against herbivores and pathogens and to attract pollinators. Clarkia breweri flowers emit a mixture of eugenol and isoeugenol, while Petunia hybrida flowers emit mostly isoeugenol with small amounts of eugenol. We recently reported the identification of a petunia enzyme, isoeugenol synthase 1 (PhIGS1) that catalyzes the formation of isoeugenol, and an Ocimum basilicum (basil) enzyme, eugenol synthase 1 (ObEGS1), that produces eugenol. ObEGS1 and PhIGS1 both utilize coniferyl acetate, are 52% sequence identical, and belong to a family of NADPH‐dependent reductases involved in secondary metabolism. Here we show that C. breweri flowers have two closely related proteins (96% identity), CbIGS1 and CbEGS1, that are similar to ObEGS1 (58% and 59% identity, respectively) and catalyze the formation of isoeugenol and eugenol, respectively. In vitro mutagenesis experiments demonstrate that substitution of only a single residue can substantially affect the product specificity of these enzymes. A third C. breweri enzyme identified, CbEGS2, also catalyzes the formation of eugenol from coniferyl acetate and is only 46% identical to CbIGS1 and CbEGS1 but more similar (>70%) to other types of reductases. We also found that petunia flowers contain an enzyme, PhEGS1, that is highly similar to CbEGS2 (82% identity) and that converts coniferyl acetate to eugenol. Our results indicate that plant enzymes with EGS and IGS activities have arisen multiple times and in different protein lineages.
Congenital coronary artery anomalies: Diagnosis with 64 slice multidetector row computed tomography coronary angiography: A single‐centre study
Authors: Srinivasan KG , Gaikwad A , Kannan BRJ , Ritesh K , Ushanandini KP
Published: March 2008

Retrospective review of the congenital coronary artery (CA) anomalies detected by a 64‐slice multidetector row computed tomographic (MDCT) angiography. The type of the anomaly, imaging characteristics, clinical relevance and the superiority of the MDCT over conventional coronary angiography are discussed. Multidetector row computed tomographic coronary angiography was carried out by the usual technique with 70 cc of non‐ionic contrast agent and retrospective electrocardiogram gating. The volume data obtained were reconstructed in axial plane, along with volume‐rendered three‐dimensional reconstruction and virtual angioscopy in selected patients. The images were analysed by a radiologist, experienced in cardiac CT, and an experienced cardiologist. A retrospective review of the records was carried out, and subjects with congenital coronary anomalies were included in the study. Between 15 November 2005 and 27 February 2007, 1495 MDCT coronary angiograms were carried out. Eleven of them were found to have coronary anomalies. Five had absent left main CA. Two had interarterial course of the left main CA artery passing in between the right ventricular outflow tract and the root of aorta. In one patient, there was aberrant origin of right CA from the left aortic sinus with subsequent interarterial course and another one had aberrant origin of circumflex artery from the right aortic sinus. One patient each of congenitally absent circumflex artery and atresia of the right CA were found. Sixty‐four slice MDCT coronary angiography provided accurate depiction of anomalous vessel origin and course along with the complex anatomical relation with the adjacent structures. CT can be considered as a first‐line imaging method for delineating coronary arterial anomalies.
Interventional radiology: A survey of trainees
Authors: McGuinness B , Holden A
Published: March 2008

A survey of trainees on the RANZCR training programme was carried out regarding their training in and attitudes towards interventional radiology. There was a 37% response rate with 132 respondents. Approximately 60% of trainees are moderately or strongly interested in interventional radiology. Factors involved in deciding on interventional radiology as a career are discussed, as is the current level of interventional training in Australasia. The idea of a separate interventional radiology stream was met with moderate support. Early training involvement, a more rigorous training programme and providing a high‐quality service were identified as the most important factors in improving and maintaining standards in interventional radiology.
Percutaneous radiological management of high‐output chylothorax with CT‐guided needle disruption
Authors: Litherland B , Given M , Lyon S
Published: March 2008

We present the study of a 58‐year‐old man who underwent percutaneous management of a high‐output chylothorax following cardiac bypass graft surgery. The patient presented to a peripheral hospital 3 weeks postoperatively following cardiac bypass graft surgery with shortness of breath. A chest radiograph taken on arrival to the emergency department showed a large left‐sided pleural effusion. Subsequent intercostal chest tube insertion drained a large amount of chylous fluid. The patient was treated conservatively with no improvement until undergoing a CT‐guided needle disruption of lymphatics with good effect. This case is presented to show the minimally invasive treatment methods that are available in the management of high‐output chylothorax.
Radiation therapists’ perspective on barriers to clinical trials research
Authors: Agustin C , Grand M , Gebski V , Turner S
Published: March 2008

This study investigates the barriers to the conduct of research as perceived by radiation therapists (RT) particularly with regards to their activity as part of collaborative clinical trials groups such as the Trans‐Tasman Radiation Oncology Group. These were examined to identify solutions that might promote research by RT working within busy clinical services. In September to October 2005, surveys were sent to an RT Educator and RT Chiefs in four public hospitals in New South Wales, Australia, with a request to distribute and collect the surveys from RT employed at their centres. The overall response rate across these centres was 59% (78/133). Most of the respondents felt that their managers regarded research to be of high priority (79%) and that others in their workplace considered initiating and conducting research as important (79%). The RT considered lack of time during working hours to be the greatest barrier to research (87%). However, the RT felt that the availability of a research mentor would facilitate research in their workplace (90%). Based on our findings, the availability of structural support from radiation oncology centres may promote the clinical trials research participation of RT.
Radiation therapy treatment verification imaging in Australia and New Zealand
Authors: Rybovic M , Banati RB , Cox J
Published: March 2008

An original questionnaire was used to investigate the available types of reference and treatment image verification equipment and specific practices related to image analysis. A section on treatment site‐specific imaging was included. The questionnaire was distributed to all radiation oncology facilities in Australia and New Zealand. A response rate of 87% (40/46) was achieved. Most facilities (90%) in Australia and New Zealand reported the availability of electronic portal imaging devices. Use of computer software to assist with image interpretation was indicated by 92% of centres. Frequency of image acquisition and tolerance levels used for radical treatment sites were variable, but palliative treatment site protocols were more consistent between treatment facilities. In conclusion, departments should strive to use evidence‐based protocols and guidelines to ensure acceptable accuracy in treatment delivery.
Multiple cranial nerve palsies as the presenting features of prostate carcinoma
Authors: Mitchell DM , Wynne CJ , Cowan I
Published: March 2008

Cranial nerve palsies have previously been reported in metastatic prostate carcinoma, usually occurring late in the course of the disease. We describe the case of a 55‐year‐old man whose diagnosis of prostate cancer was made following investigation of multiple cranial nerve palsies.