bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A comparison between trajectory ensemble and adiabatic parcel modeled cloud properties and evaluation against airborne measurements
Authors: Romakkaniemi S. , McFiggans G. , Bower K. N. , Brown P. , Coe H. , Choularton T. W.
Published: March 2009

A trajectory ensemble model (TEM) and an adiabatic air parcel model have been used to study the sensitivity of cloud droplet number concentration on aerosol chemical composition and vertical wind speed variations in the case of stratocumulus clouds. Cloud droplet number concentrations predicted using the TEM approach, in which trajectories are produced by large eddy simulation, and those derived from an air parcel model fed with a probability density function of measured updraft velocities, are compared to cloud droplet measurements conducted during the Cloud Processing of Regional Air Pollution Advecting Over Land and Sea (CLOPAP) campaign. It was found that much better agreement can be achieved using TEM than with the adiabatic air parcel model. The reason for this is the ripening process decreasing the cloud droplet number concentration in the air parcels having long in‐cloud residence time. It was also found that the sensitivity of cloud droplet number concentration to aerosol properties is much smaller with TEM than expected from the adiabatic air parcel model simulations. As current parameterizations used to estimate cloud droplet number concentration in many large‐scale models are based on adiabatic air parcel models, it is possible that the aerosol indirect effect for stratocumulus and stratus clouds with low vertical wind speeds is overestimated unless the sink resulting from ripening is taken into account.
Spin selector by ferroelectric triple barrier resonant tunneling diode
Authors: Li M. K. , Kang T. W. , Kim N. M.
Published: March 2009

We propose a spin selector of ferroelectric triple barrier resonant tunneling diode with diluted magnetic quantum wells. Spin transport properties of this spin selector are investigated by nonequilibrium Green’s function method. Results show the oscillation of spin polarization of current occurred at low bias voltage due to a transmission resonant peak splitting into subpeaks. By reversing the electric dipole direction of ferroelectric barriers, the spin direction of polarized current is reversed simultaneously at a fixed bias voltage. This implies that the spin direction of injected current can be selected through this spin selector without changing the applied magnetic field.
A Fresh Start for a ‘failing school’? A qualitative study
Authors: Araújo Marta
Published: March 2009

This paper examines Fresh Start, a New Labour flagship initiative to raise education ‘standards’ in a radical and innovative way. Drawing on a qualitative study of a comprehensive school in England, I argue that the initiative added to the problems faced by the ‘failing school’ and promoted rather traditional ways of raising ‘standards’ due to the close surveillance that Fresh Start schools were subjected to. In the case studied, the needs of the pupils that the initiative was meant to address were being sacrificed in the school's construction of a ‘successful’ identity. While the initiative has now lost momentum, some lessons can still be learnt. This paper illustrates the complexity of creating a new school, as well as the need to attend to the specificities of the local context and experiences in raising ‘standards for all’ pupils.
Global warming and eutrophication: effects on water chemistry and autotrophic communities in experimental hypertrophic shallow lake mesocosms
Authors: Feuchtmayr Heidrun , Moran Rebecca , Hatton Keith , Connor Les , Heyes Tom , Moss Brian , Harvey Ian , Atkinson David
Published: March 2009

Shallow lakes are important components of the biosphere, but they are also highly vulnerable to damage from human activities in their catchments, such as nutrient pollution. They may also be particularly vulnerable to current warming trends.

Forty‐eight tanks were used to create 3‐m3 mesocosms of shallow lake communities, in which the effects of warming by 4 °C and regular nutrient loading at two levels relevant to current degrees of eutrophication were studied in the presence and absence of fish.

Warming changed concentrations of soluble phosphate, total nitrogen and conductivity, increased total plant biomass and decreased the amount of phytoplankton through shading by floating plants. Nutrient additions decreased total plant biomass but increased floating plant biomass. Nitrogen increase and warming increased floating plant biomass and decreased plant species richness. The plant community remained intact and did not switch to the turbid‐water, phytoplankton‐dominated community often predicted to be a consequence of global warming and eutrophication.

Synthesis and applications. Likely future temperature increase will exacerbate some, but not all symptoms of eutrophication in shallow lakes. Alone it will not cause a switch from plant‐dominated to algal‐dominated systems, but may result in nuisance growths of floating lemnids. Currently underplayed, nitrogen loading should be taken more seriously in the management of European freshwaters.
Prolactin‐Releasing Peptide Regulates the Cardiovascular System Via Corticotrophin‐Releasing Hormone
Authors: Yamada T. , Mochiduki A. , Sugimoto Y. , Suzuki Y. , Itoi K. , Inoue K.
Published: March 2009

Prolactin‐releasing peptide (PrRP)‐producing neurones are known to be localised mainly in the medulla oblongata and to act as a stress mediator in the central nervous system. In addition, central administration of PrRP elevates the arterial pressure and heart rate. However, the neuronal pathway of the cardiovascular effects of PrRP has not been revealed. In the present study, we demonstrate that PrRP‐immunoreactive neurones projected to the locus coeruleus (LC) and the paraventricular nucleus (PVN) of the hypothalamus. The c‐fos positive neurones among the noradrenaline cells in the LC, and the parvo‐ and magnocellular neurones in the PVN, were increased after central administration of PrRP. The arterial pressure and heart rate were both elevated after i.c.v. administration of PrRP. Previous studies have demonstrated that PrRP stimulated the neurones in the PVN [i.e. oxytocin‐, vasopressin‐ and corticotrophin‐releasing hormone (CRH)‐producing neurones], which suggests that PrRP may induce its cardiovascular effect via arginine vasopressin (AVP) or CRH. Although the elevation of blood pressure and heart rate elicited by PrRP administration were not inhibited by an AVP antagonist, they were completely suppressed by treatment with a CRH antagonist. Thus, we conclude that PrRP stimulated CRH neurones in the PVN and that CRH might regulate the cardiovascular system via the sympathetic nervous system.
Cooperativity between Plasmodium falciparum adhesive proteins for invasion into erythrocytes
Authors: DeSimone Tiffany M. , Jennings Cameron V. , Bei Amy K. , Comeaux Christy , Coleman Bradley I. , Refour Philippe , Triglia Tony , Stubbs Janine , Cowman Alan F. , Duraisingh Manoj T.
Published: March 2009

Plasmodium falciparum is the most virulent of the Plasmodium species infective to humans. Different P. falciparum strains vary in their dependence on erythrocyte receptors for invasion and their ability to switch in their utilization of different receptor repertoires. Members of the reticulocyte‐binding protein‐like (RBL) family of invasion ligands are postulated to play a central role in defining ligand–receptor interactions, known as invasion pathways. Here we report the targeted gene disruption of PfRh2b and PfRh2a in W2mef, a parasite strain that is heavily dependent on sialic‐acid receptors for invasion, and show that the PfRh2b ligand is functional in this parasite background. Like the parental line, parasites lacking either PfRh2a or PfR2b can switch to a sialic acid‐independent invasion pathway. However, both of the switched lines exhibit a reduced efficiency for invasion into sialic acid‐depleted cells, suggesting a role for both PfRh2b and PfRh2a in invasion via sialic acid‐independent receptors. We also find a strong selective pressure for the reconstitution of PfRh2b expression at the expense of PfRh2a. Our results reveal the importance of genetic background in ligand–receptor usage by P. falciparum parasites, and suggest that the co‐ordinate expression of PfRh2a, PfRh2b together mediate efficient sialic acid‐independent erythrocyte invasion.
Shortage of pediatricians in Japan: A longitudinal analysis using physicians' survey data
Authors: Ide Hiroo , Yasunaga Hideo , Koike Soichi , Kodama Tomoko , Igarashi Takashi , Imamura Tomoaki
Published: March 2009

Background:  Currently, there is a shortage of hospital pediatricians in Japan. In the present study, using data from the Survey of Physicians, Dentists, and Pharmacists in Japan, we analyzed the dynamics and distribution of pediatricians, using a time series approach.

Methods:  The total number of pediatricians, the ratios of hospital‐working and female pediatricians, their mean age and geographic distribution in 1974, 1984, 1994, and 2004 were determined. The dynamics of pediatricians were analyzed by identifying the annual number of physicians participating in and withdrawing from pediatrics, and by following up withdrawal rates from pediatrics and movement rates from hospitals. The withdrawal rates of male and female pediatricians registered in 1992, 1994, and 1996 were also analyzed.

Results:  The number of pediatricians per 10 000 children increased from 1.9 to 7.4 between 1974 and 2004. The percentage of women among pediatricians was significantly higher than that of women among all physicians in 2004 (P < 0.01). The numbers of physicians who withdrew from pediatrics increased from the periods 1985–1994 to 1995–2004. Younger pediatricians tended to leave pediatrics earlier than elder pediatricians. There were no differences in the withdrawal rates of pediatricians between men and women registered in 1992, 1994, and 1996.

Conclusions:  It is anticipated that the number of pediatricians in Japan will decrease in the near future unless practical strategies are implemented to improve the early withdrawal of younger pediatricians and the current working conditions of female pediatricians.
The embodied mind
Authors: Mizen Richard
Published: March 2009

Abstract: This paper considers Fonagy et al's concept of mentalization and contrasts aspects of this with aspects of Bion's model of the mind. The author argues that although mentalization adds to our understanding of mind it has limitations; that it may tend to over‐emphasize certain types of external interaction between infant and carer and under‐emphasize internal psychobiological processes. What is at issue here is the way in which an infant's carers facilitate the development of meaning out of experience. Bion's concept supposes a relatively ‘interior’ model in which, in important ways, the carer enables the infant toderivethe meaning of his or her experience, whilst on the other hand Fonagy et al tend to talk more in terms of the ways in which the carerendowsthe infant's experience with meaning. Reference is made to Fordham's concept of states of ‘Identity’. Fordham has pointed out that Freud's model is one in which mind is conceived of as evolving out of an infant's complex identifications with his or her carer(s); Jung's model envisages developmentally early states of identity as the means by which inherent capacities are realized.
Spastic Paraplegia, Optic Atrophy, and Neuropathy: New Observations, Locus Refinement, and Exclusion of Candidate Genes
Authors: Macedo‐Souza Lúcia Inês , Kok Fernando , Santos Silvana , Licinio Luciana , Lezirovitz Karina , Cavaçana Natale , Bueno Clarissa , Amorim Simone , Pessoa André , Graciani Zodja , Ferreira Áurea , Prazeres Abdísio , De Melo Áurea Nogueira , Otto Paulo Alberto , Zatz Mayana
Published: March 2009

SPOAN is an autosomal recessive neurodegenerative disorder which was recently characterized by our group in a large inbred Brazilian family with 25 affected individuals. This condition is clinically defined by: 1. congenital optic atrophy; 2. progressive spastic paraplegia with onset in infancy; and 3. progressive motor and sensory axonal neuropathy. Overall, we are now aware of 68 SPOAN patients (45 females and 23 males, with age ranging from 5 to 72 years), 44 of which are presented here for the first time. They were all born in the same geographic micro region. Those 68 patients belong to 43 sibships, 40 of which exhibit parental consanguinity. Sixty‐one patients were fully clinically evaluated and 64 were included in the genetic investigation. All molecularly studied patients are homozygotes for D11S1889 at 11q13. This enabled us to reduce the critical region for the SPOAN gene from 4.8 to 2.3 Mb, with a maximum two point lod score of 33.2 (with marker D11S987) and of 27.0 (with marker D11S1889). Three genes located in this newly defined critical region were sequenced, but no pathogenic mutation was detected. The gene responsible for SPOAN remains elusive.
The role of botanical gardens in climate change research
Authors: Primack Richard B. , Miller‐Rushing Abraham J.
Published: March 2009

Botanical gardens have a unique set of resources that allows them to host important climate change research projects not easily undertaken elsewhere. These resources include controlled growing conditions, living collections with broad taxonomic representation, meticulous record‐keeping, networks spanning wide geographic areas, and knowledgeable staff. Indeed, botanical gardens have already contributed significantly to our understanding of biological responses to climate change, particularly the effects of temperature on the timing of flowering and leaf‐out. They have also made significant contributions to the understanding of the relationships among climate, physiology, and anatomy. Gardens are finding new uses for traditional research tools such as herbarium specimens and historical photographs, which are increasingly being used to obtain information on past plant behavior. Additional work on invasive species and comparative studies of responses to climatic variation are providing insights on important ecological, evolutionary, and management questions. With their large collections of plant species from throughout the world and excellent herbaria, botanical gardens are well positioned to expand their current activities to continue to provide leadership in climate change research and education.

Contents

Summary
303

I.
Introduction
303

II.
The special resources of botanical gardens
304

III.
Phenology
305

IV.
Physiology and anatomy
308

V.
Invasive species and assisted migration
309

VI.
Comparative and phylogenetic studies
310

VII.
Conclusions
311

Acknowledgements
312

References
312
Stress and Deception in Speech: Evaluating Layered Voice Analysis*
Authors: Harnsberger James D. , Hollien Harry , Martin Camilo A. , Hollien Kevin A.
Published: March 2009

Abstract:  This study was designed to evaluate commonly used voice stress analyzers—in this case the layered voice analysis (LVA) system. The research protocol involved the use of a speech database containing materials recorded while highly controlled deception and stress levels were systematically varied. Subjects were 24 each males/females (age range 18–63 years) drawn from a diverse population. All held strong views about some issue; they were required to make intense contradictory statements while believing that they would be heard/seen by peers. The LVA system was then evaluated by means of a double blind study using two types of examiners: a pair of scientists trained and certified by the manufacturer in the proper use of the system and two highly experienced LVA instructors provided by this same firm. The results showed that the “true positive” (or hit) rates for all examiners averaged near chance (42–56%) for all conditions, types of materials (e.g., stress vs. unstressed, truth vs. deception), and examiners (scientists vs. manufacturers). Most importantly, the false positive rate was very high, ranging from 40% to 65%. Sensitivity statistics confirmed that the LVA system operated at about chance levels in the detection of truth, deception, and the presence of high and low vocal stress states.
Endocytosis via caveolae: alternative pathway with distinct cellular compartments to avoid lysosomal degradation?
Authors: Kiss Anna L. , Botos Erzsébet
Published: March 2009

Introduction

Cavolae on the plasma membrane

Internalization of caveolae

Conclusion

Endocytosis – the uptake of extracellular ligands, soluble molecules, protein and lipids from the extracellular surface – is a vital process, comprising multiple mechanisms, including phagocytosis, macropinocytosis, clathrin‐dependent and clathrin‐independent uptake such as caveolae‐mediated and non‐caveolar raft‐dependent endocytosis. The best‐studied endocytotic pathway for internalizing both bulk membrane and specific proteins is the clathrin‐mediated endocytosis. Although many papers were published about the caveolar endocytosis, it is still not known whether it represents an alternative pathway with distinct cellular compartments to avoid lysosomal degradation or ligands taken up by caveolae can also be targeted to late endosomes/lysosomes. In this paper, we summarize data available about caveolar endocytosis. We are especially focussing on the intracellular route of caveolae and providing data supporting that caveolar endocytosis can join to the classical endocytotic pathway.
APRIL and TACI interact with syndecan‐1 on the surface of multiple myeloma cells to form an essential survival loop
Authors: Moreaux Jérôme , Sprynski Anne‐Catherine , Dillon Stacey R. , Mahtouk Karène , Jourdan Michel , Ythier Arnaud , Moine Philippe , Robert Nicolas , Jourdan Eric , Rossi Jean François , Klein Bernard
Published: March 2009

BLyS and APRIL share two receptors – transmembrane activator and calcium modulator and cyclophilin ligand interactor (TACI) and B‐cell maturation antigen (BCMA) – and BLyS binds to a third receptor, BAFF‐R. We previously reported that TACI gene expression is a good indicator of a BLyS‐binding receptor in human multiple myeloma cell lines (HMCLs), unlike BCMA, which is expressed by all HMCLs or BAFF‐R which is typically not expressed by late‐stage B cells. We hypothesised a link between APRIL and TACI through syndecan‐1, similar to the situation reported for FGF and FGFR. We observed very strong binding of APRIL, but not BLyS, at the surface of all syndecan‐1+ HMCLs and primary multiple myeloma cells (MMC). All syndecan‐1+ HMCLs and MMC could also bind TACI‐Fc, but not BCMA‐Fc or BAFF‐R‐Fc molecules. Binding of APRIL or TACI‐Fc was abrogated by heparin or cell pretreatment with heparitinase, which cleaves heparan sulfate chains. The growth factor activity of APRIL on MMC was also inhibited by heparin. Our data identify syndecan‐1 as a co‐receptor for APRIL and TACI at the cell surface of MMC, promoting the activation of an APRIL/TACI pathway that induces survival and proliferation in MMC.
Seed production in fens and fen meadows along a disturbance gradient
Authors: Klimkowska A. , Van Diggelen R. , Den Held S. , Brienen R. , Verbeek S. , Vegelin K.
Published: March 2009

Question: The seed production in several wetland communities across Europe was investigated and differences in seed output in relation to disturbance intensity were tested. The relationship between the vegetation composition and the seed production profile was examined and the results are discussed in relation to restoration.

Location: Poland, Germany and the Netherlands.

Methods: The seed production in various plant communities was estimated, based on field counts. In addition, records from available databases were used for missing data. Multivariate methods were used to characterize the vegetation and seed production. Communities were grouped according to level of disturbance and tested for differences in seed production. Similarity between vegetation composition and seed profile was examined using the Sørensen index and Spearman correlation coefficient.

Results: It was found that the seed production of the studied communities is large, variable and in general increasing with disturbance intensity. The estimated median seed production was ca. 24 × 103 seeds m−2 in fens, 167 × 103 in fen meadows and 556 × 103 seeds m−2 in degraded meadows. The majority of seeds was produced by just a few species. The similarity between the vegetation composition and the seed production profile was low (similarity 52%, correlation coefficient 0.42, P<0.05) and slightly increased with disturbance intensity.

Conclusions: Increased disturbance enhances seed production at the community level. The composition of the vegetation is a poor predictor of the seed output. It is estimated that the number of seeds transferred with hay is much lower than the seed production in fens and fen meadows.
The phylogenetic relationships of introduced Aphelinus (Hymenoptera: Aphelinidae), biological control agents of the Russian wheat aphid (Homoptera: Aphididae)
Authors: Zhu Yu Cheng , Fang Quentin Q.
Published: March 2009

Abstract  Several species of Aphelinus have been introduced to the US from the Old World for biological control of the Russian wheat aphid, Diuraphis noxia (Modvilko). Reproductive incompatibility has been observed among populations collected from different geographic areas. We examined whether or not the reproductive incompatibility between strains of A. asychis was caused by distant phylogenetic relationships. Ribosomal DNA sequences of internal transcribed spacers 2 (ITS2) were analyzed in several species of Aphelinus collected from multiple sites of Europe and Asia. The phylogenetic analysis showed that strains within the species A. albipodus and A. asychis are not monophyletic, and two clearly divergent clades were revealed among sequenced samples. Our results suggest that the reproductive incompatibility between three exotic strains of A. asychis was more likely caused by divergence of phylogeny than by symbiotic bacteria.
Trends in Atlantic Canada's Potato Industry
Authors: Grant K. Gary
Published: March 2009

Long‐term potato acreage trends show decline in Nova Scotia, stability in New Brunswick and expansion on Prince Edward Island. The long‐term trend for yield has been upward since the 1940s. Crop disposition has become primarily to processing in Nova Scotia and New Brunswick, but Prince Edward Island continues to dispose of much of its crop in the table market despite the growth of the processing sector. Contract growing of processing potatoes has provided farmers an opportunity to reduce price risk. The trend to larger farm acreages continues, although the number of potato farms in Prince Edward Island has been maintained with the province's large increase in total potato acreage. Crop rotations have converged on large‐scale Maritime potato farms at frequencies that on Prince Edward Island have lead to the call for a mandatory three‐year rotation.

Les superficies de culture de lapomme de terre esquissent à long terme une tendance à la baisse en Nouvelle‐Écosse, à la stabilité au Nouveau‐Brunswick et à l'expansion dans l'Île‐du‐Prince‐Édouard. Quant au rendement, la tendance est à la hausse depuis les années 1940. Lespommes de terre de la Nouvelle‐Écosse et du Nouveau‐Brunswick sont essentiellement transformées tandis que celles de l'Île‐du‐Prince‐Édouard sont en grande partie consommées nature. La tendance en faveur du conditionnement de la pomme de terre a assuré aux producteurs de pommes de terres une protection contre les fluctuations desprix. La tendance en faveur de plus grandes exploitations de culture de la pomme de terre se poursuit, quoique le nombre d'exploitations spécialisées dans cette culture s'est maintenu dans l'Île‐du‐Prince‐Édouard. Les provinces ont enregistré une augmentation marquée de la super fide de culture de lapomme de terre. Sur les grandes fermes de pommes de terre Maritimes, le systèm de rotation de ces cultures a convergé vers une fréquence telle que celle qui a conduit à I'appel d'un système obligatoire de rotation tri‐annuel à l'Ile‐du‐Prince‐Édouard.
Ultrafiltration for Congestive Heart Failure
Authors: Thorsgard Marit , Bart Bradley A.
Published: March 2009

Relief of congestive symptoms is a primary goal in treating heart failure. Ultrafiltration is a tool that can be used to safely remove sodium and water from whole blood at a controlled rate. Ultrafiltration decreases symptoms, relieves congestion, and improves hemodynamics, neurohormonal balance, and exercise capacity. This article describes the importance of congestion as a therapeutic target in heart failure and outlines the development of ultrafiltration as a treatment to address this important physiologic state.
Implication of preoperative cervical cytology in endometrial carcinoma
Authors: Shin Dong Hoon , Choi Kyung Un , Suh Dong Soo , Yoon Man Soo , Kim Jee Yeon , Kang Hyun Jeong
Published: March 2009

Background and aim: The objective of this study was to evaluate the relationship between preoperative cervical cytology and clinicopathologic factors associated with prognosis in endometrial carcinoma. Methods: We reviewed all Pap smears and histologic sections from 108 patients who underwent hysterectomy for endometrial carcinomas. Abnormal cervical cytology was defined as the presence of atypical cells and malignancy. Results: Forty‐one patients (38%) had abnormal cervical cytology on preoperative Pap smears, and 67 patients (62%) had normal cytology. Abnormal cervical cytology was statistically correlated with higher FIGO grade, advanced FIGO stage, myometrial invasion, lymphovascular invasion, cervical involvement, polypoid growth pattern, non‐endometrioid histology, and tumor size. Tumor grade, stage, histologic type, cervical involvement, lymph node metastasis, and serosal involvement were associated with survival. Multivariate analysis showed that lymph node metastasis was related to survival. However, abnormal cervical cytology was not an independent prognostic indicator for survival. Conclusion: Abnormal preoperative cervical cytology is associated with poor prognostic factors. However, cervical cytology itself neither influences treatment decision nor predicts poor prognosis in endometrial carcinoma.
Pericardial effusions with tamponade and visceral constriction in patients with rheumatoid arthritis on tumour necrosis factor (TNF)‐inhibitor therapy
Authors: SOH May Ching , HART Hamish H. , CORKILL Michael
Published: March 2009

Tumour necrosis factor‐inhibitor (TNF‐inhibitor) therapy is increasingly used for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. While it is effective for the articular manifestations of rheumatoid arthritis we have reason to believe that it is less effective for extra‐articular disease. We present two cases of life‐threatening cardiac tamponade in two patients with well‐controlled rheumatoid arthritis on adalimumab. An extensive literature search was carried out and three other patients were found. We believe that these cases highlight the need for rheumatologists to be vigilant for extra‐articular manifestations of rheumatoid arthritis even in the presence of quiescent joint disease while on TNF‐inhibitors.
Comparison of the VIDAS and IMMULITE‐2000 methods for cortisol measurement in canine serum
Authors: Proverbio Daniela , Groppetti Debora , Spada Eva , Perego Roberta
Published: March 2009

Background:Serum cortisol concentration is often measured in dogs for the diagnosis and monitoring of adrenal disease. An enzyme‐linked fluorescent assay (VIDAS method) on the MiniVidas analyzer has been validated for the measurement of cortisol concentration in human serum and could have applications for canine samples.

Objective:The aim of this study was to compare canine cortisol results obtained using the VIDAS method with those obtained using the IMMULITE‐2000 immunoassay, which has previously been validated for canine serum.

Methods:The concentration of cortisol in 40 canine serum samples was determined concurrently with the VIDAS and IMMULITE methods, the latter as the reference method. Pearson's correlation coefficient, linear, and Deming regression analyses and Bland–Altman analysis were used to compare the 2 methods. Acceptability of the new method was judged using a medical decision chart (MEDx chart).

Results:Cortisol concentrations obtained with the IMMULITE method ranged from 23.1 to 1380 nmol/L. Correlation (r=.977) and simple linear regression (slope=1.0722, confidence interval [CI] 0.996–1.148; intercept=−4.799, CI −42.838 to 33.240) revealed no proportional or constant error. Based on Deming regression and a Bland–Altman plot the 2 methods gave comparable results. The MEDx chart indicated that performance of the new method was good at decision limits of 40, 132, and 480 nmol/L.

Conclusion:Results of the VIDAS method were comparable to those of the IMMULITE‐2000 reference method such that the VIDAS may be used as an alternative assay to evaluate serum cortisol concentration in dogs for the diagnosis of adrenal disease.
Effect of fasting duration on clinical pathology results in Wistar rats
Authors: Kale Vijay P. , Joshi Girish S. , Gohil Parikshit B. , Jain Mukul R.
Published: March 2009

Background: Fasting is an important preanalytical factor that may affect the interpretation of hematology and clinical biochemistry data in toxicology or pharmacology studies. Limited information is available on how the results may be affected by different durations of fasting.

Objective: The purpose of this study was to assess the influence of fasting duration on clinical pathology results in male and female rats and to determine an optimum fasting time for preclinical studies.

Methods: Male and female Wistar rats (10 each per group) were fasted for 0, 4, 8, 16, 24, and 48 hours. Changes in body weight and in the results of routine CBC and clinical chemistry analysis were evaluated by 1‐way ANOVA.

Results: Body weight was significantly decreased by 4 hours of fasting in all rats, and hemoglobin concentration was significantly increased at 16 hours in male rats. Serum glucose and triglyceride concentrations in both sexes and cholesterol and high‐density lipoprotein‐C concentrations in female rats were also significantly decreased beginning at 16 hours. The creatinine concentration was increased in females after 16 hours of fasting. Serum alkaline phosphatase and alanine aminotransferase activities were significantly decreased after 8 hours in males and 16 hours in females.

Conclusions: Fasting‐induced changes in clinical pathology results were consistent with hemoconcentration and altered nutrition and metabolic function. Most changes occurred at 16 hours, with minimal subsequent changes. Hence, a 16‐hour fasting duration may be recommended for preclinical studies involving clinical pathology measurements.
Analytical Model for the Characterization of the Guiding Zone Tribotest for Tube Hydroforming
Authors: Ngaile Gracious , Yang Chen
Published: March 2009

Common part failures in tube hydroforming include wrinkling, premature fracture, and unacceptable part surface quality. Some of these failures are attributed to the inability to optimize tribological conditions. There has been an increasing demand for the development of effective lubricants for tube hydroforming due to widespread application of this process. This paper presents an analytical model of the guiding zone tribotest commonly used to evaluate lubricant performance for tube hydroforming. Through a mechanistic approach, a closed-form solution for the field variables contact pressure, effective stress/strain, longitudinal stress/strain, and hoop stress can be computed. The analytical model was validated by the finite element method. In addition to determining friction coefficient, the expression for local state of stress and strain on the tube provides an opportunity for in-depth study of the behavior of lubricant and associated lubrication mechanisms. The model can aid as a quick tool for iterating geometric variables in the design of a guiding zone, which is an integral part of tube hydroforming tooling.
A review of eGFR reporting after 6 months in practice
Authors: Kremmyda A , Neithercut W D
Published: March 2009

Background:

Following the introduction of routine calculation of estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) from all serum creatinine values in samples received from general practice it was noted that there was a preponderance of values consistent with chronic kidney disease (CKD) stage 3 or higher.

Methods:

A review was conducted of all eGFR values from 51 314 individuals received from primary care during October 2006 to April 2007.

Results:

It was found that more than 25% of eGFR results indicated CKD stage 3 or higher. The median age in this group was 64 years (range 18–104 years) while that of the local general population according to the 2001 census was 40 years (range 18–104 years); these ages were statistically significantly different (p<0.001). There was no difference between the groups with regard to gender. The eGFR data were therefore corrected for age distribution, and an estimated prevalence of 5.6% of eGFR consistent with CKD stage 3 was found. This was a higher proportion than estimates of CKD suggested before the introduction of eGFR.

Conclusions:

The higher proportion of CKD stage 3 may be due to difference in age and gender in populations studied, as there is a marked effect of age on calculated eGFR values found.
REGENERATION EFFECT ON THE ANGULAR OBSERVABLE αSM(E) IN A KILOMETER CUBIC NEUTRINO TELESCOPE
Authors: ROMERO ISMAEL , SAMPAYO OSCAR A.
Published: March 2009

We study the effect of neutrino flux regeneration by neutral current on the Standard Model prediction for the recently proposed observable angular α SM (E). This observable has a weak dependence with the initial flux through the regeneration term in the transport equation. We want to know the impact of the initial flux uncertainties on the mentioned observable.
Media Framing and Policy Change After Columbine
Authors: Birkland Thomas A. , Lawrence Regina G.
Published: March 2009

The 1999 Columbine school shooting incident in Colorado gained far more media attention across a broader range of issues than any school violence episode before or since. One might expect that Columbine would have had an influence on public opinion, public policy, and scholarship commensurate with the attention it gained. We find that the event did contribute in a limited but interesting way to scholarship on media framing. But the effect of Columbine on public opinion and the nature and substance of public policy was limited. Attention to school shootings peaked with Columbine, and the attention surrounding that event mostly spurred more rapid implementation of existing policies and tools that were already available to schools. In this article, the authors review first the media and public opinion research generated by Columbine; they then review the public policy research referencing Columbine and evaluate the “lessons” scholars have drawn from that event.
“A Necessary Supplement”
Authors: Rasche Andreas
Published: March 2009

The United Nations Global Compact is with currently more than 6,000 voluntary participants the world’s largest corporate citizenship initiative. This article first analyzes three critical allegations often made against the Compact by looking at the academic and nonacademic literature. (1) The Compact supports the capture of the United Nations by “big business.” (2) Its 10 principles are vague and thus hard to implement. (3) The Compact is not accountable due to an absence of verification mechanisms. This article discusses these three allegations and argues that they rest on a misunderstanding of (a) the nature of the Compact as well as its mandate and (b) the goals it tries to achieve. From this discussion of what the Compact is not, the article then outlines a perspective that classifies the initiative as a necessary supplement to incomplete state and nonstate regulatory approaches in order to illustrate what the Compact is.
Is It There When You Need It?
Authors: Meadows Sarah O.
Published: March 2009

Little is known about the effect of incongruity between perception of, or belief in, the availability of support and actual receipt of support during a time of need. This article examines associations between belief in the future availability of instrumental support (e.g., child care, temporary housing, and financial assistance), subsequent reception of inadequate support, and depression in a socioeconomically diverse sample of new mothers. Receipt of support is associated with increased odds of experiencing a major depressive episode (MDE), whereas belief in the availability of future support appears to be protective of mental health. Mothers who experience a negative mismatch between support perception and adequate receipt of support have increased odds of experiencing an MDE compared with mothers who either receive adequate support or who have no support needs; however, their susceptibility is no greater than that of mothers who simply have unmet instrumental needs.
A Primary Hepatic Malignant Mesenchymal Tumor with Myofibrogenic Differentiation in a B6C3F1 Mouse
Authors: Yasui Yuzo , Toyoda Kazuhiro , Imai Kiyoshi
Published: March 2009

We found a malignant mesenchymal tumor with myofibrogenic differentiation in the liver of a 110-week-old female B6C3F1 mouse used for a carcinogenicity study. Sclerous white patches (maximum size: 20 × 14 mm) were observed mainly in the median lobe of the liver at necropsy. Histologically, the tumor was composed of interlacing fascicles of spindle-shaped cells with oval or elongated nuclei and lightly eosinophilic cytoplasm. Tumor cells metastasized to the lung, parapancreatic lymph node, and spleen. Special staining revealed individual tumor cells surrounded by reticulin fibers and an abundant collagenous matrix. Immunohistochemically, the tumor cells were positive for vimentin, α-smooth muscle actin, and desmin, but were negative for von Willebrand factor, Mac-2, S-100, and cytokeratin. Electron microscopic examination revealed that the tumor cells contained prominent rough endoplasmic reticulum and thin filaments in the cytoplasm, although they lacked basal lamina, focal densities, or lipid droplets. Collagenous fibers were observed in the intercellular matrix. Thus, detailed histopathological examination suggested the origin of the present tumor to possibly be Ito cells within the fibrous stroma. This report provides additional histopathological evidence of malignant hepatic nonepithelial tumors in mice.
Prevalence and impact of antidepressant-associated sexual dysfunction in three European countries: replication in a cross-sectional patient survey
Authors: Williams VSL , Edin HM , Hogue SL , Fehnel SE , Baldwin DS
Published: March 2009

Sexual dysfunction is a common but often unrecognized side effect of many antidepressants. Building upon the results of a previous investigation, this study aimed to assess the prevalence and impact of antidepressant-associated sexual dysfunction (AASD) in three European countries. A cross-sectional survey of 704 adults in Germany, Spain, and The Netherlands was used in the study. All participants had recently started taking a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor or serotonin— noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor. Information about other medications and conditions known to impair sexual functioning was gathered, and changes in sexual functioning and the impact of such changes were assessed. The SF-12 and Arizona Sexual Experience Scale (ASEX) were administered to measure health status and sexual functioning. AASD was defined using ASEX scores and information regarding changes in sexual functioning. ASEX scores generally exceeded the threshold defining sexual dysfunction: 67.2% in the German, 79.4% in the Spanish, and 73.3% in the Dutch samples. The prevalence of AASD was conservatively estimated to be between 37.1% (German sample) and 61.5% (Spanish sample). Overall, 46.4% of male and 52.1% of female participants were classified with AASD. Patients classified with AASD reported significantly worse quality of life (QoL), self-esteem, mood, and relationships with partners, compared with non-AASD patients. There were significant differences between patients with and without AASD in SF-12 Mental Component scores, with AASD patients displaying poorer mental well-being. Sexual dysfunction is a frequent occurrence during antidepressant treatment, and is associated with reduced QoL and self-esteem, and negative effects on mood and relationships.
Evidence-based guidelines for treating bipolar disorder: revised second edition—recommendations from the British Association for Psychopharmacology
Authors: Goodwin GM ,   Consensus Group of the British Association for Psychopharmacology
Published: March 2009

Abstract

The British Association for Psychopharmacology guidelines specify the scope and target of treatment for bipolar disorder. The second version, like the first, is based explicitly on the available evidence and presented, like previous Clinical Practice guidelines, as recommendations to aid clinical decision making for practitioners: they may also serve as a source of information for patients and carers. The recommendations are presented together with a more detailed but selective qualitative review of the available evidence. A consensus meeting, involving experts in bipolar disorder and its treatment, reviewed key areas and considered the strength of evidence and clinical implications. The guidelines were drawn up after extensive feedback from participants and interested parties. The strength of supporting evidence was rated. The guidelines cover the diagnosis of bipolar disorder, clinical management, and strategies for the use of medicines in treatment of episodes, relapse prevention and stopping treatment.
No Influence of Age, Gender, Weight, Height, and Impact Profile in Achilles Tendinopathy in Masters Track and Field Athletes
Authors: Longo Umile Giuseppe , Rittweger Joern , Garau Giorgio , Radonic Biljana , Gutwasser Constanze , Gilliver Sally F. , Kusy Krzysztof , Zieliński Jacek , Felsenberg Dieter , Maffulli Nicola
Published: March 2009

Background

Achilles tendinopathy is commonly reported by athletes involved in activities that include running and jumping. Despite the prevalence of the problem, causative factors in Achilles tendinopathy remain poorly understood.

Hypothesis

In Masters track and field athletes, there is no influence of age, gender, weight, height, and impact profile in developing Achilles tendinopathy.

Study Design

Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods

During the European Veterans Athletics Championships in Poznań, Poland, in July 2006, 178 athletes (110 men and 68 women; mean age, 54.1 years; range, 35-94 years) were evaluated with the Victorian Institute of Sport Assessment—Achilles (VISA-A) questionnaire. A fully trained orthopaedic surgeon made a diagnosis of Achilles tendinopathy according to clinical criteria.

Results

There was no effect of gender on the presence of Achilles tendinopathy (P = .14). No significant track and field specialty effect upon the frequency of Achilles tendinopathy was found on the VISA-A questionnaire scores (P = .32). Equally, there was no effect of track and field specialty on the VISA-A score (P = .31). No correlation was found between age and VISA-A score (P = .36). There was no statistically significant difference in either prevalence of Achilles tendinopathy or VISA-A score between high-impact and low-impact athletes (P = .19 and P = .31, respectively).

Conclusion

In competing Masters track and field athletes, we did not find any influence of age, gender, weight, height, or impact profile on the development of Achilles tendinopathy. Additional research is required to improve our understanding of the causative factors in Achilles tendinopathy.
Tunnel Widening after Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction
Authors: Neddermann Alexandra , Willbold Elmar , Witte Frank , Hurschler Christof , Hankemeier Stefan , Stübig Timo , Hesse Eric , Fehr Michael , Krettek Christian , Meller Rupert
Published: March 2009

Background

A common clinical concern after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction is the expansion of the bone tunnels as seen radiographically. The etiology and clinical relevance of this phenomenon remain unclear.

Hypothesis

Tunnel widening results in an increased anteroposterior translation, and there are specific histologic changes due to osteoclastic bone resorption associated with this phenomenon.

Study Design

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods

Thirty sheep (age, 4 months) underwent an anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction using a soft tissue graft. Graft fixation was achieved using the EndoButton and Suture Washer. Six animals each were sacrificed at 0, 3, 6, 12, and 24 weeks after surgery. Each anterior cruciate ligament–reconstructed knee was examined by computed tomography. Anteroposterior translation was determined using a universal force-moment sensor robot. The bone surrounding the tunnel was evaluated histologically.

Results

The prevalence of tunnel enlargement on the femoral side was 77.3%. Animals with tunnel widening did not demonstrate increased anteroposterior translation. Widening of the femoral tunnel was significantly associated with a higher stiffness of the graft (P <. 05) and hypertrophy of the graft throughout the remodeling process. The histologic evaluation of the bone tunnel walls demonstrated an increase of bone volume in animals with tunnel enlargement. No statistically significant correlation could be found between the number of osteoclasts and the presence of tunnel widening.

Conclusion

In this large animal model of anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction, animals with significant tunnel widening did not suffer increased anteroposterior translation. Tunnel widening was associated with a high stiffness of the graft, graft hypertrophy, and an increase in bone volume of the tunnel wall.

Clinical Relevance

The present data correspond to the current opinion in humans that tunnel widening is not associated with knee instability. Further research is needed to understand the role of graft stiffness, graft hypertrophy, and the increase in bone volume in this phenomenon.
Self-Beliefs and Behavioural Development as Related to Academic Achievement in Canadian Aboriginal Children
Authors: Baydala Lola , Rasmussen Carmen , Birch June , Sherman Jody , Wikman Erik , Charchun Julianna , Kennedy Merle , Bisanz Jeffrey
Published: March 2009

The authors explored the relationship between measures of self-belief, behavioural development, and academic achievement in Canadian Aboriginal children. Standardized measures of intelligence are unable to consistently predict academic achievement in students from indigenous populations. Exploring alternative factors that may be both predictive and amenable to improvements with interventions is therefore important in order to address the growing educational disparity in Canadian Aboriginal children. In this study, significant correlations were found between the Self-Perception Profile for Children rating of behavioural conduct and close friendships, the Behavior Assessment Scales for Children ratings of leadership and study skills, and the Wechsler Individual Achievement Test measures of academic achievement. A school environment that provides opportunities for developing social skills and creating friendships as well as culturally appropriate interventions that support the development of leadership and study skills may provide Canadian Aboriginal children with the tools they need to achieve academically.