bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bone Marrow-Derived Cells in Neovascular Age-Related Macular Degeneration: Contribution and Potential Application
Authors: Hou Hui-Yuan , Liang Hong-Liang , Wang Yu-Sheng
Published: August 2010

Neovascular age-related macular degeneration, characterized by the formation of choroidal neovascularization (CNV), is a predominant cause of serious loss of vision. The pathogenesis of CNV is complex and still imperfectly understood. Prior studies have shown that bone marrow-derived cells (BMC) play a role in CNV. In this review article, we describe the contribution of BMC to CNV development, and discuss the potential use of BMC in the anticipation and treatment of CNV-associated diseases as well as research needs in the future.
Is Prevalence of Retinopathy Related to the Age of Onset of Diabetes? Sankara Nethralaya Diabetic Retinopathy Epidemiology and Molecular Genetic Report No. 5
Authors: Raman Rajiv , Vaitheeswaran K. , Vinita K. , Sharma Tarun
Published: August 2010

Aim: To compare the prevalence of diabetic retinopathy (DR) and risk factors in patients with a known onset of diabetes before 40 years and after 40 years of age. Methods: This is a population-based study for which 1,414 diabetics were recruited. The fundi were photographed using 45-degree 4-field stereoscopic digital photography. The diagnosis of DR was based on Klein’s classification of the Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study scales. Results: The prevalence of DR was 33.3% (95% confidence interval, CI: 26.6–39.9) in known onset of diabetes (≤40 years) compared to 15.6% (95% CI: 13.6–17.6) in those with late onset (>40 years; p < 0.0001). In the group with age of known onset of diabetes ≤40 years, the risk factors, associated with any DR, were poor glycemic control (odds ratio, OR: 1.36 for every g% increase in glycosylated hemoglobin), insulin use (OR: 4.21), increasing known duration of diabetes (OR: 1.10 for increase of every year in known duration of diabetes) and presence of macroalbuminuria (OR: 13.39). In the late onset of diabetes group, besides the above-mentioned risk factors, the presence of microalbuminuria (OR: 2.08), male gender (OR: 1.67), presence of anemia (OR: 1.89) and increased systolic blood pressure (OR: 1.01) were the risk factors for DR. Conclusion: The prevalence of DR was almost twice more in those subjects who developed diabetes before the age of 40 years than those who developed it later.
Association between Changes in Visual Acuity and Vision-Related Quality of Life in Japanese Patients with Low Vision
Authors: Yanagisawa Mieko , Kato Satoshi , Kunimatsu Shiho , Kobayashi Megumi , Ochiai Makiko
Published: August 2010

Purpose: To investigate the association between vision-related quality of life (VRQOL) and changes in visual acuity (VA). Methods: We examined the VA in 100 patients for >1 year and evaluated the degree of its impact on VRQOL using the National Eye Institute Visual Function (VF) Questionnaire (VFQ-25; Japanese version). Before determining VFQ-25, we monitored the changes in VA in these patients for 1 year and classified them into the following two groups depending on VA changes. Patients exhibiting a decline of >3 steps in VA, as assessed by the logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution scale, were placed in the ‘decline’ group (47.0%) and patients exhibiting no change in VA were placed in the ‘no change’ group (53.0%). We compared the VFQ-25 scores between both groups in all patients with glaucoma (GLA) and macular degeneration (MD). Results: The total score of the decline was 34.9 ± 13.6 and that of the no change group was 44.6 ± 13.9: the difference in the scores between both groups was statistically significant (p = 0.006). Similar results were obtained for patients with GLA and MD (p = 0.007 and 0.003, respectively). Conclusion: VRQOL differed between patients with constant VA and those with reduced VA, even though VA values were equal at a certain time point.
Effects of Propofol and Isoflurane Anesthesia on the Intraocular Pressure and Hemodynamics of Pigs
Authors: Buehner Eva , Pietsch Uta-Carolin , Bringmann Andreas , Foja Christian , Wiedemann Peter , Uhlmann Susann
Published: August 2010

To determine the conditions under which anesthetized pigs can be used in acute noninvasive investigations of ocular hydro- and hemodynamics, the intraocular pressure (IOP) of adult pigs was recorded under the following conditions: (1) after intravenous injection of propofol plus ketamine; (2) during inhalation of isoflurane, and (3) 2 h after topical administration of bimatoprost or (4) timolol. Propofol/ketamine and isoflurane induced significant decreases in the IOP. The pulsation of the ophthalmic artery appeared at a significantly higher IOP in animals anesthetized with isoflurane than in those anesthetized with propofol/ketamine. Bimatoprost and timolol did not significantly decrease the IOP within 2 h after topical administration. It is concluded that different techniques for the acute noninvasive investigation of ocular hydro- and hemodynamics are applicable in anesthetized pigs. To test the effects of antiglaucoma agents, investigation periods longer than 2 h are required. We recommend the use of intravenous propofol/ketamine anesthesia rather than isoflurane anesthesia in future experiments using pigs.
Catalytic Therapy of Cancer by Ascorbic Acid Involves Redox Cycling of Exogenous/Endogenous Copper Ions and Generation of Reactive Oxygen Species
Authors: Hadi S.M. , Ullah M.F. , Shamim U. , Bhatt S.H. , Azmi A.S.
Published: August 2010

Catalytic therapy is a cancer treatment modality based on the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) through administration of ascorbate/medicinal herbal extracts and copper. It is known that antioxidants such as ascorbate also exhibit prooxidant activity in the presence of transition metals such as copper. Based on our work and that in the literature, in this review we propose a mechanism for the cytotoxic action of ascorbate against cancer cells. It involves redox cycling of exogenous/endogenous copper ions and the consequent generation of ROS leading to oxidative DNA breakage. Using human peripheral lymphocytes and the Comet assay, we have shown that ascorbic acid is able to cause oxidative breakage in cellular DNA. Such DNA degradation is inhibited by neocuproine (a Cu(I) sequestering agent) and scavengers of ROS indicating that the cellular DNA breakage involves the generation of Cu(I) and formation of ROS. Similar results are also obtained with plant polyphenol antioxidants that are important constituents of medicinal herbal extracts. Copper is an essential component of chromatin and can take part in redox reactions. It is well established that tissue, cellular and serum copper levels are considerably elevated in various malignancies. Therefore, cancer cells may be more subject to electron transfer between copper ions and ascorbate/plant polyphenols to generate ROS. In this review we cite evidence to indicate that in catalytic therapy cytotoxic action against cancer cells involves redox cycling of exogenous/endogenous copper ions.
The Role of Regional Advisory Councils in the European Common Fisheries Policy: Legal Constraints and Future Options
Authors: Long Ronán
Published: August 2010

One of the outcomes of the reform of the European common fisheries policy (CFP) in 2002 was the establishment of Regional Advisory Councils (RACs) to enable the European Commission to benefit from the knowledge and experience of stakeholders in the formulation and implementation of fisheries management measures by the European institutions. RACs are now in operation for the Baltic Sea, the North Sea, North-Western Waters, South-Western Waters, the High-Seas/Long-Distance Fleet, Pelagic Stocks, and the Mediterranean Sea. The CFP will be subject to further reform in 2011. This article reviews the legal constraints and future prospects for enhancing RAC participation in decision-making within the European institutions in light of the Commission’s proposals tabled in the 2009 Green Paper on Reform of the CFP and changes to European law resulting from the Lisbon Treaty.
International Treaties and U.S. Laws as Tools to Regulate the Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Ships and Ports
Authors: Torbitt Alison , Hildreth Richard
Published: August 2010

Regulations on marine greenhouse gas emissions are possible, and some are in progress, using international treaty law and federal regulations. Under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (LOSC), port and coastal States have jurisdiction over ships entering their waters and have the ability to implement mitigation strategies, ranging from mandatory speed reduction to installing shore-side electricity or sequestration equipment. Under the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL) Annex VI, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) is determining the feasibility of design, fuel, and operation reforms. Alternatively, the implementation may be usurped by a global cap-and-trade scheme from the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. In the U.S., the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is tightening the Clean Air Act § 213 regulations governing marine vessels and U.S. waters were recently designated a SOx Emission Control Area. However, carbon dioxide emissions from marine vessels remain unregulated.
Between Integration Provision and Selection Mechanism. Party Politics, Judicial Constraints, and the Making of French and Dutch Policies of Civic Integration Abroad
Authors: Bonjour Saskia
Published: August 2010

Both the Netherlands and France have recently introduced civic integration abroad policies, which stipulate that family migrants are to learn about the language and customs of the host society, before being admitted to the country. The Dutch program however is much more stringent than the French. While France requires only participation in an evaluation and course that are organised and financed by the French state, the Dutch government has made entry conditional upon passing a test and does not offer courses. In this article, I propose two explanations for the significant differences between the modalities of the Dutch and French civic integration abroad programs. The first is related to party politics, that is to the positions adopted by political parties and the relations between them; the second to the different judicial constraints that weigh upon family migration policies in France and in the Netherlands.
The Relevance of Numerical Weather Prediction for Forecasting Natural Hazards and for Monitoring the Global Environment
Authors: Hollingsworth A. , Viterbo P. , Simmons A. J.
Published: August 2010

No Abstract available.
A Life in the Global Atmosphere: Dick Reed and the World of International Science
Authors: Perry John S.
Published: August 2010

No Abstract available.
Parental Influences on the Academic Motivation of Gifted Students: A Self-Determination Theory Perspective
Authors: Garn Alex C. , Matthews Michael S. , Jolly Jennifer L.
Published: August 2010

The home environment that parents provide their gifted children can have a significant impact on academic motivation, yet limited research has focused on this topic. Self-determination theory, a comprehensive framework of motivation, was used in the current study to explore two research questions: (a) What attitudes do parents of gifted students have toward the academic motivation of their children? (b) What approaches do parents of gifted students use at home to develop academic motivation? Interviews with 30 parents of gifted children from across the United States revealed three higher order themes including Parents as Experts, Scaffolding, and Behavior Modification. From a self-determination theory perspective, results suggest that despite good intentions, the parents of this study were inconsistent in providing home environments that support their children’s development of internalized forms of academic motivation.
When Values and Attributions Collide: Liberals’ and Conservatives’ Values Motivate Attributions for Alleged Misdeeds
Authors: Morgan G. Scott , Mullen Elizabeth , Skitka Linda J.
Published: August 2010

Conservatives tend to make dispositional whereas liberals make situational attributions for social problems and alleged misconduct (the “ideo-attribution effect”). Three studies demonstrated a reversal of the ideo-attribution effect. Conservatives made stronger situational attributions than liberals for the behavior of Marines accused of killing Iraqi civilians (Studies 1 and 2) and police officers accused of wrongly killing a cougar running loose in a Chicago neighborhood (Study 3). Reversals of the ideo-attribution effect occurred because conservative values were more consistent with excusing the Marines’ and police officers’ behavior, whereas liberal values were more consistent with blaming the Marines and police officers. These results suggest that the ideo-attribution effect—and attributions more generally—are shaped by whether people’s attributional conclusions are consistent or inconsistent with their salient values.
Online Language: The Role of Culture in Self-Expression and Self-Construal on Facebook
Authors: DeAndrea David C. , Shaw Allison S. , Levine Timothy R.
Published: August 2010

This article investigated how culture influences self-construal and self-expression on Facebook, a popular social networking site. To examine actual self-description representative of self-construal, unaltered independently existing information was garnered from the Facebook pages of Caucasian Americans, African Americans, and ethnic Asians attending a Midwestern University. Findings indicated that culture plays a significant role in influencing the communication of psychological attributes, individuating information, and the quantity of self-descriptive expression. Furthermore, evidence and argumentation are provided for a greater inclusion of African Americans in self-construal research.
Facework and Utilitarian Relevance in the Disambiguation of Statements With Two Indirect Interpretations
Authors: Demeure Virginie
Published: August 2010

Ambiguous statements are quite frequent in everyday life and are therefore the subject of numerous theoretical and empirical investigations. This article explores the interpretation of ambiguous request/disagreement statements such as “I am afraid I do not follow you” in the light of utilitarian and face-management approaches. It offers a combined test of some key predictions of these two approaches on an original kind of ambiguity between two contrasting indirect interpretations. The results support the utilitarian approach, offer new perspectives on the facework approach, and suggest that this combined approach can be generalized to a large range of ambiguous statements.
Evaluation of the Quadrox-I neonatal oxygenator with an integrated arterial filter
Authors: Salavitabar Arash , Feng Qiu  , Kunselman Allen , Ündar Akif
Published: August 2010

Cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) can be a potential cause of morbidity in patients for several reasons, including significantly higher gaseous microemboli (GME) formation than extracorporeal life support (ECLS) and physiological circulation, diverted blood flow from the patient via an open purge line of the arterial filter, and pressure drop across the oxygenator that is used in the circuit. Using a combined oxygenator and arterial filter may minimize these harmful factors and can effectively reduce the chances for postoperative morbidity. This study investigated the new QUADROX-i Neonatal Oxygenator (D-72145, Maquet, Hirrlingen, Germany) with an integrated arterial filter in terms of the hemodynamic properties and ability to clear GME in response to hypothermic versus normothermic conditions, open versus closed arterial filter purge line, and varying flow rates in a simulated CPB circuit identical to that of the clinical setting. A flow probe, pressure transducer, and Emboli Detection and Classification (EDAC) quantifier transducer were placed upstream and downstream to the oxygenator to measure changes in each parameter. The circuit was primed with fresh human blood with an hematocrit (Hct) of 26% diluted with Ringer’s lactate solution. Five milliliters of air were injected proximal to the venous cardiotomy reservoir, under non-pulsatile perfusion, with flow rates of 500 ml/min, 750 ml/min, and 1000 ml/min. A total of 8 air bolus injections were made at each individual set of conditions for a total of 96 injections. Results showed that the QUADROX-i Neonatal Oxygenator with an integrated filter has excellent hemodynamic properties with extremely low pressure drops and blood flow diverted from the patient, as well as high rates of GME capturing. The arterial filter purge line has a significant effect on the degree of blood flow diverted from the patient (p < 0.001), but does not affect pressure drop across the oxygenator.
Prolactin and smoking status in antipsychotic-treated patients
Authors: Mackin Paul , Waton Anthony , Nulkar Amit , Watkinson Helen M
Published: August 2010

Studies investigating the relationship between cigarette smoking and prolactin secretion in the general population have yielded inconsistent results. Many antipsychotic drugs increase prolactin secretion, but there are no published studies that have investigated the relationship between smoking and prolactinaemia in antipsychotic-treated patients. We obtained prolactin levels from 228 antipsychotic-treated patients in secondary care mental health services and investigated the relationship between prolactinaemia and cigarette smoking. Twenty-three percent ( n = 52) of patients had hyperprolactinaemia. Patients prescribed typical or a combination of typical and atypical antipsychotics had a significantly higher prevalence of hyperprolactinaemia and higher mean prolactin concentration. Both current and ex-cigarette smokers had significantly lower mean prolactin levels and a lower prevalence of hyperprolactinaemia, but after controlling for potentially confounding variables, only current smoking status was a significant predictor of lower prolactin levels (OR 2.3, 95% CI 1.2 to 4.7, p = 0.002). In this preliminary, cross-sectional study, there was a robust statistical relationship between cigarette smoking and prolactinaemia. The mechanism(s) underpinning this association needs further investigation.
Weather profits: Weather derivatives and the commercialization of meteorology
Authors: Randalls Samuel
Published: August 2010

While many scholars researching the commercialization of science focus on biomedicine, this paper explores the changing commercial frameworks for meteorology in the UK and the US. The organization of meteorology in both countries increasingly reflects a political—economic approach that treats science as an economic entity in which market-based criteria can be used to allocate scientific resources. The differences are equally significant in terms of the production and dissemination of meteorological forecasts and other data to public and private services. Alongside this commercialization has been the emergence of weather derivatives markets — financial products that enable trading on weather indices in a way similar to oil or gas futures — which have re-shaped how some businesses interact with meteorologists. This paper explores how weather derivatives traders engage with, shape, and are frustrated by a commercialized approach to funding meteorological data and forecasts. It highlights how commercial imperatives raise questions about the collection and quality of meteorological data, and how forecasting and weather modelling is being adopted within the private sector to enable trading strategies in the weather derivatives market. The consequences for commercial actors are highly variable, suggesting that any account of commercialization of science, while recognizing extant policy shifts, must be sufficiently nuanced in its interpretation of such effects.
Gracilis Autograft for Recurrent Posttraumatic Instability of the Superior Tibiofibular Joint
Authors: Maffulli Nicola , Spiezia Filippo , Oliva Francesco , Testa Vittorino , Capasso Giovanni , Denaro Vincenzo
Published: August 2010

Background

Several reconstruction procedures have been proposed to manage recurrent dislocation of the superior tibiofibular joint.

Hypothesis

Reconstruction of the superior tibiofibular joint using a gracilis tendon autograft is effective in recurrent dislocation of the superior tibiofibular joint.

Study Design

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods

Eight patients with recurrent dislocation of the superior tibiofibular joint without anatomical predisposing factors and who practiced sports were included in the study. Evaluation included the modified Cincinnati rating system and the Kujala score, anthropometry, plain radiography, and isokinetic dynamometry.

Results

The average follow-up was 44 ± 13 months. The mean modified Cincinnati score increased from 54 preoperatively to 92 (P = .01). The mean Kujala scores increased from 48 preoperatively to 85 (P = .05). The muscle volume of the thigh of the operated limb remained less well developed than the muscle volume of the nonoperated limb (P = .05). Significant isokinetic strength differences were found between the operated and the contralateral limb (P = .02) even at the latest follow-up.

Conclusion

Gracilis autograft for posttraumatic instability of the superior tibiofibular joint is a safe, reliable management option for recurrent dislocation of the superior tibiofibular joint in patients without any predisposing factors.
Life cycle assessment of integrated municipal solid waste management systems, taking account of climate change and landfill shortage trade-off problems
Authors: Tabata Tomohiro , Hishinuma Tatsuo , Ihara Tomohiko , Genchi Yutaka
Published: August 2010

Steps taken to counter the climate change problem have a significant impact on the municipal solid waste management (MSW) sector, which must tackle regional environmental problems such as the shortage of sanitary landfills, especially in Japan. Moreover, greenhouse gas emissions and final disposal have a trade-off relationship. Therefore, alleviation of both these environmental problems is difficult, and Japanese local municipalities are anxious for action to solve these problems and reduce treatment costs. Although ambitious waste management measures have been enacted in many countries, they appear to lack a holistic view and do not adopt a life cycle approach. Therefore, it is important to reconstruct the MSW management system, taking into account environmental and economic aspects. In the present study, life cycle assessment and mathematical modelling were used to seek ways of redesigning the MSW management system in order to minimize environmental impacts and/or reduce treatment costs. One economic block was selected as the study area (Iwate Prefecture in Japan). The life cycle inventory and costs data for every MSW transportation and treatment process in this region were collected and processed. Then, taking account of geographic information, an optimal solution for the minimization of environmental impact or treatment costs was derived. To solve the trade-off problem, a sensitivity analysis was conducted to find optimal reduction targets for climate change and final disposal.
Magnetic separation of coal fly ash from Bulgarian power plants
Authors: Shoumkova Annie S.
Published: August 2010

Fly ash from three coal-burning power plants in Bulgaria: ‘Maritza 3’, ‘Republika’ and ‘Rousse East’ were subjected to wet low-intensity magnetic separation. The tests were performed at different combinations of magnetic field intensity, flow velocity and diameter of matrix elements. It was found that all parameters investigated affected the separation efficiency, but their influence was interlinked and was determined by the properties of the material and the combination of other conditions. Among the fly ash characteristics, the most important parameters, determining the magnetic separation applicability, were mineralogical composition and distribution of minerals in particles. The main factors limiting the process were the presence of paramagnetic Fe-containing mineral and amorphous matter, and the existence of poly-mineral particles and aggregates of magnetic and non-magnetic particles. It was demonstrated that the negative effect of both factors could be considerably limited by the selection of a proper set of separation conditions. The dependences between concentration of ferromagnetic iron in the ash, their magnetic properties and magnetic fraction yields were studied. It was experimentally proved that, for a certain set of separation conditions, the yields of magnetic fractions were directly proportional to the saturation magnetization of the ferromagnetic components of the ash. The main properties of typical magnetic and non-magnetic fractions were studied.
Identification of components of grape powder with anti-apoptotic effects
Authors: Jing Yu  , Yumin Xu  , Khaoustov Vladimir , Yoffe Boris
Published: August 2010

This study is to investigate the mechanism underlying the anti-apoptotic effects of freeze-dried grape powder (FDGP) and identify the polyphenolic compounds involved. We examined apoptotic signaling pathways affected by FDGP and by its active components, including epicatechin, cyanidin, quercetin, and resveratrol, in human Huh7 hepatoma cells by assaying cell viability assays, the activities of caspase 3 and caspase 7, and the expression of endoplasmic reticulum stress-associated proteins. FDGP dramatically decreased taurodeoxycholic acid (TDCA)-induced production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Assessment of individual active components revealed that at concentrations corresponding to 300 μg/mL FDGP, only quercetin demonstrated cytoprotective effects against mitochondrial-mediated apoptosis. In contrast, increased concentrations of other individual polyphenolic compounds were required to produce measurable cytoprotective effect. Only combinations of all four polyphenolic compounds (epicatechin, cyanidin, quercetin, and resveratrol) restored a degree of the anti-apoptotic effects seen with FDGP. The pretreatment of FDGP at 30 μg/mL concentration could reverse the thapsigargin-induced effects on the expression of endoplasmic reticulum stress-associated proteins. In conclusion, FDGP reduced oxidative stress, endoplasmic reticulum stress, and apoptosis. The mechanisms involved in the anti-apoptotic effects of FDGP included reduced generation of ROS, and reduced processing of certain caspases. We demonstrated that quercetin, epicatechin, and cyanidin are active compounds within FDGP that attenuate apoptosis. These findings contribute to our understanding of the molecular mechanisms of anti-apoptotic and anti-oxidant effects of grape and are expected to assist in developing clinical protocols to treat a variety of stress-mediated conditions.
Multidisciplinary Treatment of Pediatric Obesity: Nutrition Evaluation and Management
Authors: Ross Michael M. , Kolbash Stacy , Cohen Gail M. , Skelton Joseph A.
Published: August 2010

Assessment and treatment methods for pediatric obesity are rapidly evolving. Thought to be caused by an imbalance of caloric intake and expenditure, obesity requires a comprehensive evaluation of patient, familial, environmental, genetic, and cultural characteristics so clinicians can design successful interventions. Quantitative nutrition assessment of caloric intake is difficult and time consuming and should be used only in isolated settings, such as in the research setting, or if initial approaches to management have been unsuccessful. As an alternative, providers should identify dietary patterns or behaviors that have been linked to obesity and are promising targets for change. Clinicians should tailor interventions by considering patient and family motivation and readiness to change. Current guidelines recommend stepwise increases in treatment plans, and multidisciplinary treatment teams are recommended for patients who require intense intervention. Providers involved at the multidisciplinary level must incorporate their area of expertise into that of the team to develop a comprehensive management plan. This article reviews current recommendations for the evaluation and treatment of pediatric obesity with a focus on nutrition evaluation as part of a multidisciplinary team.
Vitamin D–Deficient Rickets in a Child With Cow's Milk Allergy
Authors: Pearson Doriel , Barreto‐Chang Odmara , Shepard W. Elizabeth , Greene Alan , Longhurst Chris
Published: August 2010

This article describes the case of a 16‐month‐old Hispanic male toddler with cow's milk allergy living in northern California who was admitted to a children's hospital for weight loss and markedly elevated levels of serum alkaline phosphatase and parathyroid hormone. At a routine outpatient well‐child visit, his mother expressed concern about a decrease in his appetite and activity level. A detailed diet history revealed that breast milk was his primary source of nutrition during his first year of life and he had not been given supplemental vitamins. With attempts to introduce cow's milk formula, he had developed a rash and swelling around the mouth. Shortly after his first birthday, his mother weaned him from breast milk and introduced unfortified rice milk as a palatable milk substitute. Upon admission he was pale and lethargic; his laboratory studies were remarkable for elevated serum alkaline phosphatase and parathyroid hormone and low levels of phosphorus, 25‐hydroxy‐vitamin D, and ferritin. Lower extremity radiographic studies were consistent with rickets. After 5 weeks of therapy with vitamin D3 and iron, his serum 25‐hydroxy‐vitamin D level normalized. Within 12 weeks following therapy, the child demonstrated significant clinical improvement, with resolution of growth failure and bone reossification. His activity level had returned to normal. This case emphasizes the importance of adequate vitamin D intake for children with special attention to those who might have nutrition deficiencies attributable to milk allergy.
Effects of Oral Folate Supplementation on Serum Total Homocysteine and Cholesterol Levels in Hyperhomocysteinemic Children
Authors: Papandreou D. , Rousso I. , Malindretos P. , Makedou A. , Arvanitidou M.
Published: August 2010

Background: Hyperhomocysteinemia may be a risk factor for cardiovascular disease even among children. Increased levels of total serum homocysteine (tHcy) may initiate atherosclerosis by modulating increased cholesterol synthesis in the liver. Folate supplementation has been found to reduce homocysteine levels. However, no data have been reported about the relationship between folate supplementation and cholesterol levels in children. Methods: Twenty of 26 hyperhomocysteinemic (>95th percentile for age) children underwent a therapeutic intervention of 5 mg of oral folate supplementation twice per week for 2 months. Results: After the 2‐month intervention with folate supplement, tHcy levels were statistically significantly decreased (P < .001), folate levels were significantly increased (P < .001), while total cholesterol levels were significantly improved from 183.8 (115‐296 mg/dL) to 160.8 (109‐265 mg/dL) (P < .05). Conclusions: Folate supplementation may reduce tHcy, serum folate, and total serum cholesterol levels in hyperhomocysteinemic children.
The Issue of Genocidal Intent and Denial of Genocide
Authors: Bećirević Edina
Published: August 2010

This article discusses the issue of special genocidal intent and, within it, the relevance of judicially established truths to the wider historical context. It suggests that genocide researchers should not rely only on verdicts—which either deny or confirm genocide— as historical truth but, rather, use the judicial process and trial evidence as signposts to direct their research. The author uses the case study of Serbian genocide against Bosnian Muslims from 1992 to 1995 to illustrate the failings of judicially established truths in determining wider historical truth. Wartime documentation, interviews with witnesses, and court transcripts are analyzed to illustrate how this wider truth is sometimes lost when focus on the importance of supporting documents is overshadowed by a final verdict. The case of Srebrenica is outlined to illustrate how documents used in trials, as well as witness testimonies, can contribute on their own to the understanding of historical truths. In this case, a selection of trial narratives and documents is used to examine not only if there was “special intent” among Serbian political leadership to exterminate Bosnian Muslims as early as 1992, but also to determine if international community representatives were aware of that intent and ignored it consciously.
Rethinking Commercial Revitalization: A Neighborhood Small Business Perspective
Authors: Sutton Stacey A.
Published: August 2010

Inner-city neighborhood retail development often engenders vigorous popular and political debate about the scale, scope, and location of projects as well as their intended and inadvertent effects for urban landscapes, residents, and consumers. The term commercial revitalization is frequently used to characterize the resurgence of retail activity in neighborhoods previously considered moribund and perilous areas to avoid. In most instances, however, the factors animating commercial revitalization are implicitly assumed and, as such, are conceptually and empirically underdeveloped. This article elucidates commercial revitalization and focuses on the agency of neighborhood small business owners as underexplored stakeholders. Using the extended case methodology, this article examines Black business owners in Fort Greene, Brooklyn, who mounted a relatively successful campaign of retail restructuring by cultivating political clout, establishing civic alliances, participating in neighborhood planning, and promoting the commercial district as an economic and cultural enclave. However, merchants failed to develop mechanisms to sustain their vision and advance commercial revitalization. The article concludes with a discussion of planning and policy implications.
Learning the wrong lessons? Science and fisheries management in the Chesapeake Bay blue crab fishery
Authors: Beem Betsi
Published: August 2010

This paper argues that information produced and then taken up for policy decision making is a function of a complex interplay within the scientific community and between scientists and the broader policy network who are all grappling with issues in a complex environment with a high degree of scientific uncertainty. The dynamics of forming and re-forming the scientific community are shaped by political processes, as are the directions and questions scientists attend to in their roles as policy advisors. Three factors: 1) social construction of scientific communities, 2) the indeterminacy of science, and 3) demands by policy makers to have concrete information for decision making; are intertwined in the production and dissemination of information that may serve as the basis for policy learning. Through this process, however, what gets learned may not be what is needed to mitigate the problem, be complete in terms of addressing multiple causations, or be correct.
Social Factors in Schizophrenia
Authors: Hooley Jill M.
Published: August 2010

One of the defining characteristics of schizophrenia is impaired social functioning. This was recognized a century ago in the earliest clinical descriptions of the disorder. Today, deterioration of social relations remains a hallmark of schizophrenia, with social isolation and withdrawal forming part of its clinical profile in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. But what kind of social problems do patients with schizophrenia have? When do they become apparent? Who is most affected? In this article, I present a brief review of what is currently known and highlight issues that still require attention from researchers. In addition to describing the social deficits associated with schizophrenia, I also consider some of the social consequences that may arise from these deficits. These consequences include social rejection, stigma, and problematic family relationships. I also consider the role of social-skills training in improving patients’ general social functioning and the clinical course of their disease.
New Opportunities in the Treatment of Cognitive Impairments Associated With Schizophrenia
Authors: Geyer Mark A.
Published: August 2010

The cognitive deficits so characteristic of patients with schizophrenia are largely responsible for the poor functional outcome apparent in this patient population and are not ameliorated by existing antipsychotic drugs. The critical unmet need for treatments for the cognitive impairments associated with schizophrenia has been addressed in a series of federally funded initiatives, beginning with Measurement and Treatment Research to Improve Cognition in Schizophrenia (MATRICS) and continuing with Cognitive Neuroscience Treatment Research to Improve Cognition in Schizophrenia (CNTRICS). As reviewed here, these programs have set the stage for an expansion of basic and clinical cognitive neuroscience research to support the discovery and development of cotreatments to be used in conjunction with antipsychotic medications in the treatment of specific cognitive deficits in patients with schizophrenia.
Current Research on the Genetic Contributors to Schizophrenia
Authors: Pogue-Geile Michael F. , Yokley Jessica L.
Published: August 2010

In this article, we review genetic research on schizophrenia to illustrate current strategies, findings, challenges, and future directions in the study of a relatively common, severe psychopathological phenotype. Family, twin, and adoption studies indicate that overall genetic effects on schizophrenia are both important and complex. Although efforts to identify specific causal genetic variants have utilized the full range of molecular and analytic techniques, results have been modest. Several putative common genetic variants of small effect appear to be implicated along with some extremely rare variants of potentially large effect. It seems clear that most of the genetic contributors to the liability to schizophrenia, as well as nongenetic ones, remain to be identified. New strategies give reason for optimism that our understanding of the causes of this tragic disorder will continue to increase.
A First Life With Computerized Business Simulations
Authors: Thavikulwat Precha
Published: August 2010

The author discusses the theoretical lens, origins, and environment of his work on computerized business simulations. Key ideas that inform his work include the two dimensions (control and interaction) of computerized simulation, the two ways of representing a natural process (phenotypical and genotypical) in a simulation, which he defines as a replicable representation of a natural process. The author touches on his professional activities, summarizes his journal articles, accounts for his education, and considers two problems that remain to be resolved: the free rider problem when participants are assigned to work in teams and the measurement reliability problem when a business simulation is used for program assessment. He reflects on the possibility of using business simulation to expand business education in developing countries.
House Floor Area as a Correlate of Marital Residence Pattern: A Logistic Regression Approach
Authors: Porčić Marko
Published: August 2010

The goal of this article is to reflect on the relationship between average house floor area and marital residence pattern.This article brings three novel elements to this research problem: (a) it combines cases from the previous studies thus creating a larger empirical base, (b) logistic regression is used as an analytical technique which can test the significance and strength of the correlation between variables and establish explicit classification criteria with corresponding error rates, and (c) the effect of subsistence mode on the correlation between house floor area and residence is taken into account. New results confirm previous findings that there is a statistically significant correlation between house floor area and marital residence but not strong enough to warrant the use of floor area as a sole indicator of residence. Subsistence mode has a large influence on the correlation—goodness of fit of the logistic regression model and its predictive power are significantly higher in agricultural societies, whereas the correlation between house area and marital residence is not significant in the nonagricultural group of cases.
Cross-Reactivity of Rabbit Anti-Bovine Prothrombin/Thrombin IgGs With Bovine Factor V/Va-Related Antigens
Authors: He Zhu  , Hoppensteadt Debra , Morris Michael , Fareed Jawed
Published: August 2010

The purpose of this study was to determine whether rabbit anti-bovine prothrombin/thrombin immunoglobulin Gs (IgGs) would cross-react with bovine factor V/Va-related antigens. Bovine prothrombin, crude thrombin, as well as 2 purified versions of thrombin, that is, thrombin 4A (the previous version of Thrombin-JMI marketed prior to 2008) and 4B (the currently marketed version of Thrombin-JMI), were administrated to individual groups of rabbits on days 0, 21, 42, 91, 123, and 151 using standard immunologic methods. Blood was drawn from each rabbit on days 30, 50, 105, 137, and 165 and the pooled antisera from individual groups were purified to obtain the IgGs using protein G affinity columns. By probing bovine factor V/Va samples, the possible cross-reactivity of each IgG collected at different time points (from day 30 to day 165) was explored using Western blotting techniques. The results indicated that rabbit anti-bovine prothrombin and crude thrombin IgGs could cross-react strongly with bovine factor V/Va in an immunization time-dependent manner. However, antibodies generated in thrombin 4A-treated rabbits presented much weaker cross-reactivity with bovine factor V/Va. Furthermore, no cross-reactivity with bovine factor V/Va-related antigens was observed when the anti-bovine thrombin 4B IgG collected at any time point was used. The results suggest that thrombin 4B preparation contains the least bovine factor V/Va contaminants among the bovine prothrombin/thrombin preparations studied and the amount of bovine factor V/Va contaminants in bovine thrombin 4B is too small to elicit the generation of antibodies against bovine factor V/Va in rabbits.
The Value of Serum Procalcitonin in Differential Diagnosis of Pulmonary Embolism and Community-Acquired Pneumonia
Authors: Köktürk Nurdan , Kanbay Asiye , Bukan Neslihan , Ekim Numan
Published: August 2010

Presence of high fever may cause confusion in differential diagnosis of pulmonary embolism (PE) versus pneumonia. The aim of this study is to investigate the diagnostic value of serum procalcitonin (PCT) in differential diagnosis of PE and community-acquired pneumonia (CAP). A total of 24 patients with proven PE and 22 patients with CAP were included in the study. The study population was subdivided as PE patients with fever (group 1, n = 8) and without fever (group 2, n = 16); and CAP (group 3, n = 22). Serum PCT and systemic inflammatory markers were measured at the initial diagnosis and the third day of the treatment. The relation of PCT level with the other systemic inflammatory markers was investigated in each measurement point. The initial mean serum PCT level in group 3 (2.24 ± 0.99 ng/mL) was statistically higher than group 1 (0.48 ± 0.77 ng/mL) and group 2 (0.14 ± 0.17 ng/mL; P = .000, .000, respectively). Procalcitonin level at the initial (2.24 ± 0.99 ng/mL) and the third day of treatment (0.92 ± 0.62 ng/mL) in group 3 showed a statistically significant reduction ( P = .000). There were no statistically significant reduction in PCT levels by anticoagulation in groups 1 and 2 ( P = .262, .119, respectively). Other systemic inflammatory markers including interleukin 6 (IL-6), C-reactive protein (CRP), and tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) levels statistically significantly decreased with anticoagulant and antimicrobial therapy. This study suggested that serum PCT level may be valuable for differentiating PE patients with or without fever from patients with CAP.
Inflammatory and Prothrombotic Activation With Conserved Endothelial Function in Patients With Chronic, Asymptomatic Chagas Disease
Authors: Herrera Ramón N. , de Amaya Elba I. Díaz , Aguilar Rossana C. Pérez , Turoni Claudio Joo , Marañón Rodrigo , Berman Sofía G. , Luciardi Héctor L. , Coviello Alfredo , de Bruno María Peral
Published: August 2010

Previously, our group showed a prothrombotic state in asymptomatic patients with chronic Chagas disease. The current paper studies the inflammatory status and endothelial function in these patients. Methods: In 40 patients and 40 healthy volunteers, we evaluated prothrombotic state, blood parasitemia (molecular biology: polymerized chain reaction [PCR]-amplification), tissue factor pathway inhibitor antibodies (aTFPI), interleukin 6 (IL-6), and vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1). Endothelial function was determined by reactive hyperemia (pulse plethysmography). Results: In patients, prothrombin fragment 1 + 2, d-dimer, PAI-1, and fibrinogen were higher. Amplification of 121/122 primers ( Trypanosoma cruzi) was positive in 45% of the patients. Patients presented higher values of aTFPI- immunoglobulin G (IgG; P < .05), aTFPI-IgM ( P < .001), IL-6 ( P = .004), and VCAM-1 ( P = .00001). In both groups, endothelial function was preserved. Conclusions: We found that asymptomatic patients with chronic Chagas disease presented a prothrombotic/inflammatory status. The fact that endothelial function is still preserved suggests that prothrombosis and inflammation are primarily implicated in the beginning of cardiovascular damage.
Venous Gangrene a Rare but Dreadful Complication of Deep Venous Thrombosis
Authors: Musani Muzammil H. , Musani Muhammad Anis , Verardi Mary A.
Published: August 2010

Venous gangrene is a rare complication of deep venous thrombosis. It is certain from review of literature that there is a significant causative relationship between malignant disease and venous gangrene. Data from the National hospital discharge survey from 1979 to 2006 showed that 0.43% of patients with deep venous thrombosis had gangrene, while 1.39% patients with gangrene had deep venous thrombosis. Toes and fingers are frequent site of venous gangrene in patients with massive deep venous thrombosis, as evident by review of literature. A possible explanation for this occurrence can be the fact that because of the scarcity of subcutaneous fat and the small spaces of fingers and toes, massive edema can generate large compressive forces; these forces may have a compressive effect on the arterioles, which may contribute to the development of venous gangrene. Lower extremities develop venous gangrene more commonly than upper extremities. The condition has an extremely high rate of mortality either from pulmonary embolism or from the serious underlying disease, such as neoplasms.
A Rare and Undesirable Complication of Heparin-Induced Thrombocytopenia
Authors: Gul Enes Elvin , Abdulhalikov Turyan , Aslan Ramazan , Aydogdu Ismet
Published: August 2010

A 69-year-old woman presented to the emergency department with sudden onset of dyspnea. She reported bilateral total knee surgery 12 days prior for gonarthrosis. The patient was recommended low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) 0.4 cc (4 milliliter) twice a day. On evaluation, severe thrombocytopenia was detected. An echocardiogram was performed because of her dyspnea, which revealed right ventricular dilatation and hypokinesis. Due to suspicion of a pulmonary embolism (PE), a pulmonary computed tomography (CT) was performed, which revealed bilateral massive PE. This event occurred while the patient was receiving LMWH for prophylaxis of PE. Due to the presence of severe thrombocytopenia, fondaparinux and immunoglobulin were initiated. Her platelet levels improved significantly and she was discharged on warfarin.