bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Culture‐specific personality correlates of anxiety among Chinese and Caucasian college students
Authors: Xie Dong , Leong Frederick T. L. , Feng Shoudong
Published: May 2008

The present study investigated the relationship between a set of personality constructs (i.e. perfectionism, independent‐interdependent self‐construal, and collective self‐esteem) and trait and social anxiety among 324 Mainland Chinese and 333 Caucasian college students. It was hypothesized that the strength of the correlation between these personality factors and anxiety would be different for the two samples. The results indicated that socially prescribed perfectionism was a better predictor of social anxiety for the Chinese participants, but of trait anxiety for the Caucasian participants. Independent self‐construal predicted social anxiety better for the Caucasians than for the Chinese. Overall, aspects of collective self‐esteem were more correlated with anxiety among the Chinese than the Caucasians. The authors argued that the findings can be used to improve multicultural counselling in China and the USA and to provide more culturally specific interventions to clients having anxiety disorders.
Who's going to provide the funding for high tech start‐ups? A model for the analysis of determinants with a fuzzy approach
Authors: Minola Tommaso , Giorgino Marco
Published: May 2008

The aim of this paper is to understand which factors influence the financial structure of Italian young, high‐tech, innovative firms, and to attempt to formulate a predictive model to determine the ideal financial strategy for a given entrepreneurial project. Venture capital is the most relevant form of financing for high‐technology start‐ups in the United States and is frequently cited as crucial in the technological leadership of the US economy. However, banks are also moving toward establishing a role in capital provision, making innovative offers to meet the financial needs of start‐ups, especially in bank‐centric countries such as Italy. Is it possible to build a robust and ordered set of determinants of the financial strategy of new technology‐based firms? Is it possible to gather them in a model that allows a rigorous analysis? Is it possible to summarize the analysis in a synthetic value of orientation to one or other form of financing? Through a systematic review of the literature and comparison between investors, we have taken the first step toward answering these questions. This work develops a methodology to solve the problem and builds a provisional fuzzy‐set based tool to permit the rationalization of the relevant information and effectively support the reduction of qualitative evaluation of complex phenomena into simple and measurable dimensions. The structure of the model is hierarchical but simple. We consider, as the first level of main determinants (sub‐dimensions), the figure of the entrepreneur, the nature of the project, the financial scenario, and the market characteristics. For each of these, we provide deep insights about their relation with finance. We have verified the value of this approach in the context of ten business cases, by matching the financial strategies undertaken by entrepreneurs and the obtainable conclusions with the fuzzy tool. However, the definition of a robust, predictive model requires more consistent empirical validation, which we intend to develop from this work.
COMPARATIVE ETHICS, IDEOLOGIES, AND CRITICAL THOUGHT1
Authors: Hindery Roderick
Published: May 2008

After the publication of my book and various articles about comparative religious ethics, obstacles in the field's further development seemed to mount as swiftly as practical issues seemed to trumpet the need for global ethics more loudly. Driven by impatience, I wondered if I were fiddling in unending discussion while the planet burned. As others persevered and evolved productively in addressing developmental issues in the field directly, I began to work through the lens of a less direct, but complementary, perspective: ideologies and critical thought. The following essay seeks to connect my parallel approach to ongoing obstacles and solutions within the prolific development of comparative religious ethics, especially its urgent pursuit of common moral grounds sufficient to support peaceful coexistence and living.
Retrotransposons and siRNA have a role in the evolution of desiccation tolerance leading to resurrection of the plant Craterostigma plantagineum
Authors: Hilbricht Tobias , Varotto Serena , Sgaramella Vittorio , Bartels Dorothea , Salamini Francesco , Furini Antonella
Published: May 2008

DOI: 10.1111/j.1469-8137.2008.02567.xCommentary p 570
Sulfatides facilitate apolipoprotein E‐mediated amyloid‐β peptide clearance through an endocytotic pathway
Authors: Zeng Youchun , Han Xianlin
Published: May 2008

Amyloid‐β (Aβ) accumulation and fibril formation are key pathologic characteristics of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). We have previously found that sulfatide depletion occurs at the earliest stages of AD. To further identify the role of sulfatides in the pathogenesis of AD as well as the interactions between apolipoprotein E (apoE), sulfatides, and Aβ peptides, we examined alterations in the clearance of apoE‐mediated Aβ peptides after sulfatide supplementation to cell culture systems. We demonstrated that sulfatides markedly facilitate apoE‐mediated clearance of Aβ peptides endogenously generated from H4‐APPwt cells through an endocytotic pathway. Moreover, we found that the uptake of Aβ42 mediated by sulfatides was selective in comparison to that of Aβ40. We excluded the possibility that the supplementation of sulfatides and/or apoE altered the production of Aβ peptides from H4‐APPwt cells through determination of the clearance of Aβ peptides from conditioned H4‐APPwt cell media by neuroblastoma cells which do not appreciably generate Aβ peptides. Finally, we demonstrated that the sulfate galactose moiety of sulfatides is essential for the sulfatide‐facilitated clearance of Aβ peptides. Collectively, the current study provides insight into a molecular mechanism leading to Aβ clearance/deposition, highlights the significance of sulfatide deficiency at the earliest clinically recognizable stage of AD, and identifies a potential new direction for therapeutic intervention for the disease.
Nuclear translocation of X‐linked inhibitor of apoptosis (XIAP) determines cell fate after hypoxia ischemia in neonatal brain
Authors: Russell Juliet C. , Whiting Heather , Szuflita Nicholas , Hossain Mir Ahamed
Published: May 2008

The inhibitors of apoptosis (IAPs) are emerging as key proteins in the control of cell death. In this study, we evaluated the expression and subcellular distribution of the antiapoptotic protein X‐linked IAP (XIAP), and its interactions with the XIAP‐associated factor 1 (XAF1) in neonatal rat brain following hypoxia‐ischemia (HI). HI triggered the mitochondrial release of cytochrome c, Smac/DIABLO, and caspase 3 activation. Confocal microscopy detected XIAP‐specific immunofluorescence in the cytoplasm under normal condition, which exhibited a diffuse distribution at 6 h post‐HI and by 12 h the majority of XIAP was redistributed into the nucleus. XIAP nuclear translocation was confirmed by subcellular fractionations and by expressing FLAG‐tagged XIAP in primary cortical neurons. Over‐expression of XIAP significantly reduced, whereas XIAP gene silencing further enhanced cell death, demonstrating a specific requirement of cytoplasmic XIAP for cell survival. An elevated level of cytosolic XIAP was also evident under the conditions of neuroprotection by fibroblast growth factor‐1. XAF1 expression was increased temporally and there was increased nuclear co‐localization with XIAP in hypoxic‐ischemic cells. XIAP co‐immunoprecipitated > 9‐fold XAF1 protein concurrent with decreased association with caspases 9 and 3. This is evidenced by the enhanced caspase 3 activity and neuronal death. Our findings implicate XIAP nuclear translocation in neuronal death and point to a novel mechanism in the regulation of hypoxic‐ischemic brain injury.
Granulomatous tattoo reaction and erythema nodosum in a young woman: common cause or coincidence?
Authors: Wollina Uwe , Gruner Monika , Schönlebe Jaqueline
Published: May 2008

Tattooing has become quite popular in Western countries. With the increasing prevalence, there is also an increased risk of adverse effects. We describe a 17‐year‐old female patient with a black and red–colored tattoo, who developed immediately after red tattooing general malaise with fever, nausea, and vomiting. A bullous reaction was temporarily seen within the red part of her tattoo. The reaction later shifted to a subacute dermatitis with bacterial superinfection. Two months later, she felt ill again. She developed painful tender nodules on the anterior aspect of both lower legs identified as erythema nodosum without sarcoidosis. Is this is a unique case of adverse reaction to tattoo pigments with a type I and a type IV reaction, or is this a coincidence? The treatment was initiated with systemic and topical corticosteroids and topical antibiotics combined with compression bandages for the legs. After 3 weeks of treatment, the erythema nodosum completely resolved and did not reappear during a 1‐year follow‐up. The treatment of the local reactions, however, was unsatisfactory without complete response. There is an indispensable need for regulation of tattoo pigments and tattooing to improve consumer safety.
In vitro evaluation of the effect of electrotreatment on skin permeability
Authors: Marra Fabio , Levy Jean‐Luc , Santi Patrizia , Kalia Yogeshvar N
Published: May 2008

Background  Stratum corneum composition and structure limit cutaneous bioavailability of pharmaceutical and cosmeceutical agents. Electrically assisted transport can increase the rate and extent of delivery; moreover, it also enables the administration of polar and charged molecules into the skin.

Aims  The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of electrotreatment on skin permeability by measuring the cumulative delivery of caffeine and sodium ascorbyl phosphate. Furthermore, confocal microscopy was used to visualize the effect of electrotreatment on the penetration of calcein.

Methods  Porcine ear skin was used for the in vitro permeation studies, which involved application of either the caffeine or sodium ascorbyl phosphate (NAP) containing gels using the roll‐on supplied with the electrotreatment device.

Results  Electrotreatment increased the amount of caffeine and NAP in the skin. Enhancement factors (EF) for NAP of 7.2 and 14.9 were observed following 20 min of electrotreatment and either immediate sampling or a further 60 min of passive diffusion compared with passive diffusion for either 20 or 80 min. The effect on caffeine permeation was less significant (EF = 2.1 for 20 min electrotreatment compared with passive diffusion for 20 min). The confocal microscopy images showed that electrotreatment significantly increased calcein permeation; fluorescence was observed deep into the viable epidermis – reaching depths of up to 60 to 80 microns.

Conclusions  We have shown that electrotreatment increases skin permeability and the cumulative delivery of cosmeceuticals into the skin.
The stratum corneum: a double paradox
Authors: Pouillot Anne , Dayan Nava , Polla Ada S , Polla Luigi L , Polla Barbara S
Published: May 2008

The stratum corneum (SC) (i.e., the outermost layer of human skin) is a complex and paradoxical tissue composed of corneocytes and a matrix of intercellular lipids playing an essential role as the skin's protective barrier. The first paradox of SC is its dual nature. It is composed of nondividing (dead) cells embedded in a metabolically active (live) environment whose function is to protect the epidermis and to maintain its integrity. In order to do so, the SC uses various strategies, including enzymatic reactions, colonization by bacterial flora, immune signaling, antimicrobial lipids and peptides, low pH, antioxidants, and natural moisturizing factor(s). The second paradox is that although its biological function is essentially that of a physicochemical barrier, cosmetologists and pharmacists are actively exploring paths for penetration through the SC to allow passage of active molecules and their penetration into the skin. Various pathways of penetration and physicochemical factors facilitating this penetration into the dermis and/or the epidermis have been defined, but the exact mechanisms of penetration of cosmetic ingredients remain elusive. For cosmetologists and pharmacists, the SC represents a major focus of interest whether for basic research or the development of novel topical approaches taking into account the fascinating properties of this complex tissue.
Visual attention to variation in female facial skin color distribution
Authors: Fink Bernhard , Matts Paul J , Klingenberg Heiner , Kuntze Sebastian , Weege Bettina , Grammer Karl
Published: May 2008

Objectives  Visible skin condition of women is argued to influence human physical attraction. Recent research has shown that people are sensitive to variation in skin color distribution, and such variation affects visual perception of female facial attractiveness, healthiness, and age.

Methods  The eye gaze of 39 males and females, aged 13 to 45 years, was tracked while they viewed images of shape‐ and topography‐standardized stimulus faces that varied only in terms of skin color distribution.

Results  The number of fixations and dwell time were significantly higher when viewing stimulus faces with the homogeneous skin color distribution of young people, compared with those of more elderly people. In accordance with recent research, facial stimuli with even skin tones were also judged to be younger and received higher attractiveness ratings. Finally, visual attention measures were negatively correlated with perceived age, but positively associated with attractiveness judgments.

Conclusions  Variation in visible skin color distribution (independent of facial form and skin surface topography) is able to selectively attract people's attention toward female faces, and this higher attention results in more positive statements about a woman's face.
The Development of Children’s Understanding of Common Psychological Problems
Authors: Hennessy Eilis , Heary Caroline
Published: May 2008

Background:  The aim of the present study was to explore children’s beliefs about the causes of psychological problems and their beliefs about potential sources of help for peers experiencing these problems. Despite its importance this is an area that has received relatively little attention from researchers.

Methods:  One hundred and sixteen children were read short vignettes in focus groups or individual interviews. The vignettes described the behaviour of hypothetical children with ADHD, conduct disorder and depression. Following each vignette children were asked questions about the likely causes of the behaviour and possible sources of help. A cross sectional research design was used with equal numbers of boys and girls of three age groups, the average age of the children in each group was: 8.4 years; 11.5 years and 14.3 years respectively.

Results:  Children of all ages were able to offer a range of explanations for the behaviour of the children described in the vignettes and these explanations varied systematically with age and the nature of the behaviour described. The majority of children believed that behaviour could change and that help to support change could be provided by family and friends.

Conclusions:  Results confirm and extend the findings of earlier studies that there are developmental changes in children’s understanding of some common psychological problems.
What Makes a Good CAMHS Primary Mental Health Worker?
Authors: Bradley Sally , Hickey Nicole , Kramer Tami , Elena Garralda M.
Published: May 2008

Background:  The role of primary mental health worker (PMHW) in CAMHS was established in 1995 although comparatively little research has explored the attributes required to successfully undertake this role.

Method:  Qualitative interviews with PMHWs and staff working in primary care were conducted and thematic analysis was performed.

Results:  In addition to clinical skills and mental health knowledge all respondents consistently emphasised the importance of inter‐personal attributes such as general accessibility, flexibility, and self‐motivation.

Conclusions:  Both professional competencies and inter‐personal skills are perceived as important characteristics for PMHWs. It therefore seems appropriate for these to be made more explicit in competency frameworks.
The Efficacy of a Relational Treatment for Maltreated Children and their Families
Authors: Sprang Ginny
Published: May 2008

Background:  The objective of this study was to assess the effects of participation in a relational intervention program on child abuse potential, parenting stress and child behaviour in maltreated children and their foster parents.

Methods:  A convenience sample of participants (N = 53) were randomly assigned to an immediate treatment or a wait‐list control condition and completed pre and post test measures.

Results:  Participant’s mean pretest scores were equivalent between groups. Post‐intervention, treatment participants had significantly lower scores on total child abuse potential, parenting stress, and child internalising and externalising behaviour than control subjects. Engagement in treatment was a significant predictor of positive change in reported child behaviour.

Conclusions:  This intervention was effective in decreasing symptoms in respondents who were at high‐risk for placement disruption.
Relocating nationalism: on the geographies of reproducing nations
Authors: Jones Rhys
Published: May 2008

The paper examines the distinction that has been made in studies of nationalism between national elites and the ordinary members of nations. While the distinction is useful as a way of beginning to conceptualise the mechanisms through which nations and nationalisms are reproduced, it can also reify a boundary between national elites and the mass membership of the nation that is, in actual fact, blurred and unstable in character. Through case studies of nationalist campaigns relating to education and linguistic rights in the town of Aberystwyth in West Wales, the paper argues that a focus on the places in which national ideologies are produced, circulated and consumed can enable us to question the distinction that is made between the national elites and ordinary members of the nation. As well as illustrating the poly‐vocal production of Welsh nationalism, the empirical research also suggests the need to re‐examine the social and spatial contexts within which nationalism is reproduced.
Effects of a Consumer Driven Health Plan on Pharmaceutical Spending and Utilization
Authors: Parente Stephen T. , Feldman Roger , Chen Song
Published: May 2008

Objectives. To compare pharmaceutical spending and utilization in a consumer driven health plan (CDHP) with a three‐tier pharmacy benefit design, and to examine whether the CDHP creates incentives to reduce pharmaceutical spending and utilization for chronically ill patients, generic or brand name drugs, and mail‐order drugs.

Study Design. Retrospective insurance claims analysis from a large employer that introduced a CDHP in 2001 in addition to a point of service (POS) plan and a preferred provider organization (PPO), both of which used a three‐tier pharmacy benefit.

Methods. Difference‐in‐differences regression models were estimated for drug spending and utilization. Control variables included the employee's income, age, and gender, number of covered lives per contract, election of flexible spending account, health status, concurrent health shock, cohort, and time trend.

Results. CDHP pharmaceutical expenditures were lower than those in the POS cohort in 1 year without differences in the use of brand name drugs. We find limited evidence of less drug consumption by CDHP enrollees with chronic illnesses, and some evidence of less generic drug use and more mail‐order drug use among CDHP members.

Conclusions. The CDHP is cost‐neutral or cost‐saving to both the employer and the employee compared with three‐tier benefits with no differences in brand name drug use.
Effect of Prescription Drug Coverage on Health of the Elderly
Authors: Khan Nasreen , Kaestner Robert , Lin Swu‐Jane
Published: May 2008

Objective. To estimate the effect of prescription drug insurance on health, as measured by self‐reported poor health status, functional disability, and hospitalization among the elderly.

Data. Analyses are based on a nationally representative sample of noninstitutionalized elderly (≥65 years of age) from the Medicare Current Beneficiary Survey (MCBS) for years 1992–2000.

Study Design. Estimates are obtained using multivariable regression models that control for observed characteristics and unmeasured person‐specific effects (i.e., fixed effects).

Principal Findings. In general, prescription drug insurance was not associated with significant changes in self‐reported health, functional disability, and hospitalization. The lone exception was for prescription drug coverage obtained through a Medicare HMO. In this case, prescription drug insurance decreased functional disability slightly. Among those elderly with chronic illness and older (71 years or more) elderly, prescription drug insurance was associated with slightly improved functional disability.

Conclusions. Findings suggest that prescription drug coverage had little effect on health or hospitalization for the general population of elderly, but may have some health benefits for chronically ill or older elderly.
Giorgione's Tempesta: a Virgilian pastoral
Authors: Schier Rudolf
Published: May 2008

This essay proposes to read Giorgione's Tempesta– including the pentimento– in terms of Virgil's first and fourth eclogues, which were widely read in Venice in the period of Giorgione. The landscape, as well as structural elements in the painting, is traced back to the first eclogue. The lower part of the painting depicts a pastoral idyll; the upper part, the threats posed to it by the city and unbridled natural forces. The male figure in the picture is identified as a Virgilian poet‐shepherd who, as in the fourth eclogue, has a vision of a virgin whose progeny will bring the golden age. Like the fourth eclogue, Giorgione's painting conflates the pastoral genre with the golden‐age myth. The relationship between the poet‐shepherd and his vision recalls Renaissance paintings in which human beings have a vision of the Virgin Mary. In addition, Renaissance renderings of the image of the Madonna of Humility are deconstructed and transformed in the painting. Giorgione's figures and setting are no longer reliably identifiable as Christian, yet they bear the imprint of the Christian repertoire. Thus, the traces on the right‐hand building are recognized to be an emblem of Jerusalem. Like Virgil's fourth eclogue, which has been read as a prophesy of the birth of Christ, Giorgione's Tempesta also allows for intertwined pagan and Christian interpretations.
How Far is the ‘Rhetoric of Inclusion; Reality of Exclusion’ Argument Applicable to the Relationship of Afro‐Latin Americans to the Nation‐State?
Authors: Creighton Helen
Published: May 2008

This essay won the 2007History CompassGraduate Essay Prize, Caribbean & Latin America Section.

The national identity and the ethnic composition of Latin American nations are frequently perceived asmestizo– a mixture of European and indigenous – and as a consequence the black ethnic and cultural component has often been overlooked or studiously ignored by Latin American nationalists. This article explores the identity of those of African origin within Latin America, with a particular focus on Brazil, Cuba and Colombia, and looks at how and why the mechanisms of inclusion and exclusion functioned – socially, culturally, politically and economically – within the rhetoric of the twentieth‐century Latin American nation‐state. It focuses on how terms such as ‘mestizaje’ (involving a celebration of racial mixing principally concentrating on the mix of European and indigenous) and ‘racial democracy’ have been used in Latin America and how they have often been implicit forces for the exclusion of Afro‐Latin Americans alongside more explicitly exclusionary policies based on the ideas of whitening and Social Darwinism. There is also an exploration of black self‐definition, including political participation and cultural identities, within Latin America and how these have been accommodated or undermined within the state‐endorsed national image.
An Introduction to Medieval Environmental History
Authors: Arnold Ellen F.
Published: May 2008

Medieval environmental history is a dynamic and growing field, and this article introduces some of the topics and regions that have become central to the field. As this article argues, environmental history takes advantage of new and exciting sources and methods but is also deeply rooted in older questions of medieval history. After an introduction to the range of topics this discipline works with, this article discusses in greater detail a few of the representative topics that environmental historians are exploring: climate and ecological history, the history of agriculture and water, religious history, and landscape studies. Since it is no longer possible to provide a survey of all work on the medieval environment, it also discusses a few of the regions (such as the Mediterranean and the Low Countries) that have been extensively studied. This article is intended to encourage medievalists to read further in environmental history, and to use the provided readings as a gateway to accessing the broader discipline.
Survival of red blood cells after transfusion: a comparison between red cells concentrates of different storage periods
Authors: Luten Marleen , Roerdinkholder‐Stoelwinder Bregt , Schaap Nicolaas P.M. , De Grip Willem J. , Bos Harry J. , Bosman Giel J.C.G.M.
Published: May 2008

BACKGROUND: The use of fresh red blood cells (RBCs) is recommended for critically ill patients and patients undergoing surgery, although there is no conclusive evidence that this is beneficial. In this follow‐up study, the short‐term and the long‐term recovery of irradiated, leukoreduced RBCs transfused after either a short storage (SS) or a long storage (LS) period were compared. By consecutive transfusion of RBCs with a SS and LS period, a direct comparison of their survival within the same patient was possible.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Ten transfusion‐requiring patients each received a SS RCCs (stored 0‐10 days) and a LS RCCs (stored 25‐35 days) consecutively. Short‐term and long‐term survival of the transfused RBCs was followed by flow cytometry using natural differences in RBC antigens between donors and patients. Posttransfusion recovery (PTR) was measured at several time points after transfusion.

RESULTS: The mean 24‐hour PTR of SS RBCs is 86.4 ± 17.8 percent and that of LS RBCs 73.5 ± 13.7 percent. After the first 24 hours, the mean times to reach a PTR of 50 percent of the 24‐hour PTR (T50) and mean potential life spans (mPLs) of the surviving SS and LS RBCs (41 and 116 days and 41 and 114 days, respectively) do not differ.

CONCLUSIONS: The mean 24‐hour PTR of both SS and LS RBCs complies with the guidelines, even in a compromised patient population. The 24‐hour PTR of SS RBCs, however, is significantly higher than that of LS RBCs. The remaining population of SS and LS RBCs has a nearly identical long‐term survival. Therefore, depletion of the removal‐prone RBCs before transfusion may be an efficient approach for product improvement.
The effects of cryopreservation on red blood cell microvesiculation, phosphatidylserine externalization, and CD47 expression
Authors: Holovati Jelena L. , Wong Kenneth A. , Webster Jarret M. , Acker Jason P.
Published: May 2008

BACKGROUND: Since the 1950s, cryopreservation has been used in transfusion medicine for long‐term storage of phenotypically rare red blood cells (RBCs). Recent reports have identified phosphatidylserine (PS) exposure, loss of CD47 expression, and membrane microvesiculation as important indicators of RBC storage lesion and in vivo survival. The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of RBC cryopreservation and prefreeze storage length on these novel markers of membrane injury and to correlate them to traditional RBC quality indicators.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Leukoreduced RBC units were collected in citrate‐phosphate‐dextrose (CPD)–saline‐adenine‐glucose‐mannitol (SAGM), hypothermically stored (1‐6°C) for 2 to 3 days or 13 to 14 days after collection, and then cryopreserved in 40 percent (wt/vol) glycerol. In vitro RBC quality was assessed before freeze, after thaw, and 24 hours after thaw by evaluating RBC recovery, hemolysis, sterility, residual glycerol, adenosine triphosphate, extracellular potassium, RBC indices, and morphology. RBC membrane microvesiculation, PS externalization, and CD47 expression changes were evaluated using flow cytometry.

RESULTS: Leukoreduced CPD‐SAGM RBCs showed acceptable in vitro quality after deglycerolization, according to conventional assays. Cryopreservation alone did not induce significant changes in PS exposure, CD47 expression, and membrane microvesiculation. Prolonged prefreeze storage, however, resulted in a significant increase in RBC PS exposure and microvesiculation after 24 hours of postthaw hypothermic storage (1‐6°C). No significant changes in CD47 expression were detected.

CONCLUSION: High‐glycerol cryopreservation does not induce microvesiculation, PS exposure, and loss of CD47 expression in RBC membranes. Since prolonged prefreeze storage can result in RBC membrane injury during the postdeglycerolization storage period, more defined criteria for this variable should be adopted.
Chiari Network Endocarditis: Not Just an Innocent Bystander
Authors: Mousavi Negareh , Bhagirath Kapil , Ariyarajah Vignendra , Fang Tielan , Ahmadie Roien , Lytwyn Matthew , Jassal Davinder S. , Seifer Colette
Published: May 2008

A Chiari's network, noted in approximately 2% of the general population, is a congenital remnant of the sinus venosum valve present in the right atrium. We report a case of a 67‐year‐old male who presented with acute infective endocarditis of the tricuspid valve due to coagulase‐negative Staphylococci. Despite appropriate antimicrobial therapy for 2 weeks, the patient remained febrile with septic emboli to the pulmonary vasculature. Repeat transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) revealed persistent vegetations adherent to the tricuspid valve, extending onto the Chiari network, necessitating surgical intervention.
Intraoperative Real Time Three‐Dimensional Transesophageal Echocardiographic Evaluation of Right Atrial Tumor
Authors: Scohy Thierry V. , Lecomte Patrick V.E.L. , McGhie Jackie , Meijer Ronald , Gommers Diederik , Hofland Jan , Ten Cate Folkert J.
Published: May 2008

Right atrial myxomas are uncommon heart tumors that can simulate nonspecific symptoms, such as fever, paroxysmal palpitations, chronic anemia, weight loss, and may escape timely diagnosis until the development of severe complications due to embolism. We present a patient with a history of palpitations. In search for the source of palpitations, a 2D transthoracic echocardiography was performed, showing a right atrial mass. Real time three‐dimensional transesophageal echocardiography (RT3DTEE) was performed intraoperative and demonstrated very accurate information about the size and the morphology of the tumor. This is the first case report of a right atrial myxoma visualized intraoperatively by RT3DTEE.
Prosthetic Valve Dysfunction Presenting as Intermittent Acute Aortic Regurgitation
Authors: Fan Dali , Makaryus Amgad N. , Hamik Anne , Finn Aloke V. , Isselbacher Eric M.
Published: May 2008

We describe the case of a 43 year old man with a history of aortic stenosis, for which he had undergone aortic valve replacement in 1991 with a 25‐mm Medtronic Hall prosthesis. He presented with several acute episodes of dyspnea and flash pulmonary edema. Transthoracic and transesophageal echocardiography performed to evaluate prosthetic valve function revealed evidence of “intermittent” episodes of AI, documented on color M‐mode flow mapping to have a variable duration of diastolic flow (early vs. pandiastolic) across the left ventricular outflow tract and the pulse wave Doppler in the descending thoracic aorta showed similar variability in the duration of diastolic flow reversal.
Simple, Defensible Sample Sizes Based on Cost Efficiency
Authors: Bacchetti Peter , McCulloch Charles E. , Segal Mark R.
Published: May 2008

Summary The conventional approach of choosing sample size to provide 80% or greater power ignores the cost implications of different sample size choices. Costs, however, are often impossible for investigators and funders to ignore in actual practice. Here, we propose and justify a new approach for choosing sample size based on cost efficiency, the ratio of a study's projected scientific and/or practical value to its total cost. By showing that a study's projected value exhibits diminishing marginal returns as a function of increasing sample size for a wide variety of definitions of study value, we are able to develop two simple choices that can be defended as more cost efficient than any larger sample size. The first is to choose the sample size that minimizes the average cost per subject. The second is to choose sample size to minimize total cost divided by the square root of sample size. This latter method is theoretically more justifiable for innovative studies, but also performs reasonably well and has some justification in other cases. For example, if projected study value is assumed to be proportional to power at a specific alternative and total cost is a linear function of sample size, then this approach is guaranteed either to produce more than 90% power or to be more cost efficient than any sample size that does. These methods are easy to implement, based on reliable inputs, and well justified, so they should be regarded as acceptable alternatives to current conventional approaches.
Semiparametric Estimation Exploiting Covariate Independence in Two‐Phase Randomized Trials
Authors: Dai James Y. , LeBlanc Michael , Kooperberg Charles
Published: May 2008

SummaryRecent results for case–control sampling suggest when the covariate distribution is constrained by gene‐environment independence, semiparametric estimation exploiting such independence yields a great deal of efficiency gain. We consider the efficient estimation of the treatment–biomarker interaction in two‐phase sampling nested within randomized clinical trials, incorporating the independence between a randomized treatment and the baseline markers. We develop a Newton–Raphson algorithm based on the profile likelihood to compute the semiparametric maximum likelihood estimate (SPMLE). Our algorithm accommodates both continuous phase‐one outcomes and continuous phase‐two biomarkers. The profile information matrix is computed explicitly via numerical differentiation. In certain situations where computing the SPMLE is slow, we propose a maximum estimated likelihood estimator (MELE), which is also capable of incorporating the covariate independence. This estimated likelihood approach uses a one‐step empirical covariate distribution, thus is straightforward to maximize. It offers a closed‐form variance estimate with limited increase in variance relative to the fully efficient SPMLE. Our results suggest exploiting the covariate independence in two‐phase sampling increases the efficiency substantially, particularly for estimating treatment–biomarker interactions.
Using Empirical Likelihood to Combine Data: Application to Food Risk Assessment
Authors: Crépet Amélie , Harari‐Kermadec Hugo , Tressou Jessica
Published: May 2008

Summary This article introduces an original methodology based on empirical likelihood, which aims at combining different food contamination and consumption surveys to provide risk managers with a risk measure, taking into account all the available information. This risk index is defined as the probability that exposure to a contaminant exceeds a safe dose. It is naturally expressed as a nonlinear functional of the different consumption and contamination distributions, more precisely as a generalized U‐statistic. This nonlinearity and the huge size of the data sets make direct computation of the problem unfeasible. Using linearization techniques and incomplete versions of the U‐statistic, a tractable “approximated” empirical likelihood program is solved yielding asymptotic confidence intervals for the risk index. An alternative “Euclidean likelihood program” is also considered, replacing the Kullback–Leibler distance involved in the empirical likelihood by the Euclidean distance. Both methodologies are tested on simulated data and applied to assess the risk due to the presence of methyl mercury in fish and other seafood.
Leaf growth signals the onset of effective plant resistance against Hessian fly larvae
Authors: Anderson Karin G. , Harris Marion O.
Published: May 2008

For plant resistance that is induced rather than constitutive, the precise timing of a sequence of events must be considered (i.e., initial detection of the insect by the plant's surveillance systems, up‐regulation of signaling and defense pathways, achievement of effective levels of defense, and finally down‐regulation of signaling and defense). Here, we provide a timeline for the interaction between resistant wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) (Poaceae) and the Hessian fly, Mayetiola destructor (Say) (Diptera: Cecidomyiidae). To create this timeline, we measured the daily growth of the third, fourth, and fifth leaves of susceptible and resistant plants. Because each leaf had a different spatial relationship to the site of larval attack (i.e., the sheath epidermal cells of the third leaf) and a different pattern of growth relative to the 3–5 days that larvae attacked resistant plants, we learned different things from each leaf. The third leaf shows how quickly responses of susceptible and resistant plants diverge (i.e., 36–60 h after initial larval attack). The fourth leaf shows that, for both susceptible and resistant plants, negative effects of larval attack extend beyond the third leaf. These negative effects are more severe for susceptible plants, but even in resistant plants continue for several days after larvae have died. The fifth leaf is interesting because it shows how rapidly the resistant plant recovers from larval attack. Thus, 204–348 h after initial attack, a time when the fourth leaf of resistant plants is showing reduced growth and the fifth leaf of susceptible plants is showing zero growth, the fifth leaf of resistant plants shows a small increase in growth. Grasses with resistance gene‐mediated resistance may have a two‐fold strategy, using resistance mechanisms to stop Hessian fly larvae from further attack and tolerance mechanisms to protect resources for future plant growth.
Polymorphous light eruption
Authors: Hönigsmann Herbert
Published: May 2008

Polymorphous light eruption is the most common photodermatosis, with a prevalence of as high as 10–20% in Western Europe and in the USA. It starts during the second and third decades of life. Although not life‐threatening it can severely impair the quality of life, in particular during leisure activities and in outdoors workers. Polymorphous light eruption belongs to the group of so‐called idiopathic photodermatoses. This term denotes dermatoses that occur in otherwise healthy individuals from exposure to sunlight or artificial light without the intervention of an exogenous photosensitizing agent. These diseases have two factors in common: they are precipitated by ultraviolet or visible radiation; and their exact pathomechanism remains obscure but is presumably immunologic in nature.
Mitochondrial dysfunction and cellular stress progression after ultraviolet B irradiation in human keratinocytes
Authors: Paz Mariela L. , González Maglio Daniel H. , Weill Federico S. , Bustamante Juanita , Leoni Juliana
Published: May 2008

Background: Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is the major environmental harmful factor that affects human skin. UVB radiation is known to be a potent inducer of reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and has also been associated with the generation of nitric oxide (NO), all of which have been implicated in various skin disorders. It is well known that mitochondria can also be affected by UVB, leading to alterations in their membrane structure and permeabilization with cytochrome c release, which consequently affects the cell function. However, the loss of keratinocyte mitochondrial function generated by UVB, as well as its kinetics, has not been characterized completely.

Methods: We evaluated the effect of UVB irradiation on HaCat cells' mitochondrial function, assessed by membrane potential loss and superoxide anion (O2•−) production, correlating with apoptosis, p53 expression, ROS levels and NO production, 0, 6, 12, 24 and 48 h post‐irradiation.

Results: HaCat cells progressed toward apoptotic cell death as the time post‐irradiation increased, with the highest levels found 48 h after irradiation. Increased levels of ROS were observed 6 h after irradiation while high O2•− levels and mitochondrial membrane depolarization were detected 12 h post‐UVB. Nevertheless, NO production was not significantly increased at any of the evaluated times.

Conclusions: The kinetics of mitochondrial dysfunction after UVB irradiation in human keratinocytes progressed in a time post‐irradiation‐dependent manner, and they are closely related to cell death. However, there are certain levels of apoptosis, although low, in the absence of mitochondrial alterations. In addition, our data suggest that ROS play a greater role in keratinocyte UVB damage than reactive nitrogen species.
Topical retinoids in acne – an evidence‐based overview
Authors: Thielitz Anja , Abdel‐Naser Mohamed B. , Fluhr Joachim W. , Zouboulis Christos C. , Gollnick Harald
Published: May 2008

Topical retinoids are important tools in the management of acne because they act against comedones and microcomedones and have direct anti‐inflammatory effects. The substances approved for acne treatment comprise tretinoin (all‐trans‐retinoic acid),isotretinoin (13‐cis retinoic acid) as well as the synthetic third‐generation polyaromatic retinoids adapalene and tazarotene,the latter being approved for acne treatment in the US only.Retinaldehyde is used in cosmetic preparations against acne.

All topical retinoids are effective as single agents in mild to moderate acne but differ in efficacy and tolerability. Tazarotene 0.1% is more effective than tretinoin 0.025% or 0.1% microsphere gel or adapalene 0.1% gel or cream (EBM‐level 2c). Adapalene 0.1% is equally effective to tretinoin 0.025% or tretinoin microsphere 0.1% gel or tretinoin 0.05% cream or isotretinoin 0.05% gel (EBM‐level 2c). Adapalene 0.1% gel is significantly better tolerated than tazarotene 0.1% gel, tretinoin 0.025% and tretinoin 0.05% gel, tretinoin 0.05% cream,tretinoin microsphere 0.1% gel or isotretinoin 0.05% gel (EBM‐level 2c).The safety profile of topical retinoids differs from their systemic counterparts and is related mainly to local adverse effects, such as erythema, dry‐ness,itching and stinging.The currently available evidence justifies the use of topical retinoids in most types of acne and during maintenance treatment.
Current recommendations for prevention and therapy of extravasation reactions in dermato‐oncology
Authors: Kähler Katharina C. , Mustroph Dieter , Hauschild Axel
Published: May 2008

Despite the introduction of many targeted therapies, a wide variety of cytostatic agents are still frequently used in dermato‐oncology. In order to avoid further morbidity in tumor patients, prevention of extravasation reactions is of highest importance. The optimal management of extravasation requires an early diagnosis, the application of specific antidotes and a well‐trained oncology team.
Mechanisms of Preventive Effect of Nicorandil on Ischaemia‐Induced Ventricular Tachyarrhythmia in Isolated Arterially Perfused Canine Left Ventricular Wedges
Authors: Hirose Masamichi , Tsujino Natsuko , Nakada Tsutomu , Yano Shiharu , Imamura Hiroshi , Yamada Mitsuhiko
Published: May 2008

Abstract: Whether nicorandil is effective at preventing ventricular tachyarrhythmia (VT) during acute myocardial ischaemia is still controversial. We examined effects of nicorandil on the induction of VT during acute myocardial ischaemia. Optical action potentials were recorded from the entire transmural wall of arterially perfused canine left ventricular wedges. Ischaemia was produced by arterial occlusion for 20 min. During endocardial pacing, nicorandil shortened mean action potential duration (APD) in the transmural wall before ischaemia and further shortened it during ischaemia without increasing dispersion of APD. HMR1098, a selective blocker of sarcolemmal ATP‐sensitive K+channels, inhibited the shortening of APD by nicorandil before and during ischaemia. Ischaemia decreased transmural conduction velocity (CV). Nicorandil partially restored CV to a similar extent in the absence and presence of HMR1098. In contrast, HMR1098 did not suppress the ischaemic conduction slowing in the absence of nicorandil. Nicorandil suppressed the increased dispersion of local CV during ischaemia. Isochrone maps on the initiation of VT showed that reentry in the transmural surface resulted from the excitation of the epicardial region of transmural surface. Nicorandil significantly increased the size of non‐excited area in the epicardial region of the transmural wall, thereby significantly reducing the incidence of VT induced during ischaemia. HMR1098 inhibited this effect of nicorandil. These results suggest that nicorandil prevents VT during acute global ischaemia primarily by augmenting the inactivation of epicardial muscle through the activation of sarcolemmal KATPchannels.
Effects of Salinity on Physicochemical Properties of Alaska Pollock Surimi after Repeated Freeze–Thaw Cycles
Authors: Kang E.J. , Hunt A.L. , Park J.W.
Published: May 2008

ABSTRACT:  The effects of residual salt in surimi on physicochemical properties as affected by various freeze and thaw (FT) cycles were examined. Fresh Alaska pollock surimi was mixed with 4.0% sugar and 5.0% sorbitol, along with 8 combinations of salt (0.4%, 0.6%, 0.8%, and 1.0% NaCl) and sodium polyphosphate (0.25% and 0.5%), vacuum‐packed, and stored at −18 °C until used. FT cycles (0, 6, and 9) were used to mimic long‐term frozen storage. At the time of gel preparation, each treatment was appropriately adjusted to maintain 2% salt and 78% moisture. The pH decreased as residual salt increased during frozen storage. Salt extractable protein (SEP) decreased (P < 0.05) as FT cycles extended from 0 to 9. Regardless of residual salt and phosphate concentration during frozen storage, whiteness value (L*− 3b*) decreased (P < 0.05) as FT cycles extended, except for samples with 0.4% salt/0.5% phosphate and 0.6% salt/0.25% phosphate. Water retention ability (WRA) and texture significantly (P < 0.05) decreased at higher salt content (0.8% and 1.0%) after 9 FT cycles, indicating higher residual salt concentration can shorten the shelf life of frozen surimi. Our study revealed lower residual salt concentration and higher phosphate concentration are likely to extend the shelf life of frozen surimi.