bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Renal gangliosides are involved in lead intoxication
Authors: Aguilar Rossana Pérez , Genta Susana , Sánchez Sara
Published: May 2007

The biological effects of lead are well defined; however, neither the risk exposure level nor the subcellular mechanism of its action is completely clear. The present work was undertaken to investigate the effects of low level and long term lead exposure on the composition and expression of rat renal gangliosides. In order to identify ganglioside expression, frozen sections of kidneys were stained with monoclonal antibodies GMB16 (GM1 specific), GM28 (GM2 specific), AMR‐10 (GM4 specific) and CDW 60 (9‐O‐Ac‐GD3 specific). Strong reactivity was observed for GMB28, AMR‐10 and CDW 60, while GMB16 developed only weak labelling in treated kidney compared with the control. The alterations in the expression of renal gangliosides observed by immunohistochemistry were accompanied by quantitative and qualitative changes in the thin layer chromatography of total gangliosides isolated from kidney tissues. Lead treatment produced a significant increase in 9‐O‐Ac GD3, a ganglioside involved in apoptotic processes. In agreement with this result, a significant decrease in the number of apoptotic glomerular cells was observed with the TUNEL assay. These findings lead us to suggest that alterations in renal gangliosides produced by low level lead exposure are associated with the apoptotic processes that take place in the kidney.

These findings provide evidence that low level and long term lead exposure produces renal ganglioside alterations with urinary microalbumin excretion. The results suggest that lead levels within the limits of biological tolerance already cause molecular renal damage without clinical signs of toxicity. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The effect of adrenomedullin on rats exposed to lead
Authors: Dogru Mehmet Ilker , Dogru Arzu Kocagun , Gul Mehmet , Esrefoglu Mukaddes , Yurekli Muhittin , Erdogan Selim , Ates Burhan
Published: May 2007

Adrenomedullin (AdM) was originally discovered as a vasorelaxant peptide. The antioxidative properties of AdM have been reported recently. Through its antioxidative effect, adrenomedullin can protect organs from damage induced by stressors. Lead, commonly detected in air, soil, water and food, is a major source of oxidative stress. The effect of AdM in the liver of rats exposed to lead was investigated. Twenty‐four female Wistar rats were divided into four groups: a control group (C), adrenomedullin group (AdM), lead (Pb) group and lead + adrenomedullin (Pb + AdM) group. In the Pb‐treated groups, the animals were exposed to lead in drinking water containing 250 ppm PbCl2 for 4 weeks. In the AdM‐treated group, the animals received an i.p. injection of AdM (3000 ng kg−1 body weight) in the third week of lead treatment for 1 week. The activities of catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GSH‐Px) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) and the level of malondialdehyde (MDA) were determined in the liver of rats. Histological changes in the liver were examined by light and electron microscopy as well. The MDA levels were increased significantly in the Pb‐treated groups, but in the Pb + AdM group the MDA levels were decreased significantly when compared with the Pb group. AdM reduced hepatic damage in the Pb + AdM group, but the difference in the total histopathological scores between the Pb and Pb + AdM groups was not significant. When the results are taken together, it can be concluded that AdM may have protective or compensating effects in lead toxicity. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
RGDS peptides immobilized on titanium alloy stimulate bone cell attachment, differentiation and confer resistance to apoptosis
Authors: Secchi A.G. , Grigoriou V. , Shapiro I.M. , Cavalcanti‐Adam E.A. , Composto R.J. , Ducheyne P. , Adams C.S.
Published: May 2007

A major cause of implant failure in skeletal tissues is failure of osseointegration, often due to lack of adhesion of cells to the titanium (Ti) alloy interface. Since arginine‐glycine‐aspartic acid (RGD)‐containing peptides have been shown to regulate osteoblast adhesion, we tested the hypothesis that, bound to a Ti surface, these peptides would promote osteoblasts differentiation, while at the same time inhibit apoptosis. RGDS and RGES (control) peptides were covalently linked to Ti discs using an APTS linker. While the grafting of both RGDS and RGES significantly increased Ti surface roughness, contact angle analysis showed that APTS significantly increased the surface hydrophobicity; when the peptides were tethered to Ti, this was reduced. To evaluate attachment, MC3T3‐E1 osteoblast cells were grown on these discs. Significantly more cells attached to the Ti‐grafted RGDS then the Ti‐grafted RGES control. Furthermore, expression of the osteoblasts phenotype was significantly enhanced on the Ti‐grafted RGDS surface. When cells attached to the Ti‐grafted RGDS were challenged with staurosporine, an apoptogen, there was significant inhibition of apoptosis; in contrast, osteoblasts adherent to the Ti‐grafted RGES were killed. It is concluded that RGD‐containing peptides covalently bonded to Ti promotes osteoblasts attachment and survival with minimal changes to the surface of the alloy. Therefore, such modifications to Ti would have the potential to promote osseointegration in vivo. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res 2007
Proteomic analysis and quantification of cytokines and chemokines from biomaterial surface‐adherent macrophages and foreign body giant cells
Authors: Jones Jacqueline A. , Chang David T. , Meyerson Howard , Colton Erica , Kwon Il Keun , Matsuda Takehisa , Anderson James M.
Published: May 2007

Implantation of biomaterial devices results in the well‐known foreign body reaction consisting of monocytes, macrophages, and foreign body giant cells (FBGCs) at the material/tissue interface. We continue to address the hypothesis that material surface chemistry modulates the phenotypic expression of these cells. Utilizing our human monocyte culture system, we have used surface‐modified polymers displaying hydrophobic, hydrophilic, and/or ionic chemistries to determine the cytokines/chemokines released from biomaterial‐adherent macrophages/FBGCs. This study broadens our approach by using proteomic analysis to identify important factors expressed by these cells and further quantifies these molecules with ELISAs. Proteomic profiles changed over time suggesting that the adherent macrophages underwent a phenotypic switch. Macrophage/FBGC‐derived proinflammatory cytokines, IL‐1β and IL‐6, decreased with time, while the anti‐inflammatory cytokine, IL‐10, gradually increased with time. Resolution of the inflammatory response was also demonstrated by a decrease in chemoattractant IL‐8 and MIP‐1β production with time. Material‐dependent macrophage/FBGC activation was analyzed using cytokine/chemokine production and cellular adhesion. Monocyte/macrophage adhesion was similar on all surfaces, except for the hydrophilic/neutral surfaces that showed a significant decrease in cellular density and minimal FBGC formation. Normalizing the ELISA data based on the adherent cell population provided cytokine/chemokine concentrations produced per cell. This analysis showed that although there were fewer cells on the hydrophilic/neutral surface, these adherent cells were further activated to produce significantly greater amounts of each cytokine/chemokine tested than the other surfaces. This study clearly presents evidence that material surface chemistry can differentially affect monocyte/macrophage/FBGC adhesion and cytokine/chemokine profiles derived from activated macrophages/FBGCs adherent to biomaterial surfaces. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res 2007
Chondrogenic differentiation of human mesenchymal stem cells in collagen type I hydrogels
Authors: Nöth Ulrich , Rackwitz Lars , Heymer Andrea , Weber Meike , Baumann Bernd , Steinert Andre , Schütze Norbert , Jakob Franz , Eulert Jochen
Published: May 2007

The chondrogenic differentiation of bone marrow‐derived human mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in a collagen type I hydrogel, which is in clinical use for matrix‐based autologous chondrocyte transplantation (ACT), was investigated. Collagen hydrogels with 2.5 × 105 MSCs/mL were fabricated and cultured for 3 weeks in a serum‐free, defined, chondrogenic differentiation medium containing 10 ng/mL TGF‐β1 or 100 ng/mL BMP‐2. Histochemistry revealed morphologically distinct, chondrocyte‐like cells, surrounded by a sulfated proteoglycan‐rich extracellular matrix in the TGF‐β1 and BMP‐2 treated group, with more elongated cells seen in the BMP‐2 treated group. Immunohistochemistry detected collagen type II (Col II) in the TGF‐β1 and BMP‐2 treated group. Collagen type X (Col X) staining was positive in the TGF‐β1 but only very weak in the BMP‐2 treated group. RT‐PCR analyses revealed a specific chondrogenic differentiation with the expression of the cartilage specific marker genes Col II, Col X, and aggrecan (AGN) in the TGF‐β1 and the BMP‐2 treated group, with earlier expression of these marker genes in the TGF‐β1 treated group. Interestingly, MSC‐gels cultured in DMEM with 10% FBS (control) indicated few isolated chondrocyte‐like cells but no expression of Col II or Col X could be detected. The results show, that MSCs cultured in a collagen type I hydrogel are able to undergo a distinct chondrogenic differentiation pathway, similar to that described for MSCs cultured in high‐density pellet cultures. These findings are valuable in terms of ex vivo predifferentiation or in situ differentiation of MSCs in collagen hydrogels for articular cartilage repair. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res 2007
In vitro water wettability of silicone hydrogel contact lenses determined using the sessile drop and captive bubble techniques
Authors: Maldonado‐Codina Carole , Morgan Philip B.
Published: May 2007

This study investigated the water contact angles of five commercially available silicone hydrogel contact lenses (Acuvue Advance, Acuvue Oasys, Focus Night & Day, O2 Optix, and PureVision) using sessile drop and captive bubble techniques. The only lens type that showed a significant difference in water contact angle when measured by sessile drop direct from the blister compared with after 48 h of soaking/washing in saline was the Acuvue Advance lens (from 66° to 96°, respectively) (p = 0.0002), presumably because of surface active agents within the blister solution. The water contact angle data split the lenses into two distinct groups (p ≤ 0.002). The Acuvue Advance, Acuvue Oasys, and PureVision lenses demonstrated relatively high sessile drop measures and relatively low captive bubble values (thereby displaying significant hysteresis) whereas the Focus Night & Day and O2 Optix lenses showed relatively low sessile drop measures and relatively high captive bubble values (with little hysteresis). Contact angle analysis of hydrogel lens surfaces is highly methodologically dependent and may be able to predict the clinical performance of contact lenses in vivo. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res 2007
The PVT‐1 oncogene is a Myc protein target that is overexpressed in transformed cells
Authors: Carramusa Letizia , Contino Flavia , Ferro Arianna , Minafra Luigi , Perconti Giovanni , Giallongo Agata , Feo Salvatore
Published: May 2007

The human PVT‐1 gene is located on chromosome 8 telomeric to the c‐Myc gene and it is frequently involved in the translocations occurring in variant Burkitt's lymphomas and murine plasmacytomas. It has been proposed that PVT‐1 regulates c‐Myc gene transcription over a long distance. To get new insights into the functional relationships between the two genes, we have investigated PVT‐1 and c‐Myc expression in normal human tissues and in transformed cells. Our findings indicate that PVT‐1 expression is restricted to a relative low number of normal tissues compared to the wide distribution of c‐Myc mRNA, whereas the gene is highly expressed in many transformed cell types including neuroblastoma cells that do not express c‐Myc. Reporter gene assays were used to dissect the PVT‐1 promoter and to identify the region responsible for the elevated expression observed in transformed cells. This region contains two putative binding sites for Myc proteins. The results of transfection experiments in RAT1‐MycER cells and chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assays in proliferating and differentiated neuroblastoma cells indicate that PVT‐1 is a downstream target of Myc proteins. J. Cell. Physiol. 213: 511–518, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Social networks and the cognitive motivation to realize network opportunities: a study of managers' information gathering behaviors
Authors: Anderson Marc H.
Published: May 2007

Information gathering is central to a variety of organizational behavior theories, but researchers have suggested that our understanding of the actual information gathering behaviors of managers is underdeveloped. Social network characteristics are theorized to be a key determinant of information gathering behaviors, but social network research has been criticized for: (1) not measuring the intervening mechanisms by which network characteristics are theorized to have their effects and (2) not considering how actors' motivation affects what network benefits are realized. This article addresses these concerns through an empirical study of the actual information gathering behaviors of managers. It posits that individual differences in a personality variable called need for cognition capture differences in actors' cognitive motivation to realize the potential information benefits that exist in their social networks. Results show that network characteristics do affect information benefits, but these effects are stronger for managers motivated to take advantage of them. These findings both support social capital theory and suggest the important role that personality can play in augmenting social network analyses. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Social face for innovation in strategic alliances in China: the mediating roles of resource exchange and reflexivity
Authors: Wong Alfred , Tjosvold Dean , Su Fang
Published: May 2007

This study proposes that partners who communicate mutual respect to each other develop integrative interaction that is a foundation for innovation. Structural equation analysis suggests that reflecting upon and improving interaction between supplier and customer organizations can contribute to resource exchange between partners that results in innovation in supply chain partnerships. Results also indicate that the confirmation of social face is an important antecedent to these useful integrative interaction patterns. These findings were interpreted as reaffirming the value of relationships for making partnerships effective and that the constructive application of the value of social face can promote open discussion and innovation in China. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Anatomy and biomechanics of the posterolateral aspect of the canine knee
Authors: Griffith Chad J. , LaPrade Robert F. , Coobs Benjamin R. , Olson Erik J.
Published: May 2007

The purpose of this study was to describe the anatomy and characterize the biomechanics of the posterolateral aspect of the canine knee. Ten adult canine knees were each used for anatomy and biomechanical testing. Distances and motion limits were measured using a 6 degree‐of‐freedom electromagnetic tracking system. Canine knee dissection reproducibly identified structures present in the human posterolateral knee. The course and attachment sites of the fibular collateral ligament, popliteofibular ligament, and popliteus tendon were similar to human anatomy. Sequential sectioning of the fibular collateral ligament, popliteofibular ligament, and popliteus tendon all significantly increased varus translation at full extension, 60°, and 90° of knee flexion. Sectioning of the fibular collateral ligament significantly increased external rotation at flexion angles near full extension, while popliteus tendon sectioning also significantly increased external rotation at 90° of knee flexion. Based on the fact that the anatomy of the fibular collateral ligament, popliteus tendon, popliteofibular ligament, and the biomechanical properties of the canine posterolateral knee are similar to the human knee, we believe the canine knee is a suitable model to study the natural history of posterolateral knee injuries. The canine model will also prove valuable in the validation of reconstruction techniques and studying the potential development of medial compartment osteoarthritis following posterolateral knee injuries. © 2007 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 25:1231–1242, 2007
Spatial planning, mobilities and culture—Chinese and New Zealand student preferences for Californian travel
Authors: Ryan Chris , Huimin Gu
Published: May 2007

Itineraries are under‐researched within tourism, which is arguably strange given their potential importance as determinants of visitor expenditure distribution, and how itinerary planning may become a tool of destination management in determining which areas are most affected by visitor flows, whether positively or negatively. This exploratory study required students in New Zealand and the Peoples' Republic of China to draw maps of potential trips to the south‐west of the USA in order to assess to what degree differences might exist as to (i) preferred places to visit; (ii) durations of stay; (iii) speeds of dispersion and concentration at the points of embarkation and disembarkation (in this instance Los Angeles); and (iv) total distances travelled. Differences were indeed found, and ethnicity appeared to be the main explanatory variable for the differences. Chinese students were found to travel slightly less, not to become so dispersed overall, but were also found to have higher rates of dispersion and slower rates of concentration at the commencement and at the end of the trip. The itineraries also suggest a further triangular pattern of travel that can be added to the categories identified by Oppermann. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Accessibility and attitudinal barriers encountered by Chinese travellers with physical disabilities
Authors: Bi Yuhua , Card Jaclyn A. , Cole Shu T.
Published: May 2007

The China travel industry is growing rapidly and is expected to grow even more in the next 15 years. Another segment of the population that is increasing is individuals with physical disabilities. China has enacted several laws to enhance the quality of life for individuals with disabilities and to make travel more accessible. Although individuals with physical disabilities travel less than those without disabilities, the potential market is expanding. If travellers with physical disabilities encounter few barriers during their travels, they may travel even more in the future. This study examined four tourism industry sectors in China in terms of the accessibility and attitudinal barriers that participants with physical disabilities encountered. The four sectors were transportation, accommodations, eating–drinking establishments and attractions. Furthermore, comparisons were conducted on the participants' functioning level, income and types of mobility assistive devices they used. Results suggested that participants' functioning level was an appropriate indicator of the amount of barriers they encountered while travelling. Conversely, the amount of barriers encountered by the participants was not predicated by their income or the type of devices they used. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The multidimensional measurement of the positive symptoms of psychosis
Authors: Steel Craig , Garety Philippa A. , Freeman Daniel , Craig Ellen , Kuipers Elizabeth , Bebbington Paul , Fowler David , Dunn Graham
Published: May 2007

The measures most frequently used to assess psychotic symptoms fail to reflect important dimensions. The Psychotic Symptom Rating Scale (PSYRATS) aims to capture the multidimensional nature of auditory hallucinations and delusions. Individuals (N = 276) who had recently relapsed with positive symptoms completed the auditory hallucinations and delusions PSYRATS scales. These scores were compared with the relevant items from the SAPS and PANSS, and with measures of current mood. Total scores and distribution of items of the PSYRATS scales are presented and correlated with other measures. Positive symptom items from the SAPS and PANSS reflected the more objective aspects of PSYRATS ratings of auditory hallucinations and delusions (frequency and conviction) but were relatively poor at measuring distress. A major strength of the PSYRATS scales is the specific measurement of the distress dimension of symptoms, which is a key target of psychological intervention. It is advised that the PSYRATS should not be used as a total score alone, whilst further research is needed to clarify the best use of potential subscales. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Assessing cannabis dependence in community surveys: methodological issues
Authors: Degenhardt Louisa , Cheng Hui , Anthony James C.
Published: May 2007

Drug‐related social role impairments and social maladaptation are referenced explicitly in the case definitions for drug dependence within DSM‐IV‐TR. Nonetheless, cases of drug dependence without this type of secondary consequence have been observed in recent epidemiological studies. When an ‘impairment/maladaptation gating’ approach has been taken during recent large‐scale psychiatric surveys (for example, to reduce participant fatigue or burden), the net effect may include (a) a reduced number of identified drug dependence cases and (b) biases in the estimates of association linked to the occurrence of drug dependence. In this report, we probe these issues with respect to cannabis dependence, making use of data from the cross‐sectional United States National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions (NESARC), a household survey of 43,093 adults aged 18 years and over. In this process, we shed light on actual impact of the gating approach mentioned above. Specifically, when we simulated a social impairment/maladaptation ‘gated’ assessment of cannabis dependence, the end result was a very modest reduction in the estimated prevalence of cannabis dependence. It suggested that for every 10 000 general population survey respondents there would be no more than 12 cases of cannabis dependence without the above‐referenced impairments/maladaptations. Patterns of association linking suspected background characteristics to the prevalence of cannabis dependence were not appreciably different when the ‘gated’ and ‘ungated’ approaches were applied. In summary, there are reasons to take the ungated approach in detailed research on cannabis use and dependence. Nevertheless, in panoramic mental health surveys, the inefficiency of an ‘ungated’ approach must be balanced against the anticipated yield of cannabis dependence cases who lack social role impairments or socially maladaptive behaviours. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Governments can manage air pollution control
Authors: Heller Austin N.
Published: May 2007

Requirements and response to federal air quality act in Delaware and New York City.
Sixties' reapportionment: Is it victory or delusion?
Authors: Frederickson H. George , Cho Yong Hyo
Published: May 2007

Development of new variables for equity and time to measure effects of legislative apportionment.
One‐house legislature advocated by Unruh
Authors: Unruh Jess
Published: May 2007

Measures to upgrade legislative salaries, staffing and procedures will not be enough so long as legislatures continue as bicameral institutions.
‘Leftover’ cities require regional problem solving
Authors: Mathewson Kent
Published: May 2007

Regional approach to urban problems is not, as two sociologists have suggested, a ploy to rob blacks of political power in cities where they are approaching majorities.
Constitutional revision in Illinois: The league of women voters' role
Authors: Robertson Mary Helen
Published: May 2007

Story of the campaign of the League of Women Voters for the Illinois constitutional convention and adoption of the new constitution in 1970.
Regional planning commissions on the increase in maine
Authors: Wikstrom Nelson
Published: May 2007

Commissions are proving their worth to member communities, performing the essential role of promoting economic development, balanced with a concern for the quality of the environment, and dealing with some problems on a regional basis.
The montana constitution of 1972
Authors: Waldron Ellis
Published: May 2007

Review of significant changes in the new Montana constitution which was approved by the voters in June, challenged in the courts and finally sustained in September. Legislature got the lion's share of the changes.
Solvent‐induced self‐organization approach for polymeric architectures of micropores, hexagons and spheres based on polyurethanes prepared via novel melt transurethane methodology
Authors: Deepa P. , Jayakannan M.
Published: May 2007

Solvent‐induced self‐organization approach was developed, for the first time, to produce polyurethane microporous templates and higher ordered morphologies such as micro or nanometer‐sized polymeric hexagons and spheres. A novel melt transurethane methodology was designed and developed for synthesizing new class of cycloaliphatic polyurethanes under nonisocyanate and solvent‐free conditions. In this new process, a diurethane monomer was polycondensed with equimolar amounts of diol in presence of Ti(OBu)4 as catalyst with the removal of low boiling alcohol from the equilibrium. The hydrogen bonding of the polyurethanes are very unique to their chemical structure and they undergo selective phase‐separation process in solution to produce hexagonally packed microporous templates. The increase of water content in the polymer solution enhances the phase‐separation process and the micro pores coalesce to isolate the encapsulated polymer matrix into polymeric hexagons or densely packed solid spheres. The concentration‐dependent solution FTIR and 1H NMR of the polyurethanes revealed that the polymers possessing higher H‐bonding association constants (K) have greater tendency to undergo solvent‐induced self‐organization phenomena. The mechanism of solvent‐evaporation process indicated that only microporous polyurethanes have tendency to form higher ordered hexagons and spheres whereas others failed to show any new morphology. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 45: 2351–2366, 2007
Ovicidal and larvicidal effectiveness of insecticides applied by dipping apples on the small fruit tortrix Grapholita lobarzewskii
Authors: Charmillot Pierre‐Joseph , Pasquier Denis , Salamin Charlotte , Ter‐Hovannesyan Asya
Published: May 2007

The larvicidal and ovicidal effectiveness of twelve insecticides on Grapholita lobarzewskii Nowicki was tested by dipping apples in different concentrations of the insecticides. Emamectin was the most effective larvicidal product, with an LC50 of 0.01 mg kg−1, closely followed by spinosad, methoxyfenozide and chlorpyrifos‐methyl, with LC50 values between 0.2 and 0.7 mg kg−1. Products like imidacloprid, indoxacarb, phosmet and thiacloprid gave LC50 values between 1 and 2 mg kg−1. Lastly, chlorpyrifos‐ethyl and phosalone had LC50 values of around 4 mg kg−1, whereas tebufenozide and diflubenzuron had almost no larvicidal effect. Most of the products tested had low ovicidal effectiveness, and only fenoxycarb and emamectin gave LC50 values worthy of note, close to 2 mg kg−1. Copyright © 2007 Society of Chemical Industry
Theoretical investigation on charge‐assisted halogen bonding interactions in the complexes of bromocarbons with some anions
Authors: Wang Yan‐Hua , Lu Yun‐Xiang , Zou Jian‐Wei , Yu Qing‐Sen
Published: May 2007

A series of dimeric complexes formed between bromocarbon molecules and two anions (Br−and CN−) have been investigated by using MP2 method. The quantum theory of atoms in molecules (QTAIM) and the second‐order perturbation natural bond orbital (NBO) approaches were applied to analyze the electron density distributions of these complexes and to explore the nature of charge‐assisted halogen bonding interactions. As anticipated, these interactions are significantly stronger relative to the corresponding neutral ones. The results derived from ab initio calculations described herein reveal a major contribution from the electrostatic interaction on the stability of the systems considered. Beside the electrostatic interaction, the charge‐transfer force and the second‐order orbital interaction also play an important role in the formation of the complexes, as a NBO analysis suggested. The presence of halogen bonds in the complexes has been identified in terms of the QTAIM methodology, and several linear relationships have been established to provide more insight into charge‐assisted halogen bonding interactions. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2008
A combined first‐/second‐order sliding‐mode technique in the control of a jet‐propelled vehicle
Authors: Bartolini G. , Orani N. , Pisano A. , Punta E. , Usai E.
Published: May 2007

This note concerns the design and practical implementation of a position/attitude sliding‐mode controller for a surface vessel prototype. The prototype is equipped with a special, recently patented (Italian Patent, 2005), propulsion system based on hydro‐jets with adjustable output section. The sliding‐mode control design is based on the combination between three instances of a second‐order sliding‐mode velocity observer (Automatica 1998; 34:379–384) and a simplex‐based sliding‐mode controller (Int. J. Robust Nonlinear Control 1997; 7(4):321–335). We first describe the structure and the working principle of the prototype. Then, we detail the derivation of the motion observer/controller. Finally, we discuss the major implementation issues and show some experimental results. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Timing and contributions of pre‐synaptic and post‐synaptic parameter changes during unitary plasticity events at CA3‐CA1 synapses
Authors: O'Connor Daniel H. , Wittenberg Gayle M. , Wang Samuel S.‐H.
Published: May 2007

At individual synapses, post‐synaptic responses include a mixture of “successes” and “failures” in which transmitter is released or not released, respectively. Previously we measured synaptic strength at CA3‐CA1 synapses averaged over all trials, including both successes and failures, using an induction protocol that allowed us to observe potentiation and depression events as step‐like changes. Here we report quantal properties of 15 of the earlier experiments, including 14 potentiation events and eight depression events. In five experiments both potentiation events and depression events were evoked at the same synapse. During potentiation, success rate increased from 0.56 ± 0.14 (mean ± SD) to 0.69 ± 0.12, and during depression, success rate decreased from 0.70 ± 0.09 to 0.51 ± 0.10. During potentiation potency increased from 10 ± 5 to 19 ± 9 pA, and during depression, potency decreased from 18 ± 12 to 12 ± 7 pA. On average, changes in potency accounted for 76% of the change in response size in potentiation events and 60% of the change in depression events. A reduced‐assumption spectral analysis method showed evidence for multiple quantal peaks in distributions of post‐synaptic current amplitudes. Consistent with the observed changes in potency, estimated quantal size (Q) increased with potentiation and decreased with depression. A change in potency, which is thought to reflect post‐synaptic expression mechanisms, was followed within seconds to minutes by a change in success rate, which is thought to reflect pre‐synaptic expression mechanisms. Synaptic plasticity events may therefore consist of changes that occur on both sides of a synapse in a temporally coordinated fashion. Synapse 61:664–678, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Systemic administration of the benzodiazepine receptor partial inverse agonist FG‐7142 disrupts corticolimbic network interactions
Authors: Stevenson Carl W. , Halliday David M. , Marsden Charles A. , Mason Rob
Published: May 2007

The medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) and basolateral amygdala (BLA) coordinate various stress responses. Although the effects of stressors on mPFC and BLA activity have been previously examined, it remains unclear to what extent stressors affect functional interactions between these regions. In vivo electrophysiology in the anesthetized rat was used to examine mPFC and BLA activity simultaneously in response to FG‐7142, a benzodiazepine receptor partial inverse agonist that mimics various stress responses, in an attempt to model the effects of stressors on corticolimbic functional connectivity. Extracellular unit and local field potential (LFP) recordings, using multielectrode arrays positioned in mPFC and BLA, were conducted under basal conditions and in response to systemic FG‐7142 administration. This drug increased mPFC and BLA unit firing at the lowest dose tested, whereas higher doses of FG‐7142 decreased various burst firing parameters in both regions. Moreover, LFP power was attenuated at lower (<1 Hz) and potentiated at higher frequencies in mPFC (1–12 Hz) and BLA (4–8 Hz). Interestingly, FG‐7142 diminished synchronized unit firing, both within and between mPFC and BLA. Finally, FG‐7142 decreased LFP synchronization between these regions. In a separate group of animals, pretreatment with the selective benzodiazepine receptor antagonist flumazenil blocked the changes in burst firing, LFP power and synchronized activity induced by FG‐7142, confirming direct benzodiazepine receptor‐mediated effects. These results indicate that FG‐7142 disrupts corticolimbic network interactions via benzodiazepine receptor partial inverse agonism. Perturbation of mPFC‐BLA functional connectivity induced by FG‐7142 may provide a useful model of corticolimbic dysfunction induced by stressors. Synapse 61:646–663, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Periphery reassessed: Eugenios Voulgaris converses with Isaac Newton
Authors: PATINIOTIS MANOLIS
Published: May 2007

In the last three decades many historians of science have sought to account for the emergence of modern science and technology in sites that did not participate in the shaping of apparently original ideas. They have extensively used a model of the transfer of scientific ideas and practices from centres of scientific activity to a passively receptive periphery. This paper contributes to the discussion of an alternative historiographic approach, one that employs the notion of appropriation to direct attention towards the receptive modes and devices of a local culture. A historiography built around the notion of appropriation deals less with the question of the faithful transfer of scientific ideas than with the particular features of the discourse produced by local scholars as the best way to overcome or conform to the constraints of the receptive culture. The case examined to describe this culturally and intellectually intricate process is the profound transformation undergone by the Newtonian concept ofvis inertiaein the work of Eugenios Voulgaris (1716–1806), one of the most important Greek scholars of the eighteenth century.
The compliance, true positive and false negative rates of the Charing Cross protocol for magnetic resonance imaging screening for cerebellopontine angle lesions
Authors: Snelling J D , Krywawych M , Majithia A , Harcourt J P
Published: May 2007

Objectives:

To assess the effectiveness and determine the compliance to a local protocol for requesting magnetic resonance imaging scans to screen for the presence of cerebellopontine angle lesions.

Methods:

A combined retrospective study of all patients who had magnetic resonance imaging scans requested six months prior to and one year following introduction of the protocol and assessment of the true positive and false negative rate of the protocol by assessment of its sensitivity in cases referred from outside the department.

Results:

Comparison of the number of scans in each period showed a reduction in annualised rate of 142 to 46. The incidence of positive scans was the same in both periods, increasing the true positive rate from 1.4 to 4.3 per cent. The false negative rate was 1.1 per cent.

Conclusions:

The Charing Cross protocol has a good compliance rate within the department, has reduced the cost of screening for cerebellopontine angle lesions and has an acceptable true positive and false negative rate.
Severe laryngitis following chronic anabolic steroid abuse
Authors: Ray S , Masood A , Pickles J , Moumoulidis I
Published: May 2007

The effects of anabolic steroids on the quality of voice have been well documented; however, no study has established significant structural changes in the larynx as a direct result of anabolic steroid use. We report a unique case of a 47-year-old male smoker and professional body builder who presented with progressive stridor and hoarseness following abuse of anabolic steroids over a period of two years. Conservative management failed to resolve his symptoms and a planned tracheostomy was performed to secure his airway. Subsequently he was treated with multiple laser resections and eventually decannulated. No case of severe laryngitis in association with anabolic steroid usage has been reported previously in the literature.
Optimising outcome assessment of voice interventions, II: sensitivity to change of self-reported and observer-rated measures
Authors: Steen I N , MacKenzie K , Carding P N , Webb A , Deary I J , Wilson J A
Published: May 2007

Objectives:

A wide range of well validated instruments is now available to assess voice quality and voice-related quality of life, but comparative studies of the responsiveness to change of these measures are lacking. The aim of this study was to assess the responsiveness to change of a range of different measures, following voice therapy and surgery.

Design:

Longitudinal, cohort comparison study.

Setting:

Two UK voice clinics.

Participants:

One hundred and forty-four patients referred for treatment of benign voice disorders, 90 undergoing voice therapy and 54 undergoing laryngeal microsurgery.

Main outcome measures:

Three measures of self-reported voice quality (the vocal performance questionnaire, the voice handicap index and the voice symptom scale), plus the short form 36 (SF 36) general health status measure and the hospital anxiety and depression score. Perceptual, observer-rated analysis of voice quality was performed using the grade–roughness–breathiness–asthenia–strain scale. We compared the effect sizes (i.e. responsiveness to change) of the principal subscales of all measures before and after voice therapy or phonosurgery.

Results:

All three self-reported voice measures had large effect sizes following either voice therapy or surgery. Outcomes were similar in both treatment groups. The effect sizes for the observer-rated grade–roughness–breathiness–asthenia–strain scale scores were smaller, although still moderate. The roughness subscale in particular showed little change after therapy or surgery. Only small effects were observed in general health and mood measures.

Conclusion:

The results suggest that the use of a voice-specific questionnaire is essential for assessing the effectiveness of voice interventions. All three self-reported measures tested were capable of detecting change, and scores were highly correlated. On the basis of this evaluation of different measures' sensitivities to change, there is no strong evidence to favour either the vocal performance questionnaire, the voice handicap index or the voice symptom scale.
Changes in nasal aesthetics following nasal bone manipulation
Authors: Leong S C L , Abdelkader M , White P S
Published: May 2007

Nasal bone fractures are the commonest type of bony facial injury causing aesthetic deformity. The aim of this study was to identify the effect of nasal trauma and fracture manipulation on the aesthetic proportions of the nose, by comparing pre- and post-treatment nasal aesthetics. Thirty-two patients (26 men and 6 women) underwent aesthetic assessment prior to treatment of the injury by closed nasal manipulation, 7 to 10 days after the initial injury. Standard facial aesthetic photographic assessments were performed prior to and following manipulation. Assessment involved measurement of standard nasal aesthetic parameters. In the nasal trauma cohort, the main anomalies in nasal aesthetics were nasal deviation and differences in the nasal aesthetic profile. Nasal fracture manipulation successfully reduced deviation from an average of 35° pre-manipulation to an average of 9° post-manipulation.
Performing the nation, pre-figuring the state: the Western Saharan refugees, thirty years later
Authors: Mundy Jacob A.
Published: May 2007

Recent social, economic and political changes in the Western Saharan refugee camps in southwest Algeria have import not only for the project of Western Saharan nationalism, but also for the ongoing peace process. These are examined through a background to the Western Sahara conflict, and an appraisal of the camps' internal processes of elite politics, self-management and recent post-war socio-economic change.
The role of self-reported impulsivity and reward sensitivity versus neurocognitive measures of disinhibition and decision-making in the prediction of relapse in pathological gamblers
Authors: Goudriaan A. E. , Oosterlaan J. , De Beurs E. , Van Den Brink W.
Published: May 2007

Background

Disinhibition and decision-making skills play an important role in theories on the cause and outcome of addictive behaviors such as substance use disorders and pathological gambling. In recent studies, both disinhibition and disadvantageous decision-making strategies, as measured by neurocognitive tests, have been found to influence the course of substance use disorders. Research on factors affecting relapse in pathological gambling is scarce.

Method

This study investigated the effect of both self-reported impulsivity and reward sensitivity, and neurocognitively assessed disinhibition and decision-making under conflicting contingencies, on relapse in a group of 46 pathological gamblers.

Results

Logistic regression analysis indicated that longer duration of the disorder and neurocognitive indicators of disinhibition (Stop Signal Reaction Time) and decision-making (Card Playing Task) were significant predictors of relapse (explaining 53% of the variance in relapse), whereas self-reported impulsivity and reward sensitivity did not significantly predict relapse. Overall classification accuracy was 76%, with a positive classification accuracy of 76% and a negative classification accuracy of 75%.

Conclusions

Duration of the disorder and neurocognitive measures of disinhibition and decision-making are powerful predictors of relapse in pathological gambling. The results suggest that endophenotypical neurocognitive characteristics are more promising in the prediction of relapse in pathological gambling than phenotypical personality characteristics. Neurocognitive predictors may be useful to guide treatment planning of follow-up contacts and booster sessions.
When Utilitarians Should Be Virtue Theorists
Authors: JAMIESON DALE
Published: May 2007

The contrast typically made between utilitarianism and virtue theory is overdrawn. Utilitarianism is a universal emulator: it implies that we should lie, cheat, steal, even appropriate Aristotle, when that is what brings about the best outcomes. In some cases and in some worlds it is best for us to focus as precisely as possible on individual acts. In other cases and worlds it is best for us to be concerned with character traits. Global environmental change leads to concerns about character because the best results will be produced by generally uncoupling my behavior from that of others. Thus, in this case and in this world, utilitarians should be virtue theorists.
"One-Stop-Shop" ultrasound diagnosis of functional, structural and physicomechanical properties of the brachial artery
Authors: Balzer  , Boos  , Rassaf  , Heiss  , Preik  , Matern  , Schoebel  , Kelm  , Lauer
Published: May 2007

Background: The pathogenesis of atherosclerosis comprises endothelial dysfunction, thickening as well as impaired compliance of the arterial vessel wall. Early assessment of these alterations of the vessel wall at the same site of the vascular tree has yet been hampered by the lack of highly sensitive diagnostic approaches suitable for clinical routine. We therefore aimed to develop and validate a single non-invasive examination of the brachial artery for simultaneous and highly accurate measurement of functional, structural and physicomechanical parameters of the brachial artery. Patients and methods: 20 healthy individuals were investigated using high resolution ultrasound. Flow-mediated dilation (FMD), fractional diameter changes (FDC) and intima-media-thickness (IMT) were measured in the same segment of the brachial artery. Coefficients of variation, day-to-day-variability, between- and within-observer-variability were investigated in 5 individuals. All measurements were performed manually and by an automated PC-based analyzing system. Results: Mean values for all measured parameters were 7.65 ± 0.8% for FMD, 0.02 ± 0.002 for FDC, 0.351 ± 0.007 mm for IMT and followed an even distribution throughout the study population. Automated analysis of coefficient of variation, day-to-day-, between- and within-observer variabilities were: 0.78%, 1.3%, 0.8%, 0.8% (FMD); 4.7%, 2.8%, 4.2%, 2.7% (FDC); 1.8%, 1.1%, 1.9%, 1.1% (IMT). Coefficient of variation, day-to-day-, between- and within-observer variabilities for the manual readings were significantly higher. Conclusions: Functional, structural and physicomechanical parameters of the brachial artery can be quantified consecutively, time-saving and highly reproducibly as an "one-stop-shop" in a single session using high resolution ultrasound with digitized post-processing. This highlights the future possibility of early, sensitive and non-invasive diagnostic testing of vascular function in patients prone to vascular disease.
Achsenanomalien der Vena cava inferior mit paracavalem venösen Aneurysma und renalem Kollateralkreislauf
Authors: Schmitto  , Mirzaie  , Fatehpur  , Tezval  , Liakopoulos  , Popov  , Sellin  , Schwartz  , Dörge  , Schöndube
Published: May 2007

Venöse Aneurysmata der großen Gefäße stellen anatomische Raritäten dar. Die meisten bisher publizierten Malformationen des venösen Systems betreffen hauptsächlich die Vena cava inferior und treten in unterschiedlichen Formen auf. Aussackungen der infradiaphragmalen Vena cava inferior werden bei routinemäßig durchgeführten abdominellen Sonographien nur selten beobachtet und stellen dann häufig Zufallsbefunde dar. Berichte hierüber beschränken sich auf einzelne Kasuistiken und bereiten den Klinikern nicht selten diagnostische und therapeutische Schwierigkeiten. In der vorliegenden Arbeit wird eine asymptomatische, ausgeprägte venöse trunkuläre Missbildung der Vena cava inferior mit suprarenaler Abflussstörung beschrieben. Der hier vorgestellte Fall stellt einen bislang nicht beschriebenen Befund dar. Unter Berücksichtigung der gesamten Befundkonstellation entschlossen wir uns zu einer konservativen Behandlung des Patienten.
Ulcus bei AV-Fisteln im Rahmen eines Stewart-Bluefarb-Syndroms: Therapie der Arterien und/oder Venen?
Authors: Klode  , Kröger  , Grabbe  , Dissemond
Published: May 2007

Wir berichten über eine 46-jährige Patientin mit einem seit 2 Jahren bestehenden, therapieresistenten Ulcus am rechten Fußrücken bei kongenitaler komplexer AV-Fistel. Bereits vor 12 Jahren hatte sich in der gleichen Lokalisation erstmals ein Ulcus entwickelt. Eine Coil-Embolisation führte trotz unvollständiger Okklusion der AV-Fistel zu einer Abheilung über einen Zeitraum von 10 Jahren. Aktuell imponierte um das Ulcus eine Hyperpigmentierung im Sinne eines klinischen Hinweises auf eine venöse Insuffizienz. Durch eine ausschließlich konservative Therapie der venösen Komponente der AV-Fistel konnte eine vollständige Abheilung des Ulcus erzielt werden. Wir diskutieren anhand dieses Fallberichtes die unterschiedlichen Aspekte in der Entstehung und Therapie eines Ulcus bei AV-Fistel im Rahmen eines Stewart-Bluefarb-Syndroms.