bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Growth and decay of acoustic acceleration waves in Darcy-type porous media
Authors: Jordan P.M
Published: July 2005

The propagation of acoustic waves in a fluid that saturates a Darcy-type porous medium is considered under finite-amplitude theory. The equation of motion is derived, an acceleration wave analysis is carried out, and a travelling wave solution (TWS) is obtained. In addition, analytical findings are supported with numerical work generated by a simple, but effective, finite-difference scheme and results obtained are compared with those of the nonporous and linear cases. Most notably, this analysis reveals the following: (i) that the equation of motion is a new, hyperbolic form of Kuznetsov's equation; (ii) that finite-time blow-up of the wave amplitude is possible even if dissipation is present; (iii) the presence of a porous medium increases, with respect to the nonporous case, the rate at which amplitude growth/decay occurs; (iv) in the case of porous media propagation, not all compressive acceleration waves suffer blow up; and (v) that there exists a connection between acceleration waves and TWSs.
Clustered regularly interspaced short palindrome repeats (CRISPRs) have spacers of extrachromosomal origin
Authors: Bolotin Alexander , Quinquis Benoit , Sorokin Alexei , Ehrlich S. Dusko
Published: August 2005

Numerous prokaryote genomes contain structures known as clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPRs), composed of 25–50 bp repeats separated by unique sequence spacers of similar length. CRISPR structures are found in the vicinity of four genes named cas1 to cas4. In silico analysis revealed another cluster of three genes associated with CRISPR structures in many bacterial species, named here as cas1B, cas5 and cas6, and also revealed a certain number of spacers that have homology with extant genes, most frequently derived from phages, but also derived from other extrachromosomal elements. Sequence analysis of CRISPR structures from 24 strains of Streptococcus thermophilus and Streptococcus vestibularis confirmed the homology of spacers with extrachromosomal elements. Phage sensitivity of S. thermophilus strains appears to be correlated with the number of spacers in the CRISPR locus the strain carries. The authors suggest that the spacer elements are the traces of past invasions by extrachromosomal elements, and hypothesize that they provide the cell immunity against phage infection, and more generally foreign DNA expression, by coding an anti-sense RNA. The presence of gene fragments in CRISPR structures and the nuclease motifs in cas genes of both cluster types suggests that CRISPR formation involves a DNA degradation step.
Molecular insight into extreme copper resistance in the extremophilic archaeon ‘Ferroplasma acidarmanus’ Fer1
Authors: Baker-Austin Craig , Dopson Mark , Wexler Margaret , Sawers R. Gary , Bond Philip L.
Published: August 2005

‘Ferroplasma acidarmanus’ strain Fer1 is an extremely acidophilic archaeon involved in the genesis of acid mine drainage, and was isolated from copper-contaminated mine solutions at Iron Mountain, CA, USA. Here, the initial proteomic and molecular investigation of Cu2+resistance in this archaeon is presented. Analysis of Cu2+toxicity via batch growth experiments and inhibition of oxygen uptake in the presence of ferrous iron demonstrated that Fer1 can grow and respire in the presence of 20 g Cu2+l−1. The Fer1 copper resistance (cop) loci [originally detected by Ettema, T. J. G., Huynen, M. A., de Vos, W. M. & van der Oost, J.Trends Biochem Sci28, 170–173 (2003)] include genes encoding a putative transcriptional regulator (copY), a putative metal-binding chaperone (copZ) and a putative copper-transporting P-type ATPase (copB). Transcription analyses demonstrated thatcopZandcopBare co-transcribed, and transcript levels were increased significantly in response to exposure to high levels of Cu2+, suggesting that the transport system is operating for copper efflux. Proteomic analysis of Fer1 cells exposed to Cu2+revealed the induction of stress proteins associated with protein folding and DNA repair (including RadA, thermosome and DnaK homologues), suggesting that ‘Ferroplasma acidarmanus’ Fer1 uses multiple mechanisms for resistance to high levels of copper.
Two glutathione peroxidases in the fungal pathogen Cryptococcus neoformans are expressed in the presence of specific substrates
Authors: Missall Tricia A. , Cherry-Harris Jocie F. , Lodge Jennifer K.
Published: August 2005

Glutathione peroxidases catalyse the reduction of peroxides by reduced glutathione. To determine if these enzymes are important for resistance to oxidative stress and evasion of the innate immune system by the fungal pathogen Cryptococcus neoformans, two glutathione peroxidase homologues, which share 38 % identity, were identified and investigated. In this study, these peroxidases, Gpx1 and Gpx2, their localization, their contribution to total glutathione peroxidase activity, and their importance to the oxidative and nitrosative stress resistance of C. neoformans are described. It is shown that the two glutathione peroxidase genes are differentially expressed in response to stress. While both GPX1 and GPX2 are induced during t-butylhydroperoxide or cumene hydroperoxide stress and repressed during nitric oxide stress, only GPX2 is induced in response to hydrogen peroxide stress. Deletion mutants of each and both of the glutathione peroxidases were generated, and it was found that they are sensitive to various peroxide stresses while showing wild-type resistance to other oxidant stresses, such as superoxide and nitric oxide. While the glutathione peroxidase mutants are slightly sensitive to oxidant killing by macrophages, they exhibit wild-type virulence in a mouse model of cryptococcosis.
The gene stlA encodes a phenylalanine ammonia-lyase that is involved in the production of a stilbene antibiotic in Photorhabdus luminescens TT01
Authors: Williams Jane S. , Thomas Marie , Clarke David J.
Published: August 2005

Photorhabdus is a genus of Gram-negative bacteria from the family Enterobacteriaceae. Members of Photorhabdus have a complex life cycle during which the bacterium has a pathogenic interaction with insect larvae whilst also maintaining a mutualistic relationship with nematodes from the family Heterorhabditidae. During growth in the insect, Photorhabdus bacteria produce a broad-spectrum antibiotic identified as 3,5-dihydroxy-4-isopropylstilbene (ST). The biochemical pathway responsible for the production of this antibiotic has not been characterized. In this report, a mutant strain of Photorhabdus luminescens subsp. laumondii TT01, BMM901, has been isolated, by transposon mutagenesis, that is unable to produce the ST antibiotic. Using in silico studies, feeding experiments and biochemical analyses, it is shown that the gene mutated in this strain, stlA, encodes phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL). PAL catalyses the non-oxidative deamination of l-phenylalanine to trans-cinnamic acid and the enzyme is ubiquitous in plants, where it is involved in the production of phenylpropanoids such as lignin and phytoalexins. However, this is the first report of PAL activity in a member of the Proteobacteria.
Internet development and connectivity in Nigeria
Authors: Adomi Esharenana E.
Published: August 2005

Purpose

To describe internet development and connectivity in Nigeria.

Design/methodology/approach

Reviews the history of the internet in Africa, particularly in Nigeria, and surveys its current status.

Findings

Recommendations are given on how use of the internet can be developed in Nigeria.

Originality/value

It will assist relevant authorities and stakeholders in Nigeria and in other developing countries to gain insights on how to improve internet connectivity. It also provides insights into the problems of developing countries for those from the developed world.
Some lessons learned from post‐earthquake damage survey of structures in Bam, Iran earthquake of 2003
Authors: Mehrabian Ali , Haldar Achintya
Published: August 2005

Purpose

Some lessons learned from post‐earthquake damage survey of structures affected by the Bam earthquake of December 26, 2003 in Iran are encapsulated in this paper. The Bam earthquake caused catastrophic structural damage in the region.

Design/methodology/approach

A method similar to that of rapid evaluation procedure (REP), recommended by the Applied Technology Council (ATC‐20) in the USA, was used for damage survey.

Findings

Bam represents a typical ancient city in many countries around the world. Most of the structures in the region are made of adobe, unreinforced masonry, steel, and unreinforced/reinforced concrete. Some of the main types of structural damage, their causes, and potential remedial measures are characterized with an emphasis on the very basic fundamental principles of earthquake‐resistant design.

Practical implications

The research reported has considerable implications for other seismic‐affected regions of the world.

Originality/value

A first hand‐account of the catastrophic damage caused by this natural disaster and the implications for future design and construction in seismic‐affected areas.
An improvement in instructional quality: can evaluation of teaching effectiveness make a difference?
Authors: Waithanji Ngware Moses , Ndirangu Mwangi
Published: August 2005

Purpose

To report study findings on teaching effectiveness and feedback mechanisms in Kenyan universities, which can guide management in developing a comprehensive quality control policy.

Design/methodology/approach

The study adopted an exploratory descriptive design. Three public and two private universities were randomly selected to participate in the study. A random sampling procedure was also used to select 79 respondents to participate in the research. A questionnaire administered in all participating universities was the main instrument for data collection.

Findings

There was no clear university policy on the evaluation of teaching effectiveness, despite its importance in quality control. Student evaluation of teaching effectiveness (SETE) was found to be unreliable, although widely used where evaluation existed, without other evaluation support systems. Feedback from the evaluation, though crucial in professional improvement, was not made available to the respondents.

Research limitations/implications

The study examined the evaluation of teaching effectiveness from the lecturers' perspectives. Further research may provide insights into the contribution of SETE to teaching effectiveness from the students' standpoint.

Practical implications

Use of a variety of evaluation tools (e.g. self, peer) rather than relying solely on SETE is necessary. Comprehensive and usable information may be provided for effective teaching. Universities should provide clear policy guidelines on quality control for faculties to develop multiple teaching effectiveness evaluation instruments.

Originality/value

Teaching evaluation is important in order to bring about an improvement in areas such as student achievement, and use of public funds or educational materials. The findings provide critical information for management decision making to assist universities to translate the resources at their disposal into learning outcomes.
An exploratory study of best lean sustainability practices in higher education
Authors: Comm Clare L. , Mathaisel Dennis F.X.
Published: August 2005

Purpose

Because of the ever‐expanding commercialization and marketing of higher education, a need now exists to apply the concepts of business process improvement to colleges and universities. Aims to explore this issue.

Design/methodology/approach

An open‐ended qualitative questionnaire was developed, administered to 18 public and private university representatives and analyzed.

Findings

The participants at these surveyed universities shared with the interviewers the institutional lean “best practices” that they feel will contribute to the sustainability of their universities.

Research limitations/implications

This is a preliminary study with a sample size of 18 universities in the Northeastern USA. Future research should include more universities in the USA, as well as in other countries.

Practical implications

Other institutions of higher education may learn from the successful implementation of the lean sustainability efforts at the institutions in this study.

Originality/value

Very little past research, except in the area of green marketing, has focused on lean sustainability concepts in higher education. In a recent article by the same authors, a quantitative approach was taken in assessing lean sustainability practices in higher education. This current study explores the application of lean sustainability practices using a more in‐depth qualitative approach.
Longitudinal evaluation of innovation implementation in SMEs
Authors: Humphreys Paul , McAdam Rodney , Leckey Jonathon
Published: August 2005

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to explore the application of a process of innovation within a small to medium‐sized enterprise (SME) case study organisation over a six‐year period, leading to improved understanding for further application and development.

Design/methodology/approach

The development of the process of innovation at the case organisation is examined using a case study methodology combining quantitative and qualitative data gathered over the longitudinal period of the study.

Findings

The findings show that innovation implementation in the SME requires ongoing effort, commitment and understanding beyond that of continuous improvement. Moreover, different groupings within the SME had differing perceptions of the value and effectiveness of the innovation process. The findings indicate that innovation must be implemented using a broad range of perspectives and interventions.

Originality/value

There is a paucity of studies on the longitudinal implementation of innovation, especially amongst SMEs. In this context innovation is defined from a broad management perspective as distinct from being restricted to that of technical innovation.
Enabling intrapreneurship: the case of a knowledge‐intensive industrial company
Authors: Skovvang Christensen Karina
Published: August 2005

Purpose

The aim of the paper is to provide an understanding of the various factors that enable intrapreneurship in established firms. The paper reports on a case study of intrapreneurship in a large knowledge‐intensive industrial firm.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on the existing literature, it is suggested that the use of different factors can either enable or inhibit intrapreneurship and five enabling factors that are identified. Based on interviews, on‐site observations and documents and reports the five factors with a potential influence on intrapreneurship are examined and alternative factors considered.

Findings

The five enabling factors that are identified in the literature are not sufficient to enable intrapreneurship in knowledge‐intensive companies, and it is concluded that three additional factors enabling intrapreneurship in established firms should also be taken into account.

Practical implications

The knowledge of what makes factors either enablers or inhibitors are incomplete and to enhance the intrapreneurial ability of an organisation, managers must learn which factors to use in different situations.

Originality/value

Only very few papers have studied intrapreneurship in specific organisations. This paper contributes with a synthesis of the literature in the area and with a suggestion of a model that is used in the empirical analysis and augmented based on that. The paper furthermore contributes to the body of literature on the factors enabling intrapreneurship in general.
Assessing maturity and effectiveness of enterprise performance measurement systems
Authors: Van Aken Eileen M. , Letens Geert , Coleman Garry D. , Farris Jennifer , Van Goubergen Dirk
Published: August 2005

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe and illustrate an application of a tool for assessing the maturity and effectiveness of enterprise performance measurement systems.

Design/methodology/approach

Assessment elements were defined based on the literature, and the scoring approach was designed based on performance excellence frameworks such as Baldrige and EFQM. A research case application in a Belgian public sector organization is used to illustrate how the tool can be used and the types of insights generated.

Findings

The case application indicates that the tool can be used to generate useful and actionable feedback for leadership to increase the maturity of enterprise performance measurement systems. The tool can also be used to longitudinally track progress in performance measurement system effectiveness.

Research limitations/implications

The current paper represents the pilot application of the tool. Future work is needed to further test and refine the tool, refine the assessment process, and collect additional assessment data in other organizations.

Originality/value

This tool provides a more holistic yet detailed assessment of performance measurement systems. It assesses measurement system design quality, as well as implementation/use Specific feedback on process gaps can be used to detect and address problem areas, providing value for practitioners. The tool provides researchers with a standard, structured approach for collecting and codifying detailed observations and artifacts when studying measurement systems.
Interactions Between Public and Private Investment: Evidence from Developing Countries
Authors: Atukeren Erdal
Published: July 2005

This study examines the linkages between public investments and private investments by using Granger‐causality and cointegration tests and probit analysis in a sample of 25 developing countries. The results from the cointegration and Granger‐causality tests are further analysed in a probit framework by assigning the dependent variable the value ‘1’ for the ‘crowding‐out’ cases and ‘0’ otherwise, and the explanatory variables are various components of Gwartney and Lawson's (2004) economic freedom of the world index. Using this approach, we find that the higher the share of government involvement in an economy, the lower the trade openness; the more restrictions there are on the use of foreign currencies, and the more stable and developed the macro and monetary environment is, the higher the likelihood that public investments may crowd out private investments. The model correctly predicts 10 out of 11 cases of crowding‐out and 13 out of 14 cases of no‐crowding‐out.
Patient attitudes to clinical trials: development of a questionnaire and results from asthma and cancer patients
Authors: Jenkinson Crispin , Burton John S. , Cartwright Julia , Magee Helen , Hall Ian , Alcock Chris , Burge Sherwood
Published: August 2005

Objective  To develop a questionnaire to assess patients’ views of clinical trials, and to report the results from the questionnaire in two patient groups: asthma and cancer.

Design  A 43 item questionnaire asking patients about their views to clinical trials was developed on the basis of interviews with trialists and focus groups with patients. The questionnaire was mailed to patients with a diagnosis of either asthma or cancer. A set of items was then selected, via statistical analyses, to form the core of the questionnaire.

Participants  Patients with a diagnosis of cancer in one NHS Hospital Trust, and patients with a diagnosis of asthma in two NHS Hospital Trusts.

Results  Completed questionnaires were received from 353 cancer patients and 578 asthma patients. Factor analyses of the data indicated that 22 items contributed to five dimensions: ‘positive beliefs’, ‘safety’, ‘information needs’, ‘negative expectations’ and ‘patient involvement’. Differences between asthma and cancer patients on these dimensions were small. A regression of these dimension scores against a variable asking if patients would be willing to take part in trials found that ‘safety’ and ‘information needs’ did not contribute significantly to the model for either asthma or cancer patients.

Conclusions  A questionnaire has been developed for use in assessing patients’ views towards clinical trials. Results from the surveys reported here suggest that patient views about the importance of trials and beliefs about the value of patient involvement are likely to be predictive of whether or not patients will agree to take part in a study.
The time course of the bilateral release of cytokines and mediators after unilateral nasal allergen challenge
Authors: Wagenmann M. , Schumacher L. , Bachert C.
Published: August 2005

Background:  Late phase reactions after allergen challenge can be understood as a correlate of the inflammatory reaction in allergic rhinitis.

Methods:  To investigate which cytokines are involved in it and to dissect direct and indirect effects of nasal allergen challenge, we performed unilateral nasal allergen provocation with the disc method in 12 seasonal allergic volunteers. Symptom scores, nasal secretions and nasal airflow were quantified. In the secretions that were collected in the early phase and for 8 h after provocation, we measured histamine, and the cytokines interleukin (IL)‐1β, IL‐8, IL‐4, and the natural antagonist of IL‐1β, IL‐1 receptor type 1 (IL‐1Ra) using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent (ELISA)‐assays. Control challenges with diluent instead of allergen were performed in all subjects.

Results:  We demonstrated a bilateral increase in nasal secretion weights in the early and late phase. Histamine was significantly increased in the early and late phase in nasal secretions from both nostrils. IL‐1β increased in the late phase only, where it was also found on the unchallenged, contralateral side. Its antagonist IL‐1Ra was found in very high quantities (1000‐fold higher than IL‐1β) but demonstrated only marginal changes after provocation. IL‐8 was increased in both nostrils early and late after challenge, whereas IL‐4 was significantly elevated in the late phase.

Conclusions:  We described the time course of mediator and cytokine release into nasal secretions after allergen challenge. We hypothesize that the observed indirect effects on the unchallenged, contralateral side can be at least partially attributed to neuronal reflexes.
Passive IgE‐sensitization by blood transfusion
Authors: Johansson S. G. O. , Nopp A. , van Hage M. , Olofsson N. , Lundahl J. , Wehlin L. , Söderström L. , Stiller V. , Öman H.
Published: August 2005

Background:  To study the mechanisms of passive sensitization of patients receiving plasma containing IgE antibodies to a defined allergen.

Methods:  When required for medical reasons, regular donor plasma with IgE antibodies to timothy grass allergen (8–205 kUA/l), was given. Kinetics of IgE antibodies in the recipients’ serum and his/her basophil allergen threshold sensitivity, CD‐sens, was monitored up to 2–3 weeks after transfusion. The IgE antibodies were quantitated by ImmunoCAP. The CD‐sens in plasma recipients, determined by CD63 up‐regulation, was measured by flow cytometry and compared to CD‐sens of patients with allergic asthma and/or rhinitis.

Results:  There was a significant correlation (r = 0.98; P < 0.001) between amount of IgE antibody given and recipient serum peak concentration. The T1/2 for IgE antibody in circulation was 1.13 days (95% confidence limit 0.35–1.91 days). The recipients became CD‐sens positive already 3 h after transfusion. The CD‐sens peak was observed after 3.4 days and the value were correlated (r = 0.68; P < 0.02) to the amount of IgE antibody transfused and were of the same magnitude as found in allergic patients. The T1/2 of CD‐sens indicated two populations of basophils; one with a CD‐sens decrease T1/2 of 4 days and one of 10 days.

Conclusion:  Transfused IgE antibodies will sensitize mast cells and basophils to CD‐sens levels similar to those of allergic patients. The recipients expressed ‘slow’ or ‘rapid’ CD‐sens decline, indicating two different basophil populations. After transfusion of plasma with >10 kUA/l IgE antibody the recipient could have allergen reactive basophils for up to 7 weeks.
Public participation programme: The Akkar watershed study
Authors: Abdel‐Massih Youssef
Published: July 2005

A social and environmental study of the Akkar watershed, on the northern boundary of Lebanon and Syria, was initiated in January 2001 and completed in January 2003. The study was a cooperative Lebanese–Syrian–Canadian research project funded by the Canadian International Development and Research Council. The aim of the project was to utilize scientific information and data derived from the watershed study to define issues and possible solutions to be included in a bilateral watershed management plan. The project consisted of four components: watershed maps from remote sensing and geographical information systems, sampling and analysis of water samples, analysis of applicable legislation and institutional arrangements, and a programme of public participation. The direct impact on the watershed by the daily activities of its communities implies that these communities should be involved in both evaluation and management of the watershed. It is very important that environmental management and conservation relate to land use and policies to assure sustainability. A successful conservation approach integrates institutional, geomatics and public participation aspects, leading to the communities themselves being self‐regulating. This will strengthen the sustainability within the watershed to enhance the quality of living of its inhabitants. This paper deals strictly with the aspects of the public participation programme on the Lebanese side of the watershed. This programme was designed to ensure wide public involvement and wide dissemination of information derived from the technical study of the watershed.
Environmental management of the waters of the El‐Kabir River and the associated Akkar watershed
Authors: Cadham John C. , Thomas Richard L. , Khawlie Mohamad , Kawass Issam
Published: July 2005

The Akkar watershed of the El‐Kabir River forms the northern boundary of Lebanon with Syria and drains into the Eastern Mediterranean Sea. This paper endeavours to provide a management plan tailored to the issues and needs of the Akkar watershed. It is not designed as a simplistic workbook of procedures but as a series of broad, thematic recommendations addressing the environmental problems identified by technical studies and interaction with the inhabitants of the watershed. It outlines a three‐phase (short, medium and long‐term) approach to address public health and water sustainability in the context of an enduring management system. In all phases, a set of underlying principles are utilized which incorporate a watershed approach, collaboration and cooperation, sustainability, a balance between water quantity and quality, equity and public involvement.
Measuring symptom distress among frail elders capable of providing self reports
Authors: Toye Christine , Walker Helen , Kristjanson Linda J. , Popescu Aurora , Nightingale Ellen
Published: August 2005

Abstract  This study aimed to develop a valid and reliable method of measuring symptom distress in frail elderly people capable of providing self reports. We tested a tool used in palliative care settings with 46 elders in residential aged care, refined the tool, and tested the new version with 48 additional elders. Items assessed the prevalence and severity of distress attributed to nausea; pain; insomnia; fatigue; and breathing, bowel and appetite problems in the first phase, and pain; insomnia; fatigue; and breathing, bowel, and bladder problems in the second phase. Participants rated symptom distress on a 10‐point scale over 5 days. Internal consistency reliability coefficients for the revised tool ranged from 0.50 to 0.64. Concurrent validity with an established measure of well‐being was demonstrated. Further research will assess stability. The tool provides a valid overview of symptom distress in frail aged people able to provide self reports.
Percutaneous splanchnic nerve radiofrequency ablation for chronic abdominal pain
Authors: Garcea Giuseppe , Thomasset Sarah , Berry David P. , Tordoff Simon
Published: August 2005

Background:  Splanchnic nerve block is a useful alternative to coeliac plexus block in the management of patients with chronic upper abdominal pain. The predictable relationship of the splanchnic nerves to other structures allows for accurate needle placement and hence a low risk of iatrogenic damage. Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) uses a high frequency alternating current to heat tissues leading to thermal coagulation. It produces predictable and accurate lesions and hence is useful alternative to more conventional phenol and alcohol neurolytic methods.

Methods:  The present study examined a series of 10 patients undergoing percutaneous RFA splanchnic nerve blockade for chronic pancreatitis. Pain levels, anxiety, quality of life, daily activity, mood and interpersonal relationships were all assessed pre‐ and postprocedure, using a visual analogue score. Median follow‐up was 18 months (range: 12−24 months). Statistical analysis was undertaken using non‐parametric Wilcoxon matched pair analysis, statistical significance was set at the 95% confidence intervals.

Results:  Splanchnic nerve RFA not only led to a decrease in pain scores, opiate analgesia use and acute admissions for pain; but it also resulted in improvement of other parameters associated with long‐term debilitating chronic pain, such as anxiety levels, daily activity, overall mood and general perception of health. There were no major complications. All changes observed were statistically significant.

Conclusion:  Although preliminary data regarding RFA ablation of splanchnic nerves are encouraging, further trials are also needed comparing percutaneous splanchnic nerve ablation with opiod analgesia and coeliac plexus blockade.
Sevoflurane (12% and 8%) inhalational induction in children
Authors: CHAWATHE M. , ZATMAN T. , HALL J.E. , GILDERSLEVE C. , JONES R.M. , WILKES A.R. , AGUILERA I.M. , ARMSTRONG T.S.
Published: August 2005

Background:  Sevoflurane induction of anesthesia is frequently used in children. Rapidly performed inhalational induction may reduce excitation during early anesthesia. Increasing the total anesthetic MAC delivered to patients can be achieved by increasing volatile concentration or adding nitrous oxide. The latter reduces inspired oxygen concentration delivered, which may not be desirable. Even 8% sevoflurane induction is associated with excitation. A system capable of delivering 12% sevoflurane using two tandem vaporizers has been developed.

Methods:  A randomized double blind study was undertaken to assess whether 12% sevoflurane offered any advantage over 8% in time and quality of induction. Sixty children aged 5–10 years were recruited and received either 12 or 8% sevoflurane. Time to loss of eyelash reflex, central pupils, incidence of adverse events, induction quality, systolic blood pressure and heart rate were recorded.

Results:  Twelve percent sevoflurane reduced time to loss of eyelash reflex compared with 8% [mean (sd): 35 (12) and 46 (14) P < 0.05], but the reduction was only 10% higher than the error in the measurement (assessment every 10 s). Twelve percent sevoflurane offered significantly better quality of induction (P < 0.05). There was no difference in cardiovascular stability between groups, although heart rate rose significantly in both groups. Maintaining sevoflurane at 12% for 4 min caused significant amounts of apnea (69% with 12% and 38% with 8%, P < 0.05).

Conclusion:  Twelve percent sevoflurane offers a smoother anesthesia induction than 8% in children of this age with no additional consequences for the cardiovascular system.
Language‐specific effects on number computation in toddlers
Authors: Hodent Célia , Bryant Peter , Houdé Olivier
Published: July 2005

A fundamental question in developmental science is how brains with and without language compute numbers. Measuring young children's verbal reactions in France (Paris) and in England (Oxford), here we show that, although there is a general arithmetic ability for small numbers that is shared by monkeys and preverbal infants, the development of such initial knowledge in humans follows specific performance patterns, depending on what language the children speak.
‘The illness is part of the person’: discourses of blame, individual responsibility and individuation at a centre for spiritual healing in the North of England
Authors: McClean Stuart
Published: August 2005

While the growth in usage and practice of varying forms of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) continues apace, social science has increasingly turned to CAM's often individualistic approach to health and illness. CAM has been perceived as both partly a cause of and a response to the well‐documented ideology in modern healthcare of ‘individual responsibility for health’. This occasionally manifests in a ‘victim‐blaming’ ideology amongst both orthodox and CAM practitioners alike. These issues emerged as key themes in an ethnographic study of a Centre for spiritual healing in the North of England. By drawing upon a range of qualitative data gained through the researcher's participation at this healing centre, I argue that the healers’ focus on individual responsibility for health is not so much a part of the current socio‐political health ideology of ‘victim‐blaming’, rather, it is illustrative of an important contemporary social phenomenon: the movement towards the subjectification and personalisation of public life.
Opportunity is not everything
Authors: Hoff Karla , Pandey Priyanka
Published: August 2005

We experimentally investigate in village India how belief systems that hierarchize social groups affect the groups’ responses to economic opportunities. Earlier we found that making caste salient hurt low caste performance both absolutely and relative to the high caste's. To examine the possible role of mistrust, we manipulate the scope for discretion in rewarding performance. When offered a gamble in which success mechanically triggers rewards, making caste salient has no significant effect. Instead, it is in the case with scope for discretion that making caste salient creates a large caste gap in the proportion of subjects who refuse the gamble.
Effects of Atrial Arrhytmias on the Regurgitation of a Monoleaflet Prosthetic Heart Valve
Authors: Zapanta Conrad M.
Published: July 2005

Abstract:  Many patients who receive a prosthetic heart valve also have or acquire cardiac arrhythmias. However, most in vitro studies of prosthetic valves examine them under normal rhythms. In this study, a monoleaflet prosthetic heart valve was tested in vitro under conditions that simulated normal sinus rhythm, first degree atrioventricular heart block, and atrial fibrillation (fixed and variable ventricular rates). Atrial contraction was simulated by an active atrial chamber. The timing between the atrium and ventricle was adjusted to simulate various types of arrhythmias. The closing, leakage, and total regurgitant volumes and fractions increased for each type of atrial arrhythmia when compared to normal sinus rhythm. The peak regurgitant flow increased for first degree atrioventricular heart block and atrial fibrillation with a fixed ventricular rate compared to normal sinus rhythm.
Ictal Clinical Electroencephalographic Findings of Spasms in West Syndrome
Authors: Fusco Lucia , Vigevano Federico
Published: August 2005

Summary: The electroencephalographic/video recordings of 955 spasms in children with cryptogenic and symptomatic West syndrome (WS) were reviewed to define the relation between a clinical manifestation of a spasm and its EEG pattern, and to examine whether these features reflect the etiology and prognosis of WS. The review confirmed the spasm to be a distinct type of seizure, with a unique clinical and EEG pattern unlike that of all other recognized seizures. Symmetric spasms were present in cryptogenic and symptomatic patients. In contrast, asymmetric spasms, or focal signs recognizable during a spasm, strongly indicated the existence of a cerebral lesion. In both etiological groups, the characteristic ictal EEG pattern of the spasms consisted of a positive‐vertex slow wave. The other two patterns apparently correlated to a spasm, were fast activity, here called spindle‐like, and decremental activity. The fast activity corresponded to a clinical stare, and the decremental activity, when present, represented a postictal event. Although it was independent from the etiology of the spasms, persisting hypsarrhythmia during a cluster of spasms appeared to be an EEG pattern that correlated with a favorable outcome.
The Idiopathic Form of West Syndrome
Authors: Vigevano Federico , Fusco Lucia , Cusmai Raffaella , Claps Dianela , Ricci Stefano , Milani Luigia
Published: August 2005

Summary: The clinical and electroencephalographic data of 31 children with cryptogenic West syndrome (WS), selected from a series of 103 WS patients, with a follow‐up between 4 and 12 years, were studied retrospectively to verify whether this group included patients who fulfilled the criteria for an idiopathic etiology. The results identified a possible idiopathic etiology in 17 patients (55%), who had a family history of other forms of idiopathic epilepsy or febrile convulsions, or who developed, during the follow‐up, an EEG genetic trait such as a photoconvulsive response or spike‐and‐wave discharges, or rolandic spikes. All 17 children had a favorable outcome and all had normal neuropsychological development. Four children (13%) fulfilled the criteria for a true cryptogenic etiology, a causative lesion being suspected, but never proved. At the end of the follow‐up all four had seizures, or developmental delay or both, all signs that suggest an underlying cerebral lesion. The other 10 children, representing 32% of the cryptogenic cases, had a good prognosis, with early disappearance of spasms and hypsarrhythmia, and normal neurological development, but none had an EEG epileptic trait or family history of epilepsy or febrile convulsions; although they could have had an idiopathic WS, this was not proved. We conclude that among the children classified as having a cryptogenic WS, many—in our series at least 55%—fulfill the criteria for an idiopathic etiology.
How Common Is Catamenial Epilepsy?
Authors: Duncan Susan , Read Carol L. , Brodie Martin J.
Published: August 2005

Forty women of childbearing age with refractory epilepsy were asked to record their seizures, the first and last days of their menstrual periods, and symptoms of premenstrual tension for 3 consecutive months. By defining catamenial epilepsy as the occurrence of at least 75% of seizures each month in the 10‐day time frame, which included the 4 days preceding menstruation and the 6 days after its onset, only 5 women (12.5%) were identified who fulfilled the criterion. Nevertheless, after the study was completed, 31 (78%) of these patients claimed that most of their seizures occurred near the time of and were exacerbated by menstruation. The patients with catamenial epilepsy reported no more symptoms of premenstrual tension than did the rest of the group. Clustering outside the menstrual cycle was noted in 4 other patients. Catamenial epilepsy is an uncommon condition. Patient claims about frequency of seizures in relation to menstruation are not always accurate. A standard definition should be adopted because the diagnosis has implications for management.
Seizure‐Related Injuries in Multihandicapped Patients with Therapy‐Resistant Epilepsy
Authors: Nakken K. O. , Lossius R.
Published: August 2005

A prospective study on seizure‐related inju ries in Norway's two nursing homes for persons with ep ilepsy was conducted. Sixty‐two multihandicapped pa tients with mostly difficult‐to‐treat epilepsy were as sessed for 13 months: 6,889 seizures, 2,696 with ensuing falls, resulted in 80 injuries. The seizure‐related injury risk was 1.2%. The most frequent injuries were mild soft tissue injuries with and without cuts. Six serious injuries were recorded: two leg fractures, one mandibular fracture, one neck of the femur fracture, one skull fracture, and one subdural hematoma. A 71‐year‐old woman with subdural hematoma died during operation for the he matoma. Seizure types most often causing injury were atonic and tonic‐clonic seizures. Prophylactic measures can be taken. Because the seizure‐induced injury risk was slight, we concluded that even persons with refractory epilepsy should be encouraged to lead active lives.
Effect of Isoflurane (Forane) on Intraoperative Electrocorticogram
Authors: Fiol M. E. , Boening Jean A. , Cruz‐Rodriguez Raul , Maxwell Robert
Published: August 2005

Isoflurane, an inhalation agent often used for general anesthesia during craniotomy, has been reported to suppress spike activity in the intraoperative electrocor‐ticogram (ECoG) during epilepsy surgery. We studied the effect of isoflurane concentrations of 0.25, 0.5, 0.75, 1, and 1.25% on the number of spike bursts per 5‐min epochs in 15 patients undergoing ECoG during epilepsy surgery. N2O in O2 was maintained at 50% in 10 patients, at 60% in 2, and at 70% in 3. End tidal CO2 concentration was maintained in the hypocarbic range, and analgesia was maintained with the narcotic alfentanil in the range of 0.5–2 μg/kg/min. The median number of spikes for each isoflurane concentration was 29 (range 3–107) at 0.25%, 27 (range 2–73) at 0.5%; 29 (range 5–90) at 0.75%, 33 (range 2–100) at 1%, and 40 (range 32–140) in 5 patients who tolerated 1.25% without occurrence of burst suppression pattern. No significant difference (Student's paired t test) was noted in the number of spikes for each isoflurane concentration. Therefore, if isoflurane concentrations are maintained between 0.25 and 1.25% or before burst suppression pattern occurs and N2O/O2 is maintained in the 50–70% range, isoflurane has no significant effect on spike activity.
Dose Frequency and Dose Interval Compliance with Multiple Antiepileptic Medications During a Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Cramer Joyce , Vachon Luc , Desforges Carole , Sussman Neil M.
Published: August 2005

Summary: Compliance with medication regimens and clinical trial schedules was evaluated during a study of vigabatrin (VGB), an antiepileptic drug (AED). Medication Event Monitors (MEMS, Aprex Corp., Fremont, CA, U.S.A.) were provided to monitor use of VGB and other AEDs administered to 111 patients at 10 sites. MEMS reports showed the number of doses administered daily, times of doses, and intervals between doses. The 66 patients whose data were evaluable took VGB as prescribed (twice daily, b.i.d.) on 89 ± 7% of days in the clinical trial (mean 189 ± 63 days). However, only 66 ± 24% of doses were taken within the 9‐15‐h dose interval window for twice‐daily dosing, a lower rate than that for dose frequency compliance (p < 0.001). Concomitant medications prescribed b.i.d. (n = 66) (86 ± 11% dose frequency compliance) were taken at lower rates than VGB (p < 0.02). Interval compliance also was lower for concomitant b.i.d. medications (59 ± 26%) than for VGB (p < 0.01). Dose frequency compliance for thrice‐daily (t.i.d.) medications (n = 36) was 80 ± 18 and 40 ± 19% for interval compliance (6–10 h) (both p < 0.0001 vs. VGB). Dose frequency compliance for four times daily (q.i.d.) medications (n = 23) was 80 ± 23 and 33 ± 18% for interval compliance (4–8 h) (both p < 0.0001 vs. VGB). Patients at eight sites did not use MEMS properly, often for practical reasons, voiding including of data for 93 medications (32%) because of noncompliance with the study design to monitor compliance. Medication monitoring showed differences in dose frequency compliance and dose interval compliance between investigational and concomitant medications, as well as study protocol noncompliance, by outpatients in a long‐term clinical trial.
Initial Observations on Effect of Vigabatrin on In Vivo 1H Spectroscopic Measurements of γ‐Aminobutyric Acid, Glutamate, and Glutamine in Human Brain
Authors: Petroff Ognen A. C. , Rothman Douglas L. , Behar Kevin L. , Mattson Richard H.
Published: August 2005

Summary: Recent developments involving 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopic editing techniques have allowed noninvasive measurements of γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA) in human cerebrum. The additional information gained from GABA and macromolecule measurements permitted more precise glutamate (Glu) and glutamine (Gln) measurements. Occipital lobe GABA in 10 nonepileptic, healthy subjects was 1.0 μmol/g brain [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.9–1.1]. Vigabatrin (VGB) is a safe and effective antiepileptic drug (AED)that irreversibly inhibits neuronal and glial GABA transaminase. GABA levels were increased in all patients treated with VGB. With a standard dose of 3–6 g/day, GABA levels were 2.6 μmol/g (95% CI 2.3–2.8).Mean occipital GABA level measured in epileptic patients not receiving VGB was 0.9 μmol/g (95% CI 0.7–1.1). Gln was increased by 1.9 μmol/g and Glu was decreased by 0.8 μmol/g in patients receiving VGB as compared with patients receiving standard medications alone.
Effects of the Anticonvulsant Losigamone and Its Isomers on the GABAA Receptor System
Authors: Dimpfel Wilfried , Chatterjee Shyam S. , Nöldner Michael , Ticku Maharaj K.
Published: August 2005

Summary: We conducted in vitro studies to clarify the possible involvement of GABA, receptor‐mediated processes in the anticonvulsant effects of losigamone and its optical isomers AO‐242 (+losigamone) and AO‐294 (‐losigamone). In binding experiments with cortical and cerebellar membrane preparations of rat brain, ≤100 μM losigamone did not affect the specific binding of [3H]GABA, [3H]flunitrazepam, or [35S]t‐butyl‐bicyclo‐phosphorothionate (TBPS) to their receptors. Losigamone, however, in concentrations of 10‐8‐10‐5 M, stimulated 36Cl influx into spinal cord neurons in the absence of exogenous GABA. This effect was inhibited by the GABA antagonists bicuculline (BIC) and picrotoxin (PIC). Losigamone 10‐5 M potentiated the effect of a suboptimal concentration of exogenous GABA M on 336Cl influx. Both isomers of losigamone likewise stimulated 36Cl influx into spinal cord neurons, and these effects were similarly antagonized by BIC and PIC. Losigamone and its optical isomers AO‐294 and AO‐242 antagonized potassium‐induced hyperexcitability in rat hippocampal slices concentration dependently. There were no clear differences in the potencies of losigamone, AO‐242, or AO‐294. However, AO‐294 and AO‐242 differed significantly in their ability to suppress TBPS‐ induced hyperexcitability of hippocampal slices. Such observations demonstrate that although losigamone does not bind to GABA, benzodiazepine (BZD) or PIC binding sites of the neuronal chloride channel, it is capable of stimulating 36Cl influx in the spinal cord neurons by a GABA‐sensitive mechanism and at a side distant from the GABA channel.
Acquired Epileptiform Opercular Syndrome: A Second Case Report, Review of the Literature, and Comparison to the Landau‐Kleffner Syndrome
Authors: Shafrir Yuval , Prensky Arthur L.
Published: August 2005

Summary: A 5‐year‐old girl developed recurrent prolonged episodes of severe oral apraxia, dysarthria, and drooling, similar to the opercular syndrome in children. Each episode lasted several weeks to >6 months and was associated with exacerbation of epileptiform activity in her EEG. Electrographic status epilepticus during slow wave sleep (ESES) was recorded during three of the exacerbations. The EEG improved markedly when clinical symptoms subsided. Antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) were not effective, although there was some improvement when they were combined with a ketogenic diet. A similar case was described by Roulet et al. We believe that this is a distinct epileptic syndrome, equivalent to the Landau‐Kleffner syndrome (LKS).