bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Treatment of Bleeding Pseudoaneurysms in Patients with Chronic Pancreatitis
Authors: Udd Marianne , Leppäniemi Ari K. , Bidel Siamak , Keto Pekka , Roth Wolf‐Dieter , Haapiainen Reijo K.
Published: February 2007

Background

In patients with chronic pancreatitis, an actively bleeding pseudoaneurysm can be life‐threatening. Angioembolization is an attractive alternative to often complex operative management, and its feasibility was assessed in a retrospective analysis.

Methods

During 1993–2005, 33 patients (27 males, median age 51 years) with bleeding pancreatic pseudoaneurysms underwent urgent angiographic evaluation followed by angioembolization if possible. Angioembolization was performed in 23 patients, whereas 10 patients required hemostatic surgery, including 6 distal pancreatectomies and 3 vessel ligations.

Results

Between 1993 and 2005 33 out of 745 patients (4.4%) admitted for chronic pancreatitis had bleeding pancreatic pseudoaneurysms. The proportion of bleeders out of the total number of hospital admissions for chronic pancreatitis was 33 out of 1,892 (1.7%). The overall success rate of angioembolization was 22 out of 33 (67%) including 3 patients requiring re‐embolization for recurrent bleeding. The success rate was 16 out of 20 (80%) when the pseudocyst was in the head of the pancreas, and only 50% when the splenic artery was the source of bleeding. Four of the 5 cases with free bleeding into the peritoneal cavity required operative intervention. The overall mortality and morbidity rates were 2 out of 33 (6%) and 7 out of 33 (21%) respectively, with no significant differences between embolized and operated patients. Angioembolization was associated with a significantly lower need for total blood transfusions and length of hospital stay. During the years 2000–2005, the overall success rate of angioembolization was 95%.

Conclusions

All hemodynamically stable patients with chronic pancreatitis and bleeding pseudoaneurysms should undergo prompt initial angiographic evaluation and embolization if possible. Repeated angioembolization is feasible in patients with recurrent bleeding, whether initially embolized or operated. Patients with unsuccessful embolization should undergo emergency hemostatic surgery with ligation of the bleeding vessel in the head of the pancreas and distal resection in patients bleeding from the splenic artery or its branch. The combination of angioembolization and later endoscopic drainage of the pseudocyst via endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is effective in the majority of the cases of pseudoaneurysms in chronic pancreatitis.
Sharing GJB2/GJB6 Genetic Test Information with Family Members
Authors: Blase Terri , Martinez Ariadna , Grody Wayne W. , Schimmenti Lisa , Palmer Christina G. S.
Published: February 2007

Although GJB2/GJB6 genetic testing for non‐syndromic hearing loss is available, there is no information regarding sharing of test results with family members. A qualitative study was conducted to elucidate if, how, and why parents of a child with hearing loss share GJB2/GJB6 test results with relatives. Parents whose child had testing (n = 7 positive, n = 4 negative, n = 1 inconclusive results) participated in a semi‐structured interview and responses were analyzed using qualitative methods. All participants shared the test result with at least one relative, but selective non‐disclosure also was observed. Reasons for, and reactions to, sharing were diverse and differed as a function of test result. In comparing the results from this study to published literature, similarities and differences were identified with regards to disclosure of genetic test results for hearing loss versus other conditions. Differences suggest that hearing loss may have unique attributes that influence responses to genetic test information. Further research is needed to replicate these findings.
Psychological Follow‐up of Presymptomatic Genetic Testing for Spinocerebellar Ataxia Type 2 (SCA2) in Cuba
Authors: Paneque Milena , Lemos Carolina , Escalona Karell , Prieto Lizandra , Reynaldo Rubén , Velázquez Mercedes , Quevedo Judith , Santos Nieves , Almaguer Luis Enrique , Velázquez Luis , Sousa Alda , Fleming Manuela , Sequeiros Jorge
Published: February 2007

Presymptomatic testing for spinocerebellar ataxia type 2 (SCA2) in Cuba started five years ago. We have now investigated the psychological impact of test results on 150 individuals at 50% risk for SCA2. In a prospective study, psychological instruments were used to evaluate depression, anxiety and family functioning (1) before testing and (2) one year after disclosure of the test result. One year after, anxiety and depression levels decreased both in carriers and non‐carriers, but anxiety decreased significantly more in carriers. Pathological levels of anxiety were seen mostly in members of dysfunctional families, but decreased more in them than in other consultands. Presymptomatic testing thus seems to have been especially beneficial for these testees, possibly due to a greater gain from the psychosocial support received. It would be pertinent to evaluate now the impact of other psychosocial variables and perform longer‐term longitudinal studies.
Brief report: Intimacy, passion, and commitment in romantic relationships—Validation of a ‘triangular love scale’ for adolescents☆
Authors: Overbeek Geertjan , Ha Thao , Scholte Ron , de Kemp Raymond , Engels Rutger C.M.E.
Published: February 2007

This study examined the psychometric properties of an adolescent version of the ‘triangular love scale’ (TLS), which assesses three components of romantic relationships: intimacy, passion, and commitment. Using data from 435 Dutch adolescents aged 12–18 years, we found evidence for convergent validity, showing that dimensions of intimacy, passion, and commitment were all positively correlated with relationship satisfaction and duration. Evidence was also found for divergent validity, as adolescents’ perceptions of the main (dis)advantages of being involved in romantic relationships showed a specific pattern of associations with intimacy, passion, and commitment. Finally, CFA analyses in LISREL showed that a model in which all separate questionnaire items were specified to load on three underlying, correlated factors (intimacy, passion, commitment) fit the data adequately. Overall, this measure seems appropriate for use with adolescents.
Long‐term consequences of early infant injury and trauma upon somatosensory processing
Authors: Schmelzle‐Lubiecki B.M. , Campbell K.A. Andrews , Howard R.H. , Franck L. , Fitzgerald M.
Published: February 2007

Long‐term consequences of early infant injury upon somatosensory processing were tested in school aged children. The aim was to test whether the long‐term changes in sensitivity reported in animal models, in regions both local to and distant from the injury site, could be observed in humans. To do this we used quantitative sensory testing (QST) in children aged 9–12 years who had undergone cardiac surgery in infancy. Cutaneous mechanical and thermal thresholds were measured at the thoracic scar region and at control contralateral thoracic and reference thenar areas in this early surgery group (n=9), and compared with thresholds at the same regions in age and gender‐matched controls (n=9). The results showed that the cardiac surgery group was significantly less sensitive to von Frey hair tactile stimulation in the non‐injured thenar area than the control group; mean threshold 5.02, SD±1.59 compared to 2.76, SD±0.79 (von Frey hair number, p=0.04). In addition, their lateral thoracotomy scar areas were significantly less sensitive to von Frey hair stimulation (mean=9.82, SD±1.97, p<0.001) and to cooling and warming than any other site tested. Eight of the nine children in the early surgery group did not perceive warmth on their scars and were only able to detect uncomfortable heat as the temperature was raised. Three of these children felt a paradoxical cold prior to the hot sensation and all reported subtle abnormalities in everyday sensations. Questionnaires revealed perceived differences in pain perception, individual aberrant sensations and pain interfering with daily life that warrant further study. We conclude that tissue injured in early infancy remains measurably altered to mechanical and thermal stimulation in later life. These findings are consistent with the results of animal studies that early infant injury has not only local, but also global long‐term consequences upon sensory processing.
Barriers to rehabilitation and return to work for unemployed chronic pain patients: A qualitative study
Authors: Patel Shilpa , Greasley Kay , Watson Paul J.
Published: February 2007

This paper explores the perceived barriers to return to work presented by unemployed patients with chronic musculoskeletal pain. The findings are based on one to one in depth semi‐structured interviews conducted with patients from four sites in the UK. Interview data were recorded from 38 patients (15 male, 23 female) aged between 29 and 62 years the sample included patients who had participated in a vocational rehabilitation scheme, those who had refused to participate and a naïve group. Patients were in receipt of long‐term social welfare benefits (incapacity benefits) and recruited via local Job Centres. The mean duration of work absence was over 5 years. The data was transcribed and analysed by means of thematic analysis. Several themes were identified as barriers to return to work from the data including pain related issues, uncertainty (both financial and physical), the healthcare system, interaction with benefits providers, perceptions of employers and personal limitations. The uncertainty and the pain condition itself were the overarching barriers from which other obstacles stemmed. This is the first qualitative study of long term unemployed benefit recipients with chronic pain. Others authors have reported psychosocial factors as barriers to work among disabled populations however, this qualitative study has identified barriers specific to unemployed chronic pain patients. The themes identified will help with the planning and development of future initiatives for returning chronic pain patients to employment.
mGluR1 in the fundic glands of rat stomach
Authors: San Gabriel Ana M. , Maekawa Takami , Uneyama Hisayuki , Yoshie Sumio , Torii Kunio
Published: February 2007

l‐glutamate not only confers cognitive discrimination for umami taste in the oral cavity, but also conveys sensory information to vagal afferent fibers in the gastric mucosa. We used RT‐PCR, western blotting, and immunohistochemistry to demonstrate that mGluR1 is located in glandular stomach. Double staining revealed that mGluR1 is found at the apical membrane of chief cells and possibly in parietal cells. Moreover, a diet with 1% l‐glutamate induced changes in the expression of pepsinogen C mRNA in stomach mucosa. These data suggest that mGluR1 is involved in the gastric phase regulation of protein digestion.
Prä- und Probiotika
Authors: Meier  , Lochs
Published: February 2007

Es wird heute postuliert, dass die regelmäßige Einnahme von Prä- und Probiotika gesundheitsfördernd ist. Aufgrund der in vitro und in vivo gezeigten Effekte auf die intestinale Flora, die Darmbarriere und das Immunsystem kann dies theoretisch abgeleitet werden. Der wissenschaftliche Beweis zur Gesundheitsförderung steht aber beim Menschen noch aus. Prä- und Probiotika sind im Darm sehr aktiv und beeinflussen die intestinalen Bakterien, welche an metabolischen, trophischen und protektiven Mechanismen beteiligt sind. Präbiotika stimulieren das Wachstum von apathogenen Bakterien und erhöhen dadurch die Konzentration von kurzkettigen Fettsäuren im Darm. Die kurzkettigen Fettsäuren sind äußerst aktive Substrate im Dickdarm. Probiotika hemmen die Vermehrung von pathogenen Bakterien, verhindern die Translokation von Bakterien und Toxinen und modulieren das intestinale Immunsystem. Für einige Krankheitsbilder (Colitis ulcerosa, Pouchitis, Diarrhö) konnten therapeutische, bzw. prophylaktische Effekte mit Prä- und Probiotika nachgewiesen werden. In den nächsten Jahren werden sicher weitere Indikationen für Prä- und Probiotika einzeln oder zusammen verabreicht, dazu kommen.
Vorschulische Vorhersage von Lese- und Rechtschreibschwierigkeiten
Authors: Marx Peter , Weber Jutta
Published: February 2007

Zusammenfassung. Defizite in der phonologischen Informationsverarbeitung bei Vorschulkindern führen häufig zu Problemen beim Schriftspracherwerb. Diese Erkenntnis versuchen Verfahren wie das Bielefelder Screening (BISC; Jansen, Mannhaupt, H. Marx & Skowronek, 1999 ) zu nutzen, um bereits zu Beginn des letzten Kindergartenjahres die Kinder zu identifizieren, bei denen ein Risiko für Lese-Rechtschreibschwierigkeiten in der Grundschule vorliegt. Die in der Evaluierungsstudie ( Jansen et al., 1999 ) für das BISC ermittelte sehr hohe Vorhersagegüte wurde bisher nicht repliziert. In der vorliegenden Studie wurde die Genauigkeit der Risikoklassifikation durch das BISC an einer Stichprobe von 176 Kindern überprüft. Dazu wurde vier Monate vor Schuleintritt das BISC durchgeführt und anschließend in den vier Jahrgangsstufen der Grundschule die Entwicklung im Lesen und Rechtschreiben verfolgt. Weitgehend unabhängig vom Kriterium (Rechtschreiben, Lesegeschwindigkeit, Leseverständnis) wurden durch das BISC meist weniger als die Hälfte der Kinder entdeckt, die im jeweiligen Test Schwierigkeiten zeigten. Da zudem deutlich weniger als die Hälfte der Risikokinder in den einzelnen Tests auffällig wurden, konnten die in der Evaluierungsstudie ( Jansen et al., 1999 ) ermittelten sehr guten Werte für die Vorhersagegenauigkeit des BISC nicht repliziert werden. Individuelle BISC-Ergebnisse sollten daher mit einer gewissen Zurückhaltung interpretiert werden; möglicherweise muss bei einer Prognose auch die Art des Erstleseunterrichts berücksichtigt werden.
Arbeitsgedächtnisdefizite bei Kindern mit schwachen Rechen- und Schriftsprachleistungen
Authors: Schuchardt Kirsten , Kunze Johanna , Grube Dietmar , Hasselhorn Marcus
Published: February 2007

Zusammenfassung. Vor dem Hintergrund des Arbeitsgedächtnismodells von Baddeley (1986) wurde überprüft, ob Kinder mit Schulleistungsschwächen Leistungsdefizite in zentralexekutiven, phonologischen und visuell-räumlichen Arbeitsgedächtnisfunktionen aufzeigen. Aus einer Stichprobe von 232 Drittklässlern wurden 69 Kinder identifiziert, die sich auf die vier Felder eines zweifaktoriellen Designs (Rechenleistung: schwach vs. unauffällig; Schriftsprachleistungen: schwach vs. unauffällig) verteilen. Um schwache Leistungen aufgrund von Intelligenzminderleistungen aus den Analysen herauszunehmen, wurden nur Kinder mit einem IQ größer 90 berücksichtigt. Die Kinder bearbeiteten in Einzelversuchen eine umfangreiche Testbatterie zur Erfassung der drei Subkomponenten des Arbeitsgedächtnisses. Es zeigte sich, dass Kinder mit Minderleistungen im Rechnen nur in der phonologischen Schleife Defizite aufweisen. Dagegen wurden bei Kindern mit schwachen Schriftsprachleistungen sowohl phonologische als auch zentralexekutive Defizite beobachtet. Die Bedeutung des phonologischen Arbeitsgedächtnisses bei Schwierigkeiten im Rechnen, Lesen und Schreiben wird diskutiert.
Cloud condensation nuclei closure during the International Consortium for Atmospheric Research on Transport and Transformation 2004 campaign: Effects of size‐resolved composition
Authors: Medina Jeessy , Nenes Athanasios , Sotiropoulou Rafaella‐Eleni P. , Cottrell Laura D. , Ziemba Luke D. , Beckman Pieter J. , Griffin Robert J.
Published: February 2007

Measurements of cloud condensation nuclei (CCN), aerosol size distribution and chemical composition were obtained at the UNH‐AIRMAP Thompson Farms site, during the ICARTT 2004 campaign. This work focuses on the analysis of a week of measurements, during which semiurban and continental air were sampled. Predictions of CCN concentrations were carried out using “simple” Köhler theory; the predictions are subsequently compared with CCN measurements at 0.2%, 0.3%, 0.37%, 0.5% and 0.6% supersaturation. Using size‐averaged chemical composition, CCN are substantially overpredicted (by 35.8 ± 28.5%). Introducing size‐dependent chemical composition substantially improved closure (average error 17.4 ± 27.0%). CCN closure is worse during periods of changing wind direction, suggesting that the introduction of aerosol mixing state into CCN predictions may sometimes be required. Finally, knowledge of the soluble salt fraction is sufficient for description of CCN activity.
Comparing the impact of meteorological variability on surface ozone during the NEAQS (2002) and ICARTT (2004) field campaigns
Authors: White A. B. , Darby L. S. , Senff C. J. , King C. W. , Banta R. M. , Koermer J. , Wilczak J. M. , Neiman P. J. , Angevine W. M. , Talbot R.
Published: February 2007

This paper investigates linkages between weather, climate, and air quality that contributed to the large difference in the number of ozone exceedances encountered in the northeastern United States (U.S.) during 2002 and 2004. Major air quality research field campaigns were conducted in the northeast during July and August of each year. Both the 2002 New England Air Quality Study (NEAQS‐02) and the International Consortium for Atmospheric Research on Transport and Transformation 2004 field study (ICARTT‐04) had research components focused on regional air quality. The primary environmental difference between the two field campaigns was the underlying climatic conditions. The July–August period in 2002 was much sunnier, warmer, and drier than normal. In contrast, the July–August period in 2004 was cloudier, cooler, and much wetter than normal. We conclude that these extreme climatic conditions were the underlying cause for the significant difference in the number of ozone exceedances that occurred during NEAQS‐02 and ICARTT‐04. We rule out the impact of other meteorological processes as the primary cause of this difference. We gauge horizontal transport using surface and upper air wind observations collected on Appledore Island (ADI), off the coast of New Hampshire and Maine, along with back trajectories based solely on wind observations collected by profiler networks deployed for each study. The wind conditions that favor pollutant transport to the northeast were more prevalent in 2004 than in 2002, yet the number of ozone exceedances in 2004 was more than a factor of three less than in 2002. Neither was daytime boundary layer mixing the cause for this discrepancy. Unlike other parts of the U.S. where poor air quality is generally associated with shallow boundary layers, in New England the boundary layers were deeper on high‐ozone days than on clean days because the same sunny, warm, and dry conditions that favor boundary layer ozone production also produce deeper boundary layers. Both field campaigns were synoptically active. Lulls in synoptic activity explained most of the high‐ozone events observed in 2002, whereas even an extended lull in synoptic activity during the summer of 2004 did not produce a single high‐ozone day.
A paleomagnetic approach toward refining Holocene radiocarbon‐based chronologies: Paleoceanographic records from the north Iceland (MD99‐2269) and east Greenland (MD99‐2322) margins
Authors: Stoner Joseph S. , Jennings Anne , Kristjánsdóttir Gréta B. , Dunhill Gita , Andrews John T. , Hardardóttir Jorunn
Published: February 2007

We report the intercalibration of paleomagnetic secular variation (PSV) and radiocarbon dates of two expanded postglacial sediment cores from geographically proximal, but oceanographically and sedimentologically contrasting settings. The objective is to improve relative correlation and chronology over what can be achieved with either method alone. Core MD99‐2269 was taken from the Húnaflóaáll Trough on the north Iceland shelf. Core MD99‐2322 was collected from the Kangerlussuaq Trough on the east Greenland margin. Both cores are well dated, with 27 and 20 accelerator mass spectrometry 14C dates for cores 2269 and 2322, respectively. Paleomagnetic measurements made on u channel samples document a strong, stable, single‐component magnetization. The temporal similarities of paleomagnetic inclination and declination records are shown using each core's independent calibrated radiocarbon age model. Comparison of the PSV records reveals that the relative correlation between the two cores could be further improved. Starting in the depth domain, tie points initially based on calibrated 14C dates are either adjusted or added to maximize PSV correlations. Radiocarbon dates from both cores are then combined on a common depth scale resulting from the PSV correlation. Support for the correlation comes from the consistent interweaving of dates, correct alignment of the Saksunarvatn tephra, and the improved correlation of paleoceanographic proxy data (percent carbonate). These results demonstrate that PSV correlation used in conjunction with 14C dates can improve relative correlation and also regional chronologies by allowing dates from various stratigraphic sequences to be combined into a single, higher dating density, age‐to‐depth model.
Preparation and magnetoresistance of Ag2+xSe thin films deposited via pulsed laser deposition.
Authors: Mogwitz B. , Korte C. , Janek J. , v. Kreutzbruck M. , Kienle L.
Published: February 2007

The preparation of Ag2+xSe thin films with thicknesses between 4 nm and 3 μm by pulsed laser deposition on single crystalline NaCl and MgO substrates is reported. The films are perfectly dense and show a good lateral uniformity with a small number of defects. The microstructure of the films corresponds to a nanoparquet, being composed of two different phases of silver selenide. One phase is identified as the Naumannite low temperature phase of silver selenide, the structure of the other phase has not been reported in detail before and probably represents a metastable phase. Silver-rich films contain silver precipitates with typical sizes on the nanoscale. Their presence and their size appears to be responsible for the large and linear magnetoresistance effect of silver-rich silver selenide.
Formation and morphological stability of NiSi in the presence of W, Ti, and Ta alloying elements
Authors: Deduytsche D. , Detavernier C. , Van Meirhaeghe R. L. , Jordan-Sweet J. L. , Lavoie C.
Published: February 2007

The formation and degradation of NiSi films has been studied when elements with a high melting point (W, Ta, and Ti) were added to pure Ni films as an alloying element. In situ techniques were used to characterize the phase stability and the morphological stability of the NiSi layers. Depending on the concentration of the alloying element, two distinct regimes could be distinguished. First, the addition of a small quantity of an alloying element (e.g., <10 vol % W) had little impact on the formation of NiSi, but significantly improved the morphological stability. In some cases, the agglomeration temperature was increased by 100 °C. Second, for higher concentrations (e.g., <10 vol % W), no crystalline metal rich phases (NixSiywith x>y) could be observed prior to NiSi formation. Furthermore, a significant increase was observed of the apparent activation energy for NiSi formation.
Oscillator strengths and radiative lifetimes for C2: Swan, Ballik-Ramsay, Phillips, and dΠg3←cΣu+3 systems
Authors: Kokkin Damian L. , Bacskay George B. , Schmidt Timothy W.
Published: February 2007

High level ab initio calculations, using multireference configuration interaction (MRCI) techniques, have been carried out to investigate the spectroscopic properties of the singlet AΠu1←XΣg+1 Phillips, the triplet dΠg3←aΣu3 Swan, the bΣg−3←aΠu3 Ballik-Ramsay, and the dΠg3←cΣu+3 transitions of C2. The MRCI expansions are based on full-valence complete active space self-consistent-field reference states and utilize the aug-cc-pV6Z basis set to resolve valence electron correlation. Core and core-valence correlations and scalar relativistic energy corrections were also incorporated in the computed potential energy surfaces. Nonadiabatic and spin-orbit effects were explored and found to be of negligible importance in the calculations. Harmonic frequencies and rotational constants are typically within 0.1% of experiment. The calculated radiative lifetimes compare very well with the available experimental data. Oscillator strengths are reported for all systems: fv′v″, where 0⩽v⩽5.
Monte Carlo simulation of scanning electron microscopy bright contrast images of suspended carbon nanofibers
Authors: Suzuki Makoto , Yamada Toshishige , Yang Cary Y.
Published: February 2007

The authors present a Monte Carlo study of previously observed bright contrast from carbon nanofibers suspended over the underlying substrate using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The analysis shows that the origin of the bright contrast is mainly the increase in the secondary electron signal from the substrate when a gap between the nanofiber and substrate exists. The SEM signal dependence on the gap height is well reproduced by Monte Carlo simulation as well as a derived analytical expression. The bright contrast prevails when the SEM beam size is much smaller than the nanofiber diameter.
Color-tunable electroluminescence from white organic light-emitting devices through coupled surface plasmons
Authors: Feng Jing , Okamoto Takayuki , Simonen Janne , Kawata Satoshi
Published: February 2007

The authors report color-tunable electroluminescence from white organic light-emitting devices (WOLEDs) through coupling of surface plasmons in a metal/insulator/metal (MIM) structure. The MIM structure was fabricated by depositing Ag and 2, 9-dimethyl-4, 7-diphenyl-1, 10-phenanthroline (BCP) films on the Ag cathode of a WOLED. The transmission wavelength through the MIM structure depends on the thickness of the middle BCP layer and can be tuned in the visible range. Therefore, the broadband emission from WOLEDs is selectively transmitted, and color-tunable EL emission was obtained. Blue, green, and red light emissions were observed when the BCP layer thicknesses are 70, 100, and 130nm, respectively.
Stress focusing for controlled fracture in microelectromechanical systems
Authors: Meitl Matthew A. , Feng Xue , Dong Jingyan , Menard Etienne , Ferreira Placid M. , Huang Yonggang , Rogers John A.
Published: February 2007

This letter describes a strategy for controlling fracture in microelectromechanical systems (MEMSs) based on the control of corner sharpness. Studies of model MEMS structures with round (radius of approximately microns), intermediate, and sharp (<10nm) corners demonstrate the effects of corner sharpness on the concentration of applied stress. Finite-element analysis reveals that stress distributions intensify and localize as sharpness increases, and transfer printing experiments demonstrate the influence of stress concentration on breakability.
Energy minimization for self-organized structure formation and actuation
Authors: Kofod Guggi , Wirges Werner , Paajanen Mika , Bauer Siegfried
Published: February 2007

An approach for creating complex structures with embedded actuation in planar manufacturing steps is presented. Self-organization and energy minimization are central to this approach, illustrated with a model based on minimization of the hyperelastic free energy strain function of a stretched elastomer and the bending elastic energy of a plastic frame. A tulip-shaped gripper structure illustrates the technological potential of the approach. Advantages are simplicity of manufacture, complexity of final structures, and the ease with which any electroactive material can be exploited as means of actuation.
Interfacial structure of a-plane GaN grown on r-plane sapphire
Authors: Kröger R. , Paskova T. , Figge S. , Hommel D. , Rosenauer A. , Monemar B.
Published: February 2007

The interface between a-plane GaN, grown by metal organic vapor phase epitaxy and hydride vapor phase epitaxy, and r-plane sapphire was investigated by transmission electron microscopy in [1−100] and [0001] zone axis orientations. The interfacial structure was well defined allowing a direct observation of the misfit dislocations in both orientations. An analysis of these dislocations revealed for the respective Burgers vectors a 1∕3⟨2−1−10⟩ component in the {0002} planes and a 1∕2⟨0001⟩ component in the {1−100} planes. In addition, the relative atomic column configurations in the GaN and sapphire were determined based on Bloch-wave simulations in comparison with the experimental images.
Knowledge Externalities, Spatial Dependence, and Metropolitan Economic Growth in the United States
Authors: Lim Up
Published: February 2007

My purpose in this paper is to investigate the extent to which metropolitan economic growth is related to various types of knowledge externalities in high-technology industries in metropolitan areas for the period 1990–1999. The empirical results indicate the relative importance of the effects of high-technology specialisation externalities on metropolitan economic growth. In this paper I also find positive and highly significant evidence of spatial dependence in metropolitan economic growth. This finding suggests that spatial spillover effects in metropolitan economic growth transcend metropolitan boundaries. From the convergence point of view, I have not found significant evidence of absolute convergence for the period. However, after controlling for structural characteristics determining metropolitan economic growth, I have found significant evidence of convergence for the period.
Fuzzy Sets and Simulated Environmental Change: Evaluating and Communicating Impact Significance in Environmental Impact Assessment
Authors: Wood Graham , Rodriguez-Bachiller Agustin , Becker Julia
Published: February 2007

The concept of the significance of effects is a critical yet poorly understood component of environmental impact assessment (EIA). In this paper we explore the potential of fuzzy-set theory and simulations of environmental change for delineating evaluations of impact significance made by a range of stakeholders. The theoretical basis of fuzzy sets is explained and the approach is applied to the noise and visual effects associated with a ‘live’ windfarm EIA case study. In the final part of the paper we critically reflect on the approach before drawing conclusions.
A Pedestrian World: Competing Rationalities and the Calculation of Transportation Change
Authors: Patton Jason W
Published: February 2007

In this paper I examine pedestrian-motor-vehicle conflicts in US cities as competing forms of rationality based in particular values, techniques, and material forms. The kernel of dispute is the transportation engineer's focus on ‘traffic flow’ in allowing motor vehicles to move as efficiently as possible versus the pedestrian advocate's desire for ‘place’ as the intimate context of urban life. I consider the City of Oakland's Pedestrian Master Plan as a challenge to the mandate for traffic flow operationalized by the Transportation Research Board's Highway Capacity Manual. These values and techniques shape intersections, pedestrian crossings, street corners, and other taken-for-granted material forms in the urban built environment. Within the constraints of shared right-of-way, these competing rationalities are negotiated through spatial and temporal strategies that, historically, have resulted in the hierarchical ordering of the automobile over pedestrians in the US city. However, a growing emphasis on walking, bicycling, and public-transit-riding is reshaping the predominant values, techniques, and material forms to facilitate street design for multiple transportation modes.
Regulation of poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase 1 activity by the phosphorylation state of the nuclear NAD biosynthetic enzyme NMN adenylyl transferase 1
Authors: Berger Felicitas , Lau Corinna , Ziegler Mathias
Published: February 2007

Nuclear NAD
+
metabolism constitutes a major component of signaling pathways. It includes NAD
+
-dependent protein deacetylation by members of the Sir2 family and protein modification by poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase 1 (PARP-1). PARP-1 has emerged as an important mediator of processes involving DNA rearrangements. High-affinity binding to breaks in DNA activates PARP-1, which attaches poly(ADP-ribose) (PAR) to target proteins. NMN adenylyl transferases (NMNATs) catalyze the final step of NAD
+
biosynthesis. We report here that the nuclear isoform NMNAT-1 stimulates PARP-1 activity and binds to PAR. Its overexpression in HeLa cells promotes the relocation of apoptosis-inducing factor from the mitochondria to the nucleus, a process known to depend on poly(ADP-ribosyl)ation. Moreover, NMNAT-1 is subject to phosphorylation by protein kinase C, resulting in reduced binding to PAR. Mimicking phosphorylation, substitution of the target serine residue by aspartate precludes PAR binding and stimulation of PARP-1. We conclude that, depending on its state of phosphorylation, NMNAT-1 binds to activated, automodifying PARP-1 and thereby amplifies poly(ADP-ribosyl)ation.
MafB is required for islet β cell maturation
Authors: Artner Isabella , Blanchi Bruno , Raum Jeffrey C. , Guo Min , Kaneko Tomomi , Cordes Sabine , Sieweke Michael , Stein Roland
Published: February 2007

Pancreatic endocrine cell differentiation depends on transcription factors that also contribute in adult insulin and glucagon gene expression. Islet cell development was examined in mice lacking MafB, a transcription factor expressed in immature α (glucagon
+
) and β (insulin
+
) cells and capable of activating
insulin
and
glucagon
expression
in vitro
. We observed that MafB
−/−
embryos had reduced numbers of insulin
+
and glucagon
+
cells throughout development, whereas the total number of endocrine cells was unchanged. Moreover, production of insulin
+
cells was delayed until embryonic day (E) 13.5 in mutant mice and coincided with the onset of MafA expression, a MafB-related activator of
insulin
transcription. MafA expression was only detected in the insulin
+
cell population in MafB mutants, whereas many important regulatory proteins continued to be expressed in insulin
−
β cells. However, Pdx1, Nkx6.1, and GLUT2 were selectively lost in these insulin-deficient cells between E15.5 and E18.5. MafB appears to directly regulate transcription of these genes, because binding was observed within endogenous control region sequences. These results demonstrate that MafB plays a previously uncharacterized role by regulating transcription of key factors during development that are required for the production of mature α and β cells.
The spinal muscular atrophy gene product regulates neurite outgrowth: importance of the C terminus
Authors: van Bergeijk Jeroen , Rydel‐Könecke Katharina , Grothe Claudia , Claus Peter
Published: February 2007

Spinal muscular atrophy is a neurodegenerative disease accompanied by a loss of motoneurons. Either mutations or deletions in the survival of motoneuron (SMN) gene are responsible for this defect. SMN is an assembly protein for RNA‐protein complexes in the nucleus and is also found in axons of neurons. However, it is unclear which dysfunctions of SMN are important for disease progression. In this study we analyzed the contributions of different SMN regions for localization and neuronal differentiation associated with outgrowth of neurites. Suppression of endogenous SMN protein levels significantly decreased the growth of neurites. Down‐regulation of the interacting protein gemin2 had the opposite effect. Surprisingly, selective overexpression of the SMN C‐terminal domain promoted neurite outgrowth similar to full‐length protein and could rescue the SMN knock‐down effects. The knock‐down led to a significant change in the G‐/F‐actin ratio, indicating a role for SMN in actin dynamics. Therefore, our data suggest a functional role for SMN in microfilament metabolism in axons of motoneurons.—van Bergeijk, J., Rydel‐Könecke, K., Grothe, C., Claus, P. The spinal muscular atrophy gene product regulates neurite outgrowth: importance of the C terminus. FASEB J. 21, 1492–1502 (2007)
Shugoshin enables tension-generating attachment of kinetochores by loading Aurora to centromeres
Authors: Kawashima Shigehiro A. , Tsukahara Tatsuya , Langegger Maria , Hauf Silke , Kitajima Tomoya S. , Watanabe Yoshinori
Published: February 2007

Fission yeast shugoshin Sgo1 is meiosis specific and cooperates with protein phosphatase 2A to protect centromeric cohesin at meiosis I. The other shugoshin-like protein Sgo2, which requires the heterochromatin protein Swi6/HP1 for full viability, plays a crucial role for proper chromosome segregation at both mitosis and meiosis; however, the underlying mechanisms are totally elusive. We here demonstrate that, unlike Sgo1, Sgo2 is dispensable for centromeric protection of cohesin. Instead, Sgo2 interacts with Bir1/Survivin and promotes Aurora kinase complex localization to the pericentromeric region, to correct erroneous attachment of kinetochores and thereby enable tension-generating attachment. Forced localization of Bir1 to centromeres partly restored the defects of sgo2Δ. This newly identified interaction of shugoshin with Survivin is conserved between mitosis and meiosis and presumably across eukaryotes. We propose that ensuring bipolar attachment of kinetochores is the primary role of shugoshin and the role of cohesion protection might have codeveloped to facilitate this process.
Dickkopf-1 regulates gastrulation movements by coordinated modulation of Wnt/βcatenin and Wnt/PCP activities, through interaction with the Dally-like homolog Knypek
Authors: Caneparo Luca , Huang Ya-Lin , Staudt Nicole , Tada Masasumi , Ahrendt Reiner , Kazanskaya Olga , Niehrs Christof , Houart Corinne
Published: February 2007

Dickkopf-1 (Dkk1) is a secreted protein that negatively modulates the Wnt/βcatenin pathway. Lack of Dkk1 function affects head formation in frog and mice, supporting the idea that Dkk1 acts as a “head inducer” during gastrulation. We show here that lack of Dkk1 function accelerates internalization and rostral progression of the mesendoderm and that gain of function slows down both internalization and convergence extension, indicating a novel role for Dkk1 in modulating these movements. The motility phenotype found in the morphants is not observed in embryos in which the Wnt/βcatenin pathway is overactivated, and that dominant-negative Wnt proteins are not able to rescue the gastrulation movement defect induced by absence of Dkk1. These data strongly suggest that Dkk1 is acting in a βcatenin independent fashion when modulating gastrulation movements. We demonstrate that the glypican 4/6 homolog Knypek (Kny) binds to Dkk1 and that they are able to functionally interact in vivo. Moreover, Dkk1 regulation of gastrulation movements is kny dependent. Kny is a component of the Wnt/planar cell polarity (PCP) pathway. We found that indeed Dkk1 is able to activate this pathway in both Xenopus and zebrafish. Furthermore, concomitant alteration of the βcatenin and PCP activities is able to mimic the morphant accelerated cell motility phenotype. Our data therefore indicate that Dkk1 regulates gastrulation movement through interaction with LRP5/6 and Kny and coordinated modulations of Wnt/βcatenin and Wnt/PCP pathways.
Anaesthesia in the Guillain‐Barré syndrome
Authors: PEREL A. , RECHES A. , DAVIDSON J. T.
Published: February 2007

A large proportion of patients with the Guillain‐Barre syndrome show signs of involvement of the autonomic nervous system beside the better known motor and sensory features of this disease. These patients present a substantial anaesthetic risk because of autonomic dysfunction. We present here an illustrative case in which the administration of a low subarachnoid block resulted in cardiac arrest and offer suggestions for the anaesthetic management of such cases.
Failure of epidural morphine to relieve pain in labour
Authors: HUSEMEYER R.P. , O'CONNOR M.C. , DAVENPORT H.T.
Published: February 2007

Lumbar epidural injections of 2 mg preservative‐free morphine were given to 10 subjects in established labour. Assessment of pain using a visual analogue scoring system revealed no appreciable relief of pain 30 min after morphine injection. Analgesia was subsequently provided by epidural injection of 8 ml bupivacaine 0·375%. Failure of epidural morphine 2 mg to provide analgesia in labour is in contrast to the reported efficacy of epidural morphine 2 mg in the treatment of severe pain other than labour. Possible explanations for this discrepancy are discussed.
Suxamethonium apnoea associated with plasmaphoresis
Authors: EVANS R.T. , MACDONALD ROSEMARY , ROBINSON ANGELA
Published: February 2007

A patient is reported who developed suxamethonium apnoea as a result of reduction in serum cholinesterase activity secondary to both pregnancy and plasmaphoresis. Had the enzyme studies been carried out before operation, regional rather than general, anaesthesia would have been used. In order to avoid the problems associated with prolonged paralysis we recommend the measurement of cholinesterase activity in all patients who have undergone plasmaphoresis and in whom anaesthesia involving the use of suxamethonium is contemplated.
Epidural anaesthesia with chloroprocaine
Authors: CONKLIN KENNETH A. , VAN DER WAL CALVIN
Published: February 2007

A case report of continuous lumbar epidural anaesthesia with chloroprocaine is described in which delayed onset, extensive and delayed spread, and prolonged duration were observed. Although placement of neither the needle nor the catheter was confirmed radiographically, the anaesthetic course may be consistent with extra‐arachnoid subdural injection of the local anaesthetic solution. Other reported cases, with similar features and which may be explained in the same way, are also discussed.
Midazolam: a water‐soluble benzodiazepine
Authors: DUNDEE J.W. , SAMUEL I.O. , TONER W. , HOWARD P.J.
Published: February 2007

Midazolam, a new water‐soluble benzodiazepine, was given intravenously in 5 and 10 mg doses to nine volunteers and plasma levels estimated at intervals for 24 hours. Recovery was also studied. The drug was easy and painless to inject and venous thrombosis was not found in this series. While there was a great individual variation in response to the drug this was not related to the weight of the subjects. Plasma levels declined rapidly and there was no ‘second peak’ effect. The half‐life was between 60 and 90 min. Recovery was much more rapid than after comparable doses of diazepam.
Personality characteristics of a sample of anaesthetists
Authors: REEVE PETER E.
Published: February 2007

No published information on the personality characteristics of a significant proportion of any specialty of the medical profession has been available to date. The author presents the results from the application of a personality questionnaire (Cattell's 16 PF Form C) to a sample of anaesthetists (n = 231). These show that this sample of anaesthetists differs from the general population in a number of dimensions. They are more reserved, intelligent, assertive, serious, conscientious, self‐sufficient and tense and less socially bold and self‐assured. They also differ from a sample of general practitioners. Within the sample of anaesthetists, there are significant differences on a cluster of factors relating to stability. Evidence is quoted, from part of the sample, of a significant relationship between personality profiles and behaviour and performance. The author puts forward a descriptive picture of the ‘good’ anaesthetist and the obverse and the possible implications for the assessment and selection of applicants for this shortage specialty.
A modification of the Laerdal anaesthesia mask for nasotracheal intubation with the fiberoptic laryngoscope
Authors: MALLIOS C.
Published: February 2007

The Laerdal mask can be easily modified to permit nasotracheal intubation to be undertaken under general anaesthesia with the aid of a fiberoptic laryngoscope.
Self‐administered intravenous and intramuscular pethidine
Authors: ROBINSON J.O. , ROSEN M. , EVANS J.M. , REVILL SUSAN I. , DAVID H. , REES G.A.D.
Published: February 2007

In a randomised controlled trial of mothers in labour intramuscular pethidine 150 mg, repeated if necessary, was compared with self‐administered intravenous pethidine (0·25 mg/kg available at 10‐min‐intervals). Each mother agreed to have either method of pain relief and could opt for epidural block. The intramuscular group had significantly more pethidine than the intravenous group (mean differences, primipara 29 mg; multipara 16 mg). Ratings by mothers of the pain of 1st, 2nd stage and overall (analogue scores and gradings) were consistently better for the intravenous group although not significantly different. There were no differences in mean Apgar scores between the babies in the groups. In mothers who do not choose epidural block, similar pain relief is afforded by adequate intramuscular pethidine or self‐demand intravenous pethidine; however, intravenous self‐administration is more efficient since the pain relief is achieved with a lower dose of pethidine.
Retirement of anaesthetists
Authors: SMITH W.D.A.
Published: February 2007

The tenure of posts by consultant anaesthetists is compared with that by consultants in other specialties. Populations studied were not strictly comparable: however, due mainly to early retirement for reasons unknown, only 70–80% of anaesthetists who might have been expected to retire at 65 years of age actually did so. Provisional plans for a study of Occupational health are described. Results of a questionnaire on attitudes to retirement are reported. Comments elicited refer to: financial and family considerations: a belief in longevity associated with early retirement: effects of ageing upon health, ability and response to ‘stress’: lack of self‐pacing and of job adjustment for age and health: professional and administrative ‘stresses’: recruitment, manpower and workload: health hazards: and a wish to pursue other interests. Forty per cent of responders anticipated retiring before the age of 61 years. Possible relevance of early appointment as consultant is mentioned.
Cardiac arrest during transurethral prostatectomy after absorption of 1·5% glycine
Authors: CHARLTON ANDREW J.
Published: February 2007

A case of cardiovascular collapse which resulted from intravascular absorption of irrigation fluid during transurethral prostatectomy is reported, with a brief review of the literature.
Air embolism in hip surgery
Authors: MICHEL ROSALIND
Published: February 2007

The hearts of 49 patients undergoing hip‐replacement surgery were auscultated and the characteristic sounds of air emboli were heard in 15 of them—30% of the total. This finding was confirmed in the later patients by the use of an ultrasonic transducer to detect air emboli.

Routine auscultation of the heart during the insertion of acrylic bone cement and prosthesis is recommended.
Signs of endotracheal intubation
Authors: HOWELLS T. HILARY , RIETHMULLER R.J.
Published: February 2007

A case of oesophageal intubation is described in which simulated lung ventilation occurred to a convincing degree. The signs relevant to correct endotracheal placement are discussed and explanations for the observed events are offered.
Respiratory depression after intrathecal narcotics
Authors: DAVIES G.K. , TOLHURST‐CLEAVER C.L. , JAMES T.L.
Published: February 2007

Three out of six patients who had received 1 mg of morphine and 0·22 ml plain bupivacaine 0·5%/segment as a subarachnoid spinal anaesthetic developed serious and delayed respiratory depression on several occasions. This was reversed by intravenous naloxone. It is postulated that the morphine had diffused to the level of the cisterna magnum and thence through brain tissue around the fourth ventricle. Naloxone did not reverse the analgesia.
Inadvertent tourniquet release five minutes after intravenous regional bupivacaine
Authors: BEN ARONSON H. , VATASHSKY ELIK
Published: February 2007

This is a report of a case of inadvertent release of an arm tourniquet only 5 minutes after intravenous regional anaesthesia with 150 mg of bupivacaine without serious effect.