bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The mechanism of addition of pyridoxal 5′-phosphate to Escherichia coli apo-serine hydroxymethyltransferase
Authors: Malerba Francesca , Bellelli Andrea , Giorgi Alessandra , Bossa Francesco , Contestabile Roberto
Published: May 2007

Previous studies suggest that the addition of pyridoxal 5′-phosphate to apo-serine hydroxymethyltransferase from Escherichia coli is the last event in the enzyme's folding process. We propose a mechanism for this reaction based on quenched-flow, stopped-flow and rapid-scanning stopped-flow experiments. All experiments were performed with an excess of apo-enzyme over cofactor, since excess pyridoxal 5′-phosphate results in a second molecule of cofactor binding to Lys346, which is part of the tetrahydropteroylglutamate-binding site. The equilibrium between the aldehyde and hydrate forms of the cofactor affects the kinetics of addition to the active site. Direct evidence of the formation of an intermediate aldimine between the cofactor and the active-site lysine was obtained. The results have been interpreted according to a three-step mechanism in which: (i) both aldehyde and hydrate forms of the cofactor bind rapidly and non-covalently to the apo-enzyme; (ii) only the aldehyde form reacts with the active-site lysine to give an intermediate internal aldimine with unusual spectral properties; and (iii) a final conformational change gives the native holo-enzyme.
Effect of Cues to Increase Sound Pressure Level on Respiratory Kinematic Patterns During Connected Speech
Authors: Huber Jessica E.
Published: May 2007

Purpose

This study examined the response of the respiratory system to 3 cues used to elicit increased vocal loudness to determine whether the effects of cueing, shown previously in sentence tasks, were present in connected speech tasks and to describe differences among tasks.

Method

Fifteen young men and 15 young women produced a 2-paragraph reading passage in response to 4 different loudness cues: comfortable loudness level, targeting 10 dB above comfortable, at what they perceived as twice their comfortable loudness, and with multitalker noise present in the background. A short monologue was produced at comfortable loudness level and with noise in the background.

Results

Differences in respiratory strategies were demonstrated for the different cueing conditions, similar to patterns observed in sentence productions. The kinematic patterns were similar for reading and monologue; however, utterances were longer and speaking rate was slower in the monologue task.

Conclusion

The findings extend the results from sentences to connected speech and provide support for the hypothesis that “intention” or goals play a role in the control of respiratory function during speech. Respiratory kinematics were similar across tasks, when the same cue was used, except for differences related to breath group length and speech rate.
Position and length operators in a theory with minimal length
Authors: Slawny J.
Published: May 2007

Relations between the notions of fundamental and minimal lengths, and duality, in a system with minimal length uncertainty relations are examined. Self-adjoint versions of operators relevant to the problem, and their spectra, are analyzed in detail.
Bound states of hydrogen atom in a theory with minimal length uncertainty relations
Authors: Slawny J.
Published: May 2007

The following properties of bound states of hydrogen atom in a theory with noncommuting position operators are investigated: their number, multiplicities, accidental degeneracy, localization, and dependence on the values of deformation parameters.
Self-assembled morphologies of diblock copolymers confined in nanochannels: Effects of confinement geometry
Authors: Yu Bin , Sun Pingchuan , Chen Tiehong , Jin Qinghua , Ding Datong , Li Baohui , Shi An-Chang
Published: May 2007

The self-assembly of diblock copolymers confined in channels of various shaped cross sections is studied using a simulated annealing technique with the “single-site bond fluctuation” model. In the bulk, the asymmetric diblock copolymers used in this study form hexagonally packed cylinders with period L0. The cross sections of the confining channels are of different shapes including regular triangles, rectangles, squares, regular hexagons, regular octagons, and ellipses. For a given geometry, the channel size (characterized by one or two lengths) is varied from very small to several times of L0. It is found that the geometry and size of the confining channels have a large effect on the structure and symmetry of the self-assembled morphologies. Multiple packed cylinders with the symmetry of the confining channels are the major morphologies for low-symmetry cross sections such as triangle, rectangle, and square. More complex structures such as helices or stacked toroids spontaneously form when the confining channels are shaped such as a regular hexagon, a regular octagon, or an ellipse. The domain spacing of the self-assembled structures can be altered by the shape and size of the confining channels. Our results are consistent with available experiments. These results indicate that the self-assembled structures of block copolymers can be manipulated by the shape of the confining channels.
Ion doping effects on static and dynamic properties of ferromagnetic nanoparticles
Authors: Wesselinowa J. M. , Apostolova I.
Published: May 2007

Doping effects on the static and dynamic properties of ferromagnetic particles are studied using the method of real-space Green’s function. It is shown that depending on the exchange interaction constant in the defect shells Jd of ferromagnetic nanoparticles the magnetization, the phase transition temperature and the excitation energy can be larger or smaller compared to the case without defects, whereas the damping is always enhanced.
Spatially resolved crack-tip stress analysis in semiconductor by cathodoluminescence piezospectroscopy
Authors: Zhu Wenliang , Porporati Alessandro Alan , Matsutani Atsuo , Lama Nicola , Pezzotti Giuseppe
Published: May 2007

A spatially resolved cathodoluminescence piezospectroscopic analysis is attempted for the high-resolution evaluation of the stress field developed ahead of the tip of an equilibrium crack propagating in a semiconductor. GaN was selected for this assessment as a paradigm semiconductor material. Quantitative measurements of in-plane luminescence probe response function (PRF) were preliminarily performed at different acceleration voltages upon scanning across a straight and atomically sharp interface between GaN and gold metal. Then, based on the knowledge of PRF, the convoluting effect due to the finite size of the electron probe could be corrected and an improved plot of the crack-tip stress field could be retrieved by a computer-aided data restoration procedure. The crack-tip stress intensity factor KI obtained by the cathodoluminescence piezospectroscopic method was compared with that obtained on the same crack path according to high-resolution measurements of crack-tip opening displacement. This study not only shows that a nanometer-scale spatial resolution can be experimentally achieved in a stress analysis of semiconductor materials but also that a stress data treatment based on experimental PRF is a viable approach to greatly reduce the error involved with the finite size of the electron probe.
Prediction of product branching ratios in the C(P3)+C2H2→l-C3H+H∕c-C3H+H∕C3+H2 reaction using ab initio coupled clusters calculations extrapolated to the complete basis set combined with Rice-Ramsperger-Kassel-Marcus and radiationless transition theories
Authors: Mebel A. M. , Kislov V. V. , Hayashi M.
Published: May 2007

Ab initio CCSD(T) calculations of intermediates and transition states on the singlet and triplet C3H2 potential energy surfaces extrapolated to the complete basis set limit are combined with statistical computations of energy-dependent rate constants of the C(P3)+C2H2 reaction under crossed molecular beam conditions. Rice-Ramsperger-Kassel-Marcus theory is applied for isomerization and dissociation steps within the same multiplicity and radiationless transition and nonadiabatic transition state theories are used for singlet-triplet intersystem crossing rates. The calculated rate constants are utilized to predict product branching ratios. The results demonstrate that, in qualitative agreement with available experimental data, c-C3H+H and C3+H2 are the most probable products at low collision energies, whereas l-C3H+H becomes dominant at higher Ec above ∼25kJ∕mol.
How strongly can calcium ion influence the hydrogen-bond dynamics at complex aqueous interfaces?
Authors: Senapati Sanjib
Published: May 2007

The author has performed three independent molecular dynamics computer simulations to examine the effects of counterion identity on hydrogen-bond dynamics in the enclosed water pool of anionic surfactant-based reverse micelles. The water–water hydrogen-bond lifetime in the reverse micelle (RM) with calcium ions is found to be longer than that in the RM with sodium or ammonium ions. The hydrogen bond between a polar head group and a water molecule, on the other hand, breaks but reforms most rapidly in the RM with calcium ions, indicating that there exists a strong competition between head group–counterion and head group–water interactions at such complex interfaces.
Impedance spectroscopy using maximum length sequences: Application to single cell analysis
Authors: Gawad Shady , Sun Tao , Green Nicolas G. , Morgan Hywel
Published: May 2007

A maximum length sequence (MLS) is used to perform broadband impedance spectroscopy on a dielectric sample. The method has a number of advantages over other pulse-based or frequency sweep techniques. It requires the application of a very short sequence of voltage steps in the microsecond range and therefore allows the measurement of time-dependent impedance of a sample with high temporal resolution over a large bandwidth. The technique is demonstrated using a time-invariant passive RC network. The impedance of single biological cell flowing in a microfluidic channel is also measured, showing that MLS is an ideal method for high speed impedance analysis.
Influence of an electric field on the non-Newtonian response of a hybrid-aligned nematic cell under shear flow
Authors: Guillén A. David , Mendoza Carlos I.
Published: May 2007

The authors study shear flow in hybrid-aligned nematic cells under the action of an applied electric field by solving numerically a hydrodynamic model. The authors apply this model to a flow-aligning nematic liquid crystal (4′-n-pentyl-4-cyanobiphenyl) and obtain the director’s configuration and the velocity profile at the stationary state. The authors calculate the local and apparent viscosities of the system and found that the competition between the shear flow and the electric field gives rise to an interesting non-Newtonian response with regions of shear thickening and thinning. The results also show an important electrorheological effect ranging from a value a bit larger than the Miesowicz viscosity ηb [Nature (London) 17, 261 (1935)] for small electric fields and large shear flows to ηc for large electric fields and small shear flows. The analysis of the first normal stress difference shows that for small negative shear rates, the force between the plates of the cell is attractive, while it is repulsive for all other values of shear rates. However, under the application of the electric field, one can modify the extent of the region of attraction. Finally, the authors have calculated the dragging forces on the plates of the cell and found that it is easier to shear in one direction than in the other.
Red light emission from controlled multilayer stack comprising of thin amorphous silicon and silicon nitride layers
Authors: Tan W. K. , Yu M. B. , Chen Q. , Ye J. D. , Lo G. Q. , Kwong D. L.
Published: May 2007

The authors demonstrate photoluminescence from a multilayer stack comprising of thin amorphous silicon/silicon nitride multilayer stack. The peak emission wavelength is in the visible wavelength range (λ=674–706nm). The authors show that emission originates from the quantum confinement of the amorphous silicon layers. They demonstrate the tunability of the peak emission wavelength by controlling the amorphous silicon layer thickness. Postdeposition annealing was carried out to enhance the photoluminescence without recrystallization of the amorphous silicon layers as confirmed by transmission electron microscopy and Raman spectroscopy. Such multilayer structure should be advantageous for electrical injection of carriers due to the thin dielectric layers
Ferroelectric properties of Bi3.25Sm0.75V0.02T2.98O12 thin film at elevated temperature
Authors: Cheng Z. X. , Wang X. L. , Dou S. X. , Ozawa K. , Kimura H.
Published: May 2007

The ferroelectric behavior in terms of electrical polarization and fatigue and dielectric properties at elevated temperature of the ferroelectric Bi3.25Sm0.75V0.02T2.98O12 thin film fabricated by the pulsed laser deposition method were studied. Its switchable polarization increased at elevated temperature, and the coercive field decreased at the same time due to the strong domain depinning process at higher temperature. This film shows almost a polarization-fatigue-free character at room temperature, but the aggregation and diffusion of the thermally activated long-range oxygen vacancies caused strong domain pinning, and thus a poor fatigue resistance was observed at elevated temperature.
Nickel nanocrystals with HfO2 blocking oxide for nonvolatile memory application
Authors: Yang F. M. , Chang T. C. , Liu P. T. , Chen U. S. , Yeh P. H. , Yu Y. C. , Lin J. Y. , Sze S. M. , Lou J. C.
Published: May 2007

A distributed charge storage with Ni nanocrystals embedded in the SiO2 and HfO2 layer has been fabricated in this study. The mean size and aerial density of the Ni nanocrystals are estimated to be about 5nm and 3.9×1012∕cm2, respectively. The nonvolatile memory device with Ni nanocrystals exhibits 1V threshold voltage shift under 4V write operation. The device has a long retention time with a small charge lose rate. Besides, the endurance of the memory device is not degraded up to 106 write/erase cycles.
Completeness of a kinetically balanced Gaussian basis
Authors: Kutzelnigg Werner
Published: May 2007

It is shown that the exact relativistic wave function of the ground state of H-like ions can be expanded in a kinetically balanced even-tempered Gaussian basis. The error of the overlap integral between exact and approximate wave function depends as ∼n3∕2+νexp[−π(3∕2+ν)n], with ν=−1+1−Z2∕c2, on the size n of the basis, both for the large and the small components. Even the error of the energy has essentially the same dependence on n and decays only slightly slower than its nonrelativistic counterpart, which goes as ∼n3∕2exp[−π3n∕2].
Colloidal microstructures, transport, and impedance properties within interfacial microelectrodes
Authors: Bahukudumbi Pradipkumar , Everett W. Neil , Beskok Ali , Bevan Michael A. , Huff Gregory H. , Lagoudas Dimitris , Ounaies Zoubeida
Published: May 2007

The authors report in situ measurements of the reversible, electric field mediated assembly of colloidal gold microstructures and their associated impedance properties on surfaces between planar gold film microelectrodes. Video optical microscopy is used to monitor the assembly of wires and locally concentrated configurations having variable resistances and capacitances. A scaling analysis of dominant electrokinetic transport mechanisms at different electric field amplitudes and frequencies is consistent with the observed steady-state microstructures. Impedance spectra are fit to equivalent circuits with elements directly connected to physical characteristics of the microelectronic/fluidic device components and different particle microstructures.
Dielectrophoretic tweezers for examining particle-surface interactions within microfluidic devices
Authors: Lee Sang Woo , Li Haibo , Bashir Rashid
Published: May 2007

The authors present dielectrophoresis (DEP)-based tweezers that can be used to characterize the interactions between a particle and the surface it is attached to, within a microfluidic device. As a proof of concept, 5.4μm polystyrene beads functionalized by carboxyl group were attached on a bare and poly-L-lysine functionalized oxide surface. Negative dielectrophoresis force was generated using interdigitated electrodes and the peak dielectrophoresis voltage where the beads were repelled away from the surface was used to characterize the strength of interaction between the particle and the surface. Electric field and DEP force calculation were used to corroborate the measured results.
Afterimages and the Breathing Light Illusion
Authors: Anstis Stuart , Gori Simone , Wehrhahn Christian
Published: May 2007

Gori and Stubbs (2006 Perception35 1573–1577) have published some visual illusions elicited in observers who fixate very blurred disks while they move their head towards and away from them. We interpret these illusions as afterimages. We support this with examples of eccentric, colored, and striped afterimages.
Functional redundancy of worm spliceosomal proteins U1A and U2B″
Authors: Saldi Tassa , Wilusz Carol , MacMorris Margaret , Blumenthal Thomas
Published: May 2007

In
Caenorhabditis elegans
, the small nuclear ribonucleoprotein (snRNP)-associated proteins U1A and U2B″ are ≈50% identical to each other, and neither bears signature characteristics of mammalian U1A or U2B″ or the single
Drosophila
homolog, SNF. We show here that the genes that encode these proteins (
rnp-2
and
rnp-3
) are cotranscribed in an operon, and that ribonucleoprotein RNP-2 is U1 snRNP-associated (U1A) whereas RNP-3 is U2 snRNP-associated (U2B″). U2B″ interacts with U2 even in the absence of another U2 snRNP protein, U2A′. Like U1A and U2B″ from yeast, plants, and vertebrates, worm U1A and U2B″ are more similar to each other than they are to other U1A or U2B″ proteins, respectively. Even though U1A and U2B″ interact with different snRNPs, they are functionally redundant; knockout of both is required for a lethal phenotype. Interestingly, U1A associates with U2 RNA when U2B″ is deleted. Thus, the two members of this gene family normally function as components of different snRNPs but apparently remain capable of performing the function of the other. Redundancy results from the fact that one protein can substitute for the other, even though it normally does not.
Bisphosphonates target multiple sites in both
cis
- and
trans
-prenyltransferases
Authors: Guo Rey-Ting , Cao Rong , Liang Po-Huang , Ko Tzu-Ping , Chang Tao-Hsin , Hudock Michael P. , Jeng Wen-Yih , Chen Cammy K.-M. , Zhang Yonghui , Song Yongcheng , Kuo Chih-Jung , Yin Fenglin , Oldfield Eric , Wang Andrew H.-J.
Published: May 2007

Bisphosphonate drugs (e.g., Fosamax and Zometa) are thought to act primarily by inhibiting farnesyl diphosphate synthase (FPPS), resulting in decreased prenylation of small GTPases. Here, we show that some bisphosphonates can also inhibit geranylgeranyl diphosphate synthase (GGPPS), as well as undecaprenyl diphosphate synthase (UPPS), a
cis
-prenyltransferase of interest as a target for antibacterial therapy. Our results on GGPPS (10 structures) show that there are three bisphosphonate-binding sites, consisting of FPP or isopentenyl diphosphate substrate-binding sites together with a GGPP product- or inhibitor-binding site. In UPPS, there are a total of four binding sites (in five structures). These results are of general interest because they provide the first structures of GGPPS- and UPPS-inhibitor complexes, potentially important drug targets, in addition to revealing a remarkably broad spectrum of binding modes not seen in FPPS inhibition.
Regulation of connexin43 gap junctional communication by phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate
Authors: van Zeijl Leonie , Ponsioen Bas , Giepmans Ben N.G. , Ariaens Aafke , Postma Friso R. , Várnai Péter , Balla Tamas , Divecha Nullin , Jalink Kees , Moolenaar Wouter H.
Published: May 2007

Cell–cell communication through connexin43 (Cx43)-based gap junction channels is rapidly inhibited upon activation of various G protein–coupled receptors; however, the mechanism is unknown. We show that Cx43-based cell–cell communication is inhibited by depletion of phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PtdIns[4,5]P2) from the plasma membrane. Knockdown of phospholipase Cβ3 (PLCβ3) inhibits PtdIns(4,5)P2 hydrolysis and keeps Cx43 channels open after receptor activation. Using a translocatable 5-phosphatase, we show that PtdIns(4,5)P2 depletion is sufficient to close Cx43 channels. When PtdIns(4,5)P2 is overproduced by PtdIns(4)P 5-kinase, Cx43 channel closure is impaired. We find that the Cx43 binding partner zona occludens 1 (ZO-1) interacts with PLCβ3 via its third PDZ domain. ZO-1 is essential for PtdIns(4,5)P2-hydrolyzing receptors to inhibit cell–cell communication, but not for receptor–PLC coupling. Our results show that PtdIns(4,5)P2 is a key regulator of Cx43 channel function, with no role for other second messengers, and suggest that ZO-1 assembles PLCβ3 and Cx43 into a signaling complex to allow regulation of cell–cell communication by localized changes in PtdIns(4,5)P2.
Particle trajectories in solitary water waves
Authors: Constantin Adrian , Escher Joachim
Published: May 2007

Analyzing a free boundary problem for harmonic functions in an infinite planar domain, we prove that in a solitary water wave each particle is transported in the wave direction but slower than the wave speed. As the solitary wave propagates, all particles located ahead of the wave crest are lifted, while those behind it experience a downward motion, with the particle trajectory having asymptotically the same height above the flat bed.
From superconductors and four-manifolds to weak interactions
Authors: Witten Edward
Published: May 2007

The goal of this article is to describe the concept of “gauge symmetry breaking” and its applications to superconductors, four-manifold theory, and particle physics.
RAS2 Regulates Growth and Pathogenesis in Fusarium graminearum
Authors: Bluhm B. H. , Zhao X. , Flaherty J. E. , Xu J.-R. , Dunkle L. D.
Published: May 2007

Fusarium graminearum is a ubiquitous pathogen of cereal crops, including wheat, barley, and maize. Diseases caused by F. graminearum are of particular concern because harvested grains frequently are contaminated with harmful mycotoxins such as deoxynivalenol (DON). In this study, we explored the role of Ras GTPases in pathogenesis. The genome of F. graminearum contains two putative Ras GTPase-encoding genes. The two genes (RAS1 and RAS2) showed different patterns of expression under different conditions of nutrient availability and in various mutant backgrounds. RAS2 was dispensable for survival but, when disrupted, caused a variety of morphological defects, including slower growth on solid media, delayed spore germination, and significant reductions in virulence on wheat heads and maize silks. Intracellular cAMP levels were not affected by deletion of RAS2 and exogenous treatment of the ras2 mutant with cAMP did not affect phenotypic abnormalities, thus indicating that RAS2 plays a minor or no role in cAMP signaling. However, phosphorylation of the mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase Gpmk1 and expression of a secreted lipase (FGL1) required for infection were reduced significantly in the ras2 mutant. Based on these observations, we hypothesize that RAS2 regulates growth and virulence in F. graminearum by regulating the Gpmk1 MAP kinase pathway.
Risk factors for impaired wound healing in sirolimus‐treated renal transplant recipients
Authors: Knight Richard J. , Villa Martin , Laskey Robert , Benavides Carlos , Schoenberg Linda , Welsh Maria , Kerman Ronald H. , Podder Hemangshu , Buren Charles T. Van , Katz Stephen M. , Kahan Barry D.
Published: May 2007

Abstract:  Aim:  As sirolimus has been implicated in impaired wound healing, the aim of this study was to evaluate risk factors for wound complications after renal transplantation in patients treated with this drug de novo.

Methods:  This single center retrospective review of wound complications included 194 renal transplant recipients, all of whom received sirolimus immunosuppression in combination with reduced doses of cyclosporine (CsA) and corticosteroids de novo. A wound complication was defined as an infection, incisional hernia, or lymphocele.

Results:  The overall incidence of wound complications within the first year post‐transplantation was 36% (n = 70) including infection in 12% (n = 23), lymphocele formation in 18% (n = 34), and incisional hernia in 18% (n = 34) of patients. Seventeen patients suffered more than one wound complication. A multivariate analysis showed that independent risk factors for the development of wound complications were recipients over the age of 40 yr (odds ratio 2.536, p = 0.011), subjects with body mass index (BMI) >26 (odds ratio 2.498, p = 0.027) and especially BMI >30 (odds ratio 3.738, p = 0.007), the use of thymoglobulin for induction immunosuppression (odds ratio 3.627, p = 0.002), and a cumulative dose of sirolimus of at least 35 mg by post‐transplant day 4 (odds ratio 2.694, p = 0.023). African‐American (odds ratio 0.139, p < 0.001) or Hispanic recipients (odds ratio 0.337, p = 0.014) were less likely to experience a wound problem than Caucasian recipients.

Conclusion:  A number of potentially modifiable risk factors independently increase the incidence of wound complications among renal transplant recipients receiving sirolimus‐based immunosuppression de novo.
Insight into post‐mating interactions between the sexes: relatedness suppresses productivity of singly mated female Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: PANHUIS T. M. , NUNNEY L.
Published: May 2007

Abstract Post‐mating, prefertilization inbreeding avoidance (PPIA) is well established in plants but not in animals. Support for animal PPIA comes from sperm competition studies showing success of a male's gametes declining with his relatedness to the multiply mated female; however, such studies confound female–male and male–male interaction. To avoid this problem, we investigated offspring productivity of singly mated Drosophila melanogaster females using flies from four different genetic backgrounds. Our experiments established that intrapopulation crosses using highly related parents (within‐strain) were significantly less productive than intrapopulation crosses using unrelated individuals from the same population (between‐strain). Furthermore, we showed that these effects were not due to inbreeding depression. The average decrease in offspring productivity of within‐strain crosses relative to between‐strain crosses was 18.3% [nonlaboratory populations: Zimbabwe 20.3%, Riverside 11.4%, neither of which showed inbreeding depression; and temperature‐adapted laboratory populations, uncorrected (corrected) for nonsignificant inbreeding depression: 18 °C, 26.5% (24.2%) and 29 °C, 20.1% (9.5%)]. The significant reduction of within‐cross productivity demonstrates PPIA in the absence of multiple mating.
Growing old and getting sick: Maintaining a positive spirit at the end of life
Authors: Clarke David M.
Published: May 2007

End of life throws up significant mental health challenges. A high proportion of people in the terminal stages of illness experience depressive symptoms. This paper integrates a theory of hierarchy of human needs and empirical research describing experiences of grief and depression in terminal illness, to develop a model of care aimed at reducing depression and suffering. This care attends to physical, psychological, social and spiritual aspects, taking into account the concerns of patients and their families. Professional help can be offered to patients to restore dignity and hope, strengthen their ways of coping, and encourage social connections. To offer this, a well‐resourced and coordinated, multidisciplinary and skilled workforce is needed.
Evaluation of the national pharmacy preceptor education program
Authors: Dalton Lisa , Bull Rosalind , Taylor Susan , Galbraith Kirsten , Marriott Jennifer , Howarth Helen
Published: May 2007

Objective:  The process evaluation findings and key issues from a trial of the effectiveness and national applicability of a national online educational curriculum for pharmacist preceptors are presented.

Design:  A multi‐method triangulated research design was used to elicit qualitative and quantitative data preceptors. The data collection method involved an anonymous questionnaire with both quantitative components and open‐ended qualitative responses.

Setting:  An online education program for preceptors of Australian pharmacy students in rural areas.

Participants:  Rural pharmacists in the three states were invited to trial the package and participate in the associated research/evaluation project.

Main outcome measures:  The Australian Pharmacy Preceptor Education (APPE) program is an important and valuable educational tool for the professional development of pharmacists. It contained pertinent information and appropriate activities, and the delivery strategy was well accepted. The evaluation findings support a national implementation.

Results:  Program strengths include the ease of access, self‐directed learning and the interactive nature emphasising the benefit of sharing ideas and feedback. Potential program limitations include technical delays and unclear instructions for undertaking the program.

Conclusion:  The online APPE program is a flexible delivery strategy which has the potential to dramatically improve the skills and knowledge of pharmacists acting as preceptors and, thereby, impact on the learning provided in rural hospitals and community pharmacies for undergraduate students and new graduates alike.
Diagnosing dementia in rural New South Wales
Authors: Logan‐Sinclair Patricia A. , Davison Alastair
Published: May 2007

Objective:  Review of dementia screening case profiles that included brain blood flow imaging to determine contribution to diagnosis.

Design:  Retrospective medical case audit.

Setting:  Rural New South Wales.

Participants:  Eighty‐eight rural patients who underwent investigations for dementia diagnosis.

Main outcome measure:  Contribution of brain blood flow imaging (single photon emission tomography, SPECT) to the dementia screening regime.

Results:  The age range of those referred was 21–88 years, the average being 70 years. There were 44 men and 44 women. Vascular causes of dementia accounted for 27% of all those referred for brain blood imaging. Senile dementia of the Alzheimer's type accounted for 40% of all referrals. The occurrence of mixed disease was 6%. Matching neuropsychological reports and computer tomography were available for 18 of the blood flow studies. Of these, 65% were in agreement or semi‐agreement for the diagnostic outcome. Only five studies failed to reach consensus. GPs were responsible for 31% of the imaging referrals, and the remaining referrals were from the regions: two gerontologists, three physicians and two neurologists.

Conclusions:  Brain blood flow imaging did contribute to the final diagnosis of dementia type for these patients, influencing patient management.
Anti‐inflammatory strategies in alcoholic steatohepatitis
Authors: Enomoto Nobuyuki , Takei Yoshiyuki , Yamashina Shunhei , Ikejima Kenichi , Kitamura Tsuneo , Sato Nobuhiro
Published: May 2007

The hepatotoxic effects of alcohol have been described in detail, but mechanisms underlying the hepatotoxicity have been only partially characterized. Recently, increasing lines of evidence indicate that Kupffer cells play multiple roles in initiation and progression of alcoholic steatohepatitis. After ethanol exposure, Kupffer cells are activated via a mechanism dependent on gut‐derived endotoxin, and release active mediators such as proinflammatory cytokines and eicosanoids. These mediators are responsible for the pathophysiology of alcoholic steatohepatitis. This review discusses the current concept of Kupffer cell‐mediated steatohepatitis and how it relates to the hypothesis on the mechanism by which alcoholic steatohepetitis is caused, as well as several key issues that have to be addressed in this field: (i) How do Kupffer cells undergo priming and activation during alcoholic steatohepatitis?; (ii) What kind of mediators are involved?; and (iii) How does the concept translate into a strategy for therapeutics of alcoholic steatohepatitis?
A randomized controlled trial of topical glyceryl trinitrate before transrectal ultrasonography‐guided biopsy of the prostate
Authors: McCabe John E. , Hanchanale Vishwanath S. , Philip Joe , Javle Pradip M.
Published: May 2007

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the use of topical glyceryl trinitrate (GTN) ointment as an adjunct to periprostatic nerve block in reducing pain associated with transrectal ultrasonography (TRUS)‐guided prostatic biopsy.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In all, 148 consecutive patients (mean age 67.0 years) having their first TRUS‐guided biopsy were randomized to receive either 0.2% GTN ointment or placebo 10 min before biopsy. All patients had a biopsy preceded by an injection with 10 mL of 1% lidocaine local anaesthesia. A 10‐point visual analogue score was used to record ‘Overall discomfort due to the presence of the probe’, the biopsy itself and pain after the procedure.

RESULTS

There was no significant difference in age, PSA level and prostate volume between the groups. There was a significantly lower mean pain score due to probe insertion in the GTN than placebo group (1.94 vs 3.24, P < 0.01); pain perception was lower for the whole procedure in the GTN group, and was most pronounced in men aged <60 years (2.13 vs 4.61, P < 0.005).

CONCLUSIONS

Topical GTN ointment is safe and effective in reducing the discomfort associated with TRUS‐guided biopsy of the prostate, in particular the insertion of the ultrasound probe. It might be of maximum benefit in the younger patient and those having a repeat biopsy who previously failed to tolerate the procedure well.
Does a constriction ring alter ejaculation latency?
Authors: Hosseini Seyed Reza
Published: May 2007

OBJECTIVE

To assess the efficacy of a ‘constriction ring’ as an option for treating premature ejaculation (PE).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Between September 2003 and October 2006, 42 men with an intravaginal ejaculation latency time (IELT) of <1 min were evaluated. Over a 4‐week period, a constriction ring was used during intercourse.

RESULTS

The median (range) IELT was 42 (33–54) s before treatment and 46 (31–55) s after 4 weeks of using the ring; there was no statistically significant difference in the IELT before and after treatment (P = 0.1), and no major complications.

CONCLUSION

The ‘constriction ring’ is not an effective treatment for PE.
Prolonged follow‐up after paediatric pyeloplasty: are repeat scans necessary?
Authors: Van Den Hoek Joop , De Jong Andra , Scheepe Jeroen , Van Der Toorn Fred , Wolffenbuttel Katja
Published: May 2007

OBJECTIVE

To establish the value of repeat renal scans to assess the relative renal function after successful paediatric pyeloplasty.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Renal scans were assessed from 138 patients after successful pyeloplasty; the relative renal function before and immediately after pyeloplasty were compared, as was split renal function at 3.5 and 5.5 years after surgery.

RESULTS

With a few exceptions the relative renal function before and after pyeloplasty was stable. Repeat renal scans 3.5 and 5.5 years after surgery also showed stable split renal function, even if the renal function was already diminished.

CONCLUSIONS

Repeat renal scans are not necessary after successful pyeloplasty in children, as most operated renal units showed stable renal function for 5–7 years. Further studies are needed to investigate whether renal function changes further after puberty.
Major increase in Type 1 diabetes—no support for the Accelerator Hypothesis
Authors: O’Connell M. A. , Donath S. , Cameron F. J.
Published: May 2007

Background  The Accelerator Hypothesis postulates that the apparent increase in incidence of Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is related to an acceleration of disease onset by weight‐related insulin resistance. Our diabetes clinic has experienced a major recent increase in newly diagnosed diabetes. The Accelerator Hypothesis predicts that this increase should be associated with younger age and increased body mass at diagnosis, with youngest children having the highest body mass index (BMI).

Aim  To test the Accelerator Hypothesis in the context of the major increase in T1DM at our centre.

Methods  Data from all young people diagnosed with T1DM between 1992 and 2003 were reviewed. Height and weight measurements from initial outpatient review were used to calculate BMI.

Results  The mean increase in BMI standard deviation score (SDS) is 0.03 per year (P = 0.01). Age at diagnosis has also increased by a mean of 0.11 years annually (P = 0.003). There was no association between BMI SDS and age at diagnosis (P = 0.7). A significant difference in BMI SDS between age‐banded subgroups was evident (P = 0.04); however, youngest children had the lowest SDS.

Conclusion  Our results do not support increased body mass as an accelerator of diabetes presentation.
Association of Microsatellite Polymorphisms of the Human 14q13.2 Region with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in Latvian and Finnish Populations
Authors: Sjakste T. , Kalis M. , Poudziunas I. , Pirags V. , Lazdins M. , Groop L. , Sjakste N.
Published: May 2007

A polymorphic microsatellite in intron 6 of the human proteasome core particle PSMA6 gene (HSMS006), and four other microsatellites localized upstream on human chromosome 14q13.2 (HSMS801, HSMS702, HSMS701, HSMS602), were genotyped in 104 type 2 diabetic patients and 129 age‐matched control subjects from Latvia and replicated in 91 type 2 diabetic patients and 88 age‐matched healthy control subjects from the Botnia Study in Finland. In type 2 diabetic patients from both populations the HSMS006 (TG)22 allele was two times more frequent compared to the control group. In the Latvian population the (CAA)8 allele of the HSMS602 marker was less frequent in the diabetic group, as was the (AC)24 allele of microsatellite HSMS801. Allele frequencies of the HSMS701 and 702 repeats were similar in healthy controls and type 2 diabetic patients. In conclusion, our data suggest that variants in the PSMA6 gene on chromosome 14q13.2 are associated with type 2 diabetes.
Women’s Views and Outcomes of an Educational Intervention Designed to Enhance Psychosocial Support for Women During Pregnancy
Authors: Hegarty Kelsey , Brown Stephanie , Gunn Jane , Forster Della , Nagle Cate , Grant Belinda , Lumley Judith
Published: May 2007

ABSTRACT:  Background:
Identification of psychosocial issues in pregnant women by screening is difficult because of the lack of accuracy of screening tools, women’s reluctance to disclose sensitive issues, and health care practitioner’s reluctance to ask. This paper evaluates if a health professional education program, a new (ANEW) approach, improves pregnant women’s ratings of care and practitioner’s listening skills and comfort to disclose psychosocial issues.
Methods:
Midwives and doctors from Mercy Hospital for Women, Melbourne, Australia, were trained from August to December 2002. English‐speaking women (< 20 wks’ gestation) were recruited at their first visit and mailed a survey at 30 weeks (early 2002) before and after (2003) the ANEW educational intervention. Follow‐up was by postal reminder at 2 weeks and telephone reminder 2 weeks later.
Results:
Twenty‐one midwives and 5 doctors were trained. Of the eligible women, 78.2 percent (584/747) participated in a pre‐ANEW survey and 73.3 percent (481/657) in a post‐ANEW survey. After ANEW, women were more likely to report that midwives asked questions that helped them to talk about psychosocial problems (OR 1.45, CI 1.09–1.98) and that they would feel comfortable to discuss a range of psychosocial issues if they were experiencing them (coping after birth for midwives [OR 1.51, CI 1.10–2.08] and feeling depressed [OR 1.49, 1.16–1.93]; and concerns relating to sex [OR 1.35, CI 1.03–1.77] or their relationships [OR 1.36, CI 1.00–1.85] for doctors).
Conclusions:
The ANEW program evaluation suggests trends of better communication by health professionals for pregnant women and should be evaluated using rigorous methods in other settings. (BIRTH 34:2 June 2007)
Compressive Neuropathies Complicating Normal Childbirth: Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Sahai‐Srivastava Soma , Amezcua Lilyana
Published: May 2007

ABSTRACT:  Background:
Peroneal neuropathy has been well described in the literature, but few cases have been reported of bilateral peroneal neuropathy as a complication of normal childbirth. Most reported cases are due to prolonged squatting during childbirth, which is prevalent in certain countries.
Case report:
A 30‐year‐old woman developed bilateral footdrop shortly after normal vaginal delivery under epidural analgesics. Neurological examination and electrodiagnostic studies confirmed bilateral common peroneal mononeuropathy most likely secondary to prolonged and excessive pressure around the knees by attendants who were assisting at the delivery. The woman showed significant improvement of her symptoms after physical therapy and assisted devices.
Conclusions:
Excessive and prolonged pressure knee holding during normal childbirth may result in compressive peripheral neuropathy. Patient education and awareness among the labor and delivery team will prevent this avoidable complication. (BIRTH 34:2 June 2007)
IN THE LITERATURE:Combating Coercion: Breech Birth, Parturient Choice, and the Evolution of Evidence‐Based Maternity Care
Authors: Kotaska Andrew
Published: May 2007

ABSTRACT:  In 2001 the term breech trial led the American and Royal Colleges of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG and RCOG) to issue black‐and‐white “cookbook” guidelines condemning vaginal breech birth. Since then, women have been coerced, both overtly and covertly, into having cesarean sections. New evidence and a better understanding of the limitations of the term breech trial have led both the ACOG and RCOG to replace their 2001 guidelines with new ones that re‐open the door for planned vaginal breech birth, acknowledge the evolving understanding of the nature of evidence, and emphasize the importance of external validity in the evaluation of complex phenomena. Parturient choice and clinical judgment are re‐introduced. (BIRTH 34:2 June 2007)
The Nasal Crease Sign in Segmental Facial Hemangioma—An Early Sign of Cartilage Destruction
Authors: Dakara R. Wright , Daniela C. Russi , Anthony J. Mancini , Sarah L. Chamlin , Annette M. Wagner
Published: May 2007

Abstract: Although the majority of hemangiomas of infancy do not require treatment, a subset of patients have complications such as ulceration, functional impairment or severe disfigurement that necessitate intervention. It is often difficult to predict which hemangiomas will lead to permanent disfigurement and medical complications. We present three patients with segmental facial hemangiomas involving the nose which resulted in nasal cartilage destruction. All three patients had a linear gray atrophic crease in the inferior columella visualized on clinical examination prior to the onset of nasal collapse. We propose that this ‘‘nasal crease sign’’ in infants with segmental facial hemangioma involving the nose and philtrum may be a premonitory clinical finding of impending nasal cartilage destruction. Dermatologists should be aware of this clinical sign which may help identify patients at high risk of nasal destruction. Unfortunately, aggressive medical intervention may not always prevent devastating disfigurement.
Further Documentation of Spontaneous Regression of Infantile Digital Fibromatosis
Authors: Niamba Pascal , Léauté‐Labrèze Christine , Boralevi Frank , Lepreux Sébastien , Chamaillard Mélanie , Vergnes Pierre , Taïeb Alain
Published: May 2007

Abstract:  Infantile digital fibromatosis is a rare benign fibromatous tumor characterized by both its location on fingers and toes and its distinctive light microscopic appearance. However, treatment modalities are not yet standardized. Surgical excision had been preferred in the past but has the disadvantage of a high recurrence rate. More recently, isolated instances of spontaneous regression have been reported with a short follow‐up. We report four children with infantile digital fibromatosis, who underwent spontaneous regression after clinical monitoring and long‐term follow‐up. We recommend regular follow‐up in order to allow for intervention in case of functional impact on the affected extremities.
Nineteen years of experience with autotransfusion for elective surgery in children: more troublesome than we expected
Authors: Tasaki Tetsunori , Ohto Hitoshi
Published: May 2007

BACKGROUND: Under the rationale that children undergoing elective surgery are the best candidates for autologous blood donors because of their long life expectancy, aggressive donations of autologous blood, even from infants, have been reported. A number of problems are associated with the procedure, however, whereas the risks of homologous blood are very low.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: From 1987 through 2005, of 5792 patients referred to blood transfusion services at two Japanese university hospitals for autologous blood donations, 314 children younger than 16 years old served as subjects for assessment.

RESULTS: Of 314 children, 7 were not suitable as autologous donors. In most cases this was due to uncooperative behavior. Over a follow‐up period of 19 years, the authors encountered 53 cases (17.3%) of donation‐related problems, and this rate was higher than the 6 percent rate recorded for adult cases (316/5305). Nine children suffered crucial complications such as vasovagal reactions, and one 14‐year‐old boy required a vasopressor drug. Important findings were that 6 of these were first‐time donors, and the amount of blood drawn was under 10 percent of their estimated blood volume.

CONCLUSION: Of 53 donation‐related problems, 9 (17.0%) were accompanied by marked hypotension. Drawing autologous blood from children has become easier with advanced devices; however, lessening of anxiety and tension are essential for the safety of children's autologous blood donation programs. Aggressive donation should be avoided.
The effect of a 473‐mL (16‐oz) water drink on vasovagal donor reaction rates in high‐school students
Authors: Newman Bruce , Tommolino Emily , Andreozzi Christina , Joychan Sonia , Pocedic Jelena , Heringhausen Julie
Published: May 2007

BACKGROUND:Recent clinical studies found that a water drink prevented orthostatic hypotension in healthy subjects subjected to a tilt‐table test. A water drink was tested as a method to decrease vasovagal donor reactions in high‐school students.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS:A total of 8894 high‐school donations in Fall 2004 and 2005 were assigned to groups receiving or not receiving a 473‐mL water drink after acceptance for whole‐blood donation. In addition, 4340 donations in 2004 were reduced to 2895 donations (“balanced 2004 group”) with an algorithm that equally balanced the donors between the water and no water arms.

RESULTS:The donor reaction rate was 9.9 percent (349 reactions/3534 donations) in donors given a water drink versus 12.5 percent (668 reactions/5360 donations; p = 0.0002) in donors not given a water drink. Donors given a water drink had a 21 percent reduction in their donor reaction rate. The main benefit of water was in Caucasian, first‐time donors. In the balanced 2004 group, the donor reaction rate was 10.6 percent (153 reactions/1438 donations) in donors given a water drink versus 14.8 percent (216 reactions/1457 donations; p = 0.0008) in donors not given a water drink. Donors given a water drink in the balanced 2004 group had a 28 percent reduction in their donor reaction rate. The use of water did not interfere with donor processing and was judged by collection staff as easy to implement.

CONCLUSION:A 473‐mL water drink decreased the vasovagal donor reaction rate in high‐school donors by 21 percent, but to varying degrees in different subpopulations.