bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Constitutive Model of Shape Memory Alloys for Asymmetric Quasiplastic Behavior
Authors: Ikeda Tadashige
Published: May 2007

A simple constitutive model of shape memory alloys for analyses of tension—compression quasiplastic behavior is derived. Here, three martensitic variants are considered; namely, thermal-induced, tensile stress-induced, and compressive stress-induced martensitic variants. Reorientation from one variant to another variant is assumed to take place according to a reorientation energy criterion based on grain-based micromechanics. Stress—strain hysteresis loops for a bar under tension—compression cyclic loading are simulated and they are compared with available experimental data. Results show that this constitutive model can capture asymmetric stress—strain behavior for tension and compression and a strain rate effect on stress—strain—temperature relationship quite well.
Modeling of Shape Memory Alloys Based on Microplane Theory
Authors: Kadkhodaei M. , Salimi M. , Rajapakse R.K.N.D. , Mahzoon M.
Published: May 2007

A three-dimensional microplane constitutive model utilizing statically constrained formulation with volumetric—deviatoric split is presented for shape memory alloys (SMAs). Shear stress within each microplane is described by resultant shear component on the plane. One-dimensional stress—strain laws are used for normal and shear stresses on microplanes by considering suitable adjustments between the macroscopic and the microscopic quantities. The behavior of SMAs under simple and complicated loadings is studied. The model represents interaction between the stress components and the deviation from normality in the case of nonproportional loadings. The results are in good agreement with the existing theoretical and experimental findings.
Mathematical Model of Drum-type MR Brakes using Herschel-Bulkley Shear Model
Authors: Farjoud Alireza , Vahdati Nader , Yap Fook Fah
Published: May 2007

Most of the commercially available magnetorheological (MR) fluids are only tested up to 1200 1/s shear rates but with no magnetic field. Data are rarely available at high shear rates with magnetic field applied. In most of the applications where MR fluids are used, such as MR rotary brakes or MR translational dampers, the shear rates can be in the order of thousands and in some applications, the shear rates could be in the order of ten thousands (1/s) and higher. At these high shear rates, most MR fluids will be shear thinning and Bingham model will be inappropriate to use. The focus of this study is on the mathematical modeling of a drum-type MR rotary brake using the Herschel-Bulkey model.
Mosaicism due to myeloid lineage–restricted loss of heterozygosity as cause of spontaneous Rh phenotype splitting
Authors: Körmöczi Günther F. , Dauber Eva-Maria , Haas Oskar A. , Legler Tobias J. , Clausen Frederik B. , Fritsch Gerhard , Raderer Markus , Buchta Christoph , Petzer Andreas L. , Schönitzer Diether , Mayr Wolfgang R. , Gassner Christoph
Published: May 2007

Spontaneous Rh phenotype alteration interferes with pretransfusion and prenatal blood group examinations and may potentially indicate hematologic disease. In this study, the molecular background of this biologic phenomenon was investigated. In 9 patients (3 with hematologic disease), routine RhD typing showed a mixture of D-positive and D-negative red cells not attributable to transfusion or hematopoietic stem-cell transplantation. In all patients, congenital and acquired chimerism was excluded by microsatellite analysis. In contrast to D-positive red cells, D-negative subpopulations were also negative for C or E in patients genotyped CcDdee or ccDdEe, respectively, which suggested the presence of erythrocyte precursors with an apparent homozygous cde/cde or hemizygous cde/— genotype. Except for one patient with additional Fyb antigen anomaly, no other blood group systems were affected. RH genotyping of single erythropoietic burst-forming units, combined with microsatellite analysis of blood, different tissues, sorted blood cell subsets, and erythropoietic burst-forming units, indicated myeloid lineage–restricted loss of heterozygosity (LOH) of variable chromosome 1 stretches encompassing the RHD/RHCE gene loci. Fluorescent in situ hybridization studies indicated that LOH was caused by either somatic recombination or deletion. Therefore, most cases of spontaneous Rh phenotype splitting appear to be due to hematopoietic mosaicism based on LOH on chromosome 1.
Natural anticoagulants limit lipopolysaccharide-induced pulmonary coagulation but not inflammation
Authors: Choi G. , Vlaar A. P. J. , Schouten M. , van't Veer C. , van der Poll T. , Levi M. , Schultz M. J.
Published: May 2007

Pulmonary coagulopathy and hyperinflammation may contribute to an adverse outcome in sepsis. The present study determines the effects of natural inhibitors of coagulation on bronchoalveolar haemostasis and inflammation in a rat model of endotoxaemia.

Male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomised to treatment with normal saline, recombinant human activated protein C (APC), plasma-derived antithrombin (AT), recombinant human tissue factor pathway inhibitor (TFPI), heparin or recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (tPA). Rats were intravenously injected with lipopolysaccharide (LPS), which induced a systemic inflammatory response and pulmonary inflammation. Blood and bronchoalveolar lavage were obtained at 4 and 16 h after LPS injection, and markers of coagulation and inflammation were measured.

LPS injection caused an increase in the levels of thrombin–AT complexes, whereas plasminogen activator activity was attenuated, both systemically and within the bronchoalveolar compartment. Administration of APC, AT and TFPI significantly limited LPS-induced generation of thrombin–AT complexes in the lungs, and tPA stimulated pulmonary fibrinolytic activity. However, none of the agents had significant effects on the production of pulmonary cytokines, chemokines, neutrophil influx and myeloperoxidase activity.

Natural inhibitors of coagulation prevent bronchoalveolar activation of coagulation, but do not induce major alterations of the pulmonary inflammatory response in rat endotoxaemia.
Requirements and ontology for a G protein-coupled receptor oligomerization knowledge base
Authors: Skrabanek Lucy , Murcia Marta , Bouvier Michel , Devi Lakshmi , George Susan R , Lohse Martin J , Milligan Graeme , Neubig Richard , Palczewski Krzysztof , Parmentier Marc , Pin Jean-Philippe , Vriend Gerrit , Javitch Jonathan A , Campagne Fabien , Filizola Marta
Published: May 2007

Background

G Protein-Coupled Receptors (GPCRs) are a large and diverse family of membrane proteins whose members participate in the regulation of most cellular and physiological processes and therefore represent key pharmacological targets. Although several bioinformatics resources support research on GPCRs, most of these have been designed based on the traditional assumption that monomeric GPCRs constitute the functional receptor unit. The increase in the frequency and number of reports about GPCR dimerization/oligomerization and the implication of oligomerization in receptor function makes necessary the ability to store and access information about GPCR dimers/oligomers electronically.

Results

We present here the requirements and ontology (the information scheme to describe oligomers and associated concepts and their relationships) for an information system that can manage the elements of information needed to describe comprehensively the phenomena of both homo- and hetero-oligomerization of GPCRs. The comprehensive information management scheme that we plan to use for the development of an intuitive and user-friendly GPCR-Oligomerization Knowledge Base (GPCR-OKB) is the result of a community dialog involving experimental and computational colleagues working on GPCRs.

Conclusion

Our long term goal is to disseminate to the scientific community organized, curated, and detailed information about GPCR dimerization/oligomerization and its related structural context. This information will be reported as close to the data as possible so the user can make his own judgment on the conclusions drawn for a particular study. The requirements and ontology described here will facilitate the development of future information systems for GPCR oligomers that contain both computational and experimental information about GPCR oligomerization. This information is freely accessible at http://www.gpcr-okb.org.
Validation of reference genes for quantitative RT-PCR studies in porcine oocytes and preimplantation embryos
Authors: Kuijk Ewart W , du Puy Leonie , van Tol Helena TA , Haagsman Henk P , Colenbrander Ben , Roelen Bernard AJ
Published: May 2007

Background

In the developing embryo, total RNA abundance fluctuates caused by functional RNA degradation and zygotic genome activation. These variations in the transcriptome in early development complicate the choice of good reference genes for gene expression studies by quantitative real time polymerase chain reaction.

Results

In order to identify stably expressed genes for normalisation of quantitative data, within early stages of development, transcription levels were examined of 7 frequently used reference genes (B2M, BACT, GAPDH, H2A, PGK1, SI8, and UBC) at different stages of early porcine embryonic development (germinal vesicle, metaphase-2, 2-cell, 4-cell, early blastocyst, expanded blastocyst). Analysis of transcription profiling by geNorm software revealed that GAPDH, PGK1, S18, and UBC showed high stability in early porcine embryonic development, while transcription levels of B2M, BACT, and H2A were highly regulated.

Conclusion

Good reference genes that reflect total RNA content were identified in early embryonic development from oocyte to blastocyst. A selection of either GAPDH or PGK1, together with ribosomal protein S18 (S18), and UBC is proposed as reference genes, but the use of B2M, BACT, or H2A is discouraged.
Characterization of N-acetyltransferase 1 and 2 polymorphisms and haplotype analysis for inflammatory bowel disease and sporadic colorectal carcinoma
Authors: Mahid Suhal S , Colliver Daniel W , Crawford Nigel PS , Martini Benjamin D , Doll Mark A , Hein David W , Cobbs Gary A , Petras Robert E , Galandiuk Susan
Published: May 2007

Background

N-acetyltransferase 1 (NAT1) and 2 (NAT2) are polymorphic isoenzymes responsible for the metabolism of numerous drugs and carcinogens. Acetylation catalyzed by NAT1 and NAT2 are important in metabolic activation of arylamines to electrophilic intermediates that initiate carcinogenesis. Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) consist of Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC), both are associated with increased colorectal cancer (CRC) risk. We hypothesized that NAT1 and/or NAT2 polymorphisms contribute to the increased cancer evident in IBD.

Methods

A case control study was performed with 729 Caucasian participants, 123 CRC, 201 CD, 167 UC, 15 IBD dysplasia/cancer and 223 controls. NAT1 and NAT2 genotyping were performed using Taqman based techniques. Eight single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were characterized for NAT1 and 7 SNPs for NAT2. Haplotype frequencies were estimated using an Expectation-Maximization (EM) method. Disease groups were compared to a control group for the frequencies at each individual SNP separately. The same groups were compared for the frequencies of NAT1 and NAT2 haplotypes and deduced NAT2 phenotypes.

Results

No statistically significant differences were found for any comparison. Strong linkage disequilibrium was present among both the NAT1 SNPs and the NAT2 SNPs.

Conclusion

This study did not demonstrate an association between NAT1 and NAT2 polymorphisms and IBD or sporadic CRC, although power calculations indicate this study had sufficient sample size to detect differences in frequency as small as 0.05 to 0.15 depending on SNP or haplotype.
The functioning of the Cuban home hospitalization programme: a descriptive analysis
Authors: De Vos Pol , Barroso Isabel , Rodríguez Armando , Bonet Mariano , Van der Stuyft Patrick
Published: May 2007

Background

Over the last decades hospital at home (HaH) programmes have been set up in many, mainly European, countries. The Cuban HaH programme is not hospital driven, but the responsibility of the first line health services, and family doctors play a pivotal role.

Methods

We analyse the structure and functioning of the Cuban programme. In this descriptive study, information was prospectively collected on HaH patients admitted between July 1st 2001 and June 30th 2002.

Results

Admission rates varied between areas from 0.014 to 0.035 per person per year (ppy). The < 1y and 1–4y age groups had the highest admission rates. In one area the follow-up of pregnancy problems led to high 15–24y and 25–49y female admission rates (0,070 and 0,058 respectively). Respiratory affections were the most frequent reason for admission (32,6%), followed by early hospital discharge (16,0%) and gynaeco-obstetrical problems (10.8%). The median length of stay varied from 5 to 7 days between regions and from 5 days (early discharge) to 7 days (gynaeco-obstetrical problems) in function of the reason for admission. On average an HaH episode entailed 1.4 and 1.6 contacts per patient-day with the family doctor and nurse respectively.

Conclusion

Difference in admission criteria in function of geography, distance to the hospital, transport facilities, and staff factors, as well as differences in hospital policy on early discharge explain the observed variability. The programme plays an important role in the integrated approach to quality care in the Cuban health system, but could benefit from more uniform admission criteria.
Precursors and preinvasive lesions of the breast: the role of molecular prognostic markers in the diagnostic and therapeutic dilemma
Authors: Zagouri Flora , Sergentanis Theodoros N , Zografos George C
Published: May 2007

Precursors and preinvasive lesions of the breast include atypical ductal hyperplasia (ADH), ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), and lobular neoplasia (LN). There is a significant debate regarding the classification, diagnosis, prognosis and management of these lesions. This review article describes the current theories regarding the pathogenesis and molecular evolution of these lesions. It reviews the implication of a variety of molecules in the continuum of breast lesions: estrogen receptors (ER-alpha and ER-beta), c-erb-B2 (Her2/neu), p53, Ki-67, bcl-2, E-cadherin, transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta), p27 (Kip1), p16 (INK4a), p21 (Waf1), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). With respect to the aforementioned molecules, this article reviews their pathophysiological importance, and puts the stress on whether they confer additional risk for invasive breast cancer or not. This knowledge has the potential to be of importance in the therapeutic decisions presenting in the common clinical practice.
Inactivation Properties of Sodium Channel Nav1.8 Maintain Action Potential Amplitude in Small DRG Neurons in the Context of Depolarization
Authors: Harty T Patrick , Waxman Stephen G
Published: May 2007

Background:

Small neurons of the dorsal root ganglion (DRG) express five of the nine known voltage-gated sodium channels. Each channel has unique biophysical characteristics which determine how it contributes to the generation of action potentials (AP). To better understand how AP amplitude is maintained in nociceptive DRG neurons and their centrally projecting axons, which are subjected to depolarization within the dorsal horn, we investigated the dependence of AP amplitude on membrane potential, and how that dependence is altered by the presence or absence of sodium channel Nav1.8.

Results:

In small neurons cultured from wild type (WT) adult mouse DRG, AP amplitude decreases as the membrane potential is depolarized from −90 mV to −30 mV. The decrease in amplitude is best fit by two Boltzmann equations, having V1/2 values of −73 and −37 mV. These values are similar to the V1/2 values for steady-state fast inactivation of tetrodotoxin-sensitive (TTX-s) sodium channels, and the tetrodotoxin-resistant (TTX-r) Nav1.8 sodium channel, respectively. Addition of TTX eliminates the more hyperpolarized V1/2 component and leads to increasing AP amplitude for holding potentials of −90 to −60 mV. This increase is substantially reduced by the addition of potassium channel blockers. In neurons from Nav1.8(-/-) mice, the voltage-dependent decrease in AP amplitude is characterized by a single Boltzmann equation with a V1/2 value of −55 mV, suggesting a shift in the steady-state fast inactivation properties of TTX-s sodium channels. Transfection of Nav1.8(-/-) DRG neurons with DNA encoding Nav1.8 results in a membrane potential-dependent decrease in AP amplitude that recapitulates WT properties.

Conclusion:

We conclude that the presence of Nav1.8 allows AP amplitude to be maintained in DRG neurons and their centrally projecting axons even when depolarized within the dorsal horn.
Anti-inflammatory property of the cannabinoid receptor-2-selective agonist JWH-133 in a rodent model of autoimmune uveoretinitis
Authors: Xu Heping , Cheng Ching L , Chen Mei , Manivannan Ayyakkannu , Cabay Laurence , Pertwee Roger G , Coutts Angela , Forrester John V
Published: May 2007

Previous studies have shown that cannabinoids have anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating effects, but the precise mechanisms of action remain to be elucidated. In this study, we investigated the effect of JWH 133, a selective agonist for cannabinoid receptor 2, the main receptor expressed on immune cells, in a model of autoimmune disease, experimental autoimmune uveoretinitis (EAU). JWH 133 suppressed EAU in a dose-dependent manner (0.015–15 mg/kg), and the suppressive effect could be achieved in the disease-induction stage and the effector stage. Leukocytes from mice, which had been treated with JWH 133, had diminished responses to retinal peptide and mitogen Con A stimulation in vitro. In vivo JWH 133 treatment also abrogated leukocyte cytokine/chemokine production. Further in vitro studies indicated that JWH 133 down-regulated the TLR4 via Myd88 signal transduction, which may be responsible for its moderate, suppressive effect on antigen presentation. In vivo JWH 133 treatment (1 mg/kg) also suppressed leukocyte trafficking (rolling and infiltration) in inflamed retina as a result of an effect on reducing adhesion molecules CD162 (P-selectin glycoprotein ligand 1) and CD11a (LFA-1) expression on T cells. In conclusion, the cannabinoid agonist JWH 133 has a high in vivo, anti-inflammatory property and may exert its effect via inhibiting the activation and function of autoreactive T cells and preventing leukocyte trafficking into the inflamed tissue.
Role of NF-κB in transcriptional regulation of the phagocyte NADPH oxidase by tumor necrosis factor-α
Authors: Gauss Katherine A , Nelson-Overton Laura K , Siemsen Daniel W , Gao Ying , DeLeo Frank R , Quinn Mark T
Published: May 2007

Macrophages play an important role in the pathogenesis of chronic inflammatory disease. Activation of these phagocytes induces the production of proinflammatory cytokines, such as IL-1 and TNF-α and the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), such as superoxide anion (O2•–). Recently, we found that TNF-α treatment of human monocytic cells (MonoMac1) and isolated human monocytes resulted in up-regulation of the NADPH oxidase gene, neutrophil cytosolic factor 2 (NCF2). These results suggested that TNF-α, produced by activated macrophages, could serve as an autocrine/paracrine regulator of the oxidase, resulting in increased and/or prolonged production of O2•–. To gain a better understanding of the mechanisms involved in NADPH oxidase regulation by TNF-α, we evaluated transcriptional regulation of oxidase genes in MonoMac1 cells and human monocytes. We show that TNF-α-treated cells have increased levels of mRNA and up-regulated expression of NADPH oxidase subunits p47phox, p67phox, and gp91phox, as well as increased oxidase activity. Pharmacological inhibitors of NF-κB activation blocked TNF-α-induced up-regulation of NCF1, NCF2, and CYBB message, which correlated with a reduction in expression of the corresponding oxidase proteins and decreased O2•– production. These data demonstrate that the increase in and/or maintenance of O2•– production in TNF-α-treated MonoMac1 cells and monocytes are a result, in part, of transcriptional up-regulation of three essential NADPH oxidase genes via the NF-κB pathway. This novel finding supports a model, whereby TNF-α-dependent activation of NF-κB up-regulates phagocyte NADPH oxidase activity, leading to enhanced ROS production and further NF-κB activation, potentially contributing to sustained oxidant production in chronic inflammation.
Genetic, environmental and gender influences on attachment disorder behaviours
Authors: Minnis Helen , Reekie Joanne , Young David , O'Connor Tom , Ronald Angelica , Gray Alison , Plomin Robert
Published: May 2007

Background

Despite current interest in attachment disorder, there is concern about its discrimination from other disorders and an unproven assumption of an environmental aetiology.

Aims

To test whether behaviours suggestive of attachment disorder are distinct from other childhood behavioural and emotional problems and are solely environmentally determined.

Method

In a community sample of 13472 twins, we carried out factor analysis of questionnaire items encompassing behaviours indicative of attachment disorder, conduct problems, hyperactivity and emotional difficulties. We used behavioural genetic model-fitting analysis to explore the contribution of genes and environment.

Results

Factor analysis showed clear discrimination between behaviours suggestive of attachment disorder, conduct problems, hyperactivity and emotional problems. Behavioural genetics analysis suggested a strong genetic influence to attachment disorder behaviour, with males showing higher heritability.

Conclusions

Behaviours suggestive of attachment disorder can be differentiated from common childhood emotional and behavioural problems and appear to be strongly genetically influenced, particularly in boys.
Anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder and depression in Korean War veterans 50 years after the war
Authors: Ikin Jillian F. , Sim Malcolm R. , McKenzie Dean P. , Horsley Keith W A. , Wilson Eileen J. , Moore Michael R. , Jelfs Paul , Harrex Warren K. , Henderson Scott
Published: May 2007

Background

There has been no comprehensive investigation of psychological health in Australia's Korean War veteran population, and few researchers are investigating the health of coalition Korean War veterans into old age.

Aims

To investigate the association between war service, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression in Australia's 7525 surviving male Korean War veterans and a community comparison group.

Method

A survey was conducted using a self-report postal questionnaire which included the PTSD Checklist, the Hospital Anxiety and Depression scale and the Combat Exposure Scale.

Results

Post-traumatic stress disorder (OR 6.63, P <0.001), anxiety (OR 5.74, P <0.001) and depression (OR 5.45, P <0.001) were more prevalent in veterans than in the comparison group. These disorders were strongly associated with heavy combat and low rank.

Conclusions

Effective intervention is necessary to reduce the considerable psychological morbidity experienced by Korean War veterans. Attention to risk factors and early intervention will be necessary to prevent similar long-term psychological morbidity in veterans of more recent conflicts.
Psychiatric disorders in Mexico: Lifetime prevalence in a nationally representative sample
Authors: Medina-Mora Maria Elena , Borges Guilherme , Benjet Corina , Lara Carmen , Berglund Patricia
Published: May 2007

Background

No national data on lifetime prevalence and risk factors for DSM–IV psychiatric disorders are available in Mexico.

Aims

To present data on lifetime prevalence and projected lifetime risk, age at onset and demographic correlates of DSM–IV psychiatric disorders assessed in the Mexican National Comorbidity Survey.

Method

The survey was based on a multistage area probability sample of non-institutionalised people aged 18–65 years in urban Mexico. The World Mental Health Survey version of the Composite International Diagnostic Interview was administered by lay interviewers.

Results

Of those surveyed, 26.1% had experienced at least one psychiatric disorder in their life and 36.4% of Mexicans will eventually experience one of these disorders. Half of the population who present with a psychiatric disorder do so by the age of 21 and younger cohorts are at greater risk for most disorders.

Conclusions

Our results suggest an urgent need to re-evaluate the resources allocated for the detection and treatment of psychiatric illnesses in Mexico.
Adjunctive fast repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation in depression
Authors: Anderson Ian M. , Delvai Nicola A. , Ashim Bettadapura , Ashim Sindhu , Lewin Cherry , Singh Vineet , Sturman Daniel , Strickland Paul L.
Published: May 2007

The place of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) in the treatment of depression remains unclear. In this sham-controlled study we determined the efficacy and acceptability of fast, left frontal rTMS given three times a week over 4–6 weeks to 29 patients with depression (79% treatment-resistant). The procedure was generally well tolerated and more effective than sham treatment (55 v. 7% responding, P<0.05), with improvement maintained to 12 weeks. This therapy could be a useful addition to available treatments but further research is needed to determine the optimum treatment parameters.
Effects of antidepressant treatment following myocardial infarction
Authors: van Melle Joost P. , de Jonge Peter , Honig Adriaan , Schene Aart H. , Kuyper Astrid M. G. , Crijns Harry J. G. M. , Schins Annique , Tulner Dorien , van den Berg Maarten P. , Ormel Johan
Published: May 2007

Background

Depression following myocardial infarction is associated with poor cardiac prognosis. It is unclear whether antidepressant treatment improves long-term depression status and cardiac prognosis.

Aims

To evaluate the effects of antidepressant treatment compared with usual care in an effectiveness study.

Method

In a multicentre randomised controlled trial, 2177 myocardial infarction patients were evaluated for ICD–10 depression and randomised to intervention (n=209) or care as usual (n=122). Both arms were evaluated at 18 months post-myocardial infarction for long-term depression status and new cardiac events.

Results

No differences were observed between intervention and control groups in mean scores on the Beck Depression Inventory (11.0, s.d.=7.5 v. 10.2, s.d.=5.l, P=0.45) or presence of ICD-10 depression (30.5 v. 32.1%, P=0.68). The cardiac event rate was 14% among the intervention group and 13% among controls (OR=1.07, 95% CI 0.57-2.00).

Conclusions

Antidepressant treatment did not alter long-term depression post-myocardial infarction status or improve cardiac prognosis.
Patient attitudes to electroconvulsive therapy
Authors: Rush Gavin , McCarron Shane , Lucey James V.
Published: May 2007

Aims and Methods

To investigate patients' subjective attitudes to electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) a questionnaire was posted to 89 consecutive patients who had received treatment in an ECT department.

Results

Fifty-one responses were obtained (57%). Results indicated a high satisfaction with the department and the treatment itself; 44 respondents would or might have ECT again and 35 reported at least a modest improvement with ECT. However, a high rate (60%) of subjective cognitive impairment was reported.

Clinical Implications

Electroconvulsive therapy can be an acceptable treatment option for patients when administered in an accredited clinic. More research is urgently required to investigate the exact nature of ECT-associated cognitive impairment, in terms of functional deficits, severity and practical importance to patients' lives.
Virtual Interviews for Students Interacting Online for Psychiatry (VISIOn): a novel resource for learning clinical interview skills
Authors: Fitzmaurice Brian , Armstrong Katie , Carroll Valerie , Dagger Declan , Gill Michael
Published: May 2007

Academic psychiatry departments have two principle roles within undergraduate medical education. The first is to increase knowledge about psychological and psychiatric disorders and their treatments. The second is to help students develop the clinical skills to sensitively, effectively and accurately interview patients with psychological problems (General Medical Council, 1993) and to assess the mental states of patients.
‘Why did I become a psychiatrist?’: survey of consultant psychiatrists
Authors: Dein Kalpana , Livingston Gill , Bench Christopher
Published: May 2007

Aims and Method

To find out why consultant psychiatrists chose psychiatry as a career. A questionnaire was developed and posted to 87 consultant psychiatrists in substantive posts within a London psychiatric training scheme.

Results

The survey had a response rate of 83% (72 out of 87). The majority of consultants (n=40) chose psychiatry as a career after leaving medical school. The most important reasons cited were empathy with the patient group (36.1%), the interface of psychiatry with the neurosciences (25%), the better working conditions expected in psychiatry (20.8%) and medical school teaching of the subject (19.4%).

Conclusions

The study highlights the need for recruitment efforts after medical school. The findings also reflect the lasting influence of medical school exposure to psychiatry. Interventions for improving recruitment in psychiatry are suggested. The under-recruitment of British medical graduates is masked by overseas recruitment into the specialty.
Profiles in Patient Safety: A “Perfect Storm” in the Emergency Department
Authors: Campbell Samuel G. , Croskerry Pat , Bond William F.
Published: May 2007

Correct and rapid diagnosis is pivotal to the practice of emergency medicine, yet the chaotic and ill‐structured emergency department environment is fertile ground for the commission of diagnostic error. Errors may result from specific error‐producing conditions (EPCs) or, more frequently, from an interaction between such conditions. These EPCs are often expedient and serve to shorten the decision making process in a high‐pressure environment. Recognizing that they will inevitably exist, it is important for clinicians to understand and manage their dangers. The authors present a case of delayed diagnosis resulting from the interaction of a number of EPCs that produced a “perfect” situation to produce a missed or delayed diagnosis. They offer practical suggestions whereby clinicians may decrease their chances of becoming victims of these influences.
The transcription factors Nkx6.1 and Nkx6.2 possess equivalent activities in promoting beta-cell fate specification in Pdx1+ pancreatic progenitor cells
Authors: Nelson Shelley B. , Schaffer Ashleigh E. , Sander Maike
Published: May 2007

Despite much progress in identifying transcriptional regulators that control the specification of the different pancreatic endocrine cell types,the spatiotemporal aspects of endocrine subtype specification have remained largely elusive. Here, we address the mechanism by which the transcription factors Nkx6.1 (Nkx6-1) and Nkx6.2 (Nkx6-2) orchestrate development of the endocrine alpha- and beta-cell lineages. Specifically, we assayed for the rescue of insulin-producing beta-cells in Nkx6.1 mutant mice upon restoring Nkx6 activity in select progenitor cell populations with different Nkx6-expressing transgenes. Beta-cell formation and maturation was restored when Nkx6.1 was expressed in multipotential Pdx1+pancreatic progenitors, whereas no rescue was observed upon expression in committed Ngn3+ (Neurog3+) endocrine progenitors. Although not excluding additional roles downstream of Ngn3, this finding suggests a first requirement for Nkx6.1 in specifying beta-cell progenitors prior to Ngn3 activation. Surprisingly, although Nkx6.2 only compensates for Nkx6.1 in alpha-but not in beta-cell development in Nkx6.1-/- mice, a Pdx1-promoter-driven Nkx6.2 transgene had the same ability to rescue beta-cells as the Pdx1-Nkx6.1 transgene. This demonstrates that the distinct requirements for Nkx6.1 and Nkx6.2 in endocrine differentiation are a consequence of their divergent spatiotemporal expression domains rather than their biochemical activities and implies that both Nkx6.1 and Nkx6.2 possess alpha- and beta-cell-specifying activities.
The ECM protein nephronectin promotes kidney development via integrinα8β1-mediated stimulation ofGdnfexpression
Authors: Linton James M. , Martin Gail R. , Reichardt Louis F.
Published: May 2007

Development of the metanephric kidney crucially depends on proper interactions between cells and the surrounding extracellular matrix. For example, we showed previously that in the absence of α8β1 integrin,invasion by the ureteric bud into the metanephric mesenchyme is inhibited,resulting in renal agenesis. Here we present genetic evidence that the extracellular matrix protein nephronectin is an essential ligand that engagesα8β1 integrin during early kidney development. We show that embryos lacking a functional nephronectin gene frequently display kidney agenesis or hypoplasia, which can be traced to a delay in the invasion of the metanephric mesenchyme by the ureteric bud at an early stage of kidney development. Significantly, we detected no defects in extracellular matrix organization in the nascent kidneys of the nephronectin mutants. Instead, we found that Gdnf expression was dramatically reduced in both nephronectin- andα8 integrin-null mutants specifically in the metanephric mesenchyme at the time of ureteric bud invasion. We show that this reduction is sufficient to explain the agenesis and hypoplasia observed in both mutants. Interestingly, the reduction in Gdnf expression is transient, and its resumption presumably enables the nephronectin-deficient ureteric buds to invade the metanephric mesenchyme and begin branching. Our results thus place nephronectin and α8β1 integrin in a pathway that regulates Gdnf expression and is essential for kidney development.
Adenylyl cyclase-dependent axonal targeting in the olfactory system
Authors: Col Julien A. Dal , Matsuo Tomohiko , Storm Daniel R. , Rodriguez Ivan
Published: May 2007

The vertebrate olfactory bulb is a remarkably organized neuronal structure,in which hundreds of functionally different sensory inputs are organized into a highly stereotyped topographical map. How this wiring is achieved is not yet understood. Here, we show that the olfactory bulb topographical map is modified in adenylyl cyclase 3 (adenylate cyclase 3)-deficient mice. In these mutants, axonal projection targets corresponding to specific odorant receptors are disorganized, are no longer exclusively innervated by functionally identical axonal projections and shift dramatically along the anteroposterior axis of the olfactory bulb. Moreover, the cyclase depletion leads to the prevention of neuropilin 1 (Nrp1) expression in olfactory sensory neuron axonal projections. Taken together, our data point to a major role played by a crucial element of the odorant-induced transduction cascade, adenylyl cyclase 3, in the targeting of olfactory sensory neuron axons towards the brain. This mechanism probably involves the regulation of receptor genes known to be crucial in axonal guidance processes.
Supramolecular Polymers Formed by Bifunctional Cyclodextrin Derivatives
Authors: Miyawaki Atsuhisa , Takashima Yoshinori , Yamaguchi Hiroyasu , Harada Akira
Published: May 2007

The mixture of monofunctional and bifunctional cyclodextrin derivatives formed branched supramolecular polymers, which showed an increase in the viscosity of aqueous solution. However, a monofunctional cyclodextrin derivative did not form viscous solutions. It is caused by the crosslinking of linear supramolecular polymers through hetero-type inclusion and some intermolecular interactions.
Production and Characterization of Heteroatom-encapsulated Metallofullerene, CaHo@C82
Authors: Sakaguchi Koichi , Fujii Ryosuke , Kodama Takeshi , Nishikawa Hiroyuki , Ikemoto Isao , Achiba Yohji , Kikuchi Koichi
Published: May 2007

We produced two CaHo@C82 isomers whose electronic states were characterized to be Ca2+Ho3+@C825− from the elution behavior of high-performance liquid chromatography.
Correlation of maximum flexion with clinical outcome after total knee replacement in Asian patients
Authors: Park K. K. , Chang C. B. , Kang Y. G. , Seong S. C. , Kim T. K.
Published: May 2007

This study aimed to determine the correlation between the amount of maximum flexion and the clinical outcome in 207 Koreans (333 knees) undergoing total knee replacement. The association of maximum flexion with clinical outcome was evaluated one year postoperatively using three scoring systems; the American Knee Society score, Western Ontario McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis index and the Short Form-36. The mean maximum flexion decreased post-operatively at 12 months from 140.1° (60° to 160°) to 133.0° (105° to 150°). Only the social function score of the Short Form-36 correlated significantly with maximum flexion (correlation coefficient = 0.180, p = 0.039). In comparative analyses of subgroups divided by a maximum flexion of 120°, we found no significant differences in any parameters except the social function score of the Short Form-36 (41.9 vs 47.3, p = 0.031). Knees with a maximum flexion of more than 135° had a better functional Western Ontario McMasters Universities Osteoarthritis index score than knees with maximum flexion of 135° or less (17.5 vs 14.3, p = 0.031). We found only weak correlation between the postoperative maximum flexion and the clinical parameters for pain relief, function and quality of life, even in Korean patients. Efforts to increase post-operative maximum flexion should be exercised with caution until concerns relating to high-flexion activities are sufficiently resolved.
Metal ion levels after metal-on-metal Ring total hip replacement
Authors: Sauvé P. , Mountney J. , Khan T. , De Beer J. , Higgins B. , Grover M.
Published: May 2007

Metal-on-metal bearings for total hip replacement (THR) are becoming increasingly popular. Improved wear characteristics mean that these articulations are being inserted into younger patients in the form of THR and resurfacing procedures. This has led to concerns regarding potential carcinogenicity because of the increased exposure to metal ions that the procedure brings.

We have studied the serum cobalt and chromium concentrations in patients who had primary, well-fixed Ring metal-on-metal THRs for more than 30 years. The levels of cobalt and chromium were elevated by five and three times, respectively compared with those in our reference groups. Metal-on-metal articulations appear to be the source of metal ions throughout the life of the prosthesis. In three patients who had undergone revision of a previous metal-on-metal THR to a metal-on-polyethylene replacement the levels of metal ions were within the normal range. The elevations of cobalt and chromium ions seen in our study were comparable with those in patients with modern metal-on-metal THRs.
Isolated acetabular liner exchange compared with complete acetabular component revision in revision of primary uncemented acetabular components
Authors: Lie S. A. , Hallan G. , Furnes O. , Havelin L. I. , Engesæter L. B.
Published: May 2007

We analysed the results of different strategies in the revision of primary uncemented acetabular components reported to the Norwegian Arthroplasty Register. The aim was to compare the risk of further acetabular revision after isolated liner exchange and complete component revision. The results of exchanging well-fixed components were also compared with those of exchanging loose acetabular components. The period studied was between September 1987 and April 2005. The following groups were compared: group 1, exchange of liner only in 318 hips; group 2, exchange of well-fixed components in 398; and group 3, exchange of loose components in 933. We found that the risk of a further cup revision was lower after revision of well-fixed components (relative risk from a Cox model (RR) = 0.56, 95% confidence interval 0.37% to 0.87%) and loose components (RR = 0.56, 95% confidence interval 0.39% to 0.80%), compared with exchange of the liner in isolation. The most frequent reason for a further acetabular revision was dislocation, accounting for 61 (28%) of the re-revisions. Other reasons for further revision included pain in 27 (12%), loosening in 24 (11%) and infection in 20 (9%). Re-revisions because of pain were less frequent when complete component (fixed or loose) revision was undertaken compared with isolated exchange of the liner (RR = 0.20 (95% confidence interval 0.06% to 0.65%) and RR = 0.10 (95% confidence interval 0.03% to 0.30%), respectively). The risk of further acetabular revision for infection, however, did not differ between the groups.

In this study, exchange of the liner only had a higher risk of further cup revision than revision of the complete acetabular component. Our results suggest that the threshold for revising well-fixed components in the case of liner wear and osteolysis should be lowered.
Transmission of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus among hospital staff in a German trauma centre
Authors: Kaminski A. , Kammler J. , Wick M. , Muhr G. , Kutscha-Lissberg F.
Published: May 2007

Between October 2001 and February 2002, 324 healthcare workers were screened for methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) by nose and throat swabs. A positive finding led to activation of a standardised control programme for the affected person who was immediately excluded from work. Family members of those who were MRSA-positive were offered screening free of charge. An eradication programme was carried out in the permanent carriers. MRSA was found in 17 (5.3%) healthcare workers, 11 of whom proved to be permanent carriers, and six temporarily colonised. Three children of a positive healthcare worker showed nasopharyngeal MRSA, the acquisition of which occurred within the hospital. The standardised eradication programme for carriers was successful in most cases but failed in two individuals, whereupon systemic antibiotics were used successfully. The decolonised carriers, observed for more than one year, remained MRSA negative.

Isolation precautions in hospitals do not always prevent hospital staff and their families from acquiring MRSA. The identification of affected employees is difficult because in most cases only asymptomatic colonisation occurs. Screening and eradication can be complicated and costly, and for the affected employees the occupational consequences can be far-reaching as they have no guaranteed legal protection.
Orthopaedic metals and their potential toxicity in the arthroplasty patient
Authors: Keegan G. M. , Learmonth I. D. , Case C. P.
Published: May 2007

The long-term effects of metal-on-metal arthroplasty are currently under scrutiny because of the potential biological effects of metal wear debris. This review summarises data describing the release, dissemination, uptake, biological activity, and potential toxicity of metal wear debris released from alloys currently used in modern orthopaedics. The introduction of risk assessment for the evaluation of metal alloys and their use in arthroplasty patients is discussed and this should include potential harmful effects on immunity, reproduction, the kidney, developmental toxicity, the nervous system and carcinogenesis.
Arabic lexical doublets: Translation strategies
Authors: Jawad Hisham
Published: May 2007

This paper aims to explore the norms, strategies and procedures of translating lexical doublets in Arabic literary discourse. Lexical doublets are sets of two (near-) synonyms connected with ﻮ ‘and’, ﺃﻮ ‘or’, or the zero article. The empirical basis material for this study consists of a three-part autobiography (
al-Ayyām
, ‘The Days’) and a narrative (
Hadīth ´Īsā ibn Hishām
, ‘´Īsā ibn Hishām’s Tale’). Findings show that patterns of repetition are shifted in the English translations, and various translation strategies are applied, the most common being
grammatical transposition
and
reduction
. A quantitative analysis of the translation of lexical doublets in three samples is also conducted. The samples are about 2500 words each, randomly selected from the three parts of the autobiography. The figures indicate that one translator (that of Part One) adopts a source text-oriented strategy while the other two translators prefer a shifting strategy. This may be seen as a useful indicator of the translations’ orientation towards either adequacy or acceptability (Toury 1995).
Challenges in multilingual societies. The myth of the invisible interpreter and translator
Authors: Valero-Garcés Carmen
Published: May 2007

This paper concentrates on communication with minority groups through a third party or intermediary in the public services. The variety of settings in which these encounters take place (hospitals, schools, government offices, police stations, customs checkpoints, etc.) raises questions on the role played by this intermediary, the importance of culture, the recognition of his/her job as a profession, the acceptance of the varied forms of professionalism, and the consideration of the different attitudes of the society and its institutions. This study concentrates on the different names and roles assigned to this link, with special emphasis on one of them: the interpreter and translator, and the debate surrounding the new roles he/she should (or should not) perform.
Sulfadimethoxine and Ormetoprim Residues in Three Species of Fish after Oral Dosing in Feed
Authors: Kosoff R. E. , Chen C-Y. , Wooster G. A. , Getchell R. G. , Clifford A. , Craigmill A. L. , Bowser P. R.
Published: May 2007

Nile tilapia Oreochromis niloticus, summer flounder Paralichthys dentatus, and walleyes Sander vitreus were treated with Romet-30 (PHARMAQ AS, Oslo, Norway) via a medicated ration at 50 mg Romet-30·kg fish body weight−1·d−1 for 10 d to compare the elimination kinetics of the test substance. This study was part of a larger effort to develop a species grouping concept for the labeling of therapeutic compounds for cultured fishes. The fish tests were conducted at the ideal water temperature for each species and at 5°C lower than the ideal temperature except for summer flounder, which would not feed at the lower temperature of 15°C. Test temperatures were 30°C and 25°C for Nile tilapia, 20°C and 17°C for summer flounder, and 25°C and 20°C for walleyes. Neither component of Romet-30 (sulfadimethoxine and ormetoprim) could be detected in samples of the edible portion of walleyes (muscle plus skin) collected at day 10 posttreatment or thereafter. In studies with summer flounder, only one fish had a detectable concentration of either component on day 21 or thereafter. Elimination of Romet-30 by Nile tilapia was extremely rapid. The limited number of Nile tilapia with detectable sulfadimethoxine or ormetoprim during the posttreatment period prevented the determination of elimination half-life or elimination in this species.