bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neurokinin receptor modulation of respiratory activity in the rabbit
Authors: Bongianni Fulvia , Mutolo Donatella , Cinelli Elenia , Pantaleo Tito
Published: June 2008

The respiratory role of neurokinin (NK) receptors was investigated in α‐chloralose‐urethane‐anaesthetized, vagotomized, paralysed and artificially ventilated rabbits by using bilateral microinjections (30–50 nL) of NK receptor agonists and antagonists. Microinjections were performed in a region located just caudal to the rostral expiratory neurons. This region displayed features similar to those of the pre‐Bötzinger complex (pre‐BötC) of adult cats and rats, and proved to produce excitatory respiratory effects in response to microinjections of d,l‐homocysteic acid. We used as agonists (0.1, 0.5 and 5 mm) substance P (SP), the NK1 receptor agonists [Sar9, Met(O2)11]‐SP and GR 73632, the NK2 receptor agonist NKA, the NK3 receptor agonist senktide, and as antagonists (5 mm) the NK1 receptor antagonist CP‐99,994 and the NK2 receptor antagonist MEN 10376. SP always increased respiratory frequency, but NK1 receptor agonists did not change respiratory variables. NKA and senktide at 5 mm increased respiratory frequency. CP‐99,994 caused increases in respiratory frequency and did not antagonize the effects of SP. MEN 10376 prevented the respiratory responses induced by NKA and reduced those provoked by SP. SP or the NK1 receptor agonists (5 mm) injected (1 μL) into the IV ventricle caused marked excitatory effects on respiration. The results suggest that NK2 and NK3, but not NK1, receptors are involved in the excitatory modulation of inspiratory activity within the investigated region and are consistent with the notion that the pre‐BötC neurons are important components of the inspiratory rhythm‐generating mechanisms.
Roles of the urologist and nurse from the perspective of patients with prostate cancer receiving luteinizing hormone‐releasing hormone analogue therapy
Authors: Lebret Thierry , Bouregba Alain
Published: June 2008

OBJECTIVES

To establish the roles of the urologist, general practitioner (GP) and nurse from the perspective of the patient with prostate cancer receiving hormone therapy, and to assess patient satisfaction, in particular with management and information needs.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Patients with prostate cancer receiving luteinizing hormone‐releasing hormone analogue (LHRH‐a) therapy were recruited by a representative sample of 58 French urologists (March to April 2007) and invited to complete a 42‐item questionnaire.

RESULTS

In all, 350 representative patients participated in the study; >90% were totally or quite satisfied with the information given by their urologist at diagnosis and the start of treatment. Their main contact during treatment was with the nurse who gave the injection (84% of patients). The nurse’s main role was to provide clarity (60% of patients), guidance (35%) and support to the family (28%). Fewer patients discussed disease stage and progression with their nurse (29%) than with a doctor (urologist, 63%; or GP, 61%). Fewer also discussed treatment (24% vs 32%) but as many patients discussed the impact of their disease and treatment with their nurse as with their doctor (e.g. 33% discussed general health and fatigue with the nurse, vs 26% with the urologist). The need for contact with a health professional was greater during the early stages of treatment. Patients treated for <12 months with 3‐monthly injections were less likely to be in favour of spacing injections than patients treated for ≥3 years.

CONCLUSION

The patient consults the urologist for reliable information on disease and treatment, and to the GP for further support, if needed, but the nurse has the pivotal role. A 3‐monthly injection schedule enables regular face‐to‐face contact between the nurse and the patient and their family, and contributes towards the patient’s coping strategies and quality of life.
Highly specific detection of prostate‐specific antigen‐positive cells in the blood of patients with prostate cancer or benign prostatic hyperplasia, using a real‐time reverse‐transcription‐polymerase chain reaction method with improved sensitivity
Authors: Barbero Giovanna , Destefanis Paolo , Procida Simone , Mandili Giorgia , Ulliers Daniela , Ceruti Carlo , Fiori Cristian , Maule Milena M. , Fontana Dario , Giribaldi Giuliana , Turrini Franco
Published: June 2008

OBJECTIVE

To assess the presence of circulating prostate‐specific antigen (PSA)‐expressing cells in patients with prostate cancer or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), and to determine their diagnostic usefulness using a highly sensitive quantitative real‐time reverse‐transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR) method.

PATIENTS, SUBJECTS AND METHODS

Venous blood samples were obtained from 175 patients with prostate cancer (12 metastatic and 163 not metastatic), 49 with BPH, and 50 healthy volunteers. To improve the specificity and sensitivity of the qRT‐PCR three innovative features were combined; a primer overlapping two adjacent exons to inhibit nonspecific amplification; a no‐end‐point first round amplification to increase the sensitivity; and a target‐specific primer for the RT phase to increase the specificity.

RESULTS

The sensitivity of the method was 1 cell/mL of blood and the interassay coefficient of variation was 10.5%. None of the healthy subjects tested positively, while 9% of those with prostatic cancer and 14% with BPH had PSA‐positive cells in the blood. There was a positive association between a positive test and the National Comprehensive Cancer Network classification in the patients with newly diagnosed prostate cancer (P = 0.022). There were no additional statistically significant associations.

CONCLUSION

Our results strongly indicate that although there were no false‐positive results and the sensitivity of the method was increased to maximal levels, a low frequency of positive results in patients with prostatic cancer and a high frequency of positive results in those with BPH seems to discourage the use of PSA‐positive circulating cells in the search for a clinical diagnosis of prostate cancer.
INTERNATIONAL TRADE AND INDUSTRIALIZATION WITH CAPITAL ACCUMULATION AND SKILL ACQUISITION*
Authors: SASAKI HIROAKI
Published: June 2008

In this paper we develop a small open economy three‐sector model of semi‐endogenous growth that consists of an agricultural sector, a manufacturing sector and a skill‐producing sector, and we analyze the relationship between specialization processes and economic growth. The main results are as follows: (i) for the sustainability of complete specialization in manufacturing, the growth rate of the population at home must exceed that in the ROW; (ii) it is possible that an economy that is scarce in both capital stock and skills industrializes by delaying the time when it switches from autarky to free trade; and (iii) under free trade, an economy that is abundant in capital stock (skills) but scarce in skills (capital stock) is likely to asymptotically specialize in agriculture.
UNCERTAINTY AND WAGE SETTING IN A MONETARY UNION*
Authors: HEFEKER CARSTEN
Published: June 2008

The enlargement of the European Monetary Union is likely to lead to an increase of uncertainty about the transmission of monetary policy for the larger union. Adding new members to the central bank council in addition implies that the policy reaction of the enlarged council will be uncertain for an initial period. The paper considers the influence of both types of uncertainty on wage setting and unemployment in the larger monetary union.
Efavirenz replacement by immediate full‐dose nevirapine is safe in HIV‐1‐infected patients in Cambodia
Authors: Laureillard D , Prak N , Fernandez M , Ngeth C , Moeung S , Riel V , Chhneang V , Song S , Quillet C , Piketty C
Published: June 2008

Background

Efavirenz is used for the antiretroviral treatment of HIV/tuberculosis‐coinfected patients in developing countries. A switch to nevirapine is regularly carried out because of the cost and side effects of efavirenz. Pharmacokinetic studies suggested that nevirapine should be initiated at full dose when used as a substitute for efavirenz.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to measure the cumulative incidence of adverse events (AEs) related to nevirapine in patients switched from efavirenz to immediate full‐dose nevirapine (FDN).

Methods

In 2001 an antiretroviral treatment programme was initiated with the first‐line regimen stavudine, lamivudine and efavirenz. In 2003, the fixed‐dose combination of stavudine, lamivudine and nevirapine was recommended. Thus, first‐line therapy was changed and FDN was initiated when patients were switched from efavirenz to nevirapine.

Results

Between April and December 2004, 394 patients were switched from efavirenz to FDN. The cumulative incidence of AEs related to nevirapine was 13.2% [95% confidence interval (CI) 10.2–16.7] and that of severe AEs was 8.9% (95% CI 6.5–11.9). In women the incidence of AEs was 17.6% (95% CI 12.1–24.3) and that of severe AEs was 12.2% (95% CI 7.7–18.2).

Conclusions

Our results indicate that an FDN switch from efavirenz does not appear to result in more AEs than when nevirapine is initiated with escalating doses. These data are particularly relevant in resource‐limited settings.
Hepatitis B or hepatitis C coinfection in HIV‐infected pregnant women in Europe
Authors: Landes M , Newell M‐L , Barlow P , Fiore S , Malyuta R , Martinelli P , Posokhova S , Savasi V , Semenenko I , Stelmah A , Tibaldi C , Thorne C
Published: June 2008

Objectives

The aim of the study was to investigate the prevalence of and risk factors for hepatitis C or B virus (HCV or HBV) coinfection among HIV‐infected pregnant women, and to investigate their immunological and virological characteristics and antiretroviral therapy use.

Methods

Information on HBV surface antigen (HBsAg) positivity and HCV antibody (anti‐HCV) was collected retrospectively from the antenatal records of HIV‐infected women enrolled in the European Collaborative Study and linked to prospectively collected data.

Results

Of 1050 women, 4.9% [95% confidence interval (CI) 3.6–6.3] were HBsAg positive and 12.3% (95% CI 10.4–14.4) had anti‐HCV antibody. Women with an injecting drug use(r) (IDU) history had the highest HCV‐seropositivity prevalence (28%; 95% CI 22.8–35.7). Risk factors for HCV seropositivity included IDU history [adjusted odds ratio (AOR) 2.92; 95% CI 1.86–4.58], age (for ≥35 years vs. <25 years, AOR 3.45; 95% CI 1.66–7.20) and HBsAg carriage (AOR 5.80; 95% CI 2.78–12.1). HBsAg positivity was associated with African origin (AOR 2.74; 95% CI 1.20–6.26) and HCV seropositivity (AOR 6.44; 95% CI 3.08–13.5). Highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) use was less likely in HIV/HCV‐seropositive than in HIV‐monoinfected women (AOR 0.34; 95% CI 0.20–0.58). HCV seropositivity was associated with a higher adjusted HIV RNA level (+0.28log10 HIV‐1 RNA copies/mL vs. HIV‐monoinfected women; P=0.03). HIV/HCV‐seropositive women were twice as likely to have detectable HIV in the third trimester/delivery as HIV‐monoinfected women (AOR 1.95; P=0.049).

Conclusions

Although HCV serostatus impacted on HAART use, the association between HCV seropositivity and uncontrolled HIV viraemia in late pregnancy was independent of HAART.
Assessing migraine disability by diary‐based measurement: relationship to the characteristics of individual headache attacks
Authors: Park J. W. , Shin H. E. , Kim J. S. , Lee K. S.
Published: June 2008

Background and purpose:  Information on headache‐related disability helps clinicians create the optimal treatment plan for migraine sufferers. The estimation of disability must be determined by gathering the individual effects of multiple headache attacks within a given period of time. This study was aimed to examine migraine‐related disability from diary‐based assessment and to determine which elements of the headache characteristics are associated with disability.

Methods:  Ninety‐two migraine patients were enrolled and contributed data on a total of 422 diary days of headache attacks. Each diary booklet was comprised of questions on headache features and disability comprising five items that originated from Migraine Disability Assessment (MIDAS).

Results:  The average days recorded with disability for one or more of the three aspects of activities per headache attack was 0.55. Amongst the headache variables, pain intensity, nausea/vomiting, photophobia, type of abortive treatment and the employment status were significantly correlated with disability. On regression analysis, pain intensity, nausea/vomiting and employed work status were identified as significant predicting factors for migraine‐related disability.

Conclusion:  These results demonstrated that a considerable amount of disability could occur during migraine attack and there are specified elements that act on the development of disability.
Morphometric Ablation Lesion Characteristics Comparing 4, 6, and 8 mm Electrode‐Tip Cryocatheters
Authors: KHAIRY PAUL , RIVARD LENA , GUERRA PETER G , TANGUAY JEAN‐FRANÇOIS , MAWAD WADI , ROY DENIS , TALAJIC MARIO , THIBAULT BERNARD , MACLE LAURENT , DUBUC MARC
Published: June 2008

Introduction: Despite widespread clinical use, ablation lesions produced by cryocatheters with 6 and 8 mm electrode‐tips have not been fully characterized. We, therefore, sought to quantify and compare lesion dimensions and thrombus formation with 4, 6, and 8 mm electrode‐tip cryocatheters.

Methods and Results: By means of a randomized factorial design, 72 ablation lesions were created in atrial and ventricular chambers of adult miniature swine at a mean temperature of 79.9 ± 4.0°C. By histological morphometric analysis, the overall lesion depth was 4.3 ± 2.1 mm, surface area 61.3 (28.7, 116.0) mm2, and volume 130.2 (62.7, 231.3) mm3. Cryolesions produced by all electrode‐tip sizes were well circumscribed, with intact endothelial cell layers, and absence of thrombus. Colder temperatures generated lesions of greater surface area (P = 0.0061) and volume (P = 0.0080), but not depth. Depths were similar between the three electrode‐tips. However, surface areas produced by 8 mm catheters were 91.7 mm2 larger on average (176.7% increase, P = 0.0003) than 4 mm and 72.3 mm2 greater (101.3% increase, P = 0.0144) than 6 mm catheters. The 8 and 6 mm catheters yielded mean lesion volumes 252.6 mm3 (248.3% increase, P = 0.0041) and 115.9 mm3 (113.9% increase, P = 0.0670) larger than 4 mm catheters. Greater variability in surface area and volume were observed with 8 mm catheters.

Conclusion: Longer electrode‐tip cryocatheters produce larger lesions of similar depth, with intact endothelial layers and absence of thrombosis. Surface areas and volumes may be particularly sensitive to catheter tip‐to‐tissue contact angles with larger electrodes, as reflected by greater variability with 8 mm tips.
Ambulatory ECG‐Based T‐Wave Alternans Predicts Sudden Cardiac Death in High‐Risk Post‐MI Patients with Left Ventricular Dysfunction in the EPHESUS Study
Authors: STEIN PHYLLIS K , SANGHAVI DEVANG , DOMITROVICH PETER P. , MACKEY ROBERT A. , DEEDWANIA PRAKASH
Published: June 2008

Background: Exercise microvolt T‐wave alternans (TWA) identifies sudden cardiac death (SCD) risk. TWA can be measured from ambulatory ECGs (AECGs) using modified moving average (MMA) method. Whether MMA TWA from AECGs predicts SCD in post‐MI patients with left ventricular dysfunction (LVD) is unknown.

Methods: EPHESUS enrolled hospitalized post‐MI patients with heart failure and/or diabetes with LVD. Before randomization to drug treatment, AECGs were obtained in 493 patients. Of them, 46 died of cardiovascular causes, including 18 of SCD. Patients alive at end of follow‐up (N = 92) were matched with 46 nonsurvivors based on age, gender, and diabetes. MMA TWA was analyzed using MARSPC system (GE Healthcare, Milwaukee, WI, USA). The three highest TWA values from artifact‐free periods were averaged for AECG channels corresponding to leads V1 and V3. SCD prediction was tested with a prespecified 47 μV cutpoint and at a cutpoint maximizing the separation between SCD patients versus survivors or non‐SCD.

Results: TWA in either lead was higher for patients with SCD (P ≤ 0.05) versus survivors or non‐SCD. TWA ≥ 47 μV was associated with RR = 5.2 (95%CI = 1.8–13.6, P = 0.002) in V1 and RR = 5.5 (95% CI = 2.2–13.8, P < 0.001) in V3 for SCD. The optimal cutpoint for TWA in V1 was ≥43 μV (RR = 5.9 [95%CI = 2.2–15.8, P < 0.001]). The optimal cutpoint in V3 was ≥47 μV. TWA greater than the optimal cutpoint in either lead was associated with RR = 7.1 (95%CI = 2.7–18.3, P < 0.001) for SCD, with 11 out of 18 patients dying of SCD.

Conclusions: AECG‐based TWA measured with MMA is a powerful predictor of SCD in high‐risk post‐MI patients with LV dysfunction.
Severe Atrioventricular Decoupling, Uncoupling, and Ventriculoatrial Coupling During Enhanced Atrial Pacing: Incidence, Mechanisms, and Implications for Minimizing Right Ventricular Pacing in ICD Patients
Authors: SWEENEY MICHAEL O. , ELLENBOGEN KENNETH A. , TANG ANTHONY S.L. , JOHNSON JAMES , BELK PAUL , SHELDON TODD
Published: June 2008

Background:
Enhanced AAI/R pacing minimizes right ventricular pacing but may permit or induce AV decoupling (AV‐DC) due to unrestricted AV intervals (AVIs). The purpose of this study was to characterize and quantify AVI behavior in a randomized trial of enhanced AAI/R pacing in ICD patients.

Methods:
One hundred twenty‐one patients in the Marquis ICD MVP™ Study, a randomized 1‐month crossover comparison of cumulative% ventricular pacing (Cum%VP) in enhanced AAIR (MVP) vs DDD/R, were analyzed. AV‐DC was defined as ≥40% AVIs >300 ms; VA coupling (VA‐C) was defined as%V‐atrial pace (AP) intervals <300 ms. Dynamic AVI behavior and increases in Cum%VP due to AV block (AV uncoupling, AV‐UC) were characterized using Holters with real‐time ICD telemetry.

Results:
AV‐DC occurred in 17 (14%) of patients. Baseline PR, amiodarone, nighttime, lower rate >60 beats/min, rate response, and Cum%AP were associated with longer AVIs. Logistic regression identified baseline PR (odds ratio [OR]= 1.024, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.007–1.042; P = 0.005), and Cum%AP (OR = 1.089, 95% CI 1.027–1.154; P = 0.004) as predictors of AV‐DC. AV‐DC was associated with ≈10‐fold increases in both Cum%VP (13.6 ± 28.3% vs 1.2 ± 3.9%; P = 0.023) due to transient AV‐UC) and VA‐C (6.0 ± 17.5% vs 0.5 ± 1.2%, P = 0.028). AV coupling (<40% AVIs >300 ms) was preserved in 104 (86%) patients.

Conclusions:
AV‐DC, VA‐C, and AV‐UC may be worsened or induced by enhanced AAI/R pacing. Conservative programming of lower rate and rate response should reduce the risk of AV‐DC by reducing Cum%AP.
Calculation of the Average Coefficient of Thermal Expansion in Oriented Cordierite Polycrystals
Authors: Bruno Giovanni , Vogel Sven
Published: June 2008

In this work, the calculation of the average value of a physical quantity in a textured polycrystal is presented. The method is applied to the coefficient of thermal expansion in cordierite samples, presenting domain and crystal preferred orientation, and compared with experimental data. The knowledge of the experimental or simulated texture intensity function is required to calculate the orientation distribution function. Then, a sum over all oriented crystals, weighted by their population, is carried out. It is shown that this sum must be carried out differently, if different components of the physical quantity (usually a tensor) must be calculated. Results show a very good agreement between the model and the experimental data obtained (a) by neutron diffraction as a polycrystalline average and (b) by dilatometry on real cordierite materials used as diesel particulate filters. Although the method is resting on the possibility of having a simple analytical form of the texture intensity, its numerical implementation does not present any problem.
Effect of Heat Treatment on Far Infrared Emission Properties of Tourmaline Powders Modified with a Rare Earth
Authors: Zhu Dongbin , Liang Jinsheng , Ding Yan , Xue Gang , Liu Lihua
Published: June 2008

Far infrared materials were prepared by precipitation method using natural tourmaline (XY3Z6Si6O18(BO3)3W4, where X is Na+, Ca2+, K+, or vacancy; Y is Mg2+, Fe2+, Mn2+, Al3+, Fe3+, Mn3+, Cr3+, Ti4+ or Li+; Z is Al3+, V3+, Cr3+, or Mg2+; and W is OH−, F−, or O2−) powders and cerium nitrate as raw materials. The results of Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) show that rare earth Ce can enhance the far infrared emission properties of tourmaline. Through characterization by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), the mechanism by which rare earth Ce acts on the far infrared emission property of tourmaline was systematically studied. The XPS spectra show that the Fe3+ ratio inside tourmaline powders after heat treatment can be raised by doping Ce. Moreover, it is showed that Ce3+ is dominant inside the samples but its dominance is replaced by Ce4+ outside. In addition, XRD results indicate the formation of CeO2 crystallites during the heat treatment and further TEM observations show they exist as nanoparticles on the surface of tourmaline powders. Based on these results, we attribute the improved far infrared emission properties of Ce‐doped tourmaline to the enhanced unit cell shrinkage of the tourmaline arisen from the oxidation of Fe2+ (0.074 nm in radius) to Fe3+ (0.064 nm in radius) inside the tourmaline caused by the redox shift between Ce4+ and Ce3+.
Surface and Mirror Twin Grain Boundary Segregation in Nd:YAG: An Atomistic Simulation Study
Authors: Aschauer Ulrich , Bowen Paul , Parker Stephen C.
Published: June 2008

Ceramic lasers have advantages such as better optical homogeneity, cheaper production, and more freedom in shape compared with monocrystalline lasers. However, equal or better laser performances are required. Interface segregation is important as ceramics contain a high number of interfaces, segregation to which may locally alter the concentration of luminescent dopants, which in turn may influence laser performance. The present work applies atomistic simulation techniques to investigate the segregation of neodymium (Nd) dopants to surfaces and mirror twin grain boundaries in yttrium aluminum garnet (YAG). These results allow a better understanding of interfacial segregation and its influence on laser performance of Nd:YAG ceramics.
Nanosilver‐Coated Porous SiC–Si3N4 Composite Using Microwave‐Assisted Process
Authors: Paul Rajat Kanti , Lee Kap‐Ho , Kim Hai‐Doo , Lee Byong‐Taek
Published: June 2008

Using a novel microwave‐assisted process, nano‐Ag‐coated continuous porous SiC–Si3N4 substrate was fabricated from a solution containing AgNO3 salts and ethylene glycol. The detailed microstructure of the fabricated substrate was investigated depending on the amount of AgNO3 salts in the starting solution and the microwave irradiation time. From a solution containing 0.4 g of AgNO3 for 60 s irradiation time, the Ag nanoparticles, ∼25 nm in diameter, were homogeneously coated on the continuous porous SiC–Si3N4 matrix as well as on the surface of the Si3N4 whiskers. However, the Ag nanoparticles (∼15 nm) deposited from a solution containing 0.6 g of AgNO3 for 60 s irradiation time showed maximum homogeneity and narrow size distribution. The components of Si, N, and Ag were homogeneously distributed on the deposited layer. The deposited Ag nanoparticles covered with a thin (∼2 nm), amorphous layer had nanocrystallinity and adhered well to the surface of the Si3N4 whiskers.
The microRNAs involved in human myeloid differentiation and myelogenous/myeloblastic leukemia
Authors: Wang Xiao‐Shuang , Zhang Jun‐Wu
Published: June 2008

Introduction

MiRNAs involved in myeloid differentiation may be involved in myeloid leukemia

MiRNAs directly involved in myeloid leukemia

Regulation of miRNA expression

Discussion and perspectives

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are endogenously expressed, functional RNAs that interact with native coding mRNAs to cleave mRNA or repress translation. Several miRNAs contribute to normal haematopoietic processes and some miRNAs act both as tumour suppressors and oncogenes in the pathology of haematological malignancies. While most effort is engaged in identifying and investigating the target genes of miRNAs, miRNA gene promoter methylation or transcriptional regulation is another important field of investigation, since these two main mechanisms can form a regulatory circuit. This review focuses on recent researches on miRNAs with important roles in myeloid cells.
Screening for the metabolic syndrome in community psychiatric patients prescribed antipsychotics: a quality improvement programme
Authors: Barnes T. R. E. , Paton C. , Hancock E. , Cavanagh M.‐R. , Taylor D. , Lelliott P. ,   on behalf of the UK Prescribing Observatory for Mental Health
Published: June 2008

Objective:  The aim was to evaluate a quality improvement programme designed to increase screening for the metabolic syndrome in community psychiatric patients prescribed antipsychotics.

Method:  Baseline audit against evidence‐based standards, followed by provision of benchmarked data and a range of change interventions, with re‐audit 1 year later.

Results:  At baseline, 48 assertive outreach teams across the UK submitted data on screening over the previous year for 1966 patients. At re‐audit, 35 of the teams submitted data for 1516 patients. Screening for all four aspects of the metabolic syndrome (measuring blood pressure, obesity, blood glucose and plasma lipids) had increased significantly by re‐audit. Clinical variables increasing the likelihood of full screening were clozapine treatment and a known diagnosis of diabetes or dyslipidaemia.

Conclusion:  The programme’s success may be partly attributed to the use of a widely‐accepted audit standard, and bespoke change interventions that directly addressed barriers to screening identified by the participating clinical teams.
What can otolith examination tell us about the level of perturbations of Salmonid fish from the Kerguelen Islands?
Authors: Morat F. , Betoulle S. , Robert M. , Thailly A.F. , Biagianti‐Risbourg S. , Lecomte‐Finiger R.
Published: June 2008

Abstract –  Otoliths preserve a continuous record of the life cycle from the natal through the adult stage. For that reason, the morphological and chemical characteristics of otoliths of two nonnative Salmonids, brown trout (Salmo trutta) and brook charr (Salvelinus fontinalis) from populations on the Kerguelen Islands were compared. Several approaches were used to study the relationships between otolith morphometry, crystal morph and chemical elemental composition. These salmonids sampled in Kerguelen are well differentiated in terms of species through their otolith shape. The results indicate that ecotypes and river populations can be reasonably well differentiated on the basis of otolith shape. The crystallisation study has revealed the presence of a particular form: the vaterite, present at a high rate: 45% of S. fontinalis and 18% from Salmo trutta fario. Moreover, vaterite and aragonite otoliths presented differences in chemical composition.
Prenatal revelation of Niemann–Pick disease type C in siblings
Authors: Moreno Rubén , Lardennois Caroline , Drouin‐Garraud Valérie , Verspyck Eric , Marret Stéphane , Laquerrière Annie
Published: June 2008

Objectives: To report two cases of prenatal Niemann–Pick disease type C in siblings, with different prenatal semiology and postnatal outcome.

Case reports: First fetus presented at 22 weeks'gestation with ascites, hepatosplenomegaly, then polyhydramnios. At birth, the infant developed severe cholestasis and died at day 5. His brother presented at 22 weeks'gestation an isolated hepatomegaly with cholestasis at birth showing favourable evolution. In first case, diagnosis of Niemann–Pick disease was confirmed by autopsy findings, biochemical tests on cultured skin fibroblasts and ascites fluid, then by molecular screening of NPC1 gene. Brother's molecular prenatal diagnosis was made at 14 weeks' gestation on cultured trophoblasts.

Conclusion: Prenatal screening of this disease is particularly indicated in case of fetal ascites with hypoferritinaemia. Tests on amniotic or ascites fluid cells allow to characterize the biochemical phenotype, leading to search for molecular abnormalities. Despite the same mutation identified in siblings, disease evolution is variable, which underlines complexity of genetic counselling.
Human toxocariasis: a report of nine cases
Authors: Saporito Laura , Scarlata Francesco , Colomba Claudia , Infurnari Laura , Giordano Salvatore , Titone Lucina
Published: June 2008

Aim: Human toxocariasis is caused by infection with the larval stage of nematode parasites of dogs and cats, Toxocara canis or Toxocara cati. These helminths are not able to complete their life cycle in undefinitive hosts and so undergo aberrant migrations in the tissues causing a wide spectrum of signs and symptoms. Eosinophilia is often severe and sometimes represents the only sign of infection, except in ocular and neurological forms.

Methods: We describe the clinical features of nine children affected by toxocariasis admitted to our Infectious Diseases department from 2004 to 2006.

Results: Fever and hepatomegaly were the most common clinical findings. In two cases eosinophilia was not present. Diagnosis was performed by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay employing excretory–secretory antigens of Toxocara. canis larvae. All patients were successfully treated with oral albendazole with no side effects.

Conclusion: Toxocariasis should be considered in differential diagnosis of eosinophilia and in patients with seizures of uncertain origin, isolated hepatomegaly and splenomegaly, bronchospasms or skin rash.
Shakespeare'sMacbethand Post‐Reformation Desire
Authors: Marchesi Patricia
Published: June 2008

This essay won the 2007Literature CompassGraduate Essay Prize, Shakespeare Section.

The essay analyzes the way in which post‐Reformation concerns and uncertainties are dramatized in Shakespeare'sMacbeth, in particular through the play's treatment of language. The essay argues that the Reformation's eradication of some of the more tangible aspects of worship results in a lasting concern about the status of religion in general, and of language in particular. Shakespeare's 1606 play, through its complex depiction of language, showcases the risks and consequences of attempting to endow language with any kind of ‘tangibility’. In the case of the protagonist, such attempts consist of trying to bridge the perilous gap between word and action.

Macbeth's obsession with the intangibility of language, the essay ultimately argues, contributes greatly to his downfall. Macbeth continuously – and disastrously – attempts to turn linguistic ‘surmise’ into fact. In doing so, he expresses a type of post‐Reformation desire that is subversive (in its emphasis on the tangible and concrete), and must therefore be eradicated.
Sequence‐based characterization of the eight SLA loci in Korean native pigs
Authors: Lee Y. J. , Cho K. H. , Kim M. J. , Smith D. M. , Ho C. S. , Jung K. C. , Jin D. I. , Park C. S. , Jeon J. T. , Lee J. H.
Published: June 2008

Eight swine leucocyte antigen (SLA) gene (SLA‐1, SLA‐2, SLA‐3, SLA‐6, DRA, DRB1, DQA, DQB1) alleles were identified using sequence‐based typing method in three Korean native pigs used for breeding at the National Institute of Animal Science in Korea. Six new alleles in class I genes and three new alleles in class II genes have been identified in this breed and can give valuable information for xenotransplantation and disease resistance.
Design of Potent, Non‐Toxic Antimicrobial Agents Based Upon the Naturally Occurring Frog Skin Peptides, Ascaphin‐8 and Peptide XT‐7
Authors: Michael Conlon J. , Galadari Sehamuddin , Raza Haider , Condamine Eric
Published: June 2008

The frog skin peptides, ascaphin‐8 (GFKDLLKGAAKALVKTVLF.NH2) and XT‐7 (GLLGPLLKIAAKVGSNLL.NH2), show broad‐spectrum antimicrobial activity but their therapeutic potential is limited by toxicity against mammalian cells. Circular dichroism spectra demonstrate that the peptides adopt an amphipathic α‐helical conformation in a membrane‐mimetic solvent. This study has investigated the cytolytic properties of analogs containing selected amino acid substitutions that increase cationicity while maintaining amphipathicity. Substitutions at Ala10, Val14, and Leu18 in ascaphin‐8 by either l‐Lys or d‐Lys produced peptides that retained antimicrobial activity against the bacteria Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus and the opportunistic yeast pathogen, Candida albicans but showed appreciably reduced toxicities (>10‐fold) against human erythrocytes, HepG2 hepatoma‐derived cells, and L929 fibroblasts. The improved therapeutic index of the l‐Lys18 and d‐Lys18 analogs correlated with a decrease in % helicity and in effective hydrophobicity. Substitution of Gly4 by l‐Lys in XT‐7 produced an analog with high potency against micro‐organisms (MIC ≤ 25 μm) but low cytolytic activity against erythrocytes (LD50 > 500 μm) and this increase in therapeutic index also correlated with decreased helicity and hydrophobicity. Analogs of XT‐7 with increased cationicity, containing multiple substitutions by l‐Lys, not only displayed increased antimicrobial potencies, particularly against Candida albicans (MIC ≤ 6 μm), but also increased hemolytic activities.
Natural Compounds: Leads or Ideas? Bioinspired Molecules for Drug Discovery
Authors: Beghyn Terence , Deprez‐Poulain Rebecca , Willand Nicolas , Folleas Benoit , Deprez Benoit
Published: June 2008

In this article, we compare drugs of natural origin to synthetic compounds and analyze the reasons why natural compounds occupy a place of choice in the current pharmacopoeia. The observations reported here support the design of synthetic compounds inspired from plant alkaloids and their biosynthetic pathway. Our reasoning leads to very efficient syntheses of compounds which complexity matches that of indolomonoterpenic alkaloids.
Ligand‐Induced Stabilization and Activation of Peroxisome Proliferator‐Activated Receptor γ
Authors: Gani Osman A. B. S. M. , Sylte Ingebrigt
Published: June 2008

Peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor γ belongs to the nuclear receptor superfamily and is activated by the antidiabetic drugs rosiglitazone and pioglitazone. Ligand‐independent constitutive activity of peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor γ is also demonstrated. X‐ray crystallographic structures show that the active or inactive conformations of the receptor are determined by the position of helix 12 in the C‐terminal end. In this study, molecular dynamics simulations were used to gain molecular insight into the activation process and the structural stability of inactive and active peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor γ receptor structure. The simulations showed: (i) during molecular dynamics simulations without agonist at the active site, the receptor structure with helix 12 in a position corresponding to activated receptor structure was structurally more stable than with helix 12 in a position corresponding to inactive receptor structure, which may contribute to the constitutive activity of the receptor; (ii) docosahexenoic acid stabilized the active receptor conformation more efficiently than the glitazones; (iii) docosahexenoic acid, but not glitazones, induced structural changes into the inactive receptor structure such that helix 12 was shifted into a position more similar to that of an active receptor structure, which indicate that docosahexenoic acid is a more effective peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor γ agonist than the glitazones.
Evaluating conservation spending for species return: A retrospective analysis in California
Authors: Underwood Emma C. , Klausmeyer Kirk R. , Morrison Scott A. , Bode Michael , Shaw M. Rebecca
Published: June 2008

Conservation spending in California, USA exceeds conservation expenditures in many countries. To date, there has been no objective method to assess the efficiency of such spending for achieving species conservation outcomes. We conducted the first such retrospective analysis of conservation spending, examining the distribution of $2.8 billion spent on land protection by the state of California and partners from 1990 to 2006. Using a return on investment algorithm with species protection as the sole objective, we describe a “cost‐efficient” funding scenario that would have protected four times more distinct species and three times more threatened and endangered species compared to the observed allocation. Differences between the species‐diversity spending and the observed spending patterns reflect the myriad funding objectives, beyond protecting species, of the state. Identifying cost‐effective conservation strategies are essential given the need to maintain species diversity in the face of global change.
Dynamic Displacements for Electromechanical Integrated Electrostatic Harmonic Drive
Authors: Xu Lizhong , Qin Lei
Published: June 2008

The electromechanical integrated electrostatic harmonic drive is a new drive system invented by authors. The dynamic displacements of the flexible ring for the drive have important influence on operating performance of the drive system. In this paper, the three dimensional dynamic equations for the drive system are presented. The mode function equations and the frequency equation for the drive system are derived. The natural frequencies and dynamic displacements of the drive system are obtained. Using a finite element method analysis package, ANSYS, the natural frequencies and vibrating modes of the flexible ring for the drive system are simulated. The simulation results are compared to the analytical results above. The research is useful in design and manufacture of the drive system and can be used to design dynamic performance of the drive.
PIV Study of Separated and Reattached Open Channel Flow Over Surface Mounted Blocks
Authors: Agelinchaab Martin , Tachie Mark F.
Published: June 2008

A particle image velocimetry is used to study the mean and turbulent fields of separated and redeveloping flow over square, rectangular, and semicircular blocks fixed to the bottom wall of an open channel. The open channel flow is characterized by high background turbulence level, and the ratio of the upstream boundary layer thickness to block height is considerably higher than in prior experiments. The variation of the Reynolds stresses along the dividing streamlines is discussed within the context of vortex stretching, longitudinal strain rate, and wall damping. It appears that wall damping is a more dominant mechanism in the vicinity of reattachment. In the recirculation and reattachment regions, profiles of the mean velocity, turbulent quantities, and transport terms are used to document the salient features of block geometry on the flow. The flow characteristics in these regions strongly depend on block geometry. Downstream of reattachment, a new shear layer is formed, and the redevelopment of the shear layer toward the upstream open channel boundary layer is studied using the boundary layer parameters and Reynolds stresses. The results show that the mean flow rapidly redeveloped so that the Clauser parameter recovered to its upstream value at 90 step heights downstream of reattachment. However, the rate of development close to reattachment strongly depends on block geometry.
Numerical Simulation of Nonlinear Wave Diffraction by a Vertical Cylinder
Authors: Yang C. , Ertekin R. C.
Published: June 2008

A three-dimensional time domain approach is used to study nonlinear wave diffraction by a fixed, vertical circular-cylinder that extends to the sea floor. In this approach, the development of the flow can be obtained by a time-stepping procedure, in which the velocity potential of the flow at any instant of time is obtained by the boundary-element method. In the numerical calculations, the exact body-boundary condition is satisfied on the instantaneous wetted surface of the cylinder, and an extended Sommerfeld condition is developed and used as the numerical radiation condition. The fourth-order Adams-Bashford method is employed in the time stepping scheme. Calculations are done to obtain the nonlinear diffraction of solitary waves and Stokes second-order waves by a vertical circular-cylinder. Numerical results are compared with the available linear and second-order wave-force predictions for some given wave height and wavelength conditions, and also with experimental data. Present horizontal force results agree better with the experimental data than the previous predictions.
Ice Impact Force Measurements on a Vertically Faced Bridge Pier
Authors: Frederking R. , Sayed M.
Published: June 2008

A vertically faced 90-deg wedge-shaped pier on the Rideau river in Ottawa has been instrumented to measure ice impact forces. The pier is fitted with a frame which allows various sensors to be used to measure ice impact loads. Measurements have been made for three winters with two different types of ice sensors. A maximum impact force of 50 kN was obtained from direct measurements and a maximum local impact pressure of 6 MPa over an area of 0.01 m2 was indirectly estimated.
Partial Safety Factors for Vertical Bending Loads on Containerships
Authors: O¨stergaard C.
Published: June 2008

International design codes for seagoing steel ships of today are in the process of testing a new safety format with load factors separately multiplied with nominal (code) values of still water and wave loads. This leads to two design values of these loads, the sum of which must not exceed a design value of the strength of the ship structure, which is again a nominal (code) value of strength, this time divided by a strength factor. Such load and strength factors are generally termed partial safety factors. In the paper, vertical still water and wave bending moments of containerships are considered as loads. The partial safety factors are determined on the basis of reliability analysis, i.e., the sum of the design values of the loads will not exceed a design serviceability limit state of the ship’s structure with given probability. To enable reliability analysis, distribution density of the ship’s strength to resist bending moments is based on a stochastic interpretation of nominal (code) values used in the conventional safety format. The probability density of the still water bending moment is obtained from recently published statistical data. The probability density of the wave bending moment is calculated using advanced hydrodynamic and spectral analysis, including long-term statistics of the (North Atlantic) seaway. Reliability and related design values are estimated using the FORM algorithm with due consideration of the different repetition numbers for which the stochastic models of the two bending moments are valid. The results are presented as nonlinear regression formulas and as diagrams that specify partial safety factors related to length and beam of containerships. The nominal values of bending moments to be used with these partial safety factors are given as functions of length, beam, and block coefficient of those ships.
Design of Fixed Offshore Platforms to Dynamic Ship Impact Loads
Authors: Sterndorff M. J. , Waegter J. , Eilersen C.
Published: June 2008

A ship impact is a dynamic phenomenon and the dynamic global load effects can be significant, especially for small platforms where dynamic loads from the ship impact can be larger than the extreme environmental loads and the ship impact can govern the design of the platform. This paper describes a detailed procedure for dynamic analysis of fixed offshore platforms exposed to ship impacts. The procedure includes: • a consistent description of the motion of the vessel and dynamic interaction with the platform during the impact; • a realistic description of the global dynamic behavior of the platform during the impact; • detailed calculation of the transient hydrodynamic pressure forces acting on the vessel during the impact; and • a realistic description of the local deformation zone at the point of impact. The equations of motion for the vessel and the platform are solved simultaneously in the time domain, and the overall dynamic loads acting on the platform during the impact are determined by means of the modal superposition principle. The procedure has been applied for the design and subsequent risk analysis of three small tripod tower-type platforms to impacts from drifting supply vessels. The effect of the number of mode shapes used for representation of the dynamic behavior of the platforms, and the influence of the transient hydrodynamic pressure forces have been investigated. Critical velocity tables for different impact situations have been developed. For nearly all the situations investigated, the critical collapse criterion was overturning of the platform due to pull-out of piles in tension.
Finite Element Model Correlation for Offshore Structures
Authors: Tawekal R. L. , Bernitsas M. M.
Published: June 2008

Agreement between measured response of an offshore structure and numerical predictions using an initial finite element model (IFEM) is in general poor. An algorithm is developed, which produces an updated finite element model (UFEM) that is fully correlated with respect to modal and static deflection measurements. An incremental nonlinear methodology based on large admissible perturbations in cognate space is used to produce the UFEM by postprocessing results of the initial FEA. No other FEA or trial and error are required. Iterations within each increment are used only to correct for dependence of hydrodynamic excitation on correlation variables. The UFEM corresponds to a real structure and may differ from the IFEM in response and correlation variables by 100–300 percent depending on correlation measures and structural size. Several numerical applications for three offshore structures are used to assess the strength, limitations, and cost of the large perturbation methodology.
A Comparison of Fracture Mechanics and S–N Curve Approaches in Designing Drill Pipe
Authors: Ertas A. , Mustafa G. , Cuvalci O.
Published: June 2008

It is well known that the upper ball joint in a marine riser, in deep drilling, can cause fatigue damage in the drill pipe passing through it. A study of fracture mechanics and S–N curve approaches has been undertaken to determine the dynamic fatigue damage in the drill pipe. Miner’s rule is utilized in both methods to determine the total damage. The results of both methods are compared.
The Influence of Viscous Effects on the Motion of a Body Floating in Waves
Authors: Downie M. J. , Graham J. M. R. , Zheng X.
Published: June 2008

This paper describes a method for calculating the forces experienced by a body floating in waves, including those due to vortex shedding from its surface. The method uses a purely theoretical approach, incorporating viscous forces, for calculating the motions of the body in the frequency domain. It involves the matching of an outer inviscid flow with the local flow in the regions of flow separation on the body, which must be well defined. The outer flow is computed by a three-dimensional singularity distribution technique and the inner flow by the discrete vortex method. The technique has been applied to the prediction of the motion response of barges floating in waves. The results compare favorably with experimental data.
Joint Distribution of Successive Wave Steepness Parameters
Authors: Myrhaug D. , Rue H.
Published: June 2008

A joint distribution of wave steepness parameters associated with two successive waves is presented. The wave steepness parameters considered herein are the crest front steepness and the total wave steepness. This joint distribution is represented by a two-dimensional Weibull distribution with the parameters α = 0.84 and β = 1.40. The application of the results is illustrated by an example.