bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Determinants and Outcomes of Customers' Use of Self-Service Technology in a Retail Setting
Authors: Weijters Bert , Rangarajan Devarajan , Falk Tomas , Schillewaert Niels
Published: August 2007

Retailers are increasingly turning toward self-service technologies (SSTs) aimed at improving productivity and service quality while cutting costs. The authors identify a process model to understand the antecedents and consequences of SST usage by customers in an in-store retail setting. The model was validated on a combination of survey and observational data. Perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, reliability, and fun were identified as key drivers of customer attitude toward the SST. Customer attitude toward the SST predicted the actual usage of technology. The effects of SST usage on the actual time spent by customers in the store were studied. The authors investigate the impact of SST usage on customers' perceptions of waiting time and, consequently, on their level of satisfaction with the shopping experience. Finally, the moderating effects of age, education, and gender are analyzed. The current study evaluates the benefits of SST introduction for both customers and retailers.
Service Quality Attribute Weights
Authors: Dagger Tracey S. , Sweeney Jillian C.
Published: August 2007

Service experiences often unfold over a series of consumption episodes, yet customer perceptions of these experiences are often treated as static events. This prevents a good understanding of the impact of consumption stage on service perceptions. Prior research reveals little about the variation in the salience of service quality attributes between novice and longer-term customers, especially in terms of contribution to overall service quality perceptions or about the effect of service quality and service satisfaction on behavioral intentions across consumption stages. This study examines these issues using cohort analysis within the context of ongoing health care services. Results indicate that the contribution of attributes to overall service quality differs across novice and longer-term customer cohorts, as does the interrelationship of service quality, satisfaction, and behavioral intentions. These findings have important implications for managing service processes, improving service provider performance, and enhancing customer service.
The Influence of Angry Customer Outbursts on Service Providers' Facial Displays and Affective States
Authors: Dallimore Karen S. , Sparks Beverley A. , Butcher Ken
Published: August 2007

This article explores the existence and extent of emotional contagion, as measured by facial displays and reported affective states, in a service failure event. Using video vignettes of customers complaining about a service failure as stimulus material, the authors measured the facial displays and affective states of service providers as proxies for emotional contagion. Following a two-step approach, service providers' facial expressions were first recorded and assessed, revealing that service providers' facial displays matched those of the angry consumer. Second, a mixed ANOVA revealed service providers reported stronger negative affective states after exposure to an angry complaint than prior to exposure. The results demonstrated that during a complaint situation, angry outbursts by consumers can initiate the emotional contagion process, and service providers are susceptible to “catch” consumer anger through emotional contagion. Implications for complaint management and future research are discussed.
Establishment of baseline toxicity expectations with standard frontline chemotherapy in acute myelogenous leukemia
Authors: Atallah Ehab , Cortes Jorge , O'Brien Susan , Pierce Sherry , Rios Mary Beth , Estey Elihu , Markman Maurie , Keating Michael , Freireich Emil J. , Kantarjian Hagop
Published: August 2007

The rates of expected serious adverse events in patients with acute leukemia on chemotherapy far exceed those in patients with solid tumors. Regulatory authorities require similar reporting criteria, which overburden the investigators and infrastructure with unnecessary documentation. To establish a baseline for expected toxicities before and during leukemia therapy, we reviewed 1534 adults with acute myeloid leukemia (AML; excluding acute promyelocytic leukemia) from 1990 to 2006 who received frontline intensive chemotherapy; 723 (47%) were 60 years or older. Prior to therapy, grade 3/4 cytopenias were observed in 86% of patients. All patients developed one or more grade 3/4 cytopenias during therapy, and more than 90% had a febrile episode. Admission to the intensive care unit, mechanical ventilation, and dialysis were required in 28%, 16%, and 7%, respectively. Mortality during induction, 2-week mortality, and 6-week mortality were 20%, 5%, and 16%, respectively. Grade 3/4 renal or hepatic toxicities were observed in 3% and 22% of patients, respectively. Other grade 3 or 4 toxicities were also common before treatment and during therapy. This paper establishes a baseline toxicity rate for patients with AML during induction therapy, and this could be used as a control group for future reference. Guidelines for reporting adverse events in leukemia studies should be revisited.
Long-term outcome of patients with AL amyloidosis treated with high-dose melphalan and stem-cell transplantation
Authors: Sanchorawala Vaishali , Skinner Martha , Quillen Karen , Finn Kathleen T. , Doros Gheorghe , Seldin David C.
Published: August 2007

Long-term survival and outcome were determined for 80 patients with immunoglobulin light chain (AL) amyloidosis treated with high-dose melphalan and stem cell transplantation (HDM/SCT) more than 10 years ago. Seventeen (21%) patients died within the first year of treatment, of treatment-related complications (14%) or progressive disease (8%). Of the 63 surviving evaluable patients at one year, 32 (51%) achieved a complete hematologic response (CR). For all 80 patients, the median survival was 57 months (4.75 yrs). The median survival exceeds 10 years for patients achieving a CR after HDM/SCT, compared with 50 months for those not achieving a CR (P < .001). In conclusion, HDM/SCT leads to durable remissions and prolonged survival, particularly for those patients who achieve a hematologic CR.
Case report: PET/CT, a cautionary tale
Authors: Wang Jayson , Cook Gary , Frank John , Dina Roberto , Livni Naomi , Lynn John , Fleming William , Seckl Michael J
Published: August 2007

Background

The use of combined positron emission tomography/computerised tomography (PET/CT) scanners in oncology has been shown to improve the staging of tumours and the detection of relapses. However, mis-registration errors are increasingly recognised to be a common pitfall of PET/CT studies.

Case Presentation

We report a patient with a germ cell tumour of the testis, who underwent a PET/CT scan to detect the site of relapse with a view to surgical removal. However, the PET/CT scan mislocalised the tumour site to be within the T2 vertebral body. A subsequent endoscopic ultrasound scan however showed the tumour to be anterior to the vertebral body, which was confirmed at surgery.

Conclusion

In this report, we highlight the artefactual mislocalisation errors which may occur with PET/CT imaging, and the need to review and verify these scans.
The Sigma-trial protocol: a prospective double-blind multi-centre comparison of laparoscopic versus open elective sigmoid resection in patients with symptomatic diverticulitis
Authors: Klarenbeek Bastiaan R , Veenhof Alexander AFA , de Lange Elly SM , Bemelman Willem A , Bergamaschi Roberto , Heres Piet , Lacy Antonio M , van den Broek Wim T , van der Peet Donald L , Cuesta Miguel A
Published: August 2007

Backround

Diverticulosis is a common disease in the western society with an incidence of 33–66%. 10–25% of these patients will develop diverticulitis. In order to prevent a high-risk acute operation it is advised to perform elective sigmoid resection after two episodes of diverticulitis in the elderly patient or after one episode in the younger (< 50 years) patient. Open sigmoid resection is still the gold standard, but laparoscopic colon resections seem to have certain advantages over open procedures. On the other hand, a double blind investigation has never been performed. The Sigma-trial is designed to evaluate the presumed advantages of laparoscopic over open sigmoid resections in patients with symptomatic diverticulitis.

Method

Indication for elective resection is one episode of diverticulitis in patients < 50 years and two episodes in patient > 50 years or in case of progressive abdominal complaints due to strictures caused by a previous episode of diverticulits. The diagnosis is confirmed by CT-scan, barium enema and/or coloscopy.

It is required that the participating surgeons have performed at least 15 laparoscopic and open sigmoid resections. Open resection is performed by median laparotomy, laparoscopic resection is approached by 4 or 5 cannula. Sigmoid and colon which contain serosal changes or induration are removed and a tension free anastomosis is created. After completion of either surgical procedure an opaque dressing will be used, covering from 10 cm above the umbilicus to the pubic bone. Surgery details will be kept separate from the patient's notes.

Primary endpoints are the postoperative morbidity and mortality. We divided morbidity in minor (e.g. wound infection), major (e.g. anastomotic leakage) and late (e.g. incisional hernias) complications, data will be collected during hospital stay and after six weeks and six months postoperative. Secondary endpoints are the operative and the postoperative recovery data. Operative data include duration of the operation, blood loss and conversion to laparotomy. Post operative recovery consists of return to normal diet, pain, analgesics, general health (SF-36 questionnaire) and duration of hospital stay.

Discussion

The Sigma-trial is a prospective, multi-center, double-blind, randomized study to define the role of laparoscopic sigmoid resection in patients with symptomatic diverticulitis.
Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma of the sphenoid sinus presenting as isolated oculomotor nerve palsy
Authors: Park Young Mok , Cho Jun Hyung , Cho Jae Yong , Huh Ji Soon , Ahn Jung Yong
Published: August 2007

Background

Solitary involvement of the sphenoid sinus has rarely been reported in non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. Isolated oculomotor nerve palsy is uncommon as an initial presentation of malignant tumors of the sphenoid sinus.

Case presentation

A 53-year-old woman presented with a three-month history of headache and diplopia. Neurological examination revealed complete left oculomotor nerve palsy. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) demonstrated a homogenous soft-tissue lesion occupying the left sphenoid sinus and invading the left cavernous sinus. The patient underwent transsphenoidal biopsy and the lesion was histologically diagnosed as non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, diffuse large B-cell type. Tumor cells were positive for CD20 and negative for CD3. Following six cycles of chemotherapy, the left oculomotor nerve palsy that had been previously observed was completely resolved. There was no enhancing lesion noted on follow-up MRI.

Conclusion

It is important to recognize that non-Hodgkin's lymphoma of the sphenoid sinus can present with isolated oculomotor nerve palsy, although it is extremely rare. The cranial nerve deficits can resolve dramatically after chemotherapy.
Intracellular HIV-1 Gag localization is impaired by mutations in the nucleocapsid zinc fingers
Authors: Grigorov Boyan , Décimo Didier , Smagulova Fatima , Péchoux Christine , Mougel Marylène , Muriaux Delphine , Darlix Jean-Luc
Published: August 2007

Background

The HIV-1 nucleocapsid protein (NC) is formed of two CCHC zinc fingers flanked by highly basic regions. HIV-1 NC plays key roles in virus structure and replication via its nucleic acid binding and chaperoning properties. In fact, NC controls proviral DNA synthesis by reverse transcriptase (RT), gRNA dimerization and packaging, and virion assembly.

Results

We previously reported a role for the first NC zinc finger in virion structure and replication [1]. To investigate the role of both NC zinc fingers in intracellular Gag trafficking, and in virion assembly, we generated series of NC zinc fingers mutations. Results show that all Zinc finger mutations have a negative impact on virion biogenesis and maturation and rendered defective the mutant viruses. The NC zinc finger mutations caused an intracellular accumulation of Gag, which was found either diffuse in the cytoplasm or at the plasma membrane but not associated with endosomal membranes as for wild type Gag. Evidences are also provided showing that the intracellular interactions between NC-mutated Gag and the gRNA were impaired.

Conclusion

These results show that Gag oligomerization mediated by gRNA-NC interactions is required for correct Gag trafficking, and assembly in HIV-1 producing cells and the release of infectious viruses.
Network motif analysis of a multi-mode genetic-interaction network
Authors: Taylor R James , Siegel Andrew F , Galitski Timothy
Published: August 2007

Different modes of genetic interaction indicate different functional relationships between genes. The extraction of biological information from dense multi-mode genetic-interaction networks demands appropriate statistical and computational methods. We developed such methods and implemented them in open-source software. Motifs extracted from multi-mode genetic-interaction networks form functional subnetworks, highlight genes dominating these subnetworks, and reveal genetic reflections of the underlying biochemical system.
Intravenous Glucose Administration in Fasting Rats Has Differential Effects on Acylated and Unacylated Ghrelin in the Portal and Systemic Circulation: A Comparison between Portal and Peripheral Concentrations in Anesthetized Rats
Authors: Gauna Carlotta , Uitterlinden Piet , Kramer Piet , Kiewiet Rosalie M. , Janssen Joop A. M. J. L. , Delhanty Patric J. D. , van Aken Maarten O. , Ghigo Ezio , Hofland Leo J. , Themmen Axel P. N. , van der Lely Aart Jan
Published: August 2007

Ghrelin is produced by the gastrointestinal tract, and its systemic concentrations are mainly regulated by nutritional factors. Our aim was to investigate: 1) endogenous portal and systemic acylated and unacylated ghrelin levels (AG and UAG, respectively); 2) whether an iv glucose tolerance test (IVGTT) modifies AG and UAG; and 3) whether the liver passage plays a role in regulating systemic AG and UAG. To elucidate this, we evaluated the effects of IVGTT or saline injection on endogenous portal and systemic concentrations of glucose, insulin, AG, and UAG in anesthetized fasting rats. Hepatic extraction of insulin, AG, and UAG and the ratio of AG to UAG were also measured. IVGTT suppressed both portal (P < 0.03) and peripheral (P < 0.05) UAG, whereas it only blunted prehepatic, but not peripheral, AG. During fasting, hepatic clearance of UAG was 11%, and it was decreased to 8% by IVGTT. AG was cleared by the liver by 38% but unaffected by glucose. The AG to UAG ratio was higher in the portal than the systemic circulation, both in the saline (P < 0.004) and IVGTT (P < 0.0005) rats. In conclusion, this study shows that: 1) the ratio of AG to UAG is very low in the portal vein and decreases further in the systemic circulation; 2) IVGTT in anesthetized fasting rats inhibits UAG, whereas it only blunts prehepatic, but not systemic, AG; and 3) hepatic clearance of AG is much higher than that of UAG. Thus, our results suggest that peripheral AG metabolic regulation and action are mainly confined within the gastrointestinal tract.
17β-Estradiol Regulates Constitutive Nitric Oxide Synthase Expression Differentially in the Myocardium in Response to Pressure Overload
Authors: Loyer Xavier , Damy Thibaud , Chvojkova Zuzana , Robidel Estelle , Marotte Françoise , Oliviero Patricia , Heymes Christophe , Samuel Jane-Lise
Published: August 2007

Estrogens [E(2)] exert direct and indirect effects that can modulate the development of cardiac disease. However, the precise mechanisms that are involved remain undefined. Our objective was to investigate whether E(2) affected the activity and expression of constitutive nitric oxide synthase (NOS) isoforms (NOS3 and NOS1) in cardiac hypertrophy induced by thoracic aortic constriction (TAC). Ovariectomized (Ovx) and nonovariectomized Wistar rats were subjected to TAC. Ovx animals received E(2) or placebo 3 wk after surgery for 11 wk. Afterward cardiac function and degree of left ventricular hypertrophy were assessed by echocardiography. NOS activity and expression were studied by biochemical techniques. TAC led to significant left ventricular hypertrophy (>90%) irrespective of hormonal status. Cardiac performance declined more in TAC+Ovx (−20%, P < 0.015) than in the two other TAC groups [TAC and TAC+Ovx+E(2)]. Total NOS activity decreased significantly in the Ovx groups. In response to TAC, total NOS activity increased whatever the E(2) status. Specific NOS3 activity dramatically decreased in the Ovx groups (−55%, P < 0.009) and was unaltered by TAC. By using coimmunoprecipitation assays, we showed that NOS3/caveolin-1 complexes negatively regulated NOS3 activity as a function of E(2) status. On the other hand, NOS1 expression and activity were markedly increased in hypertrophied myocardium (P < 0.003), irrespective of E(2) status. This study demonstrates a differential regulation of NOS expression and activity in response to pressure overload and E(2) status, the former being mainly involved in the induction of NOS1, whereas the latter regulated NOS3 activity and in turn cardiac function.
Exendin-4 Improves Reversal of Diabetes in NOD Mice Treated with Anti-CD3 Monoclonal Antibody by Enhancing Recovery of β-Cells
Authors: Sherry Nicole A. , Chen Wei , Kushner Jake A. , Glandt Mariela , Tang Qizhi , Tsai Sue , Santamaria Pere , Bluestone Jeffrey A. , Brillantes Anne-Marie B. , Herold Kevan C.
Published: August 2007

Immune modulators can arrest loss of insulin secretion in type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM), but they have not caused permanent disease remission or restored normal insulin secretion. We tested whether exendin-4, a glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist, would enhance remission of T1DM in NOD mice treated with anti-CD3 monoclonal antibody (mAb) and studied the effects of exendin-4 treatment on cellular and metabolic responses of β-cells. Diabetic NOD mice treated with anti-CD3 mAb and exendin-4 had a higher rate of remission (44%) than mice treated with anti-CD3 mAb alone (37%) or exendin-4 (0%) or insulin or IgG alone (0%) (P < 0.01). The effect of exendin-4 on reversal of diabetes after anti-CD3 mAb was greatest in mice with a glucose level of less than 350 mg/dl at diagnosis (63 vs. 39%, P < 0.05). Exendin-4 did not affect β-cell area, replication, or apoptosis or reduce the frequency of diabetogenic or regulatory T cells or modulate the antigenicity of islet cells. Reversal of T1DM with anti-CD3 mAb was associated with recovery of insulin in glucose transporter-2+/insulin− islet cells that were identified at diagnosis. Glucose tolerance and insulin responses improved in mice treated with combination therapy, and exendin-4 increased insulin content and insulin release from β-cells. We conclude that treatment with glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist enhances remission of T1DM in NOD mice treated with anti-CD3 mAb by enhancing the recovery of the residual islets. This combinatorial approach may be useful in treatment of patients with new-onset T1DM.
Synergistic Effects of Epidermal Growth Factor and Hepatocyte Growth Factor on Human Ovarian Cancer Cell Invasion and Migration: Role of Extracellular Signal-Regulated Kinase 1/2 and p38 Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase
Authors: Zhou Hong Y. , Pon Yuen L. , Wong Alice S. T.
Published: August 2007

Ovarian cancer is the primary cause of death from gynecological malignancies with a poor prognosis characterized by widespread peritoneal dissemination. However, mechanisms of invasion and metastasis in ovarian cancer remain poorly understood. Epidermal growth factor (EGF) and hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) are often both overexpressed and contribute to the growth of ovarian cancer by activating autocrine pathways. In the present study, we investigated the mechanisms of invasive activity of EGF, HGF, and their synergistic effects in human ovarian cancer cells. Here our data suggest that EGF and HGF may use unique and overlapping signaling cascades leading to the invasive phenotype. We revealed that HGF-mediated cell migration and invasion required the coordinate activation of the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/Akt and extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2. Although EGF-dependent invasive phenotype appeared to have similar requirements for phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase, this growth factor used the alternative p38 MAPK pathway for cell invasion. A significant role of p38 MAPK was further supported by the observation that expression of dominant negative p38 MAPK likewise inhibited EGF-dependent invasiveness and cell motility. We also showed that EGF cooperated with HGF to promote a highly invasive phenotype via the increased secretion of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9. The coincident induction of MMP-9 was functionally significant because inclusion of MMP-9 inhibitor or an anti-MMP-9 neutralizing antibody abolished EGF- and HGF-induced cellular invasion. These findings provide insights into the mechanism of the malignant progression of ovarian cancer.
Regulation of Alternative Splicing of Liver Scavenger Receptor Class B Gene by Estrogen and the Involved Regulatory Splicing Factors
Authors: Zhang Xiaohui , Moor Andrea N. , Merkler Kathleen A. , Liu Qiyuan , McLean Mark P.
Published: August 2007

The scavenger receptor class B isoforms (SR-B) type I and type II mediate the selective uptake of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and promote reverse cholesterol transport, an important atherosclerosis protection mechanism, in the liver. Previously it was shown that the hepatic expression of SR-BI and SR-BII is regulated by estrogen. In the present study, we demonstrate that estrogen differentially regulates expression of the glycosylated and nonglycosylated forms of SR-BI and SR-BII in rat liver and hepatic cells. We report that estrogen mainly induces the down-regulation of glycosylated SR-BI and the up-regulation of nonglycosylated SR-BII. To study how estrogen regulates expression of the SR-B isoforms, we constructed a SR-B minigene containing minimal genomic sequences and were able to demonstrate that estrogen directly regulates the pre-mRNA alternative splicing of the exogenously expressed SR-B minigene in hepatic cells. Furthermore, we showed that the overexpression of splicing factors alternative splicing factor/splicing factor 2, Transformer (Tra)-2α, and Tra2β changes the splicing pattern of SR-B dramatically, whereas other splicing factors, such as heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein-G, SC-35, and arginine/serine-rich p40, had no effect. We also demonstrate that estrogen regulates Tra2β expression levels in liver cells. These studies suggest that estrogen may regulate SR-B isoform expression at both the RNA splicing and posttranslational modification levels and that, for alternative splicing regulation, estrogen may function by regulating the expression of the splicing factors alternative splicing factor/splicing factor 2, Tra2α, and especially Tra2β.
Impaired Central Insulin Response in Aged Wistar Rats: Role of Adiposity
Authors: García-San Frutos Miriam , Fernández-Agulló Teresa , De Solís Alain J. , Andrés Antonio , Arribas Carmen , Carrascosa José M. , Ros Manuel
Published: August 2007

Insulin, like leptin, is considered as a lipostatic signal acting at a central level. Aging and age-associated adiposity have been related to the development of leptin resistance in Wistar rats. In the present article, hypothalamic insulin response during aging has been studied in Wistar rats. Thus, the effects of intracerebroventricular infusion of insulin during a week on food intake and body weight as well as insulin signal transduction after acute intracerebroventricular insulin administration have been studied in 3-, 8-, and 24-month-old rats. To explore the possible role of age-associated adiposity, these experiments were also performed in 8- and 24-month-old rats after 3 months of food restriction to reduce visceral adiposity index to values below those of young animals. Intracerebroventricular administration of insulin during a week was more efficient at reducing food intake and body weight in 3-month-old rats than in 8- and 24-month-old rats. Hypothalamic insulin-stimulated insulin receptor, GSK3, AKT, and p70S6K phosphorylation decreased with aging. Insulin receptor and IRS-2 phosphoserine was increased in 24-month-old rats. Food restriction improved both insulin responsiveness and insulin signaling. These data suggest that Wistar rats develop hypothalamic insulin resistance with aging. This can be explained by alterations of the signal transduction pathway. The fact that food restriction improves central insulin response and signal transduction points to the age-associated adiposity as a key player in the development of central insulin resistance.
Estrogen Response Element-Independent Estrogen Receptor (ER)-α Signaling Does Not Rescue Sexual Behavior but Restores Normal Testosterone Secretion in Male ERα Knockout Mice
Authors: McDevitt Melissa A. , Glidewell-Kenney Christine , Weiss Jeffrey , Chambon Pierre , Jameson J. Larry , Levine Jon E.
Published: August 2007

Estrogen receptor (ER)-α mediates estradiol (E2) actions in the male gonads and brain and is critical for normal male reproductive function. In the classical pathway, ERα binds to estrogen response elements (EREs) to regulate gene transcription. ERα can also regulate gene transcription independently of EREs via protein-protein interactions with transcription factors and additionally signal via rapid, nongenomic pathways originating at the cell membrane. This study assessed the degree to which ERE-independent ERα signaling can rescue the disrupted masculine sexual behaviors and elevated serum testosterone (T) levels that have been shown to result from ERα gene deletion. We utilized male ERα null mice that possess a ER knock-in mutation (E207A/G208A; AA), in which the mutant ERα is incapable of binding to DNA and can signal only through ERE-independent pathways (ERα−/AA mice). We found that sexual behavior, including mounting, is virtually absent in ERα−/− and ERα−/AA males, suggesting that ERE-independent signaling is insufficient to maintain any degree of normal sexual behavior in the absence of ERE binding. By contrast, ERE-independent signaling in the ERα−/AA mouse is sufficient to restore serum T levels to values observed in wild-type males. These data indicate that binding of ERs to EREs mediates most if not all of E2’s effects on male sexual behavior, whereas ERE-independent ERα signaling may mediate E2’s inhibitory effects on T production.
Reduced migration, altered matrix and enhanced TGFβ1 signaling are signatures of mouse keratinocytes lacking Sdc1
Authors: Stepp Mary Ann , Liu Yueyuan , Pal-Ghosh Sonali , Jurjus Rosalyn A. , Tadvalkar Gauri , Sekaran Adith , LoSicco Kristen , Jiang Li , Larsen Melinda , Li Luowei , Yuspa Stuart H.
Published: August 2007

We have reported previously that syndecan-1 (Sdc1)-null mice show delayed re-epithelialization after skin and corneal wounding. Here, we show that primary keratinocytes obtained from Sdc1-null mice and grown for 3-5 days in culture are more proliferative, more adherent and migrate more slowly than wt keratinocytes. However, the migration rates of Sdc1-null keratinocytes can be restored to wild-type levels by replating Sdc1-null keratinocytes onto tissue culture plates coated with fibronectin and collagen I, laminin (LN)-332 or onto the matrices produced by wild-type cells. Migration rates can also be restored by treating Sdc1-null keratinocytes with antibodies that block α6 or αv integrin function, or with TGFβ1. Antagonizing either β1 integrin function using a function-blocking antibody or TGFβ1 using a neutralizing antibody reduced wild-type keratinocyte migration more than Sdc1-null keratinocyte migration. Cultures of Sdc1-null keratinocytes accumulated less collagen than wild-type cultures but their matrices contained the same amount of LN-332. The Sdc1-null keratinocytes expressed similar total amounts of eight different integrin subunits but showed increased surface expression of αvβ6, αvβ8, and α6β4 integrins compared with wild-type keratinocytes. Whereas wild-type keratinocytes increased their surface expression of α2β1, αvβ6, αvβ8, and α6β4 after treatment with TGFβ1, Sdc1-null keratinocytes did not. Additional data from a dual-reporter assay and quantification of phosphorylated Smad2 show that TGFβ1 signaling is constitutively elevated in Sdc1-null keratinocytes. Thus, our results identify TGFβ1 signaling and Sdc1 expression as important factors regulating integrin surface expression, activity and migration in keratinocyte and provide new insight into the functions regulated by Sdc1.
Is Patient Outcome Affected by the Administration of Intravenous Fluid During Bowel Preparation for Colonic Surgery?
Authors: Sanders G , Arthur CHC , Hosie KB , Lambert AW
Published: August 2007

INTRODUCTION

We have previously shown that Picolax® bowel preparation causes a significant dehydrating effect, which can be minimised by administering a calculated volume of intravenous fluid. The aim of this prospective study was to assess whether peri-operative outcome is affected by administering a calculated volume of intravenous fluid during bowel preparation.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Patients having bowel preparation (Picolax®: Ferring Pharmaceuticals Ltd, Middlesex, UK) prior to colonic surgery were prospectively randomised to receive no intravenous fluid (group 1) or calculated intravenous crystalloid based on their body weight (group 2), during preparation. In both groups, transfusion was protocol-driven. Outcome variables measured included intra-operative and postoperative intravenous fluid requirement, hourly recorded urine output for 24 h, number of patients transfused, number of units of blood transfused, time to the passage of flatus, time to having their bowels open, time until tolerating a full diet, complications and length of stay in hospital.

RESULTS

Thirty-three patients were recruited – group 1 (n = 18) and group 2 (n = 15). There were 24 men and 9 women, median age 69 years (range, 29–86 years). There was no significant difference between the groups with respect to age, sex, weight, ASA grade, preoperative haemoglobin concentration, duration or type of operation. The total number of patients receiving a transfusion (P = 0.026) and the number of units of blood transfused (P = 0.017) was significantly greater in group 1. The number of units of blood transfused intra-operatively was significantly greater in group 1 (P = 0.029). Significantly fewer patients had a urine output <30 ml/h in the first 24-h after operation (P = 0.046) in group 2. There was no difference between groups in other outcomes measures.

CONCLUSIONS

This study indicates that a calculated volume of intravenous fluid administered during bowel preparation improves patient outcomes with respect to blood transfusion and postoperative oliguria. We advocate calculated intravenous fluid administration in all patients undergoing bowel preparation prior to colonic surgery.
Helicopter Emergency Ambulance Service (HEAS) Transfer: An Analysis of Trauma Patient Case-Mix, Injury Severity and Outcome
Authors: Melton JTK , Jain S , Kendrick B , Deo SD
Published: August 2007

INTRODUCTION

A retrospective review of all patients transferred by helicopter ambulance to the Great Western Hospital over a 20-month period between January 2003 and September 2004 was undertaken to establish the case-mix of patients (trauma and non-trauma) transferred and the outcome.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Details of all Helicopter Emergency Ambulance Service (HEAS) transfers to this unit in the study time period were obtained from the three HEAS providers in the area and case notes were reviewed.

RESULTS

There were 156 trauma patients transferred (total 193) in the study period with 111 cases identified for analysis with a mean age of 33 years (range, 1–92 years). Average Injury Severity Score on admission was 12 (range, 1–36). Forty-five patients were discharged home from the emergency department, 24 cases had operation, 10 patients required ICU care and 2 were pronounced dead in the emergency department. Average hospital stay following HEAS transfer was 2.97 days (range, 0–18 days).

DISCUSSION

Helicopter ambulance transfer in the acute setting is of debated value. Triage criteria are at fault if as many as 41% of patients transferred are being discharged home from casualty having incurred the financial cost of helicopter transfer. We suggest that the triage criteria for helicopter emergency transfer should be reviewed.
Präimplantationsdiagnostik und Polkörperdiagnostik / The current state of preimplantation genetic diagnosis and polar body diagnosis
Authors: Hehr Andreas , Bals-Pratsch Monika , Seifert Bernd , Hehr Ute
Published: August 2007

Die Präimplantationsdiagnostik (PID) ist als früheste Form der Pränataldiagnostik (PND) seit dem Jahr 1990 verfügbar, um bei Paaren mit hohem Risiko für eine monogene Erbkrankheit einen späten Schwangerschaftsabbruch nach Pränataldiagnostik zu vermeiden bzw. die Schwangerschaftsraten der assistierten Reproduktion zu verbessern. Aufgrund der länderspezifisch unterschiedlichen Gesetzeslage kann in einigen Ländern, incl. Deutschland, Österreich, Schweiz und seit 2005 auch Italien, nur eine Sonderform der PID, die sogenannte Polkörperdiagnostik (PKD) zur Anwendung kommen. Obwohl die für PKD und PID eingesetzten molekulargenetischen und zytogenetischen Methoden grundsätzlich gleich sind, gibt es Unterschiede hinsichtlich der Indikationen und auch der Dateninterpretation.

Im vorliegenden Artikel werden Anwendungen und Methoden der PID und der PKD verglichen und der Ablauf einer PKD am Beispiel einer monogenen Erkrankung dargestellt.
Bilateral Cortical Interaction: Modulation of Delay-Tuned Neurons in the Contralateral Auditory Cortex
Authors: Tang Jie , Xiao Zhongju , Suga Nobuo
Published: August 2007

Transcallosal excitation and inhibition have been theorized based on the effect of callosotomy on intractable epilepsy and dichotic listening research, respectively. We studied bilateral interaction of cortical auditory neurons and found that this interaction consisted of focused facilitation and widespread lateral inhibition. The frequency modulated (FM)–FM area of the auditory cortex of the mustached bat is composed of delay-tuned neurons tuned to the combination of the emitted biosonar pulse and its echo with a specific echo delay [best delay (BD)] and consists of three subdivisions in terms of the combination sensitivity of neurons. We found that focal electric stimulation of one of these three subdivisions evoked BD shifts of delay-tuned neurons in all three subdivisions of the contralateral FM–FM area, presumably via the corpus callosum. The effect of electric stimulation of the delay-tuned neurons on the contralateral delay-tuned neurons was different depending on whether the BD of a recorded neuron was matched or unmatched in BD with that of the stimulated neurons. BD-matched neurons did not change their BDs and increased the responses at their BDs, whereas BD-unmatched neurons shifted their BDs away from the BD of the stimulated neurons and reduced their responses. The ipsilateral and contralateral BD shifts evoked by the electric stimulation were identical to each other. The contralateral modulation, in addition to the ipsilateral modulation, increases the contrast in the neural representation of the echo delay to which the stimulated neurons are tuned.
Differential Synaptic Integration of Interneurons in the Outer and Inner Molecular Layers of the Developing Dentate Gyrus
Authors: Chittajallu Ramesh , Kunze Albrecht , Mangin Jean-Marie , Gallo Vittorio
Published: August 2007

The dentate gyrus (DG) undergoes continued reorganization and lamination during early postnatal development. Interneurons with anatomically identified synaptic contacts migrate from the outer to the inner regions of the molecular layer (ML) of the DG. By using the 2′,3′-cyclic nucleotide 3′-phosphodiesterase (CNP)-enhanced green fluorescent protein transgenic mouse, we were able to target and physiologically characterize Dlx2+developing ML interneurons. We investigated whether synapses on migrating ML interneurons were functional and defined properties of synaptic inputs onto interneurons that were located in the outer ML (OML) or inner ML (IML). Consistent with ongoing maturation, IML interneurons displayed lower input resistances and more hyperpolarized resting membrane potentials than OML interneurons. Both OML and IML interneurons received a direct excitatory monosynaptic input from the entorhinal cortex via the perforant paths, but this input was differentially sensitive to activation of presynaptic group II and III metabotropic glutamate receptors. Furthermore, only IML interneurons also received significant synaptic input from the CA3/hilar region, especially under conditions of experimentally induced disinhibition. These changes are attributed to a significant reorganization of dendritic fields. GABAAreceptor-mediated innervation of OML and IML interneurons also displayed significant differences in miniature IPSC amplitude, frequency, and decay kinetics. Finally, cell-attached recordings indicated that GABAAreceptor activation was depolarizing in OML interneurons but predominantly shunting in IML interneurons. Our data provide evidence that developing ML interneurons receive functional glutamatergic and GABAergic inputs and undergo significant changes in synaptic integration during migration from the OML to the IML.
Word-internal agreement
Authors: Stolz Thomas
Published: August 2007

This paper is meant to demonstrate that agreement phenomena are by no means re-stricted to morpho-syntactic relations which connect separate words of an utterance to one another. It is shown that similar patterns can be observed also word-internally i.e. in a morphologically complex word, there are at least two slots in which fillers occur that encode the same or partially identical sets of grammatical categories. The paper adduces evidence from a variety of languages of different parts of the world whose morphological systems allow for word-internal agreement. Since the phenomenon is attested more often than expected, it deserves an in-depth treatment for which this contribution is paving the way.
Stepping beyond Sí Se Puede: Dichos as a Cultural Resource in Mother—Daughter Interaction in a Latino Family
Authors: Espinoza‐Herold Mariella
Published: August 2007

This mother—daughter case study focuses on a key feature of discourse within a Mexican immigrant family that links oral traditions to resilience and motivation. I combine observations from a previous ethnographic study with recent follow‐up interviews of a Mexican immigrant student building on a funds of knowledge framework and an ecological perspective. Expanding on current mother—daughter pedagogic theory, I map “dichos” as they are emblematic of cultural funds of knowledge and how they assume a relationship to resistance and academic attainment for a young Mexican immigrant. The findings challenge the notion that working‐class Latino families do not care about the educational fortunes of their youth and lack knowledge and resources to guide their children academically.
Mutiny Echoes: India, Britons, and Charles Dickens's A Tale of Two Cities
Authors: JOSHI PRITI
Published: August 2007

This essay asks what, if any, import the Indian “Mutiny” of 1857 had on A Tale of Two Cities (1859), Charles Dickens�s fictionalized account of the French Revolution. Begun shortly after the Indian uprising started, Dickens�s historical novel appears studiously to avoid any mention of events on the Indian subcontinent, even though these events preoccupied and enraged the author. Few scholars have attended to the question of A Tale of Two Cities and the “Mutiny,” but when they have, scholars have looked for analogies between India and Dickens�s account of the French Revolution. In this essay, by contrast, I examine A Tale of Two Cities in a larger context—of Britons' response to the Uprising, of Dickens's short stories and essays in Household Words in the years before the “Mutiny” and immediately after, of Dickens's disenchantment with aspects of British culture, and of his need to articulate a national identity grounded in action. I argue that the events in India were the match that ignited Dickens's already established midcentury interests in national identity, nobility, and masculine heroism. I do not wish to suggest that A Tale of Two Cities is an Indian “Mutiny” novel, but rather that it is a novel about the “Making of Britons,” an important endeavor for an author who was intensely dissatisfied with the Britain that he saw around him.
Management of Acute Otitis Media by Primary Care Physicians: Trends Since the Release of the 2004 American Academy of Pediatrics/American Academy of Family Physicians Clinical Practice Guideline
Authors: Vernacchio Louis , Vezina Richard M. , Mitchell Allen A.
Published: August 2007

OBJECTIVES. In 2004, the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Academy of Family Physicians released a clinical practice guideline on the management of acute otitis media that included endorsement of an observation option for selected cases and recommendations of specific antibiotics. We sought to describe primary care physicians' current management of acute otitis media to compare it with the guideline's recommendations and describe trends since 2004.

DESIGN. We used a mail survey from March through June 2006 within the Slone Center Office-Based Research Network, a national practice-based pediatric research network.

RESULTS. The response rate was 299 (62.7%) of 477. The observation option was considered reasonable by 83.3%, compared with 88.0% in 2004, and was used in a median of 15% of acute otitis media cases over the previous 3 months. The most common physician-identified barriers to the use of the observation option were parental reluctance (83.5%) and the cost and difficulty of follow-up of children who do not improve (30.9%). In terms of antibiotic choices for acute otitis media, agreement with the guideline's antibiotic recommendation for 4 common clinical scenarios was as follows: high-dose amoxicillin for acute otitis media with nonsevere symptoms (57.2%), high-dose amoxicillin-clavulanate for acute otitis media with severe symptoms (12.7%), high-dose amoxicillin-clavulanate for cases that failed to respond to amoxicillin (42.8%), and intramuscular ceftriaxone for cases that failed to respond to treatment with amoxicillin-clavulanate (16.7%). Each of these proportions declined from 2004.

CONCLUSIONS. Most primary care physicians accept the concept of an observation option for acute otitis media but use it only occasionally. Antibiotics prescribed for acute otitis media differ markedly from the guideline's recommendations, and the difference has increased since 2004.
Brainstem Involvement in Neonatal Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2 Encephalitis
Authors: Pelligra Gustavo , Lynch Niamh , Miller Steven P. , Sargent Michael A. , Osiovich Horacio
Published: August 2007

Herpes simplex virus encephalitis in the newborn typically involves the cerebral cortex in a widespread manner. Herpes simplex virus type 2 rarely involves the brainstem. Here we report a 16-day-old infant with predominant brainstem and cerebellar involvement secondary to herpes simplex virus type 2 infection. Diffusion-weighted MRI performed 3 days after the onset of symptoms revealed restricted diffusion mainly in brainstem and cerebellar structures. No abnormal findings were seen on conventional MRI. Subsequent MRI scans showed evolution of the brain injury with extension along the corticospinal tracts. However, there was no evidence of any other supratentorial gray or white matter injury. This is the first report of predominant brainstem involvement in neonatal herpes simplex virus type 2 encephalitis. In addition, the importance of performing diffusion-weighted sequences to detect early central nervous system involvement and serial MRI to follow the evolution of central nervous system lesions is emphasized.
Efficacy of Zolmitriptan Nasal Spray in Adolescent Migraine
Authors: Lewis Donald W. , Winner Paul , Hershey Andrew D. , Wasiewski Warren W. ,   on behalf of the Adolescent Migraine Steering Committee
Published: August 2007

OBJECTIVE. The goal was to evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of zolmitriptan nasal spray in the treatment of adolescent migraine.

METHODS. The “Double-Diamond” study used a novel, single-blind, “placebo challenge” in a multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, 2-way, 2-attack, crossover design. A total of 248 US adolescent patients (12–17 years of age) with an established diagnosis of migraine, with or without aura, were enrolled. A single-blind placebo challenge was used for each migraine attack. No additional medications were taken if a headache response to the initial placebo treatment was achieved at 15 minutes; if migraine intensity remained moderate or severe, then patients treated the attack with zolmitriptan (5 mg) nasal spray or placebo according to a randomized, crossover schedule (double-blind). The primary efficacy variable was headache response at 1 hour after treatment. A comprehensive range of secondary end points included sustained headache response at 2 hours.

RESULTS. A total of 171 patients (mean age: 14.2 years; 57.3% female) treated ≥1 attack with study medication (intention-to-treat population). The onset of significant pain relief was apparent 15 minutes after treatment with zolmitriptan nasal spray. At 1 hour after the dose, zolmitriptan nasal spray produced a higher headache response rate than did placebo (58.1% vs 43.3%). Zolmitriptan nasal spray was also significantly superior to placebo in improvement in pain intensity, pain-free rates, sustained resolution of headache, and resolution of associated migraine symptoms. Return to normal activities was also consistently faster with zolmitriptan nasal spray than with placebo, with less use of any escape medication. Treatment with zolmitriptan nasal spray was well tolerated.

CONCLUSIONS. This novel, placebo-challenge study demonstrated that zolmitriptan nasal spray was well tolerated and provided fast and significantly effective relief of migraine symptoms in the acute treatment of adolescent migraine.
High-Throughput Screening of Gene Function in Stem Cells Using Clonal Microarrays
Authors: Ashton Randolph S. , Peltier Joseph , Fasano Christopher A. , O'Neill Analeah , Leonard Joshua , Temple Sally , Schaffer David V. , Kane Ravi S.
Published: August 2007

We describe a microarray-based approach for the high-throughput screening of gene function in stem cells and demonstrate the potential of this method by growing and isolating clonal populations of both adult and embryonic neural stem cells. Clonal microarrays are constructed by seeding a population of cells at clonal density on micropatterned surfaces generated using soft lithographic microfabrication techniques. Clones of interest can be isolated after assaying in parallel for various cellular processes and functions, including proliferation, signal transduction, and differentiation. We demonstrate the compatibility of the technique with both gain- and loss-of-function studies using cell populations infected with cDNA libraries or DNA constructs that induce RNA interference. The infection of cells with a library prior to seeding and the compact but isolated growth of clonal cell populations will facilitate the screening of large libraries in a wide variety of mammalian cells, including those that are difficult to transfect by conventional methods.

Disclosure of potential conflicts of interest is found at the end of this article.