bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cruciferous Vegetable Feeding Alters UGT1A1 Activity: Diet- and Genotype-Dependent Changes in Serum Bilirubin in a Controlled Feeding Trial
Authors: Navarro Sandi L. , Peterson Sabrina , Chen Chu , Makar Karen W. , Schwarz Yvonne , King Irena B. , Li Shuying S. , Li Lin , Kestin Mark , Lampe Johanna W.
Published: April 2009

Chemoprevention by isothiocyanates from cruciferous vegetables occurs partly through up-regulation of phase II conjugating enzymes, such as UDP-glucuronosyltransferases (UGT). UGT1A1 glucuronidates bilirubin, estrogens, and several dietary carcinogens. The UGT1A1*28 polymorphism reduces transcription compared with the wild-type, resulting in decreased enzyme activity. Isothiocyanates are metabolized by glutathione S-transferases (GST); variants may alter isothiocyanate clearance such that response to crucifers may vary by genotype. We evaluated, in a randomized, controlled, crossover feeding trial in humans (n = 70), three test diets (single- and double-“dose” cruciferous and cruciferous plus apiaceous) compared with a fruit and vegetable–free basal diet. We measured serum bilirubin concentrations on days 0, 7, 11, and 14 of each 2-week feeding period to monitor UGT1A1 activity and determined effects of UGT1A1*28 and GSTM1/GSTT1-null variants on response. Aggregate bilirubin response to all vegetable-containing diets was statistically significantly lower compared with the basal diet (P < 0.03 for all). Within each UGT1A1 genotype, lower bilirubin concentrations were seen in *1/*1 in both single- and double-dose cruciferous diets compared with basal (P < 0.03 for both); *1/*28 in double-dose cruciferous and cruciferous plus apiaceous compared with basal, and cruciferous plus apiaceous compared with single-dose cruciferous (P < 0.02 for all); and *28/*28 in all vegetable-containing diets compared with basal (P < 0.02 for all). Evaluation of the effects of diet stratified by GST genotype revealed some statistically significant genotypic differences; however, the magnitude was similar and not statistically significant between genotypes. These results may have implications for altering carcinogen metabolism through dietary intervention, particularly among UGT1A1*28/*28 individuals.
Female morphs of a colour polymorphic damselfly differ in developmental instability and fecundity
Authors: Bots Jessica , Van Dongen Stefan , Adriaens Tim , Dumont Henri , Stoks Robby , Van Gossum Hans
Published: April 2009

Sex-limited colour polymorphism occurs in several animal taxa and is usually explained in the context of sexual selection. Specifically, for polymorphism restricted to the female sex, multiple phenotypes may have evolved in response to male harassment. Such male harassment is generally considered to entail differential costs to female morphs, which may ultimately result in fitness differences. However, contrary to this prediction, most previous studies do not support that female morphs (andromorphs and heteromorphs) differ in measures of quality and (or) fitness components. In this study, we evaluate quality and fitness differences between mated female morphs of the damselfly Enallagma cyathigerum. We suggest that many earlier studies may have failed to observe morph differences in quality or fitness because selection by male harassment was weak. Here, we selected a study population for which our expectation was that levels of per female capita male harassment were high. Nevertheless, also in this population mated female morphs did not differ in body size or condition (body mass/body length). However, mated female morphs did differ in levels of developmental instability: heteromorphs consistently showed a higher level of fluctuating asymmetry than andromorphs. Also, mated female morphs differed in fecundity: andromorphs had a lower clutch size than heteromorphs. In addition, larger females contained more eggs, but the slope of this relationship was steeper in heteromorphs. In conclusion, mated female morphs of the damselfly E. cyathigerum at our study site clearly differed in one quality estimate (developmental instability) and in our measure of fitness (fecundity).
Modelling correlates of microhabitat use of two sympatric lizards: a model selection approach
Authors: Bombi Pierluigi , Salvi Daniele , Luiselli Luca , Bologna Marco
Published: April 2009

Studies of the ecological characteristics of sympatric species are important for developing and testing ecological theory, but may be of interest also for conservation biology research when the study species are threatened, endemic and with narrow distribution. Here, we studied a particular aspect of the ecology (i.e. microhabitat use) of two sympatric lizards (Archaeolacerta bedriagae, Podarcis tiliguerta) endemic to Sardinia and Corsica (Tyrrhenian islands). We studied this issue by modelling procedures, using field data collected at six study areas in both Sardinia and Corsica. We recorded 18 microhabitat variables for each lizard spot. The variables were entered as independent variables in logistic regression analysis with the presence/absence data for the lizards as the dependent variable, and Akaike Information Criterion was applied to select the best models describing the ecological equation of each study species. In total, we based our modelling approach on 296 individuals of A. bedriagae and 182 of P. tiliguerta. The general logistic regression models revealed that five distinct variables were significantly correlated to the presence/absence of A. bedriagae, and six to that of P. tiliguerta. We found that three variables were important for only P. tiliguerta, two for only A. bedriagae, and three for both species and with an identical sign. We also found some similarities in microhabitat choice between species. Indeed, some variables were always present in the best models of both A. bedriagae and P. tiliguerta. In general, A. bedriagae was more related to spots with large stones and low vegetation than P. tiliguerta, which, on the contrary, choose spots relatively closer to vegetation. The various reasons explaining the observed similarities and differences between species were examined. It is suggested that our modelling procedure may be widely used for studies of lizard community ecology, because it easy to use and allows a more-in-depth analysis than normal 'count approaches'.
Contract Formation Using Automated Message System: Survey of Islamic Contract Law
Authors: Subaty Muhammad , Elsan Mostafa
Published: April 2009

The issues discussed are the legal aspects of creating contracts using Automated Message Systems. For example, should a transaction or series of contracts be nullified after the right to withdraw has been exercised? The right to withdraw was created to protect a “natural person” unable to correct a human input error in an automated system. Interpretation of contracts under Islamic law concerning this and related topics is presented.
A Body Of Knowledge: The Wellcome Ayurvedic Anatomical Man And His Sanskrit Context
Authors: Wujastyk Dominik
Published: April 2009

A widely-known painting currently in the Wellcome Library (Iconographic 574912i) depicts an anatomical view of the male human body according to the tenets of classical Indian medicine, or ayurveda. The painting is surrounded by text passages in the Sanskrit language on medical and anatomical topics. In this paper, the Sanskrit texts are identified, edited, translated and assessed. I establish a terminus a quo for the painting, and explore the relationship of text and image.
Proclus' Theory of Evil: An Ethical Perspective
Authors: Chlup Radek
Published: April 2009

While the metaphysical aspects of Proclus' theory of evil have recently been studied by a number of scholars, its ethical implications have largely been neglected. In my paper I am analysing the moral consequences that Proclus' concept of evil has, at the same time using the ethical perspective to throw more light on Proclus' ontology. Most importantly, I argue that the difference between bodily and psychic evil is much more substantial that it might seem from On the Existence of Evils alone. Though both kinds of evil are characterized by their 'parasitical existence' (parhypostasis), evil in bodies is unavoidable, resulting from a wide network of cosmic corporeal interactions that no partial being can ever have control of. Psychic evil, on the other hand, is a product of human choice and is independent of external circumstances, depending wholly on the soul's ability to keep its proper vertical hierarchy. In this regard it is evil in a much more serious sense of the word, being actively caused (though unintentionally) rather than just passively suffered. In the last section of my paper I throw further light on this more dangerous kind of evil, showing it as resulting from an essential bi-dimensionality of human beings.
Global and Regional Comparison of Daily 2-m and 1000-hPa Maximum and Minimum Temperatures in Three Global Reanalyses
Authors: Pitman A. J. , Perkins S. E.
Published: April 2009

A comparison of three global reanalyses is conducted based on probability density functions of daily maximum and minimum temperature at 2-m and 1000-hPa levels. The three reanalyses compare very favorably in both maximum and minimum temperatures at 1000 hPa, in both the mean and the 99.7th and 0.3rd percentiles of both quantities in most regions. At 2 m, there are large and widespread differences in the mean and 99.7th percentiles in maximum temperature between the three reanalyses over land commonly exceeding ±5°C and regionally exceeding ±10°C. The 2-m minimum temperatures compare unfavorably between the three reanalyses over virtually all continental surfaces with differences exceeding ±10°C over widespread areas. It is concluded that the three reanalyses are generally interchangeable in 1000-hPa temperatures. The three reanalyses of 2-m temperatures are very different owing to the methods used to diagnose these quantities. At this time, the probability distribution functions of the 2-m temperatures from the three reanalyses are sufficiently different that either the 2-m air temperatures should not be used or all three products should be used independently in any application and the differences highlighted.
On the Mechanism of Pacific Multidecadal Climate Variability in CCSM3: The Role of the Subpolar North Pacific Ocean
Authors: Zhong Yafang , Liu Zhengyu
Published: April 2009

Previous analyses of the Community Climate System Model, version 3 (CCSM3) standard integration have revealed pronounced multidecadal variability in the Pacific climate system. The purpose of the present work is to investigate physical mechanism underlying this Pacific multidecadal variability (PMV). To better isolate the mechanism that selects the long multidecadal time scale for the PMV, a few specifically designed sensitivity experiments are carried out. When the propagating Rossby waves are blocked in the subtropics from the midbasin, the PMV remains outstanding. In contrast, when the Rossby waves are blocked beyond the subtropics across the entire North Pacific, the PMV is virtually suppressed. It suggests that the PMV relies on propagating Rossby waves in the subpolar Pacific, whereas those in the subtropics are not critical.

A novel mechanism of PMV is advanced based on a more comprehensive analysis, which is characterized by a crucial role of the subpolar North Pacific Ocean. The multidecadal ocean temperature and salinity anomalies may originate from the subsurface of the subpolar North Pacific because of the wave adjustment to the preceding basin-scale wind curl forcing. The anomalies then ascend to the surface and are amplified through local temperature–salinity convective feedback. Along the southward Oyashio, these anomalies travel to the Kuroshio Extension (KOE) region and are further intensified through a similar convective feedback. The oceanic temperature anomaly in the KOE is able to feed back to the large-scale atmospheric circulation, inducing a wind curl anomaly over the subpolar North Pacific, which in turn generates anomalous oceanic circulation and causes temperature and salinity variability in the subpolar subsurface. Thereby, a closed loop of PMV is established in the form of an extratropical delayed oscillator. The phase transition of PMV is driven by the delayed negative feedback that resides in the wave adjustment of the subpolar North Pacific via propagating Rossby waves, whereas the convective positive feedback provides the growth mechanism. A significant role of salinity variability is unveiled in both the delayed negative feedback and convective positive feedback.
Statistical Characteristics of Multipeak Raindrop Size Distributions at the Surface and Aloft in Different Rain Regimes
Authors: Radhakrishna B. , Narayana Rao T.
Published: April 2009

Two years (∼672 h) of lower-atmospheric wind profiler (LAWP) and 4 yr (∼733 h) of Joss–Waldvogel disdrometer measurements are utilized to study the multipeak (MP) occurrence statistics at the surface and aloft. For the first time, an attempt has been made to address several key questions regarding MPs: their occurrence statistics and their dependency on height, season, and type of precipitation. MPs are not exceptional; rather, they are observed at all altitudes, albeit with different occurrence percentages. The occurrence of MPs seems to be height dependent, and this dependency varies with the type of rain system. The occurrence percentage of bimodal echo (two peaks) is high above (below) the melting level (ML) in convection (in other types of rain). The percentage occurrence of bimodal echo in warm rain is similar to that in cold rain, but only below the ML. The spectrum with more than two peaks appears to be predominantly in convection, particularly above 4 km. The MP statistics on the surface DSD derived from disdrometer data also support the profiler statistics qualitatively (occurrence is more likely in convection); however, the magnitudes of the percentage of occurrence are different at the surface and aloft. The peaks in the raindrop size distribution (DSD) spectra exist predominantly in drop diameter ranges of 0.45–0.65 and 0.9–1.3 mm in all types of rain, consistent with earlier numerical and observational studies. The MP occurrence does not have seasonal dependence aloft, but shows some variation at the surface with a larger percentage of the occurrences in the southwest monsoon. However, peaks in the surface DSD exist at same diameters in both monsoon seasons.
Teaching Case: Weight‐Reduction Surgery: A Viable but Often Overlooked Option
Authors: Guenter Peggi
Published: April 2009

When obese patients are offered weight‐reduction plans, the option of weight‐reduction surgery is often not proposed. This may be due to the lack of knowledge on the part of the counseling health care professional. This teaching case provides one patient's experience with a weight‐reduction surgical procedure and how she came to learn about this option.
Invited Review: Nutritional Management of Hyperemesis Gravidarum
Authors: Wagner Beth A. , Worthington Patricia , Russo‐Stieglitz Karen E. , Levine Amy B. , Armenti Vincent T.
Published: April 2009

Hyperemesis gravidarum (HG) was once a major cause of maternal mortality. The impact of prolonged and severe nausea and vomiting on the fetus and mother can be devastating. Disturbances in fluid, electrolyte, and acid‐base balances are common. The reduction in maternal deaths associated with HG is a result of improved understanding and more aggressive treatment of these metabolic alterations. HG is the most common reason for nutrition support intervention during pregnancy. However, little information is available regarding the nutritional issues associated with HG or the effects of providing nutrition support on pregnancy outcome. This review discusses the nutritional implications of HG and strategies for clinical management, including hydration, pharmacologic therapies, and the provision of enteral and parenteral nutrition. Implications for home care and future research are also presented.
Techniques and Procedures: Guidelines for Managing Electrolytes in Total Parenteral Nutrition Solutions
Authors: Schmidt Gerald L.
Published: April 2009

To many practitioners, managing electrolytes in total parenteral nutrition (TPN) solutions has been considered an art rather than a science. Electrolytes are typically taught by gut feeling rather than by a structured approach. Consequently, most practitioners manage electrolytes differently, with varying degrees of success. Inconsistent prescribing often results in over‐ or undercorrection, with consequential adverse events and/or increased workload. These inconsistencies led my organization to develop dosing guidelines for the management of electrolytes in parenteral nutrition solutions. The guidelines are based on the literature and our clinical experience. They are designed specifically to teach a standardized process for making electrolyte adjustments. They were also designed to give a better idea of the amounts of electrolytes needed and the expected corresponding change in serum levels. Since implementing the guidelines, we have noticed an improvement in electrolyte management.
Invited Review: Cardioprotective Effects of ω‐3 Fatty Acids
Authors: Harris William S. , O'Keefe James H.
Published: April 2009

The suggestion that marine ω‐3 fatty acids might have beneficial cardiovascular effects was first made by epidemiologic studies in Greenland Inuits published in the late 1970s. These simple observations spawned hundreds of other studies which, taken together, strongly suggest a true cardioprotective effect of ω‐3 fatty acids. The strongest evidence to date that ω‐3 fatty acids may be palliative has come from the publication of three randomized clinical trials, all of which reported benefits to patients with preexisting coronary artery disease. The most convincing of these was the GISSI‐Prevezione study in which 5654 patients with coronary artery disease were randomized to either ω‐3 fatty acids (850 mg/d) or usual care. After 3.5 years, those taking the ω‐3 fatty acids had experienced a 20% reduction in overall mortality and a 45% decrease in risk for sudden cardiac death. These findings support the view that relatively small intakes of ω‐3 fatty acids are indeed cardioprotective, and suggest that they may operate by stabilizing the myocardium itself.
Nutrition Support Care Map Targets Monitoring and Reassessment to Improve Outcomes in Trauma Patients
Authors: Klein Catherine J. , Stanek Gena S. , Wiles Charles E.
Published: April 2009

A year‐long analysis of barriers to optimum nutrition care was conducted by an interdisciplinary team of clinicians in a complex trauma center. Goldratt's Theory of Constraints was applied as the method of analyzing the system of care with the goal of improving nutritional outcomes in patients with traumatic injuries. Monitoring and reassessment of nutritional status, as they were currently conducted, were identified as weak links in the nutrition care process. To correct this, a nutrition support care map was constructed that included mutually agreed on roles and responsibilities for monitoring and reassessment.
Optimizing Nutritional Management for the Very Low‐Birth‐Weight Infant
Authors: Ellard Deirdre
Published: April 2009

Traditionally, the initiation of nutrition support in preterm infants has been delayed for several days, sometimes weeks, after birth. The unstable clinical condition of these infants, coupled with fears of adverse metabolic consequences, has often complicated nutrient delivery in the immediate postnatal period. Now, with the increasing survival rate of smaller, more critically ill neonates, efforts to improve their long‐term outcomes have prompted investigation into the effect of optimizing their nutrition management. As a result, the initiation of parenteral and enteral nutrition beginning in the first days of life has been studied extensively. Although additional research continues to be needed, current findings support the use of earlier, more aggressive nutrition support in these high‐risk infants.
Invited Review: Lipoprotein Lipase and Triglyceride‐Rich Lipoprotein Metabolism
Authors: Miles John M. , Park Yongsoon , Harris William S.
Published: April 2009

Lipoprotein lipase (LPL) is the key enzyme responsible for fat storage. It hydrolyzes triglyceride contained in circulating very low‐density lipoproteins and chylomicrons; the fatty acids that are produced are transported locally into tissues, whereas glycerol is released into the circulation. Abnormalities in LPL activity have been described in a variety of hypertriglyceridemic states, including diabetes mellitus, and in some situations may contribute to atherosclerosis. Previous in vivo studies suggest that LPL is saturable, with maximum rates of fatty acid transport and storage occurring at plasma triglyceride concentrations in the 300 to 400 mg/dL range. At higher triglyceride concentrations, significant nonenzymatic uptake, primarily by the reticuloendothelial system, can occur. Impaired neutrophil, platelet, and pulmonary function have been described in association with IV infusion of lipid emulsions at high rates. There is no evidence that lipid emulsions produce any of these adverse effects at plasma triglyceride concentrations below 300 to 400 mg/dL. Inordinate hypertriglyceridemia can usually be avoided by limiting lipid infusion rates to 30 to 50 mg/kg‐h, a rate sufficient to meet nutritional needs under most conditions.
The Clinical Utility of Glycemic Index in the Treatment of Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Traver Patricia S.
Published: April 2009

The incidence of type 2 diabetes mellitus and one of its risk factors, obesity, are increasing at rapid rates in all age groups. Good glycemic control has been proven to reduce debilitating complications. Diabetes Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT) in the United States focuses on encouraging “complex” over “simple” carbohydrates and the quantity of carbohydrates consumed. In a number of countries worldwide, a quality marker for carbohydrates, the glycemic index, is promoted. This glycemic index (GI) quantifies a carbohydrate's expected impact on the blood glucose response postprandially. Lack of agreement exists among scientists in the United States as to the clinical benefits and patients' ability to comprehend GI. Many factors alter GI, including processing, ripening, and plant varieties. Modest clinical benefits on lipid and glucose levels have been documented. There are simple or complex approaches to enhance individualized MNT with GI in the management of this chronic disease.
Long‐Term Home Jejunostomy Feeding of Young Children
Authors: Björnestam Berit , Bengtsson Carola , Bergdahl Sven , Finkel Yigael
Published: April 2009

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a motility disorder that occurs more frequently in children with neurological disease and in children with congenital esophageal anomalies or diaphragmatic hernia. Feeding difficulties and asthma may be caused by GER. Pharmacological and surgical treatment are successful in most cases. The authors describe 6 children with severe GER and asthma, who were treated with long‐term jejunostomy feeding. Median length of treatment was 6 months (range, 5–12), for a total of 44 months. The parents were trained to replace dislodged jejunostomy tubes. All replacements of tubes at home by the parents were successfully carried out. Vomiting and emergency admissions for asthma were decreased in all children.
Optimal Allocation of Active Spares in Series Systems and Comparison of Component and System Redundancies
Authors: Misra Neeraj , Dhariyal Ishwari D. , Gupta Nitin
Published: April 2009

We consider the problem of allocating k active spares to n components of a series system in order to optimize its lifetime. Under the hypotheses that lifetimes of n components are identically distributed with distribution function F(⋅), lifetimes of k spares are identically distributed with distribution function G(⋅), lifetimes of components and spares are independently distributed, and that ln(G(x))/ln(F(x)) is increasing in x, we show that the strategy of balanced allocation of spares optimizes the failure rate function of the system. Furthermore, under the hypotheses that lifetimes of n components are stochastically ordered, lifetimes of k spares are identically distributed, and that lifetimes of components and spares are independently distributed, we show that the strategy of balanced allocation of spares is superior to the strategy of allocating a larger number of components to stronger components. For coherent systems consisting of n identical components with n identical redundant (spare) components, we compare strategies of component and system redundancies under the criteria of reversed failure rate and likelihood ratio orderings. When spares and original components do not necessarily match in their life distributions, we provide a sufficient condition, on the structure of the coherent system, for the strategy of component redundancy to be superior to the strategy of system redundancy under reversed failure rate ordering. As a consequence, we show that, for r-out-of-n systems, the strategy of component redundancy is superior to the strategy of system redundancy under the criterion of reversed failure rate ordering. When spares and original components match in their life distributions, we provide a necessary and sufficient condition, on the structure of the coherent system, for the strategy of component redundancy to be superior to the strategy of system redundancy under the likelihood ratio ordering. As a consequence, we show that, for r-out-of-n systems, with spares and original components matching in their life distributions, the strategy of component redundancy is superior to the strategy of system redundancy under the likelihood ratio ordering.
Targeting of p0071 to the midbody depends on KIF3
Authors: Keil René , Kießling Christina , Hatzfeld Mechthild
Published: April 2009

P0071 (plakophilin-4) is a member of the p120ctn subfamily of armadillo proteins that are essential for cell contact formation. Additionally, p0071 plays a role in cytokinesis, in which it regulates local activation of RhoA together with Ect2. Because spatiotemporal regulation is required for progression through cytokinesis, we analyzed when and how p0071 is targeted to the midbody to induce RhoA activation. We show that Ect2 precedes p0071 accumulation at the midbody and that targeting is mediated by different motor proteins. p0071 interacted with the kinesin-II family member KIF3b, and knockdown of KIF3b interfered with p0071 midbody recruitment whereas Ect2 or RhoA localization was not affected in these cells. Moreover, knockdown of KIF3b induced a similar phenotype as the p0071 knockdown, with reduced actin and phospho-myosin-light-chain accumulation at the midbody and decreased levels of active RhoA during cytokinesis. The lack of RhoA activation in KIF3b-deficient cells was not rescued by overexpression of wild-type p0071 but was substantially ameliorated by a p0071–MKLP1-motor-domain fusion protein that was targeted to the furrow independently of KIF3. These data indicate that p0071 and Ect2 are transported via distinct motors and identify a novel pathway implicating KIF3 in the regulation of actin organization during cytokinesis.
Trabecular Bone Structure Analysis in the Osteoporotic Spine Using a Clinical In Vivo Setup for 64-Slice MDCT Imaging: Comparison to μCT Imaging and μFE Modeling
Authors: Issever Ahi S , Link Thomas M , Kentenich Marie , Rogalla Patrik , Schwieger Karsten , Huber Markus B , Burghardt Andrew J , Majumdar Sharmila , Diederichs Gerd
Published: April 2009

Assessment of trabecular microarchitecture may improve estimation of biomechanical strength, but visualization of trabecular bone structure in vivo is challenging. We tested the feasibility of assessing trabecular microarchitecture in the spine using multidetector CT (MDCT) on intact human cadavers in an experimental in vivo–like setup. BMD, bone structure (e.g., bone volume/total volume = BV/TV; trabecular thickness = Tb.Th; structure model index = SMI) and bone texture parameters were evaluated in 45 lumbar vertebral bodies using MDCT (mean in-plane pixel size, 274 μm2; slice thickness, 500 μm). These measures were correlated with structure measures assessed with μCT at an isotropic spatial resolution of 16 μm and to microfinite element models (μFE) of apparent modulus and stiffness. MDCT-derived BMD and structure measures showed significant correlations to the density and structure obtained by μCT (BMD, R2 = 0.86, p < 0.0001; BV/TV, R2 = 0.64, p < 0.0001; Tb.Th, R2 = 0.36, p < 0.01). When comparing μCT-derived measures with μFE models, the following correlations (p < 0.001) were found for apparent modulus and stiffness, respectively: BMD (R2 = 0.58 and 0.66), BV/TV (R2 = 0.44 and 0.58), and SMI (R2 = 0.44 and 0.49). However, the overall highest correlation (p < 0.001) with μFE app. modulus (R2 = 0.75) and stiffness (R2 = 0.76) was achieved by the combination of QCT-derived BMD with the bone texture measure Minkowski Dimension. In summary, although still limited by its spatial resolution, trabecular bone structure assessment using MDCT is overall feasible. However, when comparing with μFE-derived bone properties, BMD is superior compared with single parameters for microarchitecture, and correlations further improve when combining with texture measures.
The IGF system after insertion of a transjugular intrahepatic porto-systemic shunt in patients with liver cirrhosis
Authors: Holland-Fischer Peter , Vilstrup Hendrik , Frystyk Jan , Nielsen Dennis Tønner , Flyvbjerg Allan , Grønbæk Henning
Published: April 2009

Objective

Insertion of a transjugular intrahepatic porto-systemic shunt (TIPS) into patients with liver cirrhosis usually induces a gain in body cell mass. Changes in the IGF system in favor of anabolism may be involved. We, therefore measured blood concentrations of the components of the IGF system in cirrhosis patients before and after elective TIPS.

Design and methods

The study comprised 17 patients and 11 healthy controls. Patients were examined before and 1, 4, 12, and 52 weeks after TIPS. Biochemical analyses of the IGF system were compared with changes in body composition (bioimpedance analysis), glucose and insulin, and metabolic liver function (galactose elimination capacity).

Results

After TIPS, body cell mass rose by 3.2 kg (95% confidence interval (CI): 1.0–5.5) at 52 weeks, in correlation with baseline liver function (r2=0.22;P=0.03). Peripheral blood concentrations of total IGF1 and 2, bioactive IGF1, and the IGF-binding proteins (IGFBP-1, -2, and -3) remained unchanged throughout the study period. There was no change in fasting glucose, whereas fasting insulin rose by 40% (CI: 11–77%) and glucagon by 58% (CI: 11–132%) from baseline to 52 weeks after TIPS.

Conclusion

Our data confirm that TIPS was associated with an increase in body cell mass in patients with liver cirrhosis, but without any change in the circulating IGF system. Thus, the results do not support the notion that effects on the circulating IGF system are involved in the anabolic effects of TIPS insertion.
Intestinal Microbiota
Authors: Sharma Renu , Young Christopher , Mshvildadze Maka , Neu Josef
Published: April 2009

Humans maintain a diverse, dynamic, and complex intestinal microbiota that performs a multitude of vital functions, such as growth and development of the epithelial barrier, stimulation of intestinal angiogenesis, regulation of nutrition, metabolic functions, and education of naïve neonatal innate immunity. After birth, host environment and attributes lend and opt for a stable intestinal microbiota for long-term symbiosis. Dysregulation (dysbiosis) of this process during the early postnatal period can form the basis for later inflammatory, immune, and allergic disorders. The initial immunologic exposure of neonates has long-term consequences. Because of this remarkable influence of microbiota on health and disease, learning about characteristics of microbiota and the factors that modulate it has become the focus of ongoing research. Further knowledge in this field should assist in developing strategies to promote health and prevent diseases. This article reviews recent advances in the understanding of microbiota.
The Effect of Fiber Dowel Heights in Resin Composite Cores on Restoration Failures of Endodontically Treated Teeth
Authors: Mekayarajjananonth Trakol , Chitcharus Nattinee , Winkler Sheldon , Bogert Meredith C.
Published: April 2009

In vitro and in vivo testing suggest that fiber posts may reduce the incidence of root fractures of endodontically treated teeth. The purpose of this in vitro study was to compare the effect of fiber post height in resin composite cores on the fracture resistance of endodontically treated teeth. Forty maxillary central incisors were randomly divided into 2 control groups (Groups 1 and 2) of 5 teeth each, and 3 experimental groups (Groups 3, 4, and 5) of 10 teeth each. The teeth in Group 1 had their opening restored with composite resin, the teeth in Group 2 were restored with quartz fiber posts without resin composite cores, and the teeth in Groups 3, 4, and 5 were restored with quartz fiber posts of 2, 4, and 6 mm high, respectively, in 6-mm resin composite cores. Ceramic crowns were fabricated for the specimens. Specimens were positioned in a mounting device and aligned at a 130-degree angle to the long axis of each tooth. A universal testing machine was used to apply constant load at a crosshead speed of 0.5 mm/min until failure occurred. The highest fracture load and mode of failure of each specimen was recorded. The highest fracture resistance force was observed in Group 2 (290.38 ± 48.45 N) and decreased, respectively, in Group 1 (238.98 ± 26.26 N), Group 5 (228.35 ± 58.79 N), Group 4 (221.43 ± 38.74 N), and Group 3 (199.05 ± 58.00 N). According to one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Duncan's test (P ≤ .05), there was no statistically significant increase in the force from Group 3 to Group 5, and the force in Group 2 was significantly higher than that of the experimental groups. There was no statistical significance difference in force among the experimental groups, and the amount of residual tooth structure was found to be the critical factor in fracture resistance. The results suggest that endodontically treated teeth should be restored with the longest possible post height while preserving maximum tooth structure.
The effect of disease-associated HRPT2 mutations on splicing
Authors: Hahn Michael A , McDonnell Julie , Marsh Deborah J
Published: March 2009

Mutations in the tumour suppressor HRPT2 occur in patients with parathyroid carcinoma, kidney tumours and Hyperparathyroidism–Jaw Tumour syndrome. Disruption of exonic splicing through mutation of donor/acceptor splice sites or exonic splice enhancer (ESE) sites leads to loss of function of a number of major tumour suppressors including BRCA1, APC and MLH1. Given that the effect of HRPT2 mutations on splicing has not been widely studied, we used an in vitro splicing assay to determine whether 17 HRPT2 mutations located in hot-spot and other exons predicted to disrupt ESE consensus sites led to aberrant splicing. Using two independent web-based prediction programs, the majority of these mutations were predicted to disrupt ESE consensus sites; however, aberrant splicing of HRPT2 transcripts was not observed. Canonical donor or acceptor splice site mutations were also investigated using this splicing assay and transcripts assessed from tumour tissue. Splice site mutations were shown to lead to either exon skipping or retention of intronic sequences through the use of cryptic splice sites comprised of non-classical splicing signals. Aberrant splicing caused by disruption of ESE sites does not appear to have a major role in HRPT2-associated disease; however, premature truncation of parafibromin as the result of canonical donor or acceptor splice site mutations is associated with pathogenicity. Functional splicing assays must be undertaken in order to confirm web-based software predictions of the modification of putative ESE sites by disease-associated mutations.
Construction of linkspan foundation at Heysham Port, UK
Authors: Gascoigne R. S.
Published: April 2009

The design and construction of civil and geotechnical work in a marine environment presents unique challenges to the engineering team charged with the delivery of such works. The work is particularly challenging when carried out close to the sea, where the combined effects of a fluctuating tide level and the presence of an aggressive, erosive environment have significant effects on how the structure is designed and constructed. Against this background, a foundation for a new linkspan structure was built at Heysham Port in Lancashire, UK. The design needed to consider the presence of potentially unstable rock at the site, and the significant vertical and horizontal loads imposed by the new structure. The chosen design solution required piles and ground anchorages to be installed. Construction took place within a working port, adjacent to an existing live linkspan, which had to remain operational during most of the construction period. There was limited space available to carry out the works, and the client required the site works to be completed within a tight programme.
Estimating the rate of biological introductions: Lessepsian fishes in the Mediterranean
Authors: Belmaker Jonathan , Brokovich Eran , China Victor , Golani Daniel , Kiflawi Moshe
Published: March 2009

Sampling issues preclude the direct use of the discovery rate of exotic species as a robust estimate of their rate of introduction. Recently, a method was advanced that allows maximum‐likelihood estimation of both the observational probability and the introduction rate from the discovery record. Here, we propose an alternative approach that utilizes the discovery record of native species to control for sampling effort. Implemented in a Bayesian framework using Markov chain Monte Carlo simulations, the approach provides estimates of the rate of introduction of the exotic species, and of additional parameters such as the size of the species pool from which they are drawn. We illustrate the approach using Red Sea fishes recorded in the eastern Mediterranean, after crossing the Suez Canal, and show that the two approaches may lead to different conclusions. The analytical framework is highly flexible and could provide a basis for easy modification to other systems for which first‐sighting data on native and introduced species are available.
Dietary Patterns Associated with Alzheimer’s Disease: Population Based Study
Authors: Gustaw-Rothenberg Katarzyna
Published: April 2009

Recently dietary pattern analysis has emerged as a way for examining diet-disease relations in Alzheimer’s disease. In contrast with the conventional approach, which focuses on a single nutrient or a few nutrients or foods, this method considers overall eating patterns. We examined the dietary patterns defined by factor analysis using data collected with a food-frequency questionnaire in people with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) as compared to healthy controls. The diet data were obtained during population based study of the prevalence of Alzheimer’s disease in a population in Poland. Stratified sampling and random selection strategies were combined to obtain a representative population for screening (age group > 55). From the population screened three times, 71 people were diagnosed with Alzheimer’s according to DSM-IV, and were recruited for further diet risk factors assessment. A group of people with Alzheimer disease (n = 71; F/M 42/29) and the same number of healthy, age and gender matched control were recruited for the study. Patients and their caregivers as well as controls were presented with a food frequency questionnaire based on the 12 food groups. Factor analysis (principal component) was used to derive food patterns. The analysis was conducted using the factor procedure. The factors were rotated by an orthogonal transformation (Varimax rotation) to achieve simpler structure with greater interpretability. Using factor analysis, we identified major eating patterns, one for Alzheimer’s patients and a different one for control group. The AD dietary pattern, FACTOR AD was characterized by a high intake of meat, butter, high-fat dairy products, eggs, and refined sugar, whereas the other pattern, (FACTOR C) was characterized by a high intake of grains and vegetables. These data indicate the existence of dietary patterns defined by factor analysis with data from a food frequency questionnaire, characteristic for Alzheimer’s disease in a Polish population.
Gene Content and Distribution in the Nuclear Genome of Fragaria vesca
Authors: Pontaroli Ana Clara , Rogers Rebekah L. , Zhang Qian , Shields Melanie E. , Davis Thomas M. , Folta Kevin M. , SanMiguel Phillip , Bennetzen Jeffrey L.
Published: April 2009

Thirty fosmids were randomly selected from a library of Fragaria vesca subsp. americana (cv. Pawtuckaway) DNA. These fosmid clones were individually sheared, and ∼4‐ to 5‐kb fragments were subcloned. Subclones on a single 384‐well plate were sequenced bidirectionally for each fosmid. Assembly of these data yielded 12 fosmid inserts completely sequenced, 14 inserts as 2 to 3 contiguous sequences (contigs), and 4 inserts with 5 to 9 contigs. In most cases, a single unambiguous contig order and orientation was determined, so no further finishing was required to identify genes and their relative arrangement. One hundred fifty‐eight genes were identified in the ∼1.0 Mb of nuclear genomic DNA that was assembled. Because these fosmids were randomly chosen, this allowed prediction of the genetic content of the entire ∼200 Mb F. vesca genome as about 30,500 protein‐encoding genes, plus >4700 truncated gene fragments. The genes are mostly arranged in gene‐rich regions, to a variable degree intermixed with transposable elements (TEs). The most abundant TEs in F. vesca were found to be long terminal repeat (LTR) retrotransposons, and these comprised about 13% of the DNA analyzed. Over 30 new repeat families were discovered, mostly TEs, and the total TE content of F. vesca is predicted to be at least 16%.
Political therapy: an encounter with Dr John Alderdice, psychotherapist, political leader and peer of the realm
Authors: Little Graham
Published: April 2009

This paper comprises an encounter by the author in 1992 with the distinguished Northern Ireland psychotherapist and political leader, The Lord Alderdice of Knock. Born in Northern Ireland in 1955, John Alderdice graduated in Medicine in 1978, and qualified as a member of the Royal College of Psychiatrists in 1983, followed by higher specialist training in Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy. Alderdice joined the Northern Ireland Alliance Party in 1978, and in 1987 was elected Party Leader. Raised to the peerage as Baron Alderdice in 1996, he was one of the key negotiators of the Good Friday Agreement signed in 1998. This 1997 paper includes the author's interview with Alderdice, together with his observations on Alderdice's two‐handed psychoanalytic and political practice, his “political therapy”. Drawing upon the author's roots as a Belfast‐born Australian, the paper reflects on the possibilities of Alderdice's applied psychoanalysis – of politics “off the couch”. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of Novel Pyrazoles and Pyrazolo[3,4‐d]pyrimidines Incorporating a Benzenesulfonamide Moiety
Authors: Ashour Hayam M. A. , Wahab Abeer E. Abdel
Published: April 2009

Synthesis and biological evaluation of novel pyrazoles and pyrazolo[3,4‐d]pyrimidines are reported. Fourteen compounds were selected by the NCI and tested for their preliminary in‐vitro anticancer activity, whereas all the synthesized compounds were evaluated for their in‐vitro antimicrobial activity. Compound 12a was proven to possess the highest anticancer activity with a broad spectrum profile. It showed particular effectiveness towards leukemia HL‐60 (TB), K‐562, non‐small cell lung cancer NCI‐H23, and colon cancer HT 29, KM 12 cell lines (GI50 = 6.59, 4.44, 1.37, 3.33, and 9.63 μM, respectively). Out of the synthesized compounds, thirteen derivatives were found to display pronounced antimicrobial activity especially against P. aeruginosa. Compounds 2c, 5b, 10, 11b, 17b, 18b, and 19 were proven to be the most active with a broad spectrum of activity. Compound 19 was found to be equipotent to ampicillin against B. subtilis, whereas compounds 11b and 19 were four times superior to ampicillin against P. aeruginosa, while compounds 5b and 18b were equipotent to ampicillin against the same organism. Moreover, compounds 2c, 10, and 11b were nearly equipotent to ampicillin against E. coli. On the other hand, compounds 2c, 5b, 10, 11a, 17b, and 18b exerted nearly half the activity of clotrimazole against C. albicans.
Mediated Web information retrieval for a complex searching task
Authors: Lee Hyuk‐Jin , Muresan Gheorghe
Published: April 2009

The goal of this study is to understand whether providing a search intermediary familiar with a problem domain and its topical structure would support a user's Web searching tasks, especially complicated tasks with multifaceted topics, and whether the order of searching tasks or system usage influences their successful completion. This study investigates the effect of two factors, the interaction mode and the display layout, on the three main measures of the user's Web searching behaviors: effectiveness, efficiency, and usability. Two interaction modes are compared, mediation via a domain‐specific document collection versus nonmediated search, and two display layouts, a combination of browsing‐supporting hierarchic display and ranked list of results versus the simple linear list of search results. The results are analyzed in the Flow theory point of view; they were analyzed by order of the tasks and system usage order. The findings of this study contribute to a better understanding of how the mediation system and/or the combined display support a Web information user.
A computer experiment application to the design and optimization of a capacitive accelerometer
Authors: Alvarez M. J. , Gil‐Negrete N. , Ilzarbe L. , Tanco M. , Viles E. , Asensio A.
Published: April 2009

An accelerometer is a transducer that allows measuring the acceleration acting on a structure. Physically, an accelerometer consists of a central mass suspended by thin and flexible arms and its performance is highly dependent on the dimensions of both the mass and the arms. The two most important parameters when evaluating the performance of these devices are the sensitivity and the operating frequency range (or bandwidth), the latter one being limited to \documentclass{article}\usepackage{amssymb}\usepackage{amsbsy}\usepackage[mathscr]{euscript}\footskip=0pc\pagestyle{empty}\begin{document}$\frac{1}{5}$\end{document} of the resonance frequency. Therefore, it is very convenient to gain knowledge on how changes in the dimensions of the mass and arms affect the value of the natural frequency of the accelerometer, as it will provide guidelines to design accelerometers that fulfil frequency requirements of a specific application. A quadratic polynomial function of the natural logarithm of the frequency versus geometrical factors has been obtained using response surface methodology approach. A faced‐centered cube design was used in the experimentation. The data were obtained conducting computer simulations using finite element design techniques. A better understanding of how these variables affect the value of frequency has been reached, which will be very useful for the device design purposes. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.