bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of inductive heating to granular media: Modelling of electrical phenomena
Authors: Duquenne P. , Deltour A. , Lacoste G.
Published: March 2009

A model is examined in order to predict the behaviour of a granular bed made with conductive particles subjected to an inductive electromagnetic field. The model shows how heat generated in the bed can be described by its electric impedance for the high‐frequency generator required for inductive heating. Once the relationship between electrical characteristics and power dissipation has been established, comparisons between experimental and theoretical results are presented and the validity of the model is discussed.
A general procedure for the estimation of diffusivities in sonas
Authors: Doví V. G. , Reverberi A. P. , Meshalkin V. P.
Published: March 2009

A method for overcoming the difficulty of using realistic interface adsorption kinetics in mass sorption experiments for the estimation of diffusivities in solids is described in this paper. The method is shown to possess three important advantages:

Complex kinetics are allowed for interface adsorption processes

Analytical solutions can be obtained for arbitrary interface kinetics

No additional parameter is introduced in the estimation problem

An important special case is worked out in detail.
Modeling of grid region heat transfer in a shallow gas‐solid fluidized bed
Authors: Wang Rong‐Chi , Cho Wei‐Chang , Ho T. C.
Published: March 2009

Heat transfer coefficients between the bed and an immersed horizontal tube in the grid‐region of a shallow gas‐solid fluidized bed were experimentally and theoretically studied. Experiments were carried out in two fluidized bed columns with inside diameters of 88 and 137 mm, respectively. The fluidized particles tested were sand, limestone and glass beads. Experimental parameters also included particle size, superficial gas velocity, tube diameter, tube location and distributor design. A mechanistic model considering the contributions of jet phase, emulsion phase and dead phase was derived for estimating the grid‐region heat transfer coefficients. Most of the model predictions were found to be within 25% of the experimentally observed data.
A simplified couette flow solution of non‐newtonian power‐law fluids in eccentric annuli
Authors: Yang Liao , Chukwu Godwin A.
Published: March 2009

Flow of non‐Newtonian fluids in both the concentric and eccentric annuli is of great importance in extruders for molten plastics and wellbore fluid circulation for the removal of drilling cuttings. The steady laminar couette flow of non‐Newtonian power‐law fluids in eccentric annulus is employed in this study to analyze the problems of surge or swab pressures encountered when running or pulling tubular goods (pipes) in a liquid filled borehole. This is similar to the annular space created by two long co‐axial cylinders with the inner cylinder in motion at a steady velocity, and a stationary outer cylinder.

The solutions of the equations of motion are presented in both dimensionless form and as a family of curves for different pipe/borehole eccentricity ratios and power‐law fluid index values for a more general application. The expected error in surge computation for concentric annulus as a result of eccentricity is evaluated.
Adaptive time stepping strategy for solidification processes based on modified local time truncation error
Authors: Chao Long‐Sun , Peng Hsiun‐Chang
Published: March 2009

Adaptive time step methods provide a computationally efficient means of simulating transient problems with a high degree of numerical accuracy. However, choosing appropriate time steps to model the transient characteristics of solidification processes is difficult. The Gresho–Lee–Sani predictor–corrector strategy, one of the most commonly applied adaptive time step methods, fails to accurately model the latent heat release associated with phase change due to its exaggerated time steps while the apparent heat capacity method is applied. Accordingly, the current study develops a modified local time truncation error‐based strategy designed to adaptively adjust the size of the time step during the simulated solidification procedure in such a way that the effects of latent heat release are more accurately modeled and the precision of the computational solutions correspondingly improved. The computational accuracy and efficiency of the proposed method are demonstrated via the simulation of several one‐dimensional and two‐dimensional thermal problems characterized by different phase change phenomena and boundary conditions. The feasibility of the proposed method for the modeling of solidification processes is further verified via its applications to the enthalpy method. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Characteristic locus method robustness improvement through optimal static normalizing pre‐compensation
Authors: Moreira M. V. , Basilio J. C.
Published: March 2009

Controlled systems designed by using the characteristic locus method can be very sensitive to small perturbations in the plant input and output at the frequencies where the plant transfer matrix is far from normal. In order to improve the closed‐loop system robustness, previous work proposes the design of a dynamic normalizing pre‐compensator followed by the design of a commutative controller for the pre‐compensated plant. The restriction on its structure and the need for approximation by a stable rational transfer matrix were among the limitations of the dynamic pre‐compensator. This paper shows that it suffices to design a static pre‐compensator that makes the pre‐compensated plant as closely as possible to a normal matrix in a frequency band containing the crossover frequency. The pre‐compensator is found by solving an optimization problem, whose solution is obtained directly by computing either a singular value decomposition of a real matrix or the spectral decomposition of a symmetric matrix, depending on whether normalization is to be achieved in one or more frequencies. Numerical examples illustrate the theoretical results of the paper. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Regulation of Boundary Cap Neural Crest Stem Cell Differentiation After Transplantation
Authors: Aldskogius Hakan , Berens Christian , Kanaykina Nadezda , Liakhovitskaia Anna , Medvinsky Alexander , Sandelin Martin , Schreiner Silke , Wegner Michael , Hjerling-Leffler Jens , Kozlova Elena N.
Published: March 2009

Success of cell replacement therapies for neurological disorders will depend largely on the optimization of strategies to enhance viability and control the developmental fate of stem cells after transplantation. Once transplanted, stem/progenitor cells display a tendency to maintain an undifferentiated phenotype or differentiate into inappropriate cell types. Gain and loss of function experiments have revealed key transcription factors which drive differentiation of immature stem/progenitor cells toward more mature stages and eventually to full differentiation. An attractive course of action to promote survival and direct the differentiation of transplanted stem cells to a specific cell type would therefore be to force expression of regulatory differentiation molecules in already transplanted stem cells, using inducible gene expression systems which can be controlled from the outside. Here, we explore this hypothesis by employing a tetracycline gene regulating system (Tet-On) to drive the differentiation of boundary cap neural crest stem cells (bNCSCs) toward a sensory neuron fate after transplantation. We induced the expression of the key transcription factor Runx1 in Sox10-expressing bNCSCs. Forced expression of Runx1 strongly increased transplant survival in the enriched neurotrophic environment of the dorsal root ganglion cavity, and was sufficient to guide differentiation of bNCSCs toward a nonpeptidergic nociceptive sensory neuron phenotype both in vitro and in vivo after transplantation. These findings suggest that exogenous activation of transcription factors expression after transplantation in stem/progenitor cell grafts can be a constructive approach to control their survival as well as their differentiation to the desired type of cell and that the Tet-system is a useful tool to achieve this.

Disclosure of potential conflicts of interest is found at the end of this article.
Single vertical incision for Baha implant surgery: Preliminary results
Authors: Wilkinson Eric P. , Luxford William M. , Slattery William H. , De la Cruz Antonio , House John W. , Fayad Jose N.
Published: March 2009

Objectives

A single vertical skin incision with subcutaneous tissue removal is a cosmetic alternative for Baha implant placement. We aimed to determine the preliminary complication rate using a 4‐cm vertical skin incision.

Study Design

Retrospective review.

Subjects and Methods

Vertical incision Baha implant placements from January 2006 to August 2007 were reviewed. Complications including skin irritation, skin overgrowth, and implant extrusion were tallied. A total of 71 patients underwent surgery, with a mean follow‐up time of 7 months.

Results

There were five minor complications (three cases of skin irritation, one wound infection requiring oral antibiotics, one postoperative hematoma) and seven major complications (one case of irritation requiring abutment removal, six cases of skin overgrowth or infection requiring flap revision), for a total complication rate of 16.9 percent.

Conclusions

A single vertical incision for Baha implant placement has a complication rate similar to that of traditional dermatome use in this preliminary study. Patients with thick scalps or risk factors for hypertrophic scarring may require longer abutments.
Preoperative coagulation screening for adenotonsillectomy: A review and comparison of current physician practices
Authors: Wieland Aaron , Belden Laura , Cunningham Michael
Published: March 2009

Objective

To determine the current practice of pediatric otolaryngologists on a national level and general otolaryngologists on a regional level regarding preoperative coagulation screening prior to adenotonsillectomy.

Study design

A five‐question survey of members of the American Society of Pediatric Otolaryngology (ASPO) and the Massachusetts Society of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery (MSO‐HNS).

Subjects and methods

Survey results were analyzed to determine current preoperative screening practices relative to awareness of screening recommendations published in the American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery (AAO‐HNS) 1999 Clinical Indicators Compendium.

Results

The survey response rate was 27 percent (54/190) and 29 percent (76/260) for MSO‐HNS and ASPO members, respectively. In patients with no known bleeding risk, 21 percent of respondents continue to obtain coagulation screening including, at a minimum, a partial thromboplastin time and a prothrombin time. MSO‐HNS respondents reported ordering more preoperative coagulation studies than did ASPO respondents (35% vs 10%). Interestingly, awareness of the AAO‐HNS consensus statement was similar between the two groups and did not impact screening practices.

Conclusions

The survey results indicate a discrepancy between current practice relative to pre‐adenotonsillectomy coagulation screening and the recommendations of the AAO‐HNS 1999 consensus statement.
The epidemiology of hearing impairment in the United States: Newborns, children, and adolescents
Authors: Mehra Saral , Eavey Roland D. , Keamy Donald G.
Published: March 2009

Objective

Hearing loss ranks high among disabilities in the United States. The epidemiologic parameters of hearing impairment in the United States have not been systematically studied and important historic data have not diffused to relevant stakeholders; even otolaryngologists are unfamiliar with epidemiologic data. We wished to compile known studies to establish an epidemiologic baseline beginning with pediatric data.

Data Sources

Relevant literature was retrieved from medical databases and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports.

Methods

Candidate articles and national data sets encompassing pediatric hearing loss were analyzed and compared. Whenever possible, group analyses were performed.

Results

The average incidence of neonatal hearing loss in the United States is 1.1 per 1000 infants, with variation among states (0.22 to 3.61 per 1000). Childhood and adolescent prevalence rates demonstrate variability. The prevalence of mild hearing impairment or worse (>20 dB) is 3.1 percent based on the average of comparable audiometric screening studies; self‐reporting prevalence is 1.9 percent. Hispanic Americans demonstrate a higher prevalence of hearing impairment than other children. Low‐income households demonstrate a higher prevalence of hearing loss compared to households with higher income levels. Genetic causes were attributed to 23 percent across studies.

Conclusions

Analysis of the data reveals gaps in our knowledge of the epidemiology of hearing loss and stresses the importance of consistent definitions of hearing impairment for systematic assessment of changes over time. Hearing loss in childhood deserves further epidemiologic investigation and elevated awareness among health care professionals and the public. Genetic etiologies are likely underestimated in this review.
The implication of sleep position in the evaluation of surgical outcomes in obstructive sleep apnea
Authors: Lee Chul Hee , Shin Hyun‐Woo , Han Doo Hee , Mo Ji‐Hun , Yoon In‐Young , Chung Seockhoon , Choi Hyo Geun , Kim Jeong‐Whun
Published: March 2009

Objective

To investigate the effect of sleep position on surgical outcomes in obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).

Study Design

Retrospective review of 69 consecutive patients.

Subjects and Methods

Preoperative and postoperative polysomnographic data and Epworth sleepiness scale were obtained. Patients were categorized into success, response, no response, and failure groups according to apnea‐hypopnea index (AHI) after uvulopalatopharyngoplasty. Proportions of supine or lateral position and AHI of each position were evaluated. Position‐corrected AHI was developed in order to eliminate the effect of sleep position.

Results

Preoperative proportion of supine position in the failure group (n = 26) was 41.3 percent, which was the lowest among four groups (P = 0.010), and increased to 60.8 percent postoperatively (P = 0.028). Twenty‐two (84.6%) among the failure group had supine position dependency. Regrouped by position‐corrected AHI, 15 patients moved into different groups. Postoperative AHI showed positive correlation with increased supine position when BMI was controlled (r = 0.515, P = 0.006).

Conclusion

Without appropriate correction based on the change of sleep position, the fluctuation of sleep position in each polysomnography might confound surgical outcomes in OSA patients. Thus, it is a substantial issue how to control or reflect the positional effect on AHI when treatment results are evaluated.
Facial Nerve Grading System 2.0
Authors:   Facial Nerve Disorders Committee, Vrabec Jeffrey T. , Backous Douglas D. , Djalilian Hamid R. , Gidley Paul W. , Leonetti John P. , Marzo Sam J. , Morrison Daniel , Ng Matthew , Ramsey Mitchell J. , Schaitkin Barry M. , Smouha Eric , Toh Elizabeth H. , Wax Mark K. , Williamson Robert A. , Smith E.O.'Brian
Published: March 2009

Objective

To present an updated version of the original Facial Nerve Grading Scale (FNGS), commonly referred to as the House‐Brackmann scale.

Study Design

Controlled trial of grading systems using a series of 21 videos of individuals with varying degrees of facial paralysis.

Results

The intraobserver and interobserver agreement was high among the original and revised scales. Nominal improvement is seen in percentage of exact agreement of grade and reduction of instances of examiners differing by more then one grade when using FNGS 2.0. FNGS 2.0 also offers improved agreement in differentiating between grades 3 and 4.

Conclusion

FNGS 2.0 incorporates regional scoring of facial movement, providing additional information while maintaining agreement comparable to the original scale. Ambiguities regarding use of the grading scale are addressed.
Enlarged vestibular aqueduct in pediatric sensorineural hearing loss
Authors: Dewan Karuna , Wippold Franz J. , Lieu Judith E.C.
Published: March 2009

Objective

Comparison of the Cincinnati criteria (midpoint >0.9 mm or operculum >1.9 mm) to the Valvassori criterion (midpoint ≥1.5 mm) for enlarged vestibular aqueduct (EVA) in pediatric cochlear implant patients.

Study Design

Cohort study.

Subjects

One hundred thirty pediatric cochlear implant recipients.

Methods

We reviewed temporal bone CT scans to measure the vestibular aqueduct midpoint and opercular width.

Results

The Cincinnati criteria identified 44 percent of patients with EVA versus 16 percent with the Valvassori criterion (P < 0.01). Of those with EVA, 45 percent were unilateral and 55 percent were bilateral using Cincinnati criteria; 64 percent were unilateral and 36 percent bilateral using Valvassori criterion (P < 0.01). The Cincinnati criteria diagnosed 70 ears with EVA classified as normal using the Valvassori criterion (P < 0.01); 59 lacked another medical explanation for their hearing loss.

Conclusion

The Cincinnati criteria identified a large percentage of pediatric cochlear implant patients with EVA who might otherwise have no known etiology for their deafness.
Long‐term results in endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy: Is intubation really required?
Authors: Unlu Halis H. , Gunhan Kivanc , Baser Esin F. , Songu Murat
Published: March 2009

Objective

The long‐term (median follow‐up eight years) results of endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy approach and silicone intubation were evaluated by various aspects.

Study Design

Case series with planned data collection of 38 procedures for postsaccal stenosis were analyzed.

Subjects and Methods

Silicone intubation was not used in 19 of the randomly selected procedures. Anatomical and functional surgical success was evaluated subjectively and objectively.

Results

The patients' complaints improved in 84.2 percent of eyes in the intubation group, and in 94.7 percent of the group without intubation, with a mean follow‐up of 112 and 96 months after surgery, respectively. Postoperative endoscopic examinations revealed that the rhinostomy opening was visible in 17 sides with intubation (89.5%) and 18 sides without intubation (94.7%).

Conclusions

Considering the similar surgical success rates, and disadvantageous factors such as granulation formation, patient discomfort, and cost related to intubation, we recommend endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy without intubation as the treatment of choice in cases of chronic epiphora due to postsaccal stenosis of the lacrimal drainage system.
Multilevel surgery in patients with rapid eye movement–related obstructive sleep apnea
Authors: Eun Young Gyu , Kwon Kee Hwan , Shin Seung Youp , Lee Kun Hee , Byun Jae Yong , Kim Sung Wan
Published: March 2009

Objective

To compare the anatomic features and the results of a multilevel surgery in patients with rapid eye movement–related obstructive sleep apnea (REM OSA) and non‐REM OSA.

Study Design

Cohort study of 90 consecutive mild or moderate OSA patients.

Subjects and Methods

The apnea‐hypopnea index (AHI) was also calculated during REM sleep (AHIREM) and during non‐REM sleep (AHINREM), and patients were classified as having REM OSA if their AHIREM/AHINREM ratio was >2, otherwise they were classified as non‐REM OSA patients. All patients underwent concurrent uvulopalatopharyngoplasty and a radiofrequency tongue base reduction procedure.

Results

A total of 31.1 percent patients were classified as REM OSA and 68.9 percent patients as non‐REM OSA. There were no differences in the anatomical features between two groups. However, the AHI, HI, and arousal index were significantly higher in the non‐REM OSA group than in the REM OSA group. When a successful outcome was defined as a postoperative AHI <20 with at least a 50 percent reduction from the preoperative level, 50 percent of the patients with REM OSA and 35.5 percent of the patients with non‐REM OSA met the criteria for a successful outcome.

Conclusions

REM OSA patients had milder obstructive sleep apnea, and multilevel surgery might be more effective in REM OSA patients.
Extracts from The Cochrane Library: Intranasal corticosteroids for moderate to severe adenoidal hypertrophy
Authors: Burton Martin J. , Derkay Craig S. , Rosenfeld Richard M.
Published: March 2009

The “Cochrane Corner” is a quarterly section in the Journal that highlights systematic reviews relevant to otolaryngology–head and neck surgery, with invited commentary to aid clinical decision making. This installment features a Cochrane Review entitled “Intranasal corticosteroids for nasal airway obstruction in children with moderate to severe adenoidal hypertrophy,” which finds limited evidence of a short‐term improvement in nasal symptoms with a reduction of adenoid size.
Preschool-aged children have difficulty constructing and interpreting simple utterances composed of graphic symbols
Authors: SUTTON ANN , TRUDEAU NATACHA , MORFORD JILL , RIOS MONICA , POIRIER MARIE-ANDRÉE
Published: March 2009

Children who require augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) systems while they are in the process of acquiring language face unique challenges because they use graphic symbols for communication. In contrast to the situation of typically developing children, they use different modalities for comprehension (auditory) and expression (visual). This study explored the ability of three- and four-year-old children without disabilities to perform tasks involving sequences of graphic symbols. Thirty participants were asked to transpose spoken simple sentences into graphic symbols by selecting individual symbols corresponding to the spoken words, and to interpret graphic symbol utterances by selecting one of four photographs corresponding to a sequence of three graphic symbols. The results showed that these were not simple tasks for the participants, and few of them performed in the expected manner – only one in transposition, and only one-third of participants in interpretation. Individual response strategies in some cases lead to contrasting response patterns. Children at this age level have not yet developed the skills required to deal with graphic symbols even though they have mastered the corresponding spoken language structures.
Regulation of PI(3)K/Akt signalling and cellular transformation by inositol polyphosphate 4‐phosphatase‐1
Authors: Ivetac Ivan , Gurung Rajendra , Hakim Sandra , Horan Kristy A , Sheffield David A , Binge Lauren C , Majerus Philip W , Tiganis Tony , Mitchell Christina A
Published: March 2009

Akt is a crucial phosphoinositide 3‐kinase (PI(3)K) effector that regulates cell proliferation and survival. PI(3)K‐generated signals, PtdIns(3,4,5)P3 and PtdIns(3,4)P2, direct Akt plasma membrane engagement. Pathological Akt plasma membrane association promotes oncogenesis. PtdIns(3,4)P2 is degraded by inositol polyphosphate 4‐phosphatase‐1 (4‐ptase‐1) forming PtdIns(3)P; however, the role of 4‐ptase‐1 in regulating the activation and function of Akt is unclear. In mouse embryonic fibroblasts lacking 4‐ptase‐1 (−/−MEFs), the Akt‐pleckstrin homology (PH) domain was constitutively membrane‐associated both in serum‐starved and agonist‐stimulated cells, in contrast to +/+MEFs, in which it was detected only at the plasma membrane following serum stimulation. Epidermal growth factor (EGF) stimulation resulted in increased Ser473 and Thr308‐Akt phosphorylation and activation of Akt‐dependent signalling in −/−MEFs, relative to +/+MEFs. Significantly, loss of 4‐ptase‐1 resulted in increased cell proliferation and decreased apoptosis. SV40‐transformed −/−MEFs showed increased anchorage‐independent cell growth and formed tumours in nude mice. This study provides the first evidence, to our knowledge, that 4‐ptase‐1 controls the activation of Akt and thereby cell proliferation, survival and tumorigenesis.
Interacting environmental gradients, trade-offs and reversals in the abundance - environment relationships of stream insects: when flow is unimportant
Authors: Lancaster Jill , Downes Barbara J. , Glaister Alena
Published: March 2009

Flow is often presumed to determine the distribution of stream invertebrates across stream beds. When temperatures are high, however, dissolved oxygen (DO) and its interactions with other environmental gradients may be more important. Field surveys were carried out in summer at two sites in a sand-bed stream in south-east Australia. Using quantile regression, we quantified the abundance–environment relationships of a caenid mayfly and an ecnomid caddisfly, and determined whether DO, fine detritus or velocity was the dominant limiting variable, and to gain insight into the causal mechanisms. Local densities of caenids were driven by food resources (detritus) at a site with a short DO gradient. The relationship was completely reversed where long DO and detritus gradients interacted, and here DO appeared to limit density. Densities of ecnomids were limited by prey-rich detritus patches at both sites. The velocity gradient did not explain the distribution patterns in either species. Ecnomid diet altered with changes in the spatial distribution of caenids between sites; caenids were the dominant prey at one site, but proportionately fewer were consumed where there was a negative spatial overlap of predators and prey. These results show that invertebrate responses to environmental gradients can be complex and that flow may be unimportant.
Endogenous
S
-nitrosothiols protect against myocardial injury
Authors: Lima Brian , Lam Gregory K. W. , Xie Liang , Diesen Diana L. , Villamizar Nestor , Nienaber Jeffrey , Messina Emily , Bowles Dawn , Kontos Christopher D. , Hare Joshua M. , Stamler Jonathan S. , Rockman Howard A.
Published: March 2009

Despite substantial evidence that nitric oxide (NO) and/or endogenous
S
-nitrosothiols (SNOs) exert protective effects in a variety of cardiovascular diseases, the molecular details are largely unknown. Here we show that following left coronary artery ligation, mice with a targeted deletion of the
S
-nitrosoglutathione reductase gene (GSNOR
−/−
) have reduced myocardial infarct size, preserved ventricular systolic and diastolic function, and maintained tissue oxygenation. These profound physiological effects are associated with increases in myocardial capillary density and
S
-nitrosylation of the transcription factor hypoxia inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) under normoxic conditions. We further show that
S
-nitrosylated HIF-1α binds to the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) gene, thus identifying a role for GSNO in angiogenesis and myocardial protection. These results suggest innovative approaches to modulate angiogenesis and preserve cardiac function.
Regional differences in population‐based cancer survival between six prefectures in Japan: Application of relative survival models with funnel plots
Authors: Ito Yuri , Ioka Akiko , Tsukuma Hideaki , Ajiki Wakiko , Sugimoto Tomoyuki , Rachet Bernard , Coleman Michel P.
Published: March 2009

We used new methods to examine differences in population‐based cancer survival between six prefectures in Japan, after adjustment for age and stage at diagnosis. We applied regression models for relative survival to data from population‐based cancer registries covering each prefecture for patients diagnosed with stomach, lung, or breast cancer during 1993–1996. Funnel plots were used to display the excess hazard ratio (EHR) for each prefecture, defined as the excess hazard of death from each cancer within 5 years of diagnosis relative to the mean excess hazard (in excess of national background mortality by age and sex) in all six prefectures combined. The contribution of age and stage to the EHR in each prefecture was assessed from differences in deviance‐based R2 between the various models. No significant differences were seen between prefectures in 5‐year survival from breast cancer. For cancers of the stomach and lung, EHR in Osaka prefecture were above the upper 95% control limits. For stomach cancer, the age‐ and stage‐adjusted EHR in Osaka were 1.29 for men and 1.43 for women, compared with Fukui and Yamagata. Differences in the stage at diagnosis of stomach cancer appeared to explain most of this excess hazard (61.3% for men, 56.8% for women), whereas differences in age at diagnosis explained very little (0.8%, 1.3%). This approach offers the potential to quantify the impact of differences in stage at diagnosis on time trends and regional differences in cancer survival. It underlines the utility of population‐based cancer registries for improving cancer control. (Cancer Sci 2009; 100: 1306–1311)
Syndecan‐1, a new target molecule involved in progression of androgen‐independent prostate cancer
Authors: Shimada Keiji , Nakamura Mitsutoshi , De Velasco Marco A. , Tanaka Motoyoshi , Ouji Yukiteru , Konishi Noboru
Published: March 2009

Heparan sulfate proteoglycan syndecan‐1 (CD138) is well known to be associated with cell proliferation, adhesion and migration in various types of malignancies. In the present study, we focused on the role of syndecan‐1 in human prostate cancer. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed either no or rare expression of syndecan‐1 in normal secretory glands and prostate cancer cells at hormone naïve status, whereas the expression was significantly increased in viable cancer cells following neo‐adjuvant hormonal therapy. Syndecan‐1 expression was much higher in the androgen independent prostate cancer cell lines DU145 and PC3, rather than the androgen‐dependent LNCaP, but the level in LNCaP was up‐regulated in response to long‐term culture under androgen deprivation. Silencing of syndecan‐1 by siRNA transfection reduced endogenous production of reactive oxygen species through down‐regulating NADPH oxidase 2 and induced apoptosis in DU145 and PC3 cells. Consistently, NADPH oxidase 2 knockdown induced apoptosis to a similar extent. Subcutaneous inoculation of PC3 cells in nude mice demonstrated the reduction of tumor size by localized injection of syndecan‐1 siRNA in the presence of atelocollagen. Moreover, the mouse model and chorioallantoic membrane assay demonstrated significant inhibition of vascular endothelial growth factor and tumor angiogenesis by silencing of syndecan‐1. In conclusion, syndecan‐1 might participate in the process of androgen‐dependent to ‐independent conversion, and be a new target molecule for hormone resistant prostate cancer therapy. (Cancer Sci 2009; 100: 1248–1254)
DOGSET: pre‐designed primer sets for fine‐scale mapping and DNA sequence interrogation in the dog
Authors: Wong A. K. , Neff M. W.
Published: March 2009

DOGSET is an online resource that provides access to primer sequences that have been computationally mined from the reference genome using heuristic algorithms. The electronic repository includes PCR primers corresponding to 32 135 markers for genetic mapping and 334 657 sequence‐tagged gene elements for targeted re‐sequencing and mutation discovery. A customized report that tailors primer design to wet bench protocols can be exported for a region of interest by specifying genome coordinates in a graphical user interface.
Reduced membrane bound CD14 expression in the cord blood of infants with a family history of allergic disease
Authors: Boyle R. J. , Morley R , Mah L‐J , Kivivuori S. , Tang M. L‐K
Published: March 2009

Background
Infants at increased risk of allergic disease have altered immune function at birth, but the specific immune changes described differ between studies and their precise nature is not well defined. Changes affecting innate immune responses may be particularly important in allergic disease pathogenesis.

Objective
We investigated whether inherited risk of allergic disease is associated with altered markers of innate immunity, T cell regulation or dendritic cell (DC) percentage in human newborns.

Methods
Cord blood was collected from infants at low risk (no parent affected by allergic disease, n=14), intermediate risk (one affected parent, n=54) or high risk (two affected parents, n=25) of developing allergic disease. Cord blood mononuclear cells were cultured with ovalbumin (OVA), lipopolysaccharide, lipoteichoic acid (LTA), heat‐killed lactobacillus, α‐CD3 or medium alone. Cells were analysed by flow cytometry for expression of CD14, FoxP3 and DC percentage, and by real‐time RT‐PCR for TLR2 and TLR4 expression in infants at intermediate or high risk of allergic disease.

Results
Infants at high risk of allergic disease had reduced percentage of CD14+ monocytes (P=0.01) and reduced CD14 mean fluorescence intensity (P=0.01) in uncultured mononuclear cells. They also had decreased DC percentage in mononuclear cells cultured with OVA (P=0.04), lipopolysaccharide (P=0.01), LTA (P=0.02) and α‐CD3 (P=0.03) as compared with infants at intermediate or low risk of allergic disease. No relationship was seen between risk of allergic disease and TLR2 or TLR4 expression, or FoxP3 expression in cultured cells.

Conclusions
Infants with a biparental history of allergic disease have altered markers of innate immunity at birth, with reduced expression of membrane bound CD14 and consequently reduced in vitro development of DCs. Further work is needed to understand the role that these alterations play in the pathogenesis of allergic disease, and whether interventions to up‐regulate fetal CD14 expression can prevent allergic disease.
Identification and inheritance of a new gene for powdery mildew resistance in mungbean (Vigna radiata L. Wilczek)
Authors: Reddy K. S.
Published: March 2009

Powdery mildew (PM) is one of the important foliar diseases of mungbean. Resistance sources have been identified in India and the inheritance studies showed that complete resistance (RO) was controlled by two dominant genes, Pm1, Pm2. The breakdown of complete resistance (RO) into moderate resistance (R2) by race‐2 (Akola) has been reported. It is assumed that the change in resistance reaction is due to a mutation in the pathogen. The present investigation was carried out with a view to screen germplasm, cultivars and mutants for identification of complete resistance (RO) sources against race‐2 and to study their inheritance. ‘Mulmarada’, a local mungbean cultivar from Maharashtra state of India was identified as a complete resistance (RO) source for race‐2. The inheritance of Mulmarada’s resistance (RO) was studied. The F1 and the segregation in F2 and F3 showed that the complete resistance (RO) in ‘Mulmarada’ is controlled by a single dominant gene, which is different from the earlier identified Pm1 and Pm2 resistance genes. Mulmarada’s resistance gene is designated as Pm3 for PM resistance.
The residual background genome from a donor within an improved line selected by marker‐assisted selection: impact on phenotype and combining ability
Authors: Wang L. , Zhang Z. , Wei L. , Zhang D. , Teng F. , Tao Y. , Zheng Y.
Published: March 2009

A successful marker‐assisted selection (MAS)‐derived line should express new characteristics derived from the donor, and have a small number of donor chromosomal fragments. Different selection strategies can result in a different proportion of donor residual background within the improved line. The effects of the residual background on phenotype and combining ability mostly remain unknown. In this study, waxy (wx) and a restorer gene (Rf3) of S‐type cytoplasm sterility were selected as a model for MAS breeding by three strategies, to develop MAS‐derived lines with a different level of residual background. Three MAS‐derived lines were successfully developed by introgression of the target gene. Furthermore, the genetic background, agriculturally important traits and combining ability of the three MAS‐derived lines were assayed. The results suggested that the three MAS‐derived lines retained 4–18% of the chromosomal fragment of the donor, respectively, and the residual background impacted on the phenotype of important traits and combining ability of MAS‐derived lines. We also showed that whole genome background screening each backcross generation can accelerate recovery of the recurrent parent genome, phenotype and combining ability.
The challenge of interdisciplinary collaboration in acute psychiatry: Impacts on the occupational milieu
Authors: Fortune Tracy , Fitzgerald Maureen H.
Published: March 2009

This paper, based on a larger ethnographic exploration of the acute inpatient environment for older people with mental illness, describes and provides interpretations of staff perceptions and actions in order to highlight tensions between professional groups which adversely affect opportunities for patients to engage in meaningful occupations. Fieldwork conducted in 1999–2000, supplemented by 20 in‐depth interviews with a range of mental health professionals, provides the foundation for suggesting that the extent and nature of occupational engagement is significantly impacted by interdisciplinary relations. The skill of occupational therapists to collaborate with their nursing colleagues in a socially complex environment, and the importance of personal leadership skills among our new graduates are discussed.
CONTINUOUS FLUOXETINE ADMINISTRATION PREVENTS RECURRENCE OF PULMONARY ARTERIAL HYPERTENSION AND PROLONGS SURVIVAL IN RATS
Authors: Zhu Shao‐Ping , Mao Zhi‐Fu , Huang Jie , Wang Jun‐Yu
Published: March 2009

The serotonin transporter (SERT) is strongly implicated in the pathogenesis of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) in patients and animal models. Inhibitors of SERT have been reported to attenuate or reverse experimental PAH, which makes them potential therapeutic options for the treatment of PAH in humans. However, little is known about pathophysiological features after reversal or attenuation of PAH; moreover, the long‐term therapeutic effects of SERT inhibitors on PAH remain undetermined. Thus, the aim of the present study was to investigate the short‐ and long‐term effects of fluoxetine on monocrotaline (MCT)‐induced PAH and associated pathophysiological changes in PAH models.

Rats were randomly divided into four groups as follows: (i) an M + F group, in which rats received a single injection of MCT (60 mg/kg, s.c.) and then after 3 weeks were given fluoxetine (10 mg/kg) once daily by gavage from Week 4 to Week 12; (ii) an M/F group, in which 3 weeks after a single MCT (60 mg/kg, s.c.) injection, rats were given fluoxetine (10 mg/kg) by daily gavage from Week 4 to Week 6 and were then given an equivalent volume of saline once daily by gavage from Week 7 to Week 12; (iii) an MCT group, in which 3 weeks after a single MCT (60 mg/kg, s.c.) injection rats were given an equivalent volume of saline by gavage from Week 4 to Week 12; and (iv) a saline group, in which rats received an equivalent volume of saline injection or gavage over the 12 week treatment period. Morphometric changes, pulmonary arterial pressure, percentage wall thickness, right ventricular hypertrophy index and SERT expression were detected at various times during the 12 week treatment period. Survival analysis was performed in each group.

After 12 weeks treatment, it was found that even through fluoxetine treatment resulted in complete reversal of PAH, PAH recurred after fluoxetine withdrawal. In contrast, continuous administration of fluoxetine prevented the recurrence of PAH and prolonged survival. Analysis of SERT protein levels in rat lung indicated that, compared with values obtained at Week 0, SERT protein increased significantly after discontinuation of fluoxetine but continuous fluoxetine administration inhibited this increase.

In conclusion, SERT overexpression correlates with the recurrence of PAH after withdrawal of fluoxetine in rats. Continuous fluoxetine administration prevents recurrence of PAH and prolongs survival.
NOVEL MITOCHONDRIAL DNA MUTATIONS ASSOCIATED WITH CHINESE FAMILIAL HYPERTROPHIC CARDIOMYOPATHY
Authors: Wei Yan‐Ling , Yu Chang‐An , Yang Peng , Li Ai‐Li , Wen Jian‐Yan , Zhao Shu‐Min , Liu Hong‐Xing , Ke Yuan‐Nan , Campbell William , Zhang Yi‐Guan , Li Xiao‐Hui , Liao Wen‐Qiang
Published: March 2009

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a genetic disorder that has a complex set of symptoms and potentially devastating consequences. Increasing evidence indicates that mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) mutations are responsible for the development of HCM, but the mtDNA mutations appear to differ considerably among different populations and regions.

In the present study, three families with HCM were found and investigated: one in Shandong province and two in the Chongqing region of China. The entire mtDNA genome from the 18 affected and 66 unaffected family members was sequenced directly and the mtDNA mutations were determined.

The frequency of haplogroup M10 was significantly higher in family members with HCM (HCM group) than in unaffected family members (normal group). Three mtDNA mutations were found with a significantly higher frequency in affected individuals than in unaffected family individuals, namely G7697A in the cytochrome c oxidase subunit II gene (P < 0.0001; odds ratio (OR) 227.5; 95% confidence interval (CI) 23.6–2194.8) and T12477C (P = 0.0037; OR 5.6; 95% CI 1.8–17.6) and G13135A in the NADH dehydrogenase 5 gene (P < 0.0001; OR 26.0; 95% CI 6.9–98.3), suggesting that these mutations are probably associated with susceptibility to HCM. In addition, mitochondrial Complex I activity was markedly decreased in the HCM group, suggesting that these mutations most likely affect mitochondrial respiratory function.

In conclusion, the results of the present study imply that mtDNA mutations G7697A, T12477C and G13135A are genetic factors that indicate a susceptibility to HCM and that could be used for the large‐scale screening of genetic markers as well as the early diagnosis of HCM.
Colorectal and anal neoplasms following liver transplantation
Authors: Albright J. B. , Bonatti H. , Stauffer J. , Dickson R. C. , Nguyen J. , Harnois D. , Jeanpierre C. , Hinder R. , Steers J. , Chua H. , Aranda‐Michel J.
Published: March 2009

Objective  Liver transplantation (LT) is the treatment of choice for end‐stage liver disease. The required immunosuppression increases the risk for developing malignancies. Some viruses play a crucial role. Data on neoplasms of the colon, rectum and anus in LT are limited.

Method  A retrospective evaluation of the incidence and clinical course of colorectal and anal malignancies and colonic polyps in a series of 467 consecutive LTs in 402 individuals between 1998 and 2001 was performed. Standard immunosuppression included Tacrolimus, Mycophenolic acid and steroids.

Results  During a median follow up of 5.2 years, three colon adenocarcinomas, one EBV associated cecal post‐transplant lymphoproliferative tumour and two HPV associated anal tumours were identified. Pre‐LT colonoscopy was performed in 161 patients (40%), and of 153 evaluable individuals, 53 (34.9%) had polyps. Colonoscopy was performed in 186 patients (46.3%) median 14.8 (range 0.2–77.8) months post‐LT and 55 (29.3%) had polyps. Post‐LT adenomatous polyps were detected in 47.3% of patients with pre‐LT polyps vs 6.7% of patients without pre‐LT polyps (P < 0.001). Patients with alcoholic liver disease had a significantly higher rate of adenoma formation (50.0%vs 11.1%, P < 0.001). No patient died from colorectal/anal malignancy.

Conclusion  The incidence of metachronous and new polyp formation in our study is similar to people who are not immunocompromised, but subgroups are at increased risk. Viral‐associated malignancies, including post‐transplant lymphoproliferative disorders and anal cancer, are important entities in the LT population suggesting that complete screening of the colon, rectum and anus including pre‐LT and post‐LT colonoscopy should be utilized.
ENDOGENOUS GROWTH, PRICE STABILITY AND MARKET DISEQUILIBRIA
Authors: Gomes Orlando
Published: March 2009

Resorting to an endogenous growth framework, the paper studies the implications of taking market clearing as a long‐term possibility rather than an every period implicit assumption, as in conventional growth analysis. The underlying main assumption respects to an adjustment mechanism in which: (1) transitional dynamics are characterized by the persistence of an accumulated market imbalance, and (2) monetary authorities are able to guarantee price stability. The implications of this modeling structure are the following: (1) a market‐clearing equilibrium may co‐exist with other equilibrium points, (2) several types of stability outcomes are obtainable, and (3) monetary policy becomes relevant for growth.
Later onset of herpes zoster‐associated immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome
Authors: Espinosa E , Peña‐Jiménez Á , Ormsby CE , Vega‐Barrientos R , Reyes‐Terán G
Published: March 2009

Objectives

The aim of the study was to determine whether immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS) associated with herpes zoster occurs on a different time frame from other instances of IRIS.

Methods

Statistical analysis of onset times of herpes zoster‐associated IRIS and other cases of IRIS was carried out in a retrospective cohort starting antiretroviral therapy at advanced stages of HIV infection.

Results

Herpes zoster‐associated IRIS was significantly more frequent after the first 3 months of successful highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART), than other instances of IRIS (IRIS associated with tuberculosis, Mycobacterium avium complex, Kaposi's sarcoma, etc.) which mainly occurred during the first 3 months of treatment.

Conclusions

The characteristic onset time pattern of herpes zoster‐associated IRIS, coincident with the second phase of immune recovery under HAART, suggests that the immune recovery events underlying herpes zoster‐associated IRIS are different from those underlying other types of IRIS. Our findings may be useful in improving the follow‐up of individuals who start HAART at an advanced stage of HIV infection.
Uptake of and virological response to antiretroviral therapy among HIV‐infected former and current injecting drug users and persons in an opiate substitution treatment programme: the Swiss HIV Cohort Study
Authors: Weber R , Huber M , Rickenbach M , Furrer H , Elzi L , Hirschel B , Cavassini M , Bernasconi E , Schmid P , Ledergerber B ,   the Swiss HIV Cohort Study
Published: March 2009

Objectives

The aim of the study was to investigate the influence of continued injecting drug use, enrolment in an opiate substitution treatment programme (OSTP), or cessation of injecting drug use on the uptake and course of antiretroviral therapy (ART).

Design

A prospective observational study of all participants in the Swiss HIV Cohort Study followed between 1997 and 2006 was carried out.

Methods

We distinguished four groups of former or current injecting drug users (IDUs): (i) abstinent former IDUs; (ii) persons in OSTPs without concomitant injecting drug use; (iii) persons in OSTPs with concomitant injecting drug use; (vi) current IDUs. These groups were compared with a group of patients who had never been IDUs. Factors related to ART uptake and virological endpoints were analysed using logistic generalized estimating equations.

Results

We followed 8660 participants for 48 477 person‐years; 29.7% were in the IDU HIV transmission group. The likelihood of being on ART at biannual visits was lower among individuals in OSTPs with concomitant injecting drug use [odds ratio (OR) 0.79; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.71–0.89] and current IDUs (OR 0.80; 95% CI 0.67–0.96), compared with those who had never been IDUs (reference), abstinent former IDUs (OR 1.13; 95% CI 1.02–1.25) and individuals in OSTPs without injecting drug use (OR 1.18; 95% CI 1.06–1.31). The likelihood of suppressed viral replication on ART was similar among those who had never been IDUs, abstinent former IDUs and individuals in an OSTP without injecting drug use, and lower among those in OSTPs with concomitant drug use (OR 0.82; 95% CI 0.72–0.93) and current IDUs (OR 0.81; 0.65–1.00). Adherence to ART was decreased among persons with continued injecting drug use, and correlated with virological outcome.

Conclusions

Uptake of and virological response to ART were improved among abstinent former IDUs and persons in OSTPs without concomitant injecting drug use, compared with persons with continued injecting drug use.