bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Low‐temperature Raman spectroscopic studies in NaNbO3
Authors: Mishra K. K. , Sivasubramanian V. , Arora A. K.
Published: June 2010

Raman spectroscopic measurements were carried out in the temperature range 10–300 K to understand the low‐temperature antiferroelectric (AFE)–ferroelectric (FE) phase transition in NaNbO3. Several modes in the low wavenumber range were found to disappear, while some new modes appeared across the transition. The temperature dependence of mode wavenumbers suggests that, during cooling, the AFE–FE phase transition begins to occur at 180 K, while the reverse transition starts at 260 K during heating. During cooling, the two phases were found to coexist in the temperature range of 220–160 K. Upon heating, the FE phase is retained up to 240 K and both FE and AFE phases coexist in the temperature range 240–300 K. In contrast to the earlier reports, the present results suggest a different coexistence region and the reverse transition temperature. The reported relaxor‐type FE behaviour over a broad temperature is consistent with the observed coexistence of phases during cooling and heating cycles. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Safety of sentinel node biopsy in breast cancer patients who receive a second radioisotope injection after visualization failure in lymphoscintigraphy
Authors: Meretoja Tuomo J. , Joensuu Heikki , Heikkilä Päivi S. , Leidenius Marjut H.
Published: June 2010

Background and Objectives

A failure to visualize axillary sentinel nodes in lymphoscintigraphy may lead to an unsuccessful sentinel node biopsy (SNB) and subsequent axillary lymph node dissection (ALND). To avoid unnecessary ALND, a second radioisotope injection may be given but has been considered hazardous. We investigated the axillary recurrence rate after tumor‐negative SNB in breast cancer patients who received a second tracer injection after axillary visualization failure in lymphoscintigraphy.

Methods

Altogether 1,309 breast cancer patients who underwent a tumor‐negative SNB without an ALND were included. Two hundred seven (15.8%) patients received a second tracer injection due to visualization failure in lymphoscintigraphy and 1,102 (84.2%) did not. All patients received a blue dye injection prior to the SNB. The median follow‐up time was 43 months.

Results

No isolated cancer recurrences were diagnosed in the ipsilateral axilla among patients who received two radioisotope injections. Disease‐free survival and overall survival were similar among patients with one or two radioisotope injections (P = 0.122 and P = 0.200, respectively).

Conclusions

Additional radiocolloid tracer injection after axillary non‐visualization in lymphoscintigraphy is safe and does not increase axillary recurrence risk after tumor‐negative SNB. The results suggest that such patients can be safely managed with SNB without a need to perform an ALND. J. Surg. Oncol. 2010;102:649–655. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Deep brain stimulation in the posterior subthalamic area in the treatment of essential tremor
Authors: Blomstedt Patric , Sandvik Ulrika , Tisch Stephen
Published: June 2010

To evaluate the posterior subthalamic area (PSA) as a target for deep brain stimulation (DBS) in the treatment of essential tremor (ET). The ventral intermediate nucleus of the thalamus is the traditional target for DBS in the treatment of ET. Recent studies have presented beneficial effects of DBS in the PSA in the treatment of tremor. Twenty‐one patients with ET were included in this study. All patients were evaluated before and 1 year after surgery, on and off stimulation, using the essential tremor rating scale (ETRS). A marked microlesional effect was noticed in 83%, in some cases obviating the need for electrical stimulation for many months. The total ETRS was reduced from 46.2 at baseline to 18.7 (60%). Item 5/6 (tremor of the upper extremity) was improved from 6.2 to 0.3 (95%), and items 11 to 14 (hand function) from 9.7 to 1.3 (87%) concerning the contralateral hand. Activities of daily living were improved by 66%. No severe complication occurred. Eight patients presented a postoperative mild dysphasia that regressed within days to weeks. DBS in the PSA resulted in a marked reduction of tremor. © 2010 Movement Disorder Society
Benign hereditary chorea: Clinical and neuroimaging features in an Italian family
Authors: Salvatore Elena , Di Maio Luigi , Filla Alessandro , Ferrara Alfonso M. , Rinaldi Carlo , Saccà Francesco , Peluso Silvio , Macchia Paolo E. , Pappatà Sabina , De Michele Giuseppe
Published: June 2010

Benign hereditary chorea is an autosomal dominant disorder characterized by early onset nonprogressive chorea, caused by mutations of the thyroid transcription factor‐1 (TITF‐1) gene. Clinical heterogeneity has been reported and thyroid and respiratory abnormalities may be present. We describe 3 patients of an Italian family carrying the S145X mutation in the TITF‐1 gene with mild motor delay, childhood onset dyskinesias, and subtle cognitive impairment. A child in the third generation presented with congenital hypothyroidism and neonatal respiratory distress. Imaging studies in 2 patients showed mild ventricular enlargement and empty sella at magnetic resonance imaging and hypometabolism of basal ganglia and cortex at 18‐Fluoro‐2‐deoxy‐glucose positron emission tomography. © 2010 Movement Disorder Society
Transcranial brain sonography in Parkinson's disease with restless legs syndrome
Authors: Kwon Do‐Young , Seo Woo‐Keun , Yoon Ho‐Kyoung , Park Moon‐Ho , Koh Seong‐Beom , Park Kun‐Woo
Published: June 2010

Substantia nigra (SN) hyperechogenicity assessed by transcranial brain sonography (TCS) is a characteristic finding in idiopathic Parkinson's disease (PD). In contrast, SN hypoechogenicity on TCS has been recently demonstrated in restless legs syndrome (RLS). RLS is one of the most common sleep problems in PD, but the pathophysiologic relationship between these two disorders has not been thoroughly elucidated. We compared the SN echogenicities of PD patients with and without RLS to investigate whether comorbid RLS in PD affects SN echogenicity and to explain the echogenic differences between idiopathic RLS (iRLS) and secondary PD–related RLS (pRLS). Sixty‐three PD patients (median age 64.6 ± 10.6 years), 40 iRLS patients (53.1 ± 11.7 years), and 40 healthy controls (69.1 ± 2.3 years) were enrolled in our study. All subjects answered a sleep questionnaire and underwent TCS. PD patients were subdivided into two groups, PD with RLS (PD+RLS, n = 26) and PD without RLS (PD‐RLS, n = 37), and the sonographic findings of each group were compared. Although significant hyperechogenicity was detected in both the SN and SN/midbrain ratios in both PD subgroups compared with the controls and the iRLS group (P < 0.001), there were no significant differences in SN echogenicity between the PD+RLS and PD‐RLS groups. Meanwhile, iRLS patients showed significant SN hypoechogenicity. In conclusion, comorbid RLS in PD did not have an impact on the sonographic SN findings. These results suggest that the pathogenesis of pRLS and iRLS involve different mechanisms. Further study will be required to clarify the association between RLS and PD. © 2010 Movement Disorder Society
Rationale for delayed‐start study of pramipexole in Parkinson's disease: The PROUD study
Authors: Schapira Anthony H.V. , Albrecht Stefan , Barone Paolo , Comella Cynthia L. , McDermott Michael P. , Mizuno Yoshikuni , Poewe Werner , Rascol Olivier , Marek Kenneth
Published: June 2010

Perhaps the most important unmet need in Parkinson's disease (PD) is the ability to slow or prevent progression of the neurodegeneration that underlies the motor and nonmotor features of this disorder. Pramipexole, a dopamine agonist used for the symptomatic treatment of PD, has demonstrated neuroprotective properties in laboratory studies. The PRamipexole On Underlying Disease (PROUD) study is a randomized, double‐blind clinical trial evaluating the ability of pramipexole to modify disease progression using a delayed‐start design. PD patients (n = 535) with mean age 62.5 years, mean duration since diagnosis of 4.4 months, and mean total Unified Parkinson's disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) score of 24.5 were recruited. In Phase I, patients were randomly assigned to be titrated to 1.5 mg pramipexole or placebo and maintained on study drug for 6–9 months. In Phase II, all patients were titrated to 1.5 mg pramipexole and maintained on study drug until the end of the study at 15 months. No rescue medication was allowed in the protocol. The primary endpoint is the change in total UPDRS score (parts I–III) from baseline to 15 months. A range of secondary endpoints separately assess UPDRS subscales, quality of life, depression, and impulse control disorders. A sub‐study examined dopamine transporter uptake scans at baseline and 15 months. The results of PROUD will provide insight into the potential for early versus delayed treatment with pramipexole to modify motor outcome at 15 months in recently diagnosed PD patients. © 2010 Movement Disorder Society
Wie sauber ist der Siliciumwafer?
Authors: van der Marel Cees , Krystek Petra
Published: June 2010

Die Photoelektronenspektroskopie verrät, wie Oberflächen chemisch zusammengesetzt sind, und findet Schmutzpartikel, Oxidschichten sowie verbotene Substanzen.
The impact of miscarriage and parity on patterns of maternal distress in pregnancy
Authors: Woods‐Giscombé Cheryl L. , Lobel Marci , Crandell Jamie L.
Published: June 2010

The purpose of the current study was to examine patterns of state anxiety and pregnancy‐specific distress across pregnancy in a diverse sample of women with (n = 113) and without (n = 250) prior miscarriage. For both groups, state anxiety and pregnancy‐specific distress were highest in the first trimester and decreased significantly over the course of pregnancy. Compared to women without prior miscarriage, women with prior miscarriage experienced greater state anxiety in the second and third trimesters. Having a living child did not buffer state anxiety in women with a prior miscarriage. Attention to patterns of distress can contribute to delivery of appropriate support resources to women experiencing pregnancy after miscarriage and may help reduce risk for stress‐related outcomes. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Res Nurs Health 33:316–328, 2010
Communication about sexuality and intimacy in couples affected by lung cancer and their clinical‐care providers
Authors: Lindau Stacy Tessler , Surawska Hanna , Paice Judith , Baron Shirley R.
Published: June 2010

Objective: Little is known about the effects of lung cancer on intimate and sexual relationships. This study explores health‐care provider, patient, and partner perspectives on: (1) the effects of lung cancer on physical and emotional intimacy, (2) the ways in which intimacy affects the experience of living with lung cancer, and (3) communication about intimacy and sexuality in the context of lung cancer.

Methods: Qualitative, in‐depth interviews with eight cancer‐care providers and 13 married couples (ages 43–79) affected by lung cancer were conducted and audiotaped in the clinical setting. Interviews were transcribed, iteratively analyzed, and coded according to the above domains. Coding was performed independently by members of an interdisciplinary team; inter‐rater reliability was assessed using the kappa statistic; and analyses were summarized by domain.

Results: Most cancer‐care providers and couples affected by lung cancer believed intimacy and sexuality issues were salient, yet few reported discussing these. Couples described negative and positive effects of cancer on intimacy. Negative effects were driven by cancer or its treatment, including physical and psychological effects. Positive effects included an increase in non‐coital physical closeness and appreciation of the spouse. Age was perceived as an important factor influencing the relationship between lung cancer and intimacy.

Conclusions: Emotional intimacy and sexuality are important concerns for couples affected by lung cancer. The findings suggest previously unrecognized positive effects of lung cancer on emotional and physical intimacy. Couples affected by lung cancer and providers believe these issues are relevant for lung cancer care. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Many‐body meets QM/MM: Application to indole in water solution
Authors: Conte Adriano Mosca , Ippoliti Emiliano , Del Sole Rodolfo , Carloni Paolo , Pulci Olivia
Published: June 2010

Aromatic chromophores are used as optical probes to investigate the structure of complex biological systems. For this purpose, it is crucial to understand the role of the bio‐chemical environment in the modification of their optical properties. Here we present a theoretical method to analyze this aspect on large scale systems, like biologically relevant molecules in aqueous solution. We combine many body perturbation theory with a quantum‐mechanics/molecular‐mechanics (QM/MM) approach. We include quasi‐particle and excitonic effects for the calculation of optical absorption spectra in a QM/MM scheme. In agreement with the experiments, we find that the solvent induces a redshift in the main spectral peak of indole, and we demonstrate this shift originates both from electrostatic and geometrical effects.

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Total bremsstrahlung spectra in targets of Al, Ti, Sn and Pb produced by complete absorption of 90Sr β particles
Authors: Singh Tajinder , Kahlon K. S. , Dhaliwal A. S.
Published: June 2010

Total bremsstrahlung (BS) spectra in thick targets of Al, Ti, Sn and Pb produced by complete absorption of 90Sr β particles (0–546 keV) are reported in the photon energy region of 10–30 keV. The experimental BS spectral photon distributions were compared with the theoretical BS spectral photon distributions obtained from Elwert corrected (non‐relativistic) Bethe–Heitler theory, modified Elwert factor (relativistic) Bethe–Heitler theories for ordinary bremsstrahlung (OB) and the modified Elwert factor (relativistic) Bethe–Heitler theory, which include the polarization bremsstrahlung (PB) into OB in stripped atom approximation. It has been observed that the experimental results are showing better agreement with the modified Elwert factor (relativistic) Bethe–Heitler theory having the contribution of PB at photon energy from 10 to 30 keV. This indicates the importance of PB in BS spectra, while studying the spectral photon distributions produced by continuous β particles having energy range of 0–546 keV in thick metallic targets. Further, it is observed that the contribution of PB into OB increases with increase in atomic number of the target and decreases with increase in photon energy. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Determination and transport of phase transformation yield surfaces for shape memory alloys
Authors: Gibeau E. , Laydi M.R. , Lexcellent C.
Published: June 2010

One important feature in the description of the shape memory alloys is the determination of the yield surfaces of phase transformation. They can be presented as surfaces in the phase transformation martensitic strain space. In this paper the transition from this stress to the classical stress space is performed. Two application cases concerning bi‐axial loading (bi‐tension and tension‐torsion) are discussed in details.
Psychiatric and cognitive profile in Anderson‐Fabry patients: a preliminary study
Authors: Segal Perri , Kohn Yoav , Pollak Yehuda , Altarescu Gheona , Galili‐Weisstub Esti , Raas‐Rothschild Annick
Published: June 2010

Anderson‐Fabry disease (AFD) is an X‐linked inherited lysosomal storage disorder disease caused by a deficiency in the activity of the α‐galactosidase enzyme. We investigated neuropsychological and psychiatric function in AFD patients. We studied 16 AFD patients, aged 7 to 61 years. Intelligence, language, vision‐spatial abilities, memory, sensorimotor abilities, and attention and executive functions were tested with a computerized test battery as well as standard paper and pencil tests. The results were compared to known age‐based norms. In addition, all patients were screened for lifelong DSM‐IV Axis‐I and Axis‐II psychiatric diagnoses, and 4 were interviewed by a psychiatrist. Performance on most cognitive measures was within average range. All measures of information processing speed were significantly reduced, as were some measures of executive functions. Ten out of 16 patients met DSM‐IV criteria for Axis I or Axis II diagnoses at some point in their lives. This preliminary study delineates a psychiatric and cognitive phenotype in AFD patients and contributes to the growing field of characterizing behavioral phenotypes of patients with genetic diseases. We suggest that psychiatric and neuro‐psychological evaluation be included in the patient's evaluation.
Sensory Restoration by Lateral Antebrachial Cutaneous to Ulnar Nerve Transfer in Children with Global Brachial Plexus Injuries
Authors: Ruchelsman David E. , Price Andrew E. , Valencia Herbert , Ramos Lorna E. , Grossman John A. I.
Published: June 2010

Selective peripheral nerve transfers represent an emerging reconstructive strategy in the management of both pediatric and adult brachial plexus and peripheral nerve injuries. Transfer of the lateral antebrachial cutaneous nerve of the forearm into the distal ulnar nerve is a useful means to restore sensibility to the ulnar side of the hand when indicated. This technique is particularly valuable in the management of global brachial plexus birth injuries in children for which its application has not been previously reported. Four children ages 4 to 9 years who sustained brachial plexus birth injury with persistent absent sensibility on the unlar aspect of the hand underwent transfer of the lateral antebrachial cutaneous nerve to the distal ulnar nerve. In three patients, a direct transfer with a distal end-to-side repair through a deep longitudinal neurotomy was performed. In a single patient, an interposition nerve graft was required. Restoration of sensibility was evaluated by the “wrinkle test.”
Using animal models of enriched environments to inform research on sensory integration intervention for the rehabilitation of neurodevelopmental disorders
Authors: Reynolds Stacey , Lane Shelly J. , Richards Lorie
Published: June 2010

The field of behavioral neuroscience has been successful in using an animal model of enriched environments for over five decades to measure the rehabilitative and preventative effects of sensory, cognitive and motor stimulation in animal models. Several key principles of enriched environments match those used in sensory integration therapy, a treatment used for children with neurodevelopmental disorders. This paper reviews the paradigm of environmental enrichment, compares animal models of enriched environments to principles of sensory integration treatment, and discusses applications for the rehabilitation of neurodevelopmental disorders. Based on this review, the essential features in the enriched environment paradigm which should be included in sensory integration treatment are multiple sensory experiences, novelty in the environment, and active engagement in challenging cognitive, sensory, and motor tasks. Use of sensory integration treatment may be most applicable for children with anxiety, hypersensitivity, repetitive behaviors or heightened levels of stress. Additionally, individuals with deficits in social behavior, social participation, or impairments in learning and memory may show gains with this type of treatment.
Implementing an In Situ Alkaline Transesterification Method for Canola Biodiesel Quality Screening
Authors: Haagenson Darrin M. , Brudvik Rachel L. , Lin Hongjian , Wiesenborn Dennis P.
Published: June 2010

Increasing demand for canola (Brassica napus) as an edible oil crop and biodiesel (B100) feedstock has encouraged genetic development for increased oil yields and expanded acreage in the US Northern Plains. Crop production environment and plant genetics influence metabolism and fatty acid composition, but the influence of this interaction on the resulting fatty acid methyl esters (FAME) is not clearly understood. The objective of this study was to develop a canola in situ transesterification (TE) method for facilitating the identification of genetic, abiotic or biotic factors impacting B100 quality, and to evaluate FAME quality properties from conventional TE (degummed oil) and in situ TE methods. In situ reactions containing 40 g canola flour conducted for 6 h at 60 °C with a 275:1:1.05 M ratio of methanol:triacylglycerol (TAG):KOH provided 80% conversion of seed lipid to FAME. Replicated reactions provided sufficient FAME volume for measuring several ASTM D6751‐09 standards including cloud point, kinematic viscosity, acid value, moisture content, oxidative stability, and total glycerin, but adjustments are necessary to provide sufficient volumes for routine analysis of cold soak filtration test. The established in situ protocol would permit weekly analysis of 40 samples and the in situ TE method provides an opportunity to evaluate the impact of genetic or environmental factors on B100 quality.
Large‐Scale Screening of Intact Castor Seeds by Viscosity Using Time‐Domain NMR and Chemometrics
Authors: Berman Paula , Nizri Shahar , Parmet Yisrael , Wiesman Zeev
Published: June 2010

Castor is one of the most promising non‐edible oil crops, due to its high oil content and since it can be grown on marginal lands and in a semi‐arid climate. However, the high content of ricinoleic acid results in an extremely high viscosity of castor‐based biodiesel. In this study, we report on the development of a rapid and non‐destructive method for large‐scale screening of intact castor seeds according to their viscosity by time domain NMR and chemometrics. A qualitative principal component analysis model was constructed, where each observation was assigned to a different viscosity group. This model straightforwardly detects desirable outliers, and can also be applied for detection of other transgenic oilseeds, especially those containing small levels of hydroxylated fatty acid.
EurAfrica: Strengthening the Special Relationship
Authors: Huliaras Asteris
Published: June 2010

The increasing number of agreements between the EU and African states reveals a trend toward a ‘One Europe, One Africa’ policy. The EU has gained from the Lisbon Treaty new competencies for independent external action, and coordination on Africa policy has increased in the Council, mainly due to convergence between France, Germany and the United Kingdom. However, EU policy towards Africa still lacks coherence and direction and many EU Member States still privilege bilateral links with African countries. There is still an opportunity for the EU to increase its ‘actorness’ in Africa. First, the EU should take advantage of the economic crisis to create new institutional links between the EU and Africa. Second, the EU should focus on its visibility and act to strengthen private and civil society ties. Despite weaknesses, there are clear indications that the coherence of the EU's Africa policy is improving.
Curdlan‐mediated regulation of human phagocyte‐specific chitotriosidase
Authors: van Eijk Marco , Voorn-Brouwer Tineke , Scheij Saskia S. , Verhoeven Arthur J. , Boot Rolf G. , Aerts Johannes M.F.G.
Published: June 2010

Human phagocyte‐specific chitotriosidase is part of innate immunity and shows anti‐fungal activity towards chitin‐containing fungi. We investigated the effect of stimulation of the C‐type lectin receptor dectin‐1 by β‐1,3‐glucan (curdlan) on chitotriosidase expression and release by human phagocytes. We observed that curdlan triggers chitotriosidase release from human neutrophils. In addition, we show that curdlan impairs chitotriosidase induction in monocytes. Finally, curdlan temporarily induces chitotriosidase in enzyme‐expressing monocyte‐derived macrophages, followed by reduction of chitotriosidase expression after prolonged stimulation. These data on regulation of phagocyte‐specific chitotriosidase following curdlan recognition support an important role of chitotriosidase in the elimination of chitin‐containing pathogens.
The role of enoyl‐CoA hydratase short chain 1 and peroxiredoxin 3 in PP2‐induced apoptosis in human breast cancer MCF‐7 cells
Authors: Liu Xiang , Feng Renqing , Du Liying
Published: June 2010

We show that 4‐amino‐5‐(4‐chlorophenyl)‐7‐(t‐butyl)pyrazolo[3,4‐d]pyrimidine (PP2) induces apoptosis and down‐regulates the expression of enoyl‐CoA hydratase short chain 1 (ECHS1) and peroxiredoxin 3 (PRDX3) in human breast cancer MCF‐7 cells. The decrease of ECHS1 and PRDX3 was validated by Western blot and quantitative real‐time reverse transcription‐PCR in MCF‐7 and other carcinoma cells. Knockdown and over‐expression of ECHS1 and/or PRDX3 further supported the key role of ECHS1 and PRDX3 in regulation of PP2‐induced apoptosis. These results suggest a possible apoptotic pathway whereby down‐regulation of ECHS1 and PRDX3 potentiates PP2‐induced apoptosis in MCF‐7 cells.
Bacillus subtilis SSE4 produces subtulene A, a new lipopeptide antibiotic possessing an unusual C15 unsaturated β‐amino acid
Authors: Thasana Nopporn , Prapagdee Benjaphorn , Rangkadilok Nuchanart , Sallabhan Ratiboot , Aye Seaim Lwin , Ruchirawat Somsak , Loprasert Suvit
Published: June 2010

Subtulene A, a new cyclic lipopeptide, was isolated from the culture broth of Bacillus subtilis SSE4. This antibiotic compound contained the seven common α‐amino acids, l‐Asn‐1, d‐Tyr‐2, d‐Asn‐3, l‐Gln‐4, l‐Pro‐5, d‐Asn‐6, l‐Ser‐7 and the unique β‐amino acid‐8 present in the iturin family. 1D and 2D NMR, as well as MS analyses, identified the β‐amino acid as 3‐amino‐13‐methyltetradec‐8‐enoic acid, an Iso C15 long chain β‐amino acid. B. subtilis SSE4 was also found to produce iturin A. B. subtilis SSE4 culture filtrate exhibited both antifungal and antibacterial activities.
Weird fingers: Functional analysis of WIP domain proteins
Authors: Appelhagen Ingo , Huep Gunnar , Lu Gui-Hua , Strompen Georg , Weisshaar Bernd , Sagasser Martin
Published: June 2010

WIP proteins form a plant specific subfamily of C2H2 zinc finger (ZF) proteins. In this study, we functionally characterized the WIP domain, which consists of four ZF motifs, and discuss molecular functions for WIP proteins. Mutations in each of the ZFs lead to loss of function of the TT1/WIP1 protein in Arabiopsis thaliana. SV40 type nuclear localisation signals were detected in two of the ZFs and functionally characterized using GFP fusions as well as new mutant alleles identified by TILLING. Promoter swap experiments showed that selected WIP proteins are partially able to take over TT1 function. Activity of the AtBAN promoter, a potential TT1 target, could be increased by the addition of TT1 to the TT2–TT8–TTG1 regulatory complex.
Lauroylethanolamide is a potent competitive inhibitor of lipoxygenase activity
Authors: Keereetaweep Jantana , Kilaru Aruna , Feussner Ivo , Venables Barney J. , Chapman Kent D.
Published: June 2010

The lipoxygenase (LOX) pathway was proposed to compete with hydrolysis and be partly responsible for the metabolism of polyunsaturated N‐acylethanolamines (PU‐NAEs). Treatment of Arabidopsis seedlings with lauroylethanolamide (NAE 12:0) resulted in elevated levels of PU‐NAE species, and this was most pronounced in plants with reduced NAE hydrolase activity. Enzyme activity assays revealed that NAE 12:0 inhibited LOX‐mediated oxidation of PU lipid substrates in a dose‐dependent and competitive manner. NAE 12:0 was 10–20 times more potent an inhibitor of LOX activities than lauric acid (FFA 12:0). Furthermore, treatment of intact Arabidopsis seedlings with NAE 12:0 (but not FFA 12:0) substantially blocked the wound‐induced formation of jasmonic acid (JA), suggesting that NAE 12:0 may be used in planta to manipulate oxylipin metabolism.
The role of regulatory fit on the attraction effect
Authors: Chatterjee Subimal , Roy Rajat , Malshe Ashwin Vinod
Published: June 2010

We show that adding entrant brands to a choice set compr ising of a predominantly promotion brand and a predominantly prevention brand can make both promotion and prevention‐oriented consumers susceptible to the attraction effect. If an entrant targets the brand possessing superior promotion (prevention) feature, the resulting dominance relationship allows the promotion (prevention) focused consumers to sustain their regulatory focus. Entrant brands (and the associated dominance heuristic) therefore contribute to decision value by allowing both promotion and prevention‐focused consumers pursue their goal in a way that fits with their regulatory concerns.
Targeting leukemic stem cells by breaking their dormancy
Authors: Essers Marieke Alida Gertruda , Trumpp Andreas
Published: June 2010

Transient or long‐term quiescence, the latter referred to as dormancy are fundamental features of at least some adult stem cells. The status of dormancy is likely a critical mechanism for the observed resistance of normal HSCs and leukemic stem cells (LSCs) to anti‐proliferative chemotherapy. Recent studies have revealed cytokines such as Interferon‐alpha (IFNα) and G‐CSF as well as arsenic trioxide (As2O3) to be efficient agents for promoting cycling of dormant HSCs and LSCs. Most interestingly, such cell cycle activated stem cells become exquisitely sensitive to killing by different chemotherapeutic agents, suggesting that dormant LSCs in patients may be targeted by a sequential two‐step protocol involving an initial activation by IFNα, G‐CSF or As2O3, followed by targeted chemotherapy.
Pancreatic cancer stem cells – update and future perspectives
Authors: Lonardo Enza , Hermann Patrick C. , Heeschen Christopher
Published: June 2010

Solid tumours are the most common cancers and represent a major therapeutic challenge. The cancer stem cell hypothesis is an attractive model to explain the functional heterogeneity commonly observed in solid tumours. It proposes a hierarchical organization of tumours, in which a subpopulation of stem cell‐like cells sustains tumour growth, metastasis, and resistance to therapy. We will present the most recent advances in the cancer stem cell field, with particular emphasis on pancreatic cancer as one of the deadliest human tumours, and highlight open questions and caveats to be addressed in future studies. There is increasing evidence that solid tumours including pancreatic cancer are hierarchically organized and sustained by a distinct subpopulation of cancer stem cells. However, direct evidence for the validity of the cancer stem cell hypothesis in human pancreatic cancer remains controversial due to the limitations of xenograft models but supportive data are now emerging from mouse models using related or different sets of markers for the identification of murine cancer stem cells. Therefore, while the clinical relevance of cancer stem cells remains a fundamental issue for this rapidly emerging field, current findings clearly suggest that specific elimination of these cells is possible and therapeutically relevant. Targeting of signalling pathways that are of particular importance for the maintenance and the elimination of cancer stem cell as the proposed root of the tumour may lead to the development of novel treatment regimens for pancreatic cancer. Here we will review the current literature on pancreatic cancer stem cells and the future perspective of this rapidly emerging field.
Church and State in Western Australia: Implementing New Imperial Paradigms in the Swan River Colony, 1827–1857
Authors: STRONG ROWAN
Published: June 2010

This article examines, through the work and attitudes of its first four governors, the relations between Church and State in the last Australia colony to be established. It covers the period from the foundation of the colony in 1829 to the arrival of the first resident bishop of Perth in 1857. It challenges the prevailing historiography of a colonial administration wedded to Anglican privilege, and discusses the persistence of an erastian mind-set among the colonial governors in the 1840s despite the advent of a new paradigm of autonomous imperial engagement by the Church of England.
Radiofrequency thermal ablation versus ‘cold steel’ for supra-auricular excision of preauricular sinus: comparative study
Authors: Bajwa H , Kumar S
Published: June 2010

Objective:

To compare the results of radiofrequency thermal ablation versus ‘cold steel’ excision, for supra-auricular excision of preauricular sinus.

Study design:

Prospective study. Observations included recurrence, intra-operative bleeding, operation time and ease of dissection.

Setting:

Tertiary referral hospital.

Subjects and methods:

Sixty cases of preauricular sinus were assigned randomly to two groups (30 cases each). Group one patients underwent cold steel sinus excision, whereas group two patients underwent radiofrequency-assisted sinus excision.

Results:

Fifty patients were operated upon, with a mean age of 12.26 years. Most patients were aged between zero and five years (40 per cent). The average patient follow-up time was 15 months (range, six to 24 months). Recurrence rates were 23 per cent in group one and 3 per cent in group two; this difference was statistically significant (p = 0.016). Dissection of the sinus tract was reported to be much easier in the radiofrequency group, compared with the cold steel group (p = 0.023), with minimal bleeding.

Conclusion:

From our observations, radiofrequency-assisted, local, wide excision appears to be preferable for treatment of preauricular sinus, compared with cold steel excision, as it allows better peri-operative visualisation, easier dissection, minimal bleeding and a lower subsequent recurrence rate (3.3 per cent).
Risk factors associated with dizziness during treatment of mucosal leishmaniasis with meglumine antimoniate: 16-year retrospective study of cases from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Authors: Araujo-Melo M H , Meneses A M , Schubach A O , Moreira J S , Conceição-Silva F , Salgueiro M M , Pimentel M I F , Araújo-Silva M , Oliveira R V C , Carmo C N , Valete-Rosalino C M
Published: June 2010

Objective:

To evaluate dizziness in patients receiving meglumine antimoniate for the treatment of mucosal leishmaniasis.

Materials and methods:

We retrospectively studied 127 patients treated at the Laboratory of Leishmaniasis Surveillance, Evandro Chagas Clinical Research Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, between 1 January 1989 and 31 December 2004.

Results:

A low dose of meglumine antimoniate (5 mg/kg/day) was used in 86.6 per cent of patients; a dose of 10 mg/kg/day or higher was used in 13.4 per cent of patients. Dizziness was reported by 4.7 per cent of patients. The adjusted odds ratios were 7.37 for dizziness in female patients, 4.9 for dizziness in patients aged 60 years or older, and 7.77 for dizziness in the presence of elevated serum lipase.

Conclusion:

We suggest that dizziness may be a side effect of meglumine antimoniate, particularly in elderly individuals, in females and in patients with elevated serum lipase.
Histopathological differences in bony destruction of malleus and incus following mastoidectomy
Authors: Sasaki T , Xu A , Ito K , Ishimoto S-I , Yamasoba T , Kaga K , Yamauchi N
Published: June 2010

Objectives:

Upon direct inspection of surgically removed ossicles from the ears of patients with long-term post-mastoidectomy cavity problems, the extent of malleus destruction often appears greater in patients with a longer duration of cavity problems, whereas the extent of incus destruction does not appear to correlate with the duration of cavity problems. This study aimed to investigate this impression.

Materials and methods:

As a result of total middle-ear reconstruction, 41 ossicles (21 malleus and 20 incus bones) were obtained from 31 patients with post-mastoidectomy cavity problems. The ossicles were examined histopathologically, and the proportion of lamellar bone area to total bone area (expressed as percentage lamellar bone) was measured. We also calculated the inter-operation time, i.e. the time period between the previous mastoidectomy and the recent total middle-ear reconstruction; this parameter was used as an approximate measure of the duration of the patient's cavity problem. Correlations between percentage lamellar bone and inter-operation time were calculated for the two ossicles.

Results:

The range of inter-operation times was seven to 65 years. We observed a correlation between percentage lamellar bone and inter-operation time for malleus bones (r = −0.512, p < 0.05), but not for incus bones.

Conclusion:

These results were in agreement with our pre-study impressions.
Tracheotomy bleeding from an unusual tracheo-arterial fistula: involvement of an aberrant right subclavian artery
Authors: Desvant C , Chevalier D , Mortuaire G
Published: June 2010

Introduction:

The development of a tracheo-arterial fistula is a rare but severe complication of tracheotomy. The reported patient presented with such a fistula involving an aberrant right subclavian artery, termed an arteria lusoria, an aortic arch abnormality which is usually asymptomatic.

Case report:

A 30-year-old man was admitted to our institution for bleeding through his tracheotomy. He had been treated for advanced Duchenne muscular dystrophy, involving invasive assisted ventilation, since the age of 10 years. Surgical exploration and computed tomography scanning revealed a tracheo-arterial fistula involving an aberrant right subclavian artery, associated with severe scoliosis. Emergency, transient haemostasis was achieved by over-inflation of the tracheostomy tube cuff. Aneurysm ablation was successfully achieved as the result of an endovascular interventional radiology procedure.

Discussion:

Arteria lusoria is one of the most common aortic arch abnormalities. The occurrence of an aneurysm of this artery in a tracheotomised patient has not previously been described. In Duchenne muscular dystrophy patients, spinal deformities may result in thoracic compression, which may alter the anatomical relations of mediastinal vessels. Such deformities are slowly progressive. Thus, vigilance is required in the long term management of Duchenne muscular dystrophy patients with a tracheostomy.
Severe laryngeal fracture treated by supracricoid laryngectomy
Authors: Consalici R , Dall'Olio D
Published: June 2010

Objective:

To report a rare case of severe laryngeal fracture treated by supracricoid laryngectomy. Previously, a few cases of major laryngeal trauma treated by reconstructive laryngectomy have been briefly described. This paper aims to comprehensively document a rare case of severe laryngeal fracture for which this difficult treatment choice represented an acceptable option.

Methods:

A 33-year-old woman sustained very serious blunt laryngeal trauma. The complexity of the laryngeal injuries led us to opt for supracricoid laryngectomy, rather than to attempt laryngeal repair.

Results:

The post-operative course was normal. The patient's post-operative voice was breathy but functional. No airway stenoses occurred.

Conclusion:

For severe laryngeal fractures, reparative procedures and stenting constitute the standard treatment. However, in selected and especially critical cases, a primary partial or reconstructive laryngectomy is justifiable.
Aspergilloma of the middle ear mimicking necrotising otitis externa: case report
Authors: Rainsbury P , Mitchell-Innes A , Wilson H , Prior M
Published: June 2010

Objective:

We report a case of a patient who presented with otalgia and facial nerve palsy secondary to an aspergilloma of the middle ear.

Case report:

A 72-year-old, diabetic man presented to the ENT department with a history of worsening right-sided otalgia, aural discharge and hearing loss, associated with a right-sided facial weakness. This was assumed to be secondary to malignant otitis externa, and treatment was commenced. Imaging showed soft tissue within the middle ear and no bony erosion. Surgical exploration and biopsy revealed an aspergilloma of the middle ear. The pre- and post-operative management, as well as treatment strategies, are discussed.

Conclusion:

To our knowledge, this is the first documented case of an aspergilloma of the middle ear with associated facial palsy. Readers are asked to consider this rare diagnosis in patients with suspected malignant otitis externa not responding to standard treatment.
The political order in the Arctic: power structures, regimes and influence
Authors: Wegge Njord
Published: June 2010

In the last few years, questions pertaining to cooperation and conflict in the Arctic have emerged in the media, as well as within academia. While many scholars have rightly rejected the prospect of an imminent escalation of conflicts, the current debate is insufficiently informed by the literature on political order within the field of international relations (IR). In this article, the author attempts to explain the political order in the Arctic, situating his analysis within the broader context of IR theory. Guided by the perspectives of ‘hegemonics stability’, ‘balance of power’ and ‘Kantian internationalist theory’, focus is laid on power capabilities, international regimes and domestic regime type as independent variables. The main finding is that the Arctic is a multipolar ‘region,’ the enduring stability and peacefulness of which can be explained by both the role played by international regimes, and by the balance of power between the ‘stakeholders’ involved. The paper concludes by explaining how and why the smaller littoral Arctic states are the prime beneficiaries of this order.
Design of a dual-band power combining architecture for high-power microwave applications
Authors: Zhang Qiang , Yuan Chengwei , Liu Lie
Published: June 2010

The remaining challenges, confronting the limited output peak power level of high-power microwave (HPM) sources, stimulate the development of power combining system. This paper reports the design methods and numerical results for a kind of dual-band incoherent power combining architecture applied in HPM. It is particularly effective to radiate dual-band microwave simultaneously, generated by a coaxial dual-band HPM source or two separate HPM sources of different bands. Two types of mode conversion structures, i.e., a dual-band feed line with co-aligned ports and a dual-band feed line with off-aligned ports, are proposed, where coaxial output port itself is adopted to connect the coaxial dual-band horn feed. These two types of feed lines provide a high conversion efficiency of about 98% from TEM or TM01mode to TE11mode and a bandwidth of about 10% at each band. The horn feed, with a high power handling capacity, is compact, and a good far-field radiation pattern at each band has been achieved by combining horizontal and vertical corrugations. Thus, the dual-band radiation system has not only realized incoherent power combination, with higher output peak power level, but also is suitable for feeding of, e.g., offset shaped single-reflector antennas in dual-band HPM systems in the future.
Influence of laser beam intensity profile on propagation dynamics of laser-blow-off plasma plume
Authors: Kumar Ajai , George Sony , Singh R.K. , Nampoori V.P.N.
Published: June 2010

Effect of intensity profile of the ablating laser on the dynamics of laser-blow-off (LBO) plume has been studied by fast imaging technique. This work emphasizes the geometrical aspect of the LBO plume, which is an important parameter for various applications. Visualization of the expanding plume reveals that geometrical shape and directionality (divergence) of the plume are highly dependent on the laser intensity profile. Present results demonstrate that the Gaussian profile laser produces a well-collimated, low divergence plasma plume as compared to the plume formed by a top-hat profile laser. The sequence of film removal processes is invoked to explain the role of energy density profile of the ablating laser in LBO mechanism.
Basics and first experiments demonstrating isolation improvements in the agile polarimetric FM-CW radar – PARSAX
Authors: Krasnov Oleg A. , Babur Galina P. , Wang Zongbo , Ligthart Leo P. , van der Zwan Fred
Published: June 2010

The article describes the IRCTR PARSAX radar system, the S-band high-resolution Doppler polarimetric frequency modulated continuous wave (FM-CW) radar with dual-orthogonal sounding signals, which has the possibility to measure all elements of the radar target polarization scattering matrix simultaneously, in one sweep. The performance of such radar depends of the level of sounding signals orthogonality. In the main operational mode, the radar will be used for atmospheric remote sensing and polarimetric studies of ground-based targets. In such mode it will use a pair of synchronous linearly- frequency modulated (LFM) continuous signals with opposite frequency excursions of 50 MHz and duration of 1 ms. Such a combination of sounding signals has limited orthogonality even for huge BT-products, which produce cross-channel interferences. These interferences in case of radar scene with multiple pointed and distributed targets can completely degrade radar operational performance. In this article, we propose simple and effective technique to suppress interferences and to restore radar performance. The technique has been tested using simulation and has been implemented in multi-channel digital receiver of the PARSAX radar. The real radar measurements presented to illustrate effectiveness of cross-channel interferences suppression. The proposed technique can be useful not only for polarimetric radar design, but also in much wide radar applications, which use waveforms with high orthogonality.
Videogames and Young People with Developmental Disorders
Authors: Durkin Kevin
Published: June 2010

Young people with developmental disorders experience difficulties with many cognitive and perceptual tasks, and often suffer social impairments. Yet, like typical youth, many appear to enjoy playing videogames. This review considers the appeal of videogames to individuals with autism spectrum disorders, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and specific language impairment. It examines how they respond to the various challenges that play entails with particular reference to sensory, cognitive, and social dimensions. It is argued that research into how these young people engage voluntarily with this dynamic and challenging medium offers great potential to extend our empirical and theoretical understanding of the disorders. Many gaps in our current knowledge are identified and several additional themes for possible future research are proposed.
Improving transparency and ethical accountability in animal studies
Authors: Varga Orsolya , Hansen Axel Kornerup , Sandøe Peter , Olsson I Anna S
Published: June 2010

More transparency and accountability could help to alleviate public opposition to the use of animals in research. The authors propose various means of achieving this goal.
Spin-flip effects in a ferromagnetic/normal-metal island/ferromagnetic double tunnel junction system
Authors: Ma M. J. , Jalil M. B. A. , Tan S. G. , Meng H. Y.
Published: June 2010

We theoretically study the spin dependent transport through a magnetic double tunnel junction system, which consists of a nonmagnetic metal island sandwiched by two ferromagnetic electrodes. The transport model in both cotunneling and sequential tunneling regimes is based on the master equation, and systematically incorporates the effects of both intraisland spin-flip (SF) and SF during tunneling between the electrode and the island. We found that the tunnel magnetoresistance (TMR) in the cotunneling regime is impervious to either the intraisland SF or the tunneling SF effect. On the other hand, in the sequential tunneling regime, the TMR decreases with the increasing intraisland SF rate Γ and tunneling SF probability η (η<0.5). However, when the tunneling SF is much stronger, i.e., η>0.5, the TMR is enhanced by increasing the tunneling SF probability. The increase in the temperature suppresses the cotunneling TMR, whereas the sequential tunneling TMR is found to be more robust to temperature variation.