bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of cytogenetic effects of a naturally occurring non‐ice‐nucleation Pseudomonas fluorescens strain in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells
Authors: Caruso P. , Andreozzi L. , Motta S. , Mosesso P.
Published: February 2006

One of the main methods for eliminating ice‐nucleation‐active (INA+) bacteria, the micro‐organisms responsible for frost injuries to plants at mild freezing temperatures, is the use, as competitors, of other naturally occurring non‐nucleating strains (non‐INA). In the present article we investigated the cytogenetic effects of a naturally occurring non‐INA strain of Pseudomonas fluorescens (MS 1640 R3), evaluating the induction of chromosomal aberrations and sister chromatid exchanges (SCEs) in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells in the absence and presence of rat S9 metabolism. The results obtained did not show any increase in either chromosomal aberrations or SCEs, both in the absence and presence of rat S9 metabolism when used as (i) intact bacteria cells, (ii) sonicated bacteria (i.e., potential endotoxins), or (iii) metabolic bacterial products (i.e., potential exotoxins) released in the growth medium. © 1995 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Cyclophosphamide‐induced teratogenesis in ICR mice: The role of apoptosis
Authors: Torchinsky Arkady , Savion Shoshana , Gorivodsky Marat , Shepshelovich Jeanne , Zaslavsky Zeev , Fein Amos , Toder Vladimir
Published: February 2006

It is known that programmed cell death (apoptosis) is an important physiological determinant of embryonic development. In parallel, it may be one of the major events involved in induced teratogenesis. The present study was designated to evaluate to what extent is apoptosis involved in the formation of some final abnormalities induced by cyclophosphamide (CP) in ICR mice. The level of apoptosis in limbs, tail, liver, and whole embryo was assessed 24 h after administration of various doses of CP (day 12 of pregnancy) by flow cytometric analysis and by DNA fragmentation assay. In parallel, the rate of limb and tail malformations, resorptions, and growth retardation induced by various doses of CP was evaluated in animals sacrificed on day 19 of pregnancy using routine teratological methods. A striking correlation between the rate of CP‐induced apoptosis in limb and tail cells and the severity of limb and tail anomalies was found after administration of CP ranging from 10 to 40 mg/kg. Thus, the percent of apoptotic cells collected from limbs and tails increased from 18 to 78%. In parallel, the severity of limb and tail anomalies increased from digit anomalies to amely and from crooked to short or absent tail. CP‐induced embryolethality and fetal growth retardation also correlated with the level of apoptosis in cells collected from whole embryos but to a lesser extent. These results claim that CP‐induced apoptosis is one of the inevitable events in the pathway leading to the formation of CP‐induced abnormalities and also suggest that the extent of the involvement of apoptosis in the formation of different types of final abnormalities, may be different. © 1995 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Cellular and subcellular localization of transforming growth factor‐α and epidermal growth factor receptor in normal and diseased human and hamster pancreas
Authors: Tomioka Tsutomu , Toshkov Ilia , Kazakoff Katherine , Andrén‐Sandberg Åke , Takahashi Toshiyuki , Büchler Markus , Friess Helmut , Vaughn Rick , Pour Parviz M.
Published: February 2006

Four normal pancreas, 8 chronic pancreatitis specimens, and 30 non‐endocrine pancreatic tumors from humans and 6 normal and 6 induced pancreatic cancers in hamsters were examined immunohistochemically by antibodies against human transforming growth factor‐α (TGF‐α) and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). Two normal pancreas and two pancreatic cancer specimens from each species were also studied immunoelectron microscopically by the immunogold method. In chronic pancreatitis, the reactivity and intensity of the staining with both antibodies were much greater in ductal/ductular cells than in the normal pancreas. All 30 pancreatic cancers reacted with both antibodies with a variable degree of reactivity and staining intensity. No correlation was found between the histological type of tumors, the degree of tumor differentiation, and the incidence and patterns of reactivity of either antibody. Immunoelectron microscopically, both EGFR and TGF‐α were demonstrated primarily on the basal membrane. In the normal hamster pancreas, TGF‐α was overexpressed in the α‐cells but not in any other islet cells. Both TGF‐α and EGFR were marginally detectable in the exocrine pancreas and in induced pancreatic lesions. This is the first demonstration of subcellular localization of TGF‐α and EGFR in the normal and diseased human and hamster pancreas © 1996 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Repetitive low‐energy shock wave application without local anesthesia is more efficient than repetitive low‐energy shock wave application with local anesthesia in the treatment of chronic plantar fasciitis
Authors: Rompe Jan D. , Meurer Andrea , Nafe Bernhard , Hofmann Alexander , Gerdesmeyer Ludger
Published: February 2006

Background: It remains unclear whether application of local anesthesia (LA) interferes with clinical efficacy of extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) for chronic plantar fasciitis.

Aims: To evaluate the effect of local anesthesia on the clinical outcome after repetitive low‐energy ESWT for chronic plantar fasciitis.

Methods: Eighty‐six patients with chronic plantar fasciitis were randomly assigned to receive either low‐energy ESWT without LA, given weekly for three weeks (Group I, n = 45; 3 × 2000 pulses, total energy flux density per shock 0.09 mJ/mm2) or identical ESWT with LA (Group II, n = 41). Primary outcome measure was: Reduction of pain from baseline to month 3 post‐treatment in a pain numeric rating scale [0–10 points] during first steps in the morning, evaluated by an independent blinded observer. Calculations were based on intention‐to‐treat.

Results: No difference was found between the groups at baseline. At 3 months, the average pain score was 2.2 ± 2.0 points for patients of Group I, and 4.1 ± 1.5 points for patients of Group II. The mean between‐group difference was 1.9 points (95% Cl: [1.1–2.7 points]; P < .001). Significantly more patients of Group I achieved ⩾ 50% reduction of pain compared to Group II (67% vs 29%. P < .001).

Conclusion: ESWT as applied should be done without LA in patients suffering from chronic heel pain. LA applied prior treatment reduced the efficiency of low‐energy ESWT. © 2004 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Calcitonin release system in the treatment of experimental osteoporosis. Histomorphometric evaluation
Authors: Aldini N. Nicoli , Caliceti P. , Lora S. , Fini M. , Giavaresi G. , Rocca M. , Torricelli P. , Giardino R. , Veronese F. M.
Published: February 2006

Bioabsorbable polyphosphazene matrices charged with 250 μg calcitonin were evaluated as calcitonin delivery systems for the controlled release of this drug in an in vivo experimental model.

Matrices were implanted under general anesthesia in osteopenic female rats, while a group of osteopenic animals (control group) received unloaded matrices. After 30 days a second series of matrices, loaded and unloaded was, respectively, implanted in both groups. In a third group of osteopenic female rats (positive control), 10 IU calcitonin were injected daily for two months. A baseline group and a sham operated group of animals were also included in the study. The explanted matrices were histologically evaluated together with the surrounding tissues, and bone histomorphometry was performed on undecalcified sections from femurs. The results showed the good biocompatibility of the matrices. Bone histomorphometry revealed that bone architecture in the treatment group was improved and results were not different from those observed after calcitonin injection. These data confirm a good in vivo behavior of the system, as well as a therapeutic effect of the released calcitonin in the osteopenic condition. © 2001 Orthopaedic Research Society. Punlished by Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.
Functional morphology of the supraspinatus tendon
Authors: Fallon Jonathan , Blevins Field T. , Vogel Kathryn , Trotter John
Published: February 2006

Grossly normal supraspinatus tendons were analyzed by stereomicroscope dissection and three‐dimensional serial‐section reconstruction. Four structurally independent subunits were identified: the tendon proper extended from the musculotendinous junction to approximately 2.0 cm medial to the greater tuberosity. It was composed of parallel collagen fascicles oriented along the tensional axis and separated by a prominent endotenon region. There was no interdigitation of fascicles, and an 18% incidence of fascicle convergence as the fascicles coursed from muscle toward greater tuberosity. The attachment fibrocartilage extended from the tendon proper to the greater tuberosity, consisted of a complex basket‐weave of collagen fibers, and stained diffusely with alcian blue. The densely packed unidirectional collagen fibers of the rotator cable extended from the coracohumeral (CH) ligament posteriorly to the infraspinatus, coursing both superficial and deep to the tendon proper. The capsule was composed of thin collagen sheets each with uniform fiber alignment that differed slightly between sheets. These data describe a specialized tendon capable of internally compensating for changing joint angles through fascicles which are structurally independent and can slide past one another. The tendon attachment exhibits a structure adapted to tensional load dispersion and resistance to compression.

© 2002 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.
The role of the cytoskeleton in the viscoelastic properties of human articular chondrocytes
Authors: Trickey Wendy R. , Vail T. Parker , Guilak Farshid
Published: February 2006

Biomechanical factors are believed to play an important role in regulating the metabolic activity of chondrocytes in articular cartilage. Previous studies suggest that cytoskeletal proteins such as actin, vimentin, and tubulin influence cellular mechanical properties, and may therefore influence the mechanical interactions between the chondrocyte and the surrounding tissue matrix. In this study, we investigated the role of specific cytoskeletal components on the mechanical properties of individual chondrocytes isolated from normal or osteoarthritic hip articular cartilage. Chondrocytes were exposed to a range of concentrations of chemical agents that disrupt the primary cytoskeletal elements (cytochalasin D for F‐actin microfilaments, acrylamide for vimentin intermediate filaments, and colchicine for microtubules). Chondrocyte mechanical properties were determined using the micropipette aspiration technique coupled with a viscoelastic solid model of the cell. Chondrocyte stiffness (elastic modulus) was significantly increased with osteoarthritis. With increasing cytochalasin D treatment, chondrocyte stiffness decreased by up to 90% and apparent viscosity decreased by up to 80%. The effect of cytochalasin D was greater on normal chondrocytes than those isolated from osteoarthritic cartilage. Treatment with acrylamide also decreased the moduli and viscosity, but only at the highest concentration tested. No consistent changes in cell mechanical properties were observed with colchicine treatment. These findings suggest that microfilaments and possibly intermediate filaments provide the viscoelastic properties of the chondrocyte, and changes in the structure and properties of these cytoskeletal elements may reflect changes in the chondrocyte with osteoarthritis. © 2003 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
CYCLIC COHOMOLOGY OF PROJECTIVE LIMITS OF TOPOLOGICAL ALGEBRAS
Authors: Lykova Zinaida A.
Published: February 2006

We present methods for the computation of the Hochschild and cyclic continuous cohomology and homology of some locally convex topological algebras. Let $(A_{\alpha},T_{\alpha,\beta})_{(\varLambda,\le)}$ be a reduced projective system of complete Hausdorff locally convex algebras with jointly continuous multiplications, and let $A$ be the projective limit algebra $A=\lim_{\substack{\raisebox{-3pt}{\tiny$\leftarrow$}\\ \raisebox{2pt}{\tiny$\,\alpha$}}} A_\alpha$. We prove that, for the continuous cyclic cohomology $HC^*$ and continuous periodic cohomology $HP^*$ of $A$ and $A_\alpha$, $\alpha\in\varLambda$, for all $n\ge0$, $HC^n(A)=\lim_{\substack{\raisebox{-3pt}{\tiny$\rightarrow$}\\ \raisebox{2pt}{\tiny$\!\alpha\,$}}} HC^n(A_\alpha)$, the inductive limit of $HC^n(A_\alpha)$, and, for $k=0,1$, $HP^k(A)=\lim_{\substack{\raisebox{-3pt}{\tiny$\rightarrow$}\\ \raisebox{2pt}{\tiny$\!\alpha\,$}}} HP^k(A_\alpha)$. For a projective limit algebra $A=\lim_{\substack{\raisebox{-3pt}{\tiny$\leftarrow$}\\ \raisebox{2pt}{\tiny$\,m$}}}A_m$ of a countable reduced projective system $(A_m,T_{m,\ell})_{\mathbb{N}}$ of Fréchet algebras, we also establish relations between the cyclic-type continuous homology of $A$ and $A_m$, $m\in\mathbb{N}$. For example, we show the exactness of the following short sequence for all $n\ge0$:

$$ 0\rightarrow {\lim_{\substack{\leftarrow\\ \raisebox{2pt}{\scriptsize$\,m$}}}}^{1}HC_{n+1}(A_m)\rightarrow HC_n(A)\rightarrow \lim_{\substack{\leftarrow\\ \raisebox{2pt}{\scriptsize$\,m$}}} HC_{n}(A_m)\rightarrow0. $$

We present a class of Fréchet algebras $A$ for which the continuous periodic cohomology $HP^k(A)$, $k=0,1$, is isomorphic to the continuous cyclic cohomology $HC^{2\ell+k}(A)$ starting from some integer $\ell$. We apply the above results to calculate the continuous cyclic-type homology and cohomology of some Fréchet locally $m$-convex algebras.
LARGE-TIME BEHAVIOUR OF THE SOLUTIONS FOR A MULTIDIMENSIONAL NON-ISENTROPIC HYDRODYNAMIC MODEL FOR SEMICONDUCTORS
Authors: Li Yeping
Published: February 2006

We investigate the multidimensional non-isentropic Euler–Poisson (or full hydrodynamic) model for semiconductors, which contain an energy-conserved equation with non-zero thermal conductivity coefficient. We first discuss existence and uniqueness of the non-constant stationary solutions to the corresponding drift–diffusion equations. Then we establish the global existence of smooth solutions to the Cauchy problem with initial data, which are close to the stationary solutions. We find that these smooth solutions tend to the stationary solutions exponentially fast as $t\rightarrow+\infty$.
HYPONORMAL OPERATORS, WEIGHTED SHIFTS AND WEAK FORMS OF SUPERCYCLICITY
Authors: Bayart Frédéric , Matheron Etienne
Published: February 2006

An operator $T$ on a Banach space $X$ is said to be weakly supercyclic (respectively $N$-supercyclic) if there exists a one-dimensional (respectively $N$-dimensional) subspace of $X$ whose orbit under $T$ is weakly dense (respectively norm dense) in $X$. We show that a weakly supercyclic hyponormal operator is necessarily a multiple of a unitary operator, and we give an example of a weakly supercyclic unitary operator. On the other hand, we show that hyponormal operators are never $N$-supercyclic. Finally, we characterize $N$-supercyclic weighted shifts.
mus309 mutation, defective in DNA double-strand break repair, affects intergenic but not intragenic meiotic recombination in Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: PORTIN PETTER
Published: February 2006

The effect was investigated of the hypomorphic DNA double-strand break repair, notably synthesis-dependent strand annealing, deficient mutation mus309 on the third chromosome of Drosophila melanogaster on intergenic and intragenic meiotic recombination in the X chromosome. The results showed that the mutation significantly increases the frequency of intergenic crossing over in two of three gene intervals of the X chromosome studied. Interestingly the increase was most prevalent in the tip of the X chromosome where crossovers normally are least frequent per physical map unit length. In particular crossing over interference was also affected, indicating that the effect of the mus309 mutation involves preconditions of crossing over but not the event of crossing over itself. On the other hand, the results also show that most probably the mutation does not have any effect on intragenic recombination, i.e. gene conversion. These results are fully consistent with the present molecular models of meiotic crossing over initiated by double-strand breaks of DNA followed by formation of a single-end-invasion intermediate, or D-loop, which is subsequently processed to generate either crossover or non-crossover products involving formation of a double Holliday junction. In particular the results suggest that the mus309 gene is involved in resolution of the D-loop, thereby affecting the choice between double-strand-break repair (DSBR) and synthesis-dependent strand annealing (SDSA) pathways of meiotic recombination.
Bayesian analyses of multiple epistatic QTL models for body weight and body composition in mice
Authors: YI NENGJUN , ZINNIEL DENISE K. , KIM KYOUNGMI , EISEN EUGENE J. , BARTOLUCCI ALFRED , ALLISON DAVID B. , POMP DANIEL
Published: February 2006

To comprehensively investigate the genetic architecture of growth and obesity, we performed Bayesian analyses of multiple epistatic quantitative trait locus (QTL) models for body weights at five ages (12 days, 3, 6, 9 and 12 weeks) and body composition traits (weights of two fat pads and five organs) in mice produced from a cross of the F1 between M16i (selected for rapid growth rate) and CAST/Ei (wild-derived strain of small and lean mice) back to M16i. Bayesian model selection revealed a temporally regulated network of multiple QTL for body weight, involving both strong main effects and epistatic effects. No QTL had strong support for both early and late growth, although overlapping combinations of main and epistatic effects were observed at adjacent ages. Most main effects and epistatic interactions had an opposite effect on early and late growth. The contribution of epistasis was more pronounced for body weights at older ages. Body composition traits were also influenced by an interacting network of multiple QTLs. Several main and epistatic effects were shared by the body composition and body weight traits, suggesting that pleiotropy plays an important role in growth and obesity.
Applying innovations and new technologies for international collaborative wheat improvement
Authors: REYNOLDS M. P. , BORLAUG N. E.
Published: February 2006

Despite the successes of the Green Revolution, about a billion people are still undernourished and food security in the developing world faces new challenges in terms of population growth, reduced water resources, climate change and decreased public sector investment. It is also becoming widely recognized that poverty is a cause of environmental degradation, conflict and civil unrest. Internationally coordinated agricultural research can play a significant role in improving food security by deploying promising new technologies as well as adapting those with well-established impact.

In addition to the genetic challenges of crop improvement, agriculturalists must also embrace the problems associated with a highly heterogeneous and unpredictable environment. Not only are new genetic tools becoming more accessible, but a new generation of quantitative tools are available to enable better definition of agro-ecosystems, of cultivar by environment interactions, and of socio-economic issues, while satellite imagery can help predict crop yields on large scales. Identifying areas of low genetic diversity – for example as found in large tracts of South Asia – is an important aspect of reducing vulnerability to disease epidemics. Global strategies for incorporating durable disease resistance genes into a wider genetic background, as well as participatory approaches that deliver a fuller range of options to farmers, are being implemented to increase cultivar diversity.

The unpredictable effects of environment on productivity can be buffered somewhat by crop management practices that maintain healthy soils, while reversing the consequences of rapid agricultural intensification on soil degradation. Conservation agriculture is an alternative strategy that is especially pertinent for resource-poor farmers.

The potential synergy between genetic improvement and innovative crop management practices has been referred to as the Doubly Green Revolution. The unique benefits and efficiency of the international collaborative platform are indisputable when considering the duplications that otherwise would have been required to achieve the same impacts through unilateral or even bilateral programmes. Furthermore, while the West takes for granted public support for crucial economic and social issues, this is not the case in a number of less-developed countries where the activities of International Agricultural Research Centres (IARCs) and other development assistance organizations can provide continuity in agricultural research and infrastructure.
Identification of ABC transporters inSarcoptes scabiei
Authors: MOUNSEY K. E. , HOLT D. C. , McCARTHY J. , WALTON S. F.
Published: February 2006

We have identified and partially sequenced 8 ABC transporters from an EST dataset ofSarcoptes scabieivar.hominis, the causative agent of scabies. Analysis confirmed that most of the known ABC subfamilies are represented in the EST dataset including several members of the multidrug resistance protein subfamily (ABC-C). Although P-glycoprotein (ABC-B) sequences were not found in the EST dataset, a partial P-glycoprotein sequence was subsequently obtained using a degenerate PCR strategy and library screening. Thus a total of 9 potentialS. scabieiABC transporters representing the subfamilies A, B, C, E, F and H have been identified. Ivermectin is currently used in the treatment of hyper-infested (crusted) scabies, and has also been identified as a potentially effective acaricide for mass treatment programmes in scabies-endemic communities. The observation of clinical andin vitroivermectin resistance in 2 crusted scabies patients who received multiple treatments has raised serious concerns regarding the sustainability of such programmes. One possible mechanism for ivermectin resistance is through ABC transporters such as P-glycoprotein. This work forms an important foundation for further studies to elucidate the potential role of ABC transporters in ivermectin resistance ofS. scabiei.
A new male-killing parasitism:Spiroplasmabacteria infect the ladybird beetleAnisosticta novemdecimpunctata(Coleoptera: Coccinellidae)
Authors: TINSLEY M. C. , MAJERUS M. E. N.
Published: February 2006

Whilst most animals invest equally in males and females when they reproduce, a variety of vertically transmitted parasites has evolved the ability to distort the offspring sex ratios of their hosts. One such group of parasites are male-killing bacteria. Here we report the discovery of females of the ladybirdAnisosticta novemdecimpunctatathat produced highly female-biased offspring sex ratios associated with a 50% reduction in egg hatch rate. This trait was maternally transmitted with high efficiency, was antibiotic sensitive and was infectious following experimental haemolymph injection. We identified the cause as a male-killingSpiroplasmabacterium and phylogenetic analysis of rDNA revealed that it belongs to theSpiroplasma ixodetisclade in which other sex ratio distorters lie. We tested the potential for interspecific horizontal transfer by injection from an infectedA. novemdecimpunctataline into uninfected individuals of the two-spot ladybirdAdalia bipunctata. In this novel host, the bacterium was able to establish infection, transmit vertically and kill male embryos.
Immunostaining of spores and plasmodia of disparate myxozoan genera with comments on the properties of the sporular mucus envelope
Authors: MORRIS D. J. , MOLNÁR K. , LONGSHAW M. , ADAMS A.
Published: February 2006

Species of the phylum Myxozoa are common parasites of fish and can cause severe losses in cultured species. Although a number of myxozoan life-cycles have now been elucidated, little is known about the biology of these organisms in the fish host. Monoclonal antibody B4 raised to the myxozoanTetracapsuloides bryosalmonaehas been previously noted to react with a number of species infecting fish kidney. We present the results of a survey of 55 myxosporean species that determined that this antibody detects an antigen on the spore surface of 33 of these species in the generaMyxobolus,SphaerosporaandThelohanellus. However, there appears to be no clear relationship between those spores that contain the MAb B4 reactive antigen and the host or organ in which they are detected. The antigen appears to be synthesized in the plasmodial cytoplasm and is intimately associated with the surface of the spore capsules and, where present, the mucus envelope. The nature of this envelope is further discussed in relation to its formation and distinctive properties.
Live three-dimensional paediatric intraoperative epicardial echocardiography as a guide to surgical repair of atrioventricular valves
Authors: Rawlins Deborah B. , Austin Conal , Simpson John M.
Published: February 2006

Real-time three dimensional echocardiography is increasingly used for imaging patients with congenital cardiac malformations. One of the limitations of a transthoracic approach is that intervening structures can impact on the quality of the images obtained. We hypothesised that, during surgery, epicardial three-dimensional echocardiography would provide images of high quality. We report our findings in eight children or young adults, with weights ranging from 2.8 to 70 kilograms, in whom we used this approach. In all cases, we obtained images of good quality, which could be analysed rapidly in the operating room. Of the eight cases, seven had echocardiographic findings which matched exactly the surgical findings. The remaining child had been diagnosed echocardiographically with a cleft in the aortic leaflet of the mitral valve, but was found at surgery to have a double orifice in the valve.
Quantitative analysis of procalcitonin after pediatric cardiothoracic surgery
Authors: Michalik David E. , Duncan Brian W. , Mee Roger B. B. , Worley Sarah , Goldfarb Johanna , Danziger-Isakov Lara A. , Davis Stephen J. , Harrison A. Marc , Appachi Elumalai , Sabella Camille
Published: February 2006

Procalcitonin appears to be an early and sensitive marker of bacterial infection in a variety of clinical settings. The use of levels of procalcitonin to predict infection in children undergoing cardiac surgery, however, may be complicated by the systemic inflammatory response that normally accompanies cardiopulmonary bypass. The aim of our study was to estimate peri-operative concentrations of procalcitonin in non-infected children undergoing cardiac surgery. Samples of serum for assay of procalcitonin were obtained in 53 patients at baseline, 24, 48, and 72 hours following cardiac surgery. Concentrations were assessed using an immunoluminetric technique. Median concentrations were lowest at baseline at less than 0.5 nanograms per millilitre, increased at 24 hours to 1.8 nanograms per millilitre, maximized at 48 hours at 2.1 nanograms per millilitre, and decreased at 72 hours to 1.3 nanograms per millilitre, but did not return to baseline levels. Ratios of concentrations between 24, 48 and 72 hours after surgery as compared to baseline were 6.15, with 95 percent confidence intervals between 4.60 and 8.23, 6.49, with 95 percent confidence intervals from 4.55 to 9.27, and 4.26, with 95 percent confidence intervals between 2.78 and 6.51, respectively, with a p value less than 0.001. In 8 patients, who had no evidence of infection, concentrations during the period from 24 to 72 hours were well above the median for the group. We conclude that concentrations of procalcitonin in the serum increase significantly in children following cardiac surgery, with a peak at 48 hours, and do not return to baseline within 72 hours of surgery. A proportion of patients, in the absence of infection, had exaggerated elevations post-operatively.
Can we do without routine fenestration in extracardiac total cavopulmonary connections? Report on 84 consecutive patients
Authors: Schreiber Christian , Kostolny Martin , Hörer Jürgen , Cleuziou Julie , Holper Klaus , Tassani-Prell P. , Eicken Andreas , Lange Rüdiger
Published: February 2006

Fenestration is still widely used in right heart bypass operations. Our study was conducted to assess its need in the most recent modification, the completion of a total cavopulmonary connection with an extracardiac tube.

The extracardiac approach was introduced at our institution in January, 1999. Since June of 2000, no patient had a fenestration. If more than 1 risk factor amongst ventricular function being more than moderately impaired, atrioventricular valvar regurgitation more than moderate, mean pulmonary arterial pressure more than 15 millimetres of mercury, mean atrial pressure higher than 12 millimetres of mercury, pulmonary arterial distortion, or other than sinus rhythm was present preoperatively, the patient was considered a “high risk” candidate. Postoperatively elevated pulmonary arterial pressure higher than 16 millimetres of mercury, prolonged effusions and requirement for drainage longer than 7 days, and death were considered endpoints in the statistical analysis.

Our study group included 84 patients who underwent surgery up to August, 2004. A previous bidirectional cavopulmonary anastomosis had been accomplished in 73 patients at a mean age of 27.01 plus or minus 32.60 months, with a median of 11.5 months, without creating an additional source of flow of blood to the lungs.

At the time of the total cavopulmonary connection, the mean age was 66.4 plus or minus 60.1 months, with a median of 37.1 months, and a range from 17.3 to 251.2 months, with 50 patients being younger than 48 months.

We deemed 16 patients to be at “high risk”. These patients were older at the time of bidirectional cavopulmonary anstomosis (p smaller than 0.016), at the time of completion (p smaller than 0.019), and also differed in size at time of completion (p smaller than 0.020). They required a longer time on cardiopulmonary bypass (p smaller than 0.015), and reached higher early postoperative pulmonary arterial pressures after completion (p smaller than 0.025). There were no differences between groups of patients having up to 1 or more risk factors in regard to need for intubation (p smaller than 0.511), pulmonary arterial pressures after extubation (p smaller than 0.817), and duration of chest drainage (p smaller than 0.650). Three patients died, one in the group deemed at high risk. There was no death in the last 38 patients.

We conclude that a total cavopulmonary connection with an extracardiac tube can be performed without fenestration, even if the patients are deemed to be at increased risk. Early staging of patients with functionally univentricular physiology might be one of the keys for these findings.
Athlete's heart in prepubertal male swimmers
Authors: Ayabakan Canan , Akalin Figen , Mengütay Sami , Çotuk Birol , Odabaş İlhan , Özüak Ali
Published: February 2006

To determine the cardiac response to intensive endurance training during prepuberty, we studied 22 male prebubertal swimmers who had been trained for at least 3 years, with a mean of 3.91 years and a standard deviation of 1.10 years, and 8 hours per week, the mean being 10.0 hours and the standard deviation 1.7 hours. The control group consisted of 21 boys of similar age, height and weight (p is more than 0.05 for all), who were not participating regularly in sporting activities. Left ventricular dimensions and systolic function were examined with M-Mode; velocities and durations of transmitral flow were measured with pulsed wave Doppler; and tissue Doppler velocities and durations were measured with pulsed wave tissue Doppler echocardiography. We determined the regional velocities of the lateral mitral annulus in four-chamber position, the left ventricular posterolateral wall, and the midseptum in long-axis position. Interventricular septal thickness, left ventricular posterior wall thickness, left ventricular mass and relative wall thickness were increased in swimmers (p is less than 0.05). All the tissue Doppler measurements were similar in both groups, except the septal isovolumic relaxation time. We observed that the left ventricular wall thickness had increased concentrically in prepubertal swimmers compared to controls, without a significant change in the left ventricular diastolic diameter. This finding is contrary to the previous studies on adult swimmers. Whether the structural changes observed in our study reflect the unique cardiac adaptation of the hearts of children to exercise will only be disclosed by longitudinal studies of prepubertal athletes.
The impact of the severity of disease and social disadvantage on quality of life in families with congenital cardiac disease
Authors: Goldbeck Lutz , Melches Juliane
Published: February 2006

Objective:Increasing rates of survival have raised the question of medical and psychosocial factors contributing to quality of life of patients with congenital cardiac disease. We investigated the impact of the severity of disease, and social disadvantage, on the quality of life of patients and their primary caregivers.Methods:One hundred and thirty two families participated in a computer-assisted evaluation of their quality of life in a German outpatient centre for paediatric cardiac diseases. Quality of life for the patients was evaluated by a multi-dimensional proxy-measure. The quality of life of the caregivers was evaluated by a multi-dimensional self-reporting measure. Severity of the disease was evaluated by the responsible paediatrician. Social disadvantage was defined as single-parent status, ethnic minority status, unfinished parental education or professional training, and/or unemployment. Analyses of variance were calculated with mild, moderate, or severe forms of disease, and risk as opposed to no risk for social status, both factors being treated independently, and the quality of life of the patients and their caregivers as dependent variables.Results:We demonstrated significant effects of the severity of disease on the quality of life of the children, and of social disadvantage on the quality of life of both the children and their parents. A significant interactive effect indicated a cumulative negative impact of the severity of the disease and social disadvantage on the quality of life of the patients.Conclusion:Programmes providing psychosocial support for children with cardiac disease and their caregivers should consider risk factors which are both medical and social.
Extreme levels of alpha-fetoprotein in a newborn with a benign intrapericardial teratoma
Authors: Meuris Bart , Gewillig Marc , Meyns Bart
Published: February 2006

We report a neonate presenting with an intrapericardial benign teratoma and an exceptionally high level of alpha-fetoprotein. Such severe elevation of alpha-fetoprotein in a neonate with a teratoma is usually associated with the presence of immature or malignant elements, compromising the prognosis. The tumour in our patient, however, proved to be completely benign. We discuss recent findings with regard to normal levels of alpha-fetoprotein levels in preterm infants, and in children with neonatal teratomas.
An infant with hypoplastic left heart syndrome and spinal muscular atrophy
Authors: Cook Amanda L. , Curzon Christopher L. , Milazzo Angelo S.
Published: February 2006

We report an infant with hypoplastic left heart syndrome consisting of mitral valvar atresia, aortic valvar atresia, hypoplasia of the aortic arch and coarctation of the aorta, who demonstrated respiratory failure and global hypotonia, and who was eventually diagnosed with spinal muscular atrophy.
Intravenous sildenafil as an effective treatment of pulmonary hypertensive crises during acute intestinal malabsorption
Authors: Lammers Astrid E. , Haworth Sheila G. , Pierce Christine M.
Published: February 2006

Oral sildenafil has been demonstrated to be an effective treatment for pulmonary hypertension, and is increasingly used in children. We report an infant with pulmonary hypertension, stable on regular treatment with oral sildenafil, who presented in acute respiratory failure after aspiration, requiring ventilation and intensive care. The course of the stay in intensive care was difficult, with recurrent pulmonary hypertensive crises despite use of oral sildenafil, use of 100% oxygen, high frequency oscillatory ventilation, and inhaled nitric oxide. In view of his instability, and the presumed inability to absorb the sildenafil orally due to gastrointestinal malabsorption, sildenafil was administered as a continuous intravenous infusion. With this therapy, it proved possible to wean from oxygen, nitric oxide, and ventilatory support. Intravenous sildenafil, therefore, might be an effective alternative for children with pulmonary hypertension during episodes of acute deterioration and malabsorption, preventing life-threatening pulmonary hypertensive crises. Its pharmacokinetics, efficacy, and safety, nonetheless, need to be validated in randomized controlled trials.
Iatrogenic thrombosis on the tendinous cords of the tricuspid valve
Authors: Korkut Ali Kubilay , Celebi Serdar , Gunay Ilhan
Published: February 2006

Iatrogenic thrombosis within the heart is rare following intracardiac operations. We undertook surgery to correct a 30-month-old girl with Fallot's tetralogy. After a period of 6 months following the operation, echocardiography revealed a thrombus measuring 16 by 12 millimetres attached to the tendinous cords supporting the antero-superior leaflet of the tricuspid valve. Medical treatment having failed, we proceeded to surgical excision so as to avoid pulmonary embolisation. Histological examination confirmed the thrombotic nature of the mass.
Severe stenosis of a long tracheal segment, with agenesis of the right lung and left pulmonary arterial sling
Authors: Munro Hamish M. , Sorbello Andrea M. C. , Nykanen David G.
Published: February 2006

A baby presented at term with respiratory distress was managed with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. Bronchoscopy revealed tracheal hypoplasia, complete tracheal rings, and agenesis of the right main bronchus. Echocardiography showed a left pulmonary arterial sling arising from the proximal part of the right pulmonary artery. Cardiac catheterization demonstrated abnormal pulmonary vasculature in the left lung which would have prevented survival, even after surgical repair. Diagnostic catheterization was important in delineating the anatomy, and aided in the decision not to proceed with surgical repair.
Atrioventricular septal defect with intact septal structures presenting as left atrioventricular valvar insufficiency
Authors: Croti Ulisses Alexandre , De Marchi Carlos Henrique , Aiello Vera Demarchi
Published: February 2006

We describe the findings in a six-year-old girl who presented with signs of left atrioventricular valvar insufficiency. The echocardiogram showed a common atrioventricular junction, intact atrial and ventricular septal structures. At surgery, the left-sided atrioventricular valve was found to be tri-foliate, and corrected by valvoplasty. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case of atrioventricular septal defect with common atrioventricular junction and intact septal structures diagnosed during life.
Landau damping and resultant unidirectional propagation of chorus waves
Authors: Bortnik J. , Inan U. S. , Bell T. F.
Published: February 2006

Using a numerical ray tracing code and a model of the suprathermal electron distribution in the inner magnetosphere, we calculate the Landau damping of chorus waves under realistic conditions. The chorus emissions are assumed to originate at the magnetic equatorial plane with a wave normal angle set at the generalized Gendrin angle, and a wave frequency which is varied from 0.1 to 0.9 of the equatorial electron gyrofrequency. Each ray is propagated until its wave power is diminished by a factor of 10, at which point we record the propagation time, latitude, and the distance along the ray path from the equator. Results indicate that chorus waves are expected to propagate to latitudes of 10°–20° and are typically Landau damped before experiencing magnetospheric reflections, in agreement with satellite observations. In addition, we find longer propagation distances and lifetimes at those frequencies immediately above the half equatorial gyrofrequency and consider the possibility that this effect may contribute to the formation of the two‐banded structure of chorus emissions.
Observation of near‐podal P′P′ precursors: Evidence for back scattering from the 150–220 km zone in the Earth's upper mantle
Authors: Tkalčić Hrvoje , Flanagan Megan P. , Cormier Vernon F.
Published: February 2006

P′P′ (PKPPKP) are P waves that travel from a hypocenter through the Earth's core, reflect from the free surface and travel back through the core to a recording station on the surface. Here we report the observations of hitherto unobserved near‐podal P′P′ waves (at epicentral distance <10°) and very prominent precursors preceding the main energy by as much as 60 s. We interpret these precursors as a back‐scattered energy from horizontally connected small‐scale heterogeneity in the upper mantle beneath the oceans in a zone between 150 and 220 km depth beneath the Earth's surface. From these observations, we identify a frequency dependence of attenuation quality factor Q in the lithosphere through forward modeling of the observed amplitude spectra of the main and back‐scattered P′P′ waves.
Zonal jets in the Pacific Ocean
Authors: Richards K. J. , Maximenko N. A. , Bryan F. O. , Sasaki H.
Published: February 2006

The spatial and temporal properties of zonally coherent jet‐like structures found in high resolution ocean models is examined. We focus on the Pacific Ocean. We find the properties of the jets are not very sensitive to the model configuration. Distinct differences are found in the persistence and vertical structure of the jets poleward of 30°N and S compared with those in the tropics. We make a quantitative comparison between the meridional scale of the jets and the Rhines scale. We find a local scaling applies in that the horizontal variation of the meridional scale of the jets is consistent with horizontal variations in the Rhines scale.
Macro constitutive law for rupture dynamics derived from micro constitutive law measured in laboratory
Authors: Miguel Letícia Fleck Fadel , Riera Jorge Daniel , Dalguer L. A.
Published: February 2006

The relation between a macro constitutive law of friction during faulting with specified local or micro laws is assessed by means of numerical simulation. A 3‐D numerical model based on the Discrete Element Method was used to simulate the rupture of a fault, in which each local grid point on the fault is assumed to follow the micro friction law. Then, the macro friction model is estimated by averaging, on a selected area, relevant variables monitored during rupture. After considering a homogeneous material, the influence of non‐homogeneity was evaluated by assuming that mass density, Young's modulus and friction coefficient were correlated Gaussian random fields. In both cases, only minor variations in the parameters of the macro constitutive law in relation to the micro constitutive law were perceived. However, the presence of indentations on the fault was found to affect the macro constitutive law.
Sr/Ca‐Sea surface temperature calibration in the branching Caribbean coral Acropora palmata
Authors: Gallup Christina D. , Olson Donna M. , Edwards R. Lawrence , Gruhn Leah M. , Winter Amos , Taylor Frederick W.
Published: February 2006

We measured Sr/Ca ratios by thermal ionization mass spectrometry in radial and axial growth of modern Caribbean Acropora palmata corals. Comparison of our results with sea surface temperature (SST) allows radial and axial Sr/Ca‐SST calibrations of Sr/Ca (mmol/mol) = 11.30 − 0.07072 × SST (°C) and Sr/Ca (mmol/mol) = 11.32 – 0.06281 x SST (°C), respectively. Application of the calibrations to fossil Acropora palmata from the last glacial maximum in Barbados (Guilderson et al., 1994) imply ∼7°C cooler conditions than the present, much larger than the 1–1.5° cooling suggested by modern analog technique foraminifera‐based estimates (Trend‐Staid and Prell, 2002). If the foraminifera‐based estimates are correct, then the excess cooling suggested by the Barbados corals could be explained by a 5% shift in the marine Sr/Ca ratio or an addition of ∼20% abiotic secondary aragonite.
A dye tracer reveals cross‐shelf dispersion and interleaving on the Oregon shelf
Authors: Dale A. C. , Levine M. D. , Barth J. A. , Austin J. A.
Published: February 2006

A fluorescent dye tracer was injected into the pycnocline on the Oregon shelf at a depth of 9–10 m. It spread rapidly cross‐shelf as two distinct layers, one above the other in the water column, split by interleaving dye‐free water. The vertical scale of these layers, and associated density steps, was 1–2 m, and the horizontal extent of interleaving exceeded 1.6 km after an inertial period. The upper dye layer was sharply peaked and embedded in a strong vertical density gradient. The lower layer was slab‐like and associated with weak stratification. Both layers were inclined slightly in density space. It is proposed that internal wave‐induced mixing and the lateral collapse of mixing patches were important mechanisms. Analogies can be drawn between these dye structures and frequently‐observed thin planktonic layers. By approximating the dye dispersion as a Fickian process, estimated isopycnal and diapycnal eddy diffusivities of κx = 4.1 m2 s−1 and κz = 1.4 × 10−5 m2 s−1 are obtained.
Driving mechanisms for groundwater flow and salt transport in a subterranean estuary
Authors: Robinson C. , Gibbes B. , Li L.
Published: February 2006

This paper presents field measurements and numerical simulations of groundwater dynamics in the intertidal zone of a sandy meso‐tidal beach. The study, focusing on vertical hydraulic gradients and pore water salinities, reveals that tides and waves provide important forcing mechanisms for flow and salt transport in the nearshore aquifer. Such forcing, interacting with the beach morphology, enhances the exchange between the aquifer and ocean. The spatial and temporal variations of vertical hydraulic gradients demonstrate the complexity and dynamic nature of the processes and the extent of mixing between fresh groundwater and seawater in a “subterranean estuary”. These results provide evidence of a potentially important reaction zone in the nearshore aquifer driven by oceanic oscillations. Land‐derived contaminants may undergo important biogeochemical transformations in this zone prior to discharge.