bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Central Fetal Monitoring: Effect on Perinatal Outcomes and Cesarean Section Rate
Authors: Withiam‐Leitch Matthew , Shelton James , Fleming Emily
Published: November 2006

ABSTRACT:  Background:
In a trend similar to continuous electronic fetal monitoring, many hospitals are incorporating central fetal monitoring into labor and delivery suites. The objective of this study was to investigate whether the use of central fetal monitoring had an effect on neonatal outcomes or cesarean section rate.
Methods:
This retrospective study involved patient data from deliveries occurring at Women and Children’s Hospital of Buffalo, Buffalo, New York, between the years 2000 and 2003. In the period from January 1, 2000, to December 31, 2001, central fetal monitoring was available, whereas in the period from February 1, 2002, to December 31, 2003, it was unavailable. Data on deliveries at Women and Children’s Hospital of Buffalo were obtained using the Western New York Perinatal Data System, which is an electronic data set based on birth certificate information. The method of delivery, admission to the neonatal intensive care unit, and 5‐minute Apgar scores less than 7 were compared for deliveries occurring with and without the use of central fetal monitoring. These outcomes were further subdivided into full‐term and preterm deliveries.
Results:
Three thousand five hundred and twelve deliveries used central monitoring and 3,007 deliveries did not. For full‐term deliveries, in the years with central fetal monitoring compared with the years without it, no differences in the cesarean section rate (13.4 vs 14.5%, not significant [NS]), the admission rate in neonatal intensive care unit (3.3 vs 3.3%, NS), or the incidence of Apgar score less than 7 (0.6 vs 0.5%, NS) were observed. For preterm deliveries, comparing the years with central fetal monitoring with the years without, no differences in the cesarean section rate (21.3 vs 21.3%, NS), the admission rate in neonatal intensive care unit (17.7 vs 20.1%, NS), or the incidence of Apgar score less than 7 (7.0 vs 6.5%, NS) were observed. Analyses pooling all deliveries also failed to show any differences in any of the parameters.
Conclusions:
No statistically significant difference was demonstrated in the rates of cesarean section, admission to the neonatal intensive care unit, or incidence of Apgar scores of less than 7 associated with the use of central fetal monitoring. Therefore, we could not identify any benefit to the use of central fetal heart rate monitoring. (BIRTH 33:4 December 2006)
Use of Acupuncture and Sterile Water Injection for Labor Pain: A Survey in Sweden
Authors: Mårtensson Lena , Wallin Gunnar
Published: November 2006

ABSTRACT: Background:Acupuncture and sterile water injections are nonpharmacological pain relief methods used for labor pain in Swedish delivery wards. Their use has changed over time, the reasons for which are unclear, and acupuncture is currently in more common use than sterile water injections. The aim of this study was to elucidate the clinical use of acupuncture and sterile water injections as pain relief and relaxation during childbirth in Sweden.Methods:Twelve hundred questionnaires were sent out to all delivery wards in Sweden. Nine hundred sixty midwives fulfilled the inclusion criteria, and the response rate was 565 (59%).Results:Acupuncture was used for both pain relief and relaxation, whereas sterile water injections were used almost exclusively for pain relief. The midwives’ own choice of pain relief during childbirth for a possible future delivery was similar to their choice of method in clinical practice.Conclusions:Our study shows that acupuncture was used for both pain relief and relaxation, whereas sterile water injections were used almost exclusively for pain relief. The results also indicate a weakness in midwives’ awareness and use of scientific knowledge and general recommendations about these methods. (BIRTH 33:4 December 2006)
Psychological Correlates of Prenatal Attachment in Women Who Conceived After In Vitro Fertilization and Women Who Conceived Naturally
Authors: Hjelmstedt Anna , Widström Ann‐Marie , Collins Aila
Published: November 2006

ABSTRACT:  Background:
Investigators have pointed out that long‐awaited pregnancies, such as those after in vitro fertilization (IVF), are emotionally vulnerable. In addition, higher pregnancy‐related distress has been found among women pregnant after in vitro fertilization compared with women with “naturally” achieved pregnancy. The aim of this study was to compare prenatal attachment among IVF mothers and control mothers (women who conceived naturally), and to study relationships between prenatal attachment and psychosocial variables.
Methods: Fifty‐six IVF women from IVF clinics and 41 control women from antenatal clinics in Stockholm were assessed in gestational weeks 26 and 36. They completed self‐rating scales measuring prenatal attachment, personality, marital relationship, anxiety, and depression. Results: Prenatal attachment increased as the pregnancy progressed in both groups. Prenatal attachment rated in gestational week 26 was significantly associated with that in gestational week 36. Multiple regression analyses showed that, in gestational week 26, prenatal attachment was explained by satisfaction with the partner relationship, whereas in gestational week 36 the factors contributing to high prenatal attachment were low scores of the personality trait detachment, low ambivalence, and younger age. Method of conception was unrelated to prenatal attachment at either assessment time point. Conclusions: In vitro fertilization mothers are attached to their unborn children to the same extent as other mothers. Prenatal attachment increases during pregnancy. At the same time, however, individual scores on prenatal attachment seem to be relatively stable. Significant contributors to prenatal attachment are marital satisfaction, age, ambivalence, and detachment. (BIRTH 33:4 December 2006)
Postpartum Depression Help‐Seeking Barriers and Maternal Treatment Preferences: A Qualitative Systematic Review
Authors: Dennis Cindy‐Lee , Chung‐Lee Leinic
Published: November 2006

ABSTRACT:  Background:
Despite the well‐documented risk factors and health consequences of postpartum depression, it often remains undetected and untreated. No study has comprehensively examined postpartum depression help‐seeking barriers, and very few studies have specifically examined the acceptability of postpartum depression treatment approaches. The objective of this study was to examine systematically the literature to identify postpartum depression help‐seeking barriers and maternal treatment preferences.
Methods:
Medline, CINAHL, and EMBASE databases were searched using specific key words, and published peer‐reviewed articles from 1966 to 2005 were scanned for inclusion criteria.
Results:
Of the 40 articles included in this qualitative systematic review, most studies focused on women’s experiences of postpartum depression where help seeking emerged as a theme. A common help‐seeking barrier was women’s inability to disclose their feelings, which was often reinforced by family members and health professionals’ reluctance to respond to the mothers’ emotional and practical needs. The lack of knowledge about postpartum depression or the acceptance of myths was a significant help‐seeking barrier and rendered mothers unable to recognize the symptoms of depression. Significant health service barriers were identified. Women preferred to have “talking therapies” with someone who was nonjudgmental rather than receive pharmacological interventions.
Conclusions:
These results suggest that women did not proactively seek help, and the barriers involved both maternal and health professional factors. Common themes related to specific treatment preferences emerged from women of diverse cultural backgrounds. The clinical implications outlined in this review will assist health professionals in addressing these barriers and in developing preventive and treatment interventions that are in accord with maternal preferences. (BIRTH 33:4 December 2006)
Rhythmic Ictal Nonclonic Hand (RINCH) Motions: A Distinct Contralateral Sign in Temporal Lobe Epilepsy
Authors: Lee George R. , Arain Amir , Lim Noel , Lagrange Andre , Singh Pradumna , Abou‐Khalil Bassel
Published: November 2006

Summary:  Purpose: To describe a new ictal sign in temporal lobe seizures—rhythmic ictal nonclonic hand (RINCH) motions and to determine its lateralizing significance and other ictal manifestations associated with it.

Methods: We identified 15 patients with temporal lobe epilepsy who demonstrated RINCH motions and reviewed video‐EEG recordings of all their seizures. We analyzed the epilepsy characteristics and all clinical features of recorded seizures, with particular attention to RINCH motions.

Results: RINCH motions were unilateral, rhythmic, nonclonic, nontremor hand motions. RINCH motions were usually followed by posturing, sometimes with some overlap. They involved the hand contralateral to the temporal lobe of seizure onset in 14 of 15 patients.

Conclusions: RINCH motions are a distinct ictal sign that could be considered a specific type of automatism. They appear to be a lateralizing contralateral sign and are associated with dystonic posturing in temporal lobe epilepsy.
Optimization of Pacing Algorithms to Prevent and Treat Supraventricular Tachyarrhythmias
Authors: RICCI RENATO P. , BORIANI GIUSEPPE , GRAMMATICO ANDREA , SANTINI MASSIMO
Published: November 2006

Preventive atrial pacing and antitachycardia pacing have been proposed for the treatment of atrial fibrillation and associated arrhythmias in patients with indications for device implantation. Preventive algorithms provide overdrive atrial pacing, reduction of atrial premature beats, and prevent short‐long atrial cycles with good patient tolerance. However, clinical trials testing preventive algorithms have shown contradictory results, possibly because of different trial designs, end points and patient populations. Factors probably responsible for neutral results include an already high atrial pacing percentage with the conventional DDDR mode, suboptimal atrial pacing site, and the deleterious effects of high percentages of right ventricular apical pacing. Atrial antitachycardia pacing therapies are effective in treating organized atrial tachyarrhythmias (that precede atrial fibrillation), mainly when delivered early after the onset particularly if the tachycardia is relatively slow. Antitachycardia pacing therapies might influence atrial fibrillation burden, but clinical studies have shown conflicting results about this issue. Consistent monitoring of atrial and ventricular rhythm including progression to persistent forms of atrial arrhythmias, variability of atrial arrhythmia recurrence patterns and onset mechanisms as well as antitachycardia pacing efficacy should be recorded in the stored device memory and used for optimal individual programming of these new functions.
Prediction of Response to Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy: The Selection of Candidates for CRT (SCART) Study
Authors: ACHILLI AUGUSTO , PERALDO CARLO , SASSARA MASSIMO , ORAZI SERAFINO , BIANCHI STEFANO , LAURENZI FRANCESCO , DONATI ROBERTO , PEREGO GIOVANNI B. , SPAMPINATO ANDREA , VALSECCHI SERGIO , DENARO ALESSANDRA , PUGLISI ANDREA ,   On Behalf of SCART Study Investigators
Published: November 2006

Background: The aim of this study was to evaluate the ability of baseline clinical and echocardiographic parameters to predict a positive response to CRT.

Methods: We analyzed 6‐month data from the first 133 consecutive patients enrolled in a multicenter prospective study. These patients had symptomatic heart failure (HF) refractory to pharmacological therapy (NYHA class II–IV), left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) ≤35%, and prespecified electrocardiographic, echocardiographic or tissue Doppler imaging markers of left ventricular (LV) dyssynchrony.

Results: After a follow‐up period of 6 months, 1 patient died and 13 were hospitalized for worsening HF. There were significant (P < 0.01) clinical, functional, and echocardiographic improvements that included: New York heart Association Class, Quality‐of‐Life Score, QRS duration, LVEF, LV end‐diastolic and end‐systolic diameter (LVESD), and severity of mitral regurgitation A positive response was documented in 90/133 (68%) patients who presented an improved clinical composite score associated to an increase in LVEF ≥ 5 units. A multivariate analysis identified that a smaller LVESD (OR = 0.957, 95% CI 0.920–0.996; P = 0.030) and longer interventricular mechanical delay (IVMD) (OR = 1.017, 95% CI 1.005–1.029, P = 0.007) as independent predictors of a positive response. Receiver‐operating curve analysis showed that a positive response to CRT may be predicted in patients with IVMD > 44 ms (with a sensitivity of 66% and a specificity of 55%) or with LVESD < 60 mm (with a sensitivity of 66% and a specificity of 61%).

Conclusions: Our results confirm the limited value of QRS duration in the selection of patients for CRT.

A less‐advanced stage of disease and echocardiographic evidence of interventricular dyssynchrony demonstrated to predict response to CRT, while intraventricular dyssynchrony did not predict response.
Atrial Tachyarrhythmias in Primary and Secondary Prevention ICD Recipients: Clinical and Prognostic Data
Authors: BOTTO GIOVANNI LUCA , LUZI MARIO , RUFFA FRANCO , RUSSO GIOVANNI , FERRARI GIOVANNI
Published: November 2006

Background: Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common sustained arrhythmia encountered in clinical practice. The natural history of this disturbance and its effect on survival is still not known in patients with implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs).

Methods and Results: Several controlled trials for both secondary and primary prevention of sudden death using ICDs have been published in literature, and meta‐analysis of them provided useful clinical information on the outcome during the follow‐up of this population. AF occurs in about 25% of the patients with secondary prevention indication for ICD implantation. The prevalence of AF in patients with primary prevention indication for ICD implantation is much more difficult to define; it seems to be higher in patients with left ventricular dysfunction due to nonischemic etiology (ranging from 15% to 25%), and is lower in patients with ischemic etiology (about 5–10%). However, data from clinical registries, which are expected to better reflect clinical practice than randomized trials, seem to show a substantial difference as compared to the latter ones. A history of AF episodes in patients with an ICD indication for both primary and secondary prevention is probably associated with a higher risk of death. This is particularly evident in secondary prevention in ICD recipients, while it is still controversial in patients who received an ICD for primary prevention, particularly when patients with nonischemic etiology of their left ventricular dysfunction are considered. In a population of patients implanted with an ICD, there are several other clinical factors (ejection fraction, New York Heart Association functional class, age) that can interfere with the risk of death much more than AF itself.

Conclusions: Further large‐scale registries are needed to further characterize the population receiving ICD implantation, assessing the course of risk of death with regard to clinical variables and to evaluate the degree of acceptance of trials in clinical practice.
Hybrid Therapies for Ventricular Arrhythmias
Authors: BELLA PAOLO DELLA , RIVA STEFANIA
Published: November 2006

In recent years several trials demonstrated the efficacy of implantable cardioverter‐defibrillation (ICD) therapy in reducing cardiac and total mortality in patients affected by rapid ventricular tachycardia (VT) and/or ventricular fibrillation. Nevertheless, ICD do not prevent arrhythmia recurrences, thus being a palliative and not a curative treatment modality. The tolerance to ICD therapy varies greatly, and within individuals, this leading to a nonuniform acceptance of this form of therapy. The very frequent occurrence of VT, defined as an arrhythmic storm, may be a life threatening condition. The majority of ICD patients is under antiarrhythmic drug therapy, to reduce episodes of VT or to make antitachycardia pacing more effective by slowing the tachycardia rate. Drug therapy, however, may cause additional problems, and does not represent the optimal solution. The prevention of VT and/or ventricular fibrillation episodes and excessive ICD therapy, remains a worthwhile goal. Radiofrequency catheter ablation (RFCA) is a curative approach, and can be expected to reduce the frequency of recurrent VT episodes in the majority of patients. The combination of these treatment modalities (ICD and RFCA) is often described as hybrid therapy, implying that the two treatments act providing some form of synergism. In experienced centers, RFCA is now performed, regardless of whether the VT rate is rapid and/or is hemodynamically unstable. Newer mapping and ablation techniques are now available, enhancing the acute success rate of the procedure. In this review the most recent application of VT catheter ablation and the use of advanced mapping and ablation techniques will be discussed.
Physiologic Pacing for Atrial Fibrillation Prevention in Sinus Node Disease: Long‐Term Results
Authors: RICCI RENATO , PIGNALBERI CARLO , SANTINI LUCA , MAGRIS BARBARA , RUSSO MAURIZIO , GROVALE NICOLETTA , DE SANTO TIZIANA , SANTINI MASSIMO
Published: November 2006

Background: Physiologic pacing has been demonstrated to be effective in preventing atrial fibrillation recurrences in patients with sinus bradycardia. Aim of the study was to evaluate long‐term incidence of atrial fibrillation in a large population of patients affected by sinus node disease receiving physiologic pacing. Furthermore, predictors of arrhythmia recurrence and effect of pacing mode were investigated.

Population: Four hundred twenty‐five patients (220 Male, 77 ± 9 years) were retrospectively analyzed: implanted system was AAI in 20.5% and DDD in 79.5%. Thirty‐four percent had atrial fibrillation before implant.

Results: Follow‐up lasted on average 51 ± 36 months (median 42, range 1 month–18 years). Sixty‐six percent were on antiarrhythmic drug therapy. After 5 years, 89% survived, 74.5% had at least one episode of atrial fibrillation, 39.9% were submitted to electrical cardioversion, 67.2% were hospitalized because of cardiac causes, 33.3% developed permanent atrial fibrillation. Primary conduction system disease and valvular heart disease were independent predictors for atrial fibrillation recurrence. Preimplant atrial fibrillation predicted arrhythmia recurrence during the follow‐up, but it did not predict development of permanent atrial fibrillation. AAI pacing, when compared with DDD, was associated to a lower rate of atrial fibrillation recurrences (AAI 28.7%, DDD 53.3%, P < 0.001).

Conclusion: In spite of expected benefits of physiologic pacing, the development of atrial fibrillation and permanent atrial fibrillation were quite common. The additional benefits of multifunction pacemakers designed to prevent and treat atrial fibrillation should be evaluated in controlled studies.
Dirofilaria repens infection case in Hungary: a case report
Authors: Pónyai Katinka , Wikonkál Norbert , Bottlik Gyula , Hársing Judit , Kucsera István , Horváth Attila , Kárpáti Sarolta
Published: November 2006

A 51‐year‐old female developed urticarial lesions of her right forearm which progressed into transient edema and subcutaneous swelling. Later a small infiltrated subcutaneous nodule also appeared and was removed in toto. Histopathological examination revealed the presence of Dirofilaria repens.This worm is the cause of an endemic zoonosis in the Mediterranean area. In the past decade many cases have been reported worldwide, but the condition appears rare in Hungary and skin findings have not been described.
Acne vulgaris – Psychosomatic aspects
Authors: Niemeier Volker , Kupfer Jörg , Gieler Uwe
Published: November 2006

More than a cosmetic nuisance, acne can produce anxiety, depression, and other psychological problems that affect patients' lives in ways comparable to life‐threatening or disabling diseases. Emotional problems due to the disease should be taken seriously and included in the treatment plan. A purely dermatological therapy by itself may not achieve its purpose. Even mild to moderate disease can be associated with significant depression and suicidal ideation, and psychologic change does not necessarily correlate with disease severity. Acne patients suffer particularly under social limitations and reduced quality of life. Psychological comorbidities in acne are probably greater than generally assumed. Attention should be paid to psychosomatic aspects especially if depressive‐anxious disorders are suspected, particularly with evidence of suicidal tendencies, body dysmorphic disorders, or also in disrupted compliance.Therefore, patients who report particularly high emotional distress or dysmorphic tendencies due to the disease should be treated, if possible, by interdisciplinary therapy. The dermatologist should have some knowledge of the basics of psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, which sometimes must be combined with systemic and topical treatment of acne in conjunction with basic psychosomatic treatment.
Hyde Park Gate News
Authors: Lowe Gill
Published: November 2006

This paper forms part of a Literature Compass cluster of articles which examines the current state of Virgina Woolf Studies and aims to provide a snapshot of the field. Urmila Seshagiri (University of Tennessee) and Rishona Zimring (Lewis and Clark College) first provide an introduction for this paper along with Claudia Olk's article, “The Art of ‘Scene‐Making’ in the Charleston Bulletin Supplements” The full text of Gill Lowe's piece then follows.

These papers grew out of the 15th Annual International Virginia Woolf Conference (College of Lewis and Clark, Portland, OR, June 9–12, 2005).

The full cluster is made up of the following articles:

“Introduction: Virginia Woolf and The Art of Exploration,” Urmila Seshagiri and Rishona Zimring, Literature Compass 3 (2006), 10.1111/j.1741‐4113.2006.00393.x

“Virginia Woolf's Sense of Adventure,” Maria DiBattista, Literature Compass 3 (2006), 10.1111/j.1741‐4113.2006.00394.x

“The Twentieth Part: Virginia Woolf in the British Museum Reading Room,” Benjamin Harvey, Literature Compass 3 (2006), 10.1111/j.1741‐4113.2006.00395.x

“‘Street Haunting’: Phantasmagorias of the Modern Imperial Metropolis,” Sara Gerend, Literature Compass 3 (2006), 10.1111/j.1741‐4113.2006.00396.x

“Hyde Park Gate News,” Gill Lowe, Literature Compass 3 (2006), 10.1111/j.1741‐4113.2006.00397.x

“The Art of ‘Scene‐Making’ in the Charleston Bulletin Supplements,” Claudia Olk, Literature Compass 3 (2006), 10.1111/j.1741‐4113.2006.00398.x

“A Camera of Her Own: Woolf and the Legacy of the Indomitable Mrs. Cameron,” Emily Setina, Literature Compass 3 (2006), 10.1111/j.1741‐4113.2006.00399.x

“Woolfian Resonances,” Anne Fernald, Literature Compass 3 (2006), 10.1111/j.1741‐4113.2006.00400.x

“Early Twentieth‐Century British Women Travellers to Greece: Contextualizing the Example of Virginia Woolf,” Martha Klironomos, Literature Compass 3 (2006), 10.1111/j.1741‐4113.2006.00401.x

“‘Others Wanted to Travel’: Woolf and ‘America Herself’,” Thaine Stearns, Literature Compass 3 (2006), 10.1111/j.1741‐4113.2006.00402.x
Caenorhabditis elegans has two genes encoding functional d‐aspartate oxidases
Authors: Katane Masumi , Seida Yousuke , Sekine Masae , Furuchi Takemitsu , Homma Hiroshi
Published: November 2006

Four cDNA clones that were annotated in the database as encoding d‐amino acid oxidase (DAAO) or d‐aspartate oxidase (DASPO) were isolated by RT‐PCR from Caenorhabditis elegans RNA. The proteins (Y69Ap, C47Ap, F18Ep, and F20Hp) encoded by the cloned cDNAs were expressed in Escherichia coli as recombinant proteins with an N‐terminal His‐tag. All proteins except F20Hp were recovered in the soluble fractions. The recombinant Y69Ap has functional DAAO activity, as it can deaminate neutral and basic d‐amino acids, whereas the recombinants C47Ap and F18Ep have functional DASPO activities, as they can deaminate acidic d‐amino acids. Additional experiments using purified recombinant proteins revealed that Y69Ap deaminates d‐Arg more efficiently than d‐Ala and d‐Met, and that C47Ap and F18Ep show distinct kinetic properties against d‐Asp, d‐Glu, and N‐methyl‐d‐Asp. This is the first time that cDNA cloning of invertebrate DAAO and DASPO genes has been reported. In addition, our study reveals for the first time that C. elegans has at least two genes encoding functional DASPOs and one gene encoding DAAO, although it had previously been thought that organisms only bear one copy each of these genes. The two C. elegans DASPOs differ in their substrate specificities and possibly also in their subcellular localization.
The thioredoxin‐independent isoform of chloroplastic glyceraldehyde‐3‐phosphate dehydrogenase is selectively regulated by glutathionylation
Authors: Zaffagnini Mirko , Michelet Laure , Marchand Christophe , Sparla Francesca , Decottignies Paulette , Le Maréchal Pierre , Miginiac‐Maslow Myroslawa , Noctor Graham , Trost Paolo , Lemaire Stéphane D.
Published: November 2006

In animal cells, many proteins have been shown to undergo glutathionylation under conditions of oxidative stress. By contrast, very little is known about this post‐translational modification in plants. In the present work, we showed, using mass spectrometry, that the recombinant chloroplast A4‐glyceraldehyde‐3‐phosphate dehydrogenase (A4‐GAPDH) from Arabidopsis thaliana is glutathionylated with either oxidized glutathione or reduced glutathione and H2O2. The formation of a mixed disulfide between glutathione and A4‐GAPDH resulted in the inhibition of enzyme activity. A4‐GAPDH was also inhibited by oxidants such as H2O2. However, the effect of glutathionylation was reversed by reductants, whereas oxidation resulted in irreversible enzyme inactivation. On the other hand, the major isoform of photosynthetic GAPDH of higher plants (i.e. the AnBn‐GAPDH isozyme in either A2B2 or A8B8 conformation) was sensitive to oxidants but did not seem to undergo glutathionylation significantly. GAPDH catalysis is based on Cys149 forming a covalent intermediate with the substrate 1,3‐bisphosphoglycerate. In the presence of 1,3‐bisphosphoglycerate, A4‐GAPDH was fully protected from either oxidation or glutathionylation. Site‐directed mutagenesis of Cys153, the only cysteine located in close proximity to the GAPDH active‐site Cys149, did not affect enzyme inhibition by glutathionylation or oxidation. Catalytic Cys149 is thus suggested to be the target of both glutathionylation and thiol oxidation. Glutathionylation could be an important mechanism of regulation and protection of chloroplast A4‐GAPDH from irreversible oxidation under stress.
Persistence of business cycles in multisector real business cycle models
Authors: Benhabib Jess , Perli Roberto , Sakellaris Plutarchos
Published: November 2006

In this paper we explore whether the changing composition of output in response to technology shocks can play a significant role in the propagation of shocks over time. For this purpose we study two multisector real business cycle models, with two and three sectors. We find that, although the two‐sector model requires a high intertemporal elasticity of substitution of consumption to match the various dynamic properties of US macroeconomic data, the three‐sector model has a strong propagation mechanism under conventional parameterizations, as long as the factor intensities in the three sectors are different enough.
A Latex‐Induced Allergic Airway Inflammation Model in Mice
Authors: Farzaneh Parvaneh , Hassan Zuhair Mohammad , Pourpak Zahra , Hoseini Ahmad Zavaran , Hogan Simon P.
Published: November 2006

Abstract: Latex allergy is important due to serious health impacts and widespread use of its products. Latex allergic reactions can be induced in skin and mucosal surfaces including the respiratory tract. The development of murine models of allergic airway inflammation has provided a framework to dissect out the cellular and molecular mechanisms of allergic respiratory inflammation. In this study we have developed a new mouse model of latex allergic airway inflammation using aerosol inhalation. The allergic inflammatory responses were characterized in this model. Mice were injected intraperitoneally with 0, 10, 50, or 200 μg of latex extract and their serum anti‐latex IgE titers were determined. In the second stage, a standard protocol of inhalation was designed and three doses of latex extract solutions including 1%, 0.1%, and 0.01% were used to induce allergic airway inflammation. Bronchoalveolar lavage cytokines (IL‐5 and IL‐13) and serum anti‐latex IgE and IgG1 titers were determined by ELISA. Eosinophil levels in lung, peripheral blood, bronchoalveolar lavage and bone marrow were also evaluated. Histological analysis of lung tissue was also performed after latex inhalation. The aerosol inhalation of 1% latex allergens solution and presensitization with 50 μg of latex in this study resulted in the development of allergic airway inflammation characterized by elevated allergen specific IgE and IgG1, peripheral blood, bronchoalveolar lavage and bone marrow eosinophilia. Histological analysis of the lung revealed an inflammatory response characterized by eosinophil accumulation. Elevated levels of Th2 cytokines IL‐5 and IL‐13 also were shown in bronchoalveolar lavage samples. These studies demonstrate that sensitization and subsequent aerosol inhalational challenge of latex allergen extract promotes allergic airway inflammation characterized by elevated IL‐5 and IL‐13 and eosinophils.
Effects of Daidzein Sulfates on Blood Pressure and Artery of Rats
Authors: Cao Yong‐Xiao , Yang Xiao‐Jiang , Liu Jing , Li Ke‐Xi
Published: November 2006

Abstract: The aim of this study is to investigate the hypotensive and vasodilator effects of daidzein sulfates, a water‐solubility derivative of daidzein. Tail cuff blood pressure of spontaneously hypertensive rat (SHR) was measured with non‐invasive Electro‐Sphygmomanometer. An isometric tension of rat mesenteric artery ring segments was recoded in vitro on a myograph. The results showed that daidzein sulfates (20 and 40 mg/kg) could decrease blood pressure of SHR in single dose and multi‐doses. Daidzein sulfates (1–100 μM) inhibited the contraction of rat mesenteric arterial ring segments induced by norepinephrine (NA) and 5‐hydroxytryptamine (5‐HT). Daidzein sulfates (100–1000 μM) inhibited arterial segment's contraction induced by KCl and CaCl2. The concentration‐ contractive curves were shifted toward right in a non‐parallel manner with decreased Emax. Daidzein sulfaltes inhibited the extracellular Ca2+‐dependent contraction. Daidzein sulfates of 100 and 300 μM significantly inhibited the contraction induced by CaCl2 in Ca2+‐free solution, which is an extracellular Ca2+‐dependent contraction; but daidzein sulfates did not inhibit the intracellular Ca2+‐dependent NA‐induced contraction, in Ca2+‐free solution. The results suggest that daidzein sulfates possess significant hypotensive and vasodilator effects which mainly derive from artery smooth muscle cells by inhibiting the receptor‐mediated Ca2+‐influx.
The Possible Role of Caspase‐3 in Pathological and Physiological Cardiac Hypertrophy in Rats
Authors: Balakumar Pitchai , Singh Manjeet
Published: November 2006

Abstract:The present study has been designed to investigate the effect of Ac‐DEVD‐CHO, a specific caspase‐3 inhibitor in partial abdominal aortic constriction for 4 week‐induced pathological and chronic swimming training for 8 week‐induced physiological cardiac hypertrophy. Ac‐DEVD‐CHO (2 mg/kg intraperitoneally, day−1) treatment was started three days before partial abdominal aortic constriction and chronic swimming test and it was continued for 4 weeks in partial abdominal aortic constriction and 8 weeks in chronic swimming test experimental model. The left ventricular (LV) function and LV hypertrophy were assessed by measuring LV developed pressure, dp/dtmax, dp/dtmin, ratio of LV weight to body weight, LV wall thickness, LV collagen content, protein content and RNA concentration. Further, venous pressure and mean arterial blood pressure were recorded. The partial abdominal aortic constriction but not chronic swimming test produced LV dysfunction by decreasing LV developed pressure, dp/dtmax, dp/dtmin.and increasing LV collagen content. Further, partial abdominal aortic constriction and chronic swimming test were noted to produce LV hypertrophy by increasing ratio of LV weight to body weight, LV wall thickness, LV protein content and LV RNA concentration. Moreover, in contrast to chronic swimming test, partial abdominal aortic constriction has significantly increased venous pressure and mean arterial blood pressure. The Ac‐DEVD‐CHO has markedly attenuated partial abdominal aortic constriction‐induced LV dysfunction, LV hypertrophy, increase in venous pressure and mean arterial blood pressure. However it did not modulate chronic swimming test‐induced LV hypertrophy. These results have implicated caspase‐3 in partial abdominal aortic constriction‐induced LV dysfunction and pathological cardiac hypertrophy. However, caspase‐3 may not be involved in chronic swimming test‐induced physiological cardiac hypertrophy.
Effect of CuO on the Sintering Behavior and Dielectric Characteristics of Titanium Dioxide
Authors: Shin Chang‐Keun , Paek Yeong‐Kyeun , Lee Hyung‐Joo
Published: November 2006

The sintering behavior and dielectric characteristics of a titanium dioxide (TiO2) were investigated by adding CuO. The addition of CuO lowered the sintering temperature of the TiO2. At a given temperature, the densification and grain growth rate for a TiO2 with CuO were enhanced, compared with those of pure TiO2. The results suggest that CuO acts as an activator for the sintering of TiO2. Dielectric constant and loss were also examined for both pure and CuO added TiO2 samples. The variations of dielectric constant and loss were discussed in terms of grain size, porosity, and oxygen deficiency.
Synthesis of 10‐μm‐Thick Lead Zirconate Titanate Films on 2‐in. Si Substrates for Piezoelectric Film Devices
Authors: Iijima Takashi , Osone Satoko , Shimojo Yoshiro , Nagai Hideki
Published: November 2006

To achieve micro‐machined piezoelectric film devices, crack‐free and dense 10‐μm‐thick lead zirconate titanate (PZT) films were successfully deposited onto 2‐in. Pt/Ti/SiO2/Si substrates using an automatic coating system, and disk‐shaped structures with a diameter from 20 to 100 μm were fabricated by an RIE process. The prepared PZT thick film disks showed well‐saturated P–E hysteresis curves and butterfly‐shaped longitudinal displacement curves. The AFM‐measured piezoelectric constant of the 30‐μm‐diameter PZT thick film disk after poling at 100 V for 10 min was AFM d33=290 pm/V. The resonant and anti‐resonant frequencies of the thickness oscillation mode were observed at 180 MHz. The calculated thickness mode effective coupling factor was (keff)2=0.1 for the poled 30‐μm‐diameter PZT thick film disks. These results suggest that the prepared PZT thick film disks are applicable for piezoelectric micro devices such as micro‐machined ultrasonic transducers.
Electrical and Gas‐Sensing Properties of a Thick Film Resistor of Nanosized SnO2 with Variable Percentage of Permanent Binder
Authors: Garje A. D. , Aiyer R. C.
Published: November 2006

Nanosized SnO2 powder was synthesized by thermal decomposition of tin di acetate at 380°C. The effect of permanent binder (5, 10, 15, and 20 wt%) on the electrical and gas‐sensing properties of thick film planar resistors shows sheet resistivity four to five orders of magnitude smaller, with comparatively low temperature coefficient of resistance. The sensors with 15 wt% of glass show the highest sensitivity toward H2, CO, and liquefied petroleum gas (300 ppm) at optimal temperatures of 150°, 220°, and 190°C, respectively, giving selectivity. The sensors are tested for 10–300 ppm of gas with a response and recovery time of 10 and 20 s, respectively.
Anatomy of the male reproductive system and sperm morphology in the caterpillar‐hunting wasp Ancistrocerus antilope (Hymenoptera, Vespidae)
Authors: Bushrow Eric S. , Fuller Cynthia L. , Cowan David P. , Byrd Christine A.
Published: November 2006

Abstract. The male reproductive system of the caterpillar‐hunting wasp Ancistrocerus antilope was composed of the testes, seminal vesicles, accessory glands, the penis, and the connecting ducts. The testes, which were paired structures lined with a thin layer of squamous epithelium, were composed of several lobes that contain developing spermatozoa. These spermatozoa began as spermatocytes in the distal portion of the testicular lobe and, as they matured, they moved proximally toward the seminal vesicles. Upon maturation, the spermatozoa were long, thin structures with a nucleus of ∼10–15 μm in length and 1–2 μm in width. Their tails, which were not morphologically distinct from their heads at the gross level, averaged 388±25 μm in length. Once the spermatozoa had fully developed, they traveled from the testes to the seminal vesicles, where they were stored. The walls of the seminal vesicles were composed of a ciliated, pseudostratified, columnar epithelium. A layer of fibrous connective tissue termed the testicular capsule encapsulated both the testes and the seminal vesicles. Upon ejaculation, the spermatozoa moved through the deferent ducts, where they combined with granular fluid from the accessory glands. From here, they traveled via the ejaculatory duct to the penis, where they were expelled. In this study, these anatomical descriptions are discussed in reference to other species of the Hymenoptera.
Moral Explanation
Authors: Majors Brad
Published: November 2006

This article surveys recent work on the problem of moral explanation and moral causation, including Harman's original challenge, together with responses to it, and the counterfactual test for explanatory relevance and its limitations. It advances as well a novel argument for the explanatory indispensability of moral properties, and contends that non‐naturalistic moral realists ought to remain open to the possibility that moral properties play a genuine causal‐explanatory role.
A Field Guide to Social Construction
Authors: Mallon Ron
Published: November 2006

A wide range of discussions throughout the humanities and social sciences include claims that various phenomena are “socially constructed.” Many academics associate “social constructionism” with the so‐called “science wars” in which social constructionism is identified with some sort of radical anti‐realism about reality in general, or the findings of science in particular. But the move to radical anti‐realism is only one way to develop the central idea of constructionism – that human decision and human culture exert profound and often unnoticed influence – and much of this work remains interesting and provocative within a broadly naturalist and realist framework. Here the author reviews and explores a variety of constructionist claims, including the plausible suggestion that social constructionist hypotheses have special purchase in discussions of human kinds.
Treatment of a case of refractory feline chronic gingivostomatitis with feline recombinant interferon omega
Authors: Southerden P. , Gorrel C.
Published: November 2006

Chronic gingivostomatitis is a common debilitating disease in cats, which is often refractory to medical and surgical treatment. An eight‐year‐old, neutered female domestic shorthair cat with a history of gingivitis was presented with chronic gingivostomatitis. Initial treatment by extraction of all premolars and molars was unsuccessful. However, the condition resolved within six weeks of treatment with feline recombinant interferon omega (Virbagen; Virbac).
Salt Discharge from an Inland Farm for Marine Shrimp in Alabama
Authors: Boyd Christopher A. , Boyd Claude E. , McNevin Aaron A. , Rouse D. B.
Published: November 2006

The total salt input in saline well water, mineral amendments, feed, and rainfall and runoff to ponds of an inland shrimp farm in Alabama was 1980.8 tonnes over a 5‐yr period. A residual of 270.4 tonnes of salt remained in pond water and 38.3 tonnes in bottom soil. Only 8.0 tonnes of salt were removed in harvested shrimp. A total of 1588.0 tonnes of salt or 80.2% of the input was lost to the environment with about equal amounts exiting the ponds in seepage and in overflow and harvest effluent. About 4.2% of the salt input (84.1 tonnes) could not be accounted for because of errors in assumptions and measurements. Salt concentration was elevated in a small stream passing through the farm and in the shallow aquifer beneath it. Needham Creek, the receiving water body for runoff and base flow from the farm watershed, had elevated salt concentrations when ponds were partially drained for harvest in the fall. At this time, chloride concentration exceeded 230 mg/L, the maximum concentration allowed by Alabama Department of Environmental Management regulations. Greater water reuse or more gradual release of pond effluent during harvest would reduce the peak in‐stream chloride concentration and avoid noncompliance with the in‐stream chloride criterion.
Effects of Dietary Protein Concentration and Feeding Regimen on Channel Catfish, Ictalurus punctatus, Production
Authors: Li Menghe H. , Robinson Edwin H. , Oberle Daniel F. , Bosworth Brian G.
Published: November 2006

A factorial experiment was conducted to examine effects of dietary protein concentration (24, 28, 32, or 36%) and feeding regimen (feeding once daily or every other day [EOD]) on channel catfish, Ictalurus punctatus, production in earthen ponds. Compared with fish fed daily, fish fed EOD had lower feed consumption, weight gain, net production, and percentage of market‐size fish but had high feed efficiency and required fewer hours of aeration. Fish fed EOD also had lower carcass yield, fillet yield, and visceral and fillet fat. There was a significant interaction between dietary protein and feeding regimen for weight gain. No significant differences were observed in weight gain of fish fed daily with diets containing various levels of protein, whereas weight gain of fish fed EOD with a 24% protein diet was lower than those fed EOD with higher protein diets. Results suggest that response of channel catfish to dietary protein levels depends on whether the fish were fed daily or EOD. Feeding EOD to satiation improved feed efficiency and required less aeration compared with fish fed daily but also reduced net production and processing yield; therefore, EOD feeding should be examined closely before implementation.
Effects of Timing of Common Carp Larvae Stocking on Zooplankton Succession in Earthen Nursery Ponds: A Microcosm Simulation
Authors: Valdenberg Arie , Milstein Ana , Harpaz Sheenan
Published: November 2006

Large‐scale commercial nurseries face problems in obtaining enough zooplankton of adequate species composition and size when fish larvae start to feed. To address these problems a simulation of the effects of timing of fish larvae stocking after pond filling on zooplankton composition was carried out. The experimental system consisted of twelve 130‐L containers, in which zooplankton populations were exclusively autochthonous (hatched from resting eggs in the sediments, not entering with the filling water). Treatments consisted of stocking 2‐d‐old common carp larvae on the fourth and sixth days after water filling and a control without fish. The effects of timing of stocking on fish larvae growth and on zooplankton composition were explored using factor analysis. This enabled the identification of several groups of zooplankters that respond in different ways to predation by fish larvae. FACTOR1 was a general measurement of small rotifer abundance. It showed earlier increase in response to the exposure to fish predation, and toward the end of the experiment indicated that fish also preyed on them. FACTOR2 identified the direct effects of size‐selective fish predation on zooplankton that differed according to timing of fish larvae stocking. FACTOR3 identified benthic rotifers, whose density in the plankton increased as a result of fish disturbance of the bottom sediment and decreased as a result of fish predation, also according to timing of fish larvae stocking. In the studied system no rotifers were present in the filling water and the zooplankton peak of autochthonous populations took a while to develop. Under this zooplankton succession pattern, stocking fish larvae before the rotifer concentration started to increase (Day 4) greatly affected their own food resources. The strong predation pressure exerted on the emergent resource retarded the zooplankton increase for 4 d. It also changed the composition toward smaller species and forced fish to feed on less preferred resources, which resulted in reduced fish growth rate. Stocking fish larvae after the rotifer concentration had started to increase (Day 6) allowed the fish to come across increasing amounts of zooplankton of large‐size species, not requiring the exploitation of small benthic rotifers. This resulted in better fish growth rates. Thus, increased larvae production in commercial nurseries can be achieved by matching fish stocking with the increasing phase of the zooplankton peak.