bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison between effects of open grazing and manual harvesting of cultivated summer rangelands of northern Iran on infiltration, runoff and sediment yield
Authors: Sadeghi S. H. R. , Vangah B. Ghaderi , Safaeeian N. A.
Published: April 2007

The effects of grazing and cultivation management on infiltration, runoff and sediment yield on storm basis were quantified for summer rangeland in the Matash mountains (Talesh Region), northern Iran. The infiltration experiments were made using double cylinder infiltrometer with five replicates within each study treatment. The runoff generation and sediment yield were measured using standard plots (1·83 m × 22·18 m) in three replications.

The peak and the terminal instantaneous infiltration, and runoff and sediment rates were compared using independent and paired sample t‐test in two aforesaid treatments, respectively. The terminal and the peak instantaneous infiltration rates of 39·6 and 342·9 mm/h showed a respective significant increase (p < 0·001) of 32 and 39 per cent in cultivated areas compared to those in open grazing treatments. The results of runoff analysis also showed that there was a significant difference (p < 0·001) in runoff generation in two above‐mentioned areas. The runoff water was also found to be 5·63‐folds more in case of open grazing treatment in comparison with that generated by cultivated plots. A significant difference (p < 0·001) in sediment yield between two study treatments was also proved by the results obtained through sediment yield study. The soil loss in open grazing treatment was found to be 26·6 times more than of that occurred in cultivated plots. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Mathematical analysis of a viscoelastic problem with temperature‐dependent coefficients—Part II: Regularity
Authors: Barral Patricia , Naya‐Riveiro M. Cristina , Quintela Peregrina
Published: April 2007

In this paper, we study local regularity properties of the stress solution of a quasistatic thermoviscoelastic problem whose behaviour law is of the Maxwell–Norton type with temperature‐dependent coefficients. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Fast cars, fast food, and fast fixes: industry responses to current ethical dilemmas for Australian advertisers
Authors: Jones Sandra C.
Published: April 2007

This paper reviews three ethical dilemmas currently facing advertisers for cars, fast food and pharmaceuticals in the U.S., U.K. and Australia, and discusses Australian industry responses to these dilemmas. In Australia, as in the U.S. and U.K., the main response mechanism for advertisers has been the introduction of self‐regulatory codes of practice. It is important to note that in a number of cases there is no conclusive evidence of the argued harm from advertising that is subsequently banned or regulated. A review of the general and trade press, and the records of the Australian Advertising Standards Board, finds that industry responses tend to be based on industry rather than community concerns, with the primary motive being to avoid deleterious outcomes for the industry rather than for society as a whole.

Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Comparative study of modified release alpha‐blocker exposure in elderly patients with fractures
Authors: Hall Gillian C , McMahon Alex D
Published: April 2007

Purpose

Standard formulation alpha‐blocker use has been associated with an increased risk of hypotension‐related adverse events, particularly with cardiovascular indications and on treatment initiation. We investigated the association between those fractures that are commonly due to falls and modified‐release doxasozin exposure.

Methods

A case‐control study using UK primary care records (the THIN database) showed that 6540 cases aged 50 years or older had a record of first fracture of the hip/femur, humerus or wrist after May 2001; 26 495 controls had no fracture and were matched on practice, year of birth and sex. Exclusions for the primary analysis were previous benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH), lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) or prostate cancer, major trauma at the time of the case's fracture, or a history of falls. Conditional logistic regression estimated the association between modified‐release doxasozin treatment and the occurrence of fractures.

Results

No increased risk of fractures was associated with current use of modified‐release doxasozin, adjusted odds ratios (ORs) 0.90 (95%CI 0.68, 1.19); previous use, adjusted OR 0.92 (95%CI 0.73, 1.16) or the start of a treatment episode (≤28 days), crude OR 0.57 (0.17, 1.92). Including those with a history of BPH, LUTS and prostatic carcinoma had little effect, adjusted OR for current use was 0.95 (95%CI 0.74, 1.21). No significant increased risk of fractures was associated with the start of standard preparation alpha‐blockers, crude OR 1.42 (95%CI 0.65, 3.07).

Conclusions

We found no association between modified‐release doxasozin use and fractured hip/femur, humerus or wrist in those without a recent history of falls, or trauma. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Prevalidation of potential protein biomarkers in toxicology using iTRAQ™ reagent technology
Authors: Glückmann Matthias , Fella Kerstin , Waidelich Dietmar , Merkel Dietrich , Kruft Volker , Kramer Peter‐Jürgen , Walter Yvonne , Hellmann Jürgen , Karas Michael , Kröger Michaela
Published: April 2007

Today, toxicoproteomics still relies mainly on 2‐DE followed by MS for detection and identification of proteins, which might characterize a certain state of disease, indicate toxicity or even predict carcinogenicity. We utilized the classical 2‐DE/MS approach for the evaluation of early protein biomarkers which are predictive for chemically induced hepatocarcinogenesis in rats. We were able to identify statistically significantly deregulated proteins in N‐nitrosomorpholine exposed rat liver tissue. Based on literature data, biological relevance in the early molecular process of hepatocarcinogenicity could be suggested for most of these potential biomarkers. However, in order to ensure reliable results and to create the prerequisites necessary for integration in routine toxicology studies in the future, these protein expression patterns need to be prevalidated using independent technology platforms. In the current study, we evaluated the usefulness of iTRAQ™ reagent technology (Applied Biosystems, Framingham, USA), a recently introduced MS‐based protein quantitation method, for verification of the 2‐DE/MS biomarkers. In summary, the regulation of 26 2‐DE/MS derived protein biomarkers could be verified. Proteins like HSP 90‐beta, annexin A5, ketohexokinase, N‐hydroxyarylamine sulfotransferase, ornithine aminotransferase, and adenosine kinase showed highly comparable fold changes using both proteomic quantitation strategies. In addition, iTRAQ analysis delivered further potential biomarkers with biological relevance to the processes of hepatocarcinogenicity: e.g. placental form of glutathione S‐transferase (GST‐P), carbonic anhydrase, and aflatoxin B1 aldehyde reductase. Our results show both the usefulness of iTRAQ reagent technology for biomarker prevalidation as well as for identification of further potential marker proteins, which are indicative for liver hepatocarcinogenicity.
An experimental strategy for quantitative analysis of the humoral immune response to prostate cancer antigens using natural protein microarrays
Authors: Forrester Sara , Qiu Ji , Mangold Leslie , Partin Alan , Misek David , Phinney Brett , Whitten Douglas , Andrews Philip , Diamandis Eleftherios , Omenn Gilbert S. , Hanash Samir , Haab Brian B.
Published: April 2007

The identification of human tumor antigens has potential utility in the diagnosis and treatment of cancers. We demonstrate here a complete strategy to profile immunoreactivity and identify tumor antigens from proteins derived from tumor cell lines. Microarrays of proteins produced from 2‐D LC fractionation of prostate tumor cell‐line lysates were used to profile immunoreactivity in the sera of prostate cancer patients and control subjects. Cancer‐associated immunoreactivity to distinct groups of chromatography fractions was present in about 50% of the patients, with greater immunoreactivity present in patients with non‐organ‐confined cancer than in patients with organ‐confined cancer. We grouped the immunoreactive fractions by similarities in elution order and patterns of immunoreactivity to guide and interpret the MS analysis of selected fractions, which was used to identify the proteins that may be responsible for the immunoreactivity. As a complementary method to further characterize and validate the immunoreactivity of the proteins identified by mass spectrometry, we demonstrate the use of focused microarrays of recombinant proteins. Disease‐associated immunoreactivity was confirmed for one of the identified proteins, human Kallikrein 11. These results demonstrate a practical approach to screening, identifying, and validating immunoreactive proteins that could be applied to diverse studies on humoral immune responses.
An evaluation of multidimensional fingerprinting in the context of clinical proteomics
Authors: Lekpor Kossi , Benoit Marie‐Josée , Butler Heather , Schirm Michael , Vasilescu Daniela , Bonter Katherine , Chelsky Daniel , Hugo Patrice , Hunter Joanna , Opiteck Gregory , Paramithiotis Eustache , Kearney Paul
Published: April 2007

Multidimensional fingerprinting (MDF) utilizes measurable peptide characteristics to identify proteins. In this study, 3‐D fingerprinting, namely, parent protein molecular weight, peptide mass, and peptide retention time on RPLC, is used to identify 331 differentially expressed proteins between normal and human colon cancer plasma membrane samples. A false discovery rate (FDR) procedure is introduced to evaluate the performance of MDF on the colon cancer dataset. This evaluation establishes a false protein identification rate below 15% for this dataset. Western blot analysis is performed to validate the differential expression of the MDF‐identified protein VDAC1 on the original tissue samples. The limits of MDF are further assessed by a simulation study where key parameters such as database size, query size, and mass accuracy are varied. The results of this simulation study demonstrate that fingerprinting with three dimensions yields low FDR values even for large queries on the complete human proteome without the need for prior peptide sequencing by tandem mass spectrometry. Specifically, when mass accuracy is 10 ppm or lower, full human proteome searches can achieve FDR values of 10% or less.
Computational approach to site‐directed ligand discovery
Authors: Tóth Gergely , Mukhyala Kiran , Wells James A.
Published: April 2007

A computational approach, Systematic Conformational Search & Induced Fit (SCI&FI), to site‐directed ligand discovery (Tethering®) is presented. SCI&FI has the ability to predict the binding site, binding mode, and bound dynamics of small molecule fragments covalently tethered to a protein. The SCI&FI method was engineered with the ability to model induced fit conformational changes of the protein because of the binding of the tether. SCI&FI generates comprehensive picture of the binding preferences of the tether to the protein by elucidating potential binding sites of the tether and by describing regions of receptor space capable of conformational change because of the binding of the tether. The SCI&FI method provides a complementary approach to experimental tethering. Initial validation of the SCI&FI method is reported by predicting the 3D structure of two Interleukin‐2 and an Interleukin‐4 tethered‐protein systems. Proteins 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Violet–blue luminescence from hafnium oxide layers doped with CeCl3 prepared by the spray pyrolysis process
Authors: García‐Hipólito M. , Caldiño U. , Alvarez‐Fragoso O. , Alvarez‐Pérez M. A. , Martínez‐Martínez R. , Falcony C.
Published: April 2007

HfO2:CeCl3 coatings were deposited by the spray pyrolysis method employing hafnium dichloride oxide and CeCl3 dissolved in deionized water (18 MΩ/cm). The room temperature photoluminescence characteristics of the HfO2:CeCl3 films were studied as a function of the deposition parameters such as doping concentrations and substrate temperature. The presence of two different Ce3+ centres in HfO2 is detected from photoluminescence measurements. A reduction of the luminescence intensity is observed with an increase of both the CeCl3 concentration and the deposition temperature. X‐ray diffraction measurements of these films showed that the crystalline structure depends on the substrate temperature. For substrate temperatures less than 350 °C the deposited films are almost amorphous, while substrate temperatures higher than 400 °C produce diffraction peaks corresponding to the monoclinic phase of HfO2. The chemical composition of the films as determined by energy dispersive spectroscopy is also reported. Furthermore, the surface morphology characteristics of the coatings, as a function of the deposition temperature, are also presented. (© 2007 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Effect of essential oils and isolated compounds from Pimpinella species on NF‐κB: a target for antiinflammatory therapy
Authors: Tabanca Nurhayat , Ma Guoyi , Pasco David S. , Bedir Erdal , Kirimer Nese , Baser K. Husnu Can , Khan Ikhlas A. , Khan Shabana I.
Published: April 2007

Pimpinella essential oils and isolated compounds were screened for their inhibitory activity against NF‐κB mediated transcription in SW1353 cells. Twelve oils were effective in inhibiting NF‐κB mediated transcription. Especially the roots of P. corymbosa, P. tragium and P. rhodanta showed potent activities with IC50 values of 2, 3 and 6 µg/mL, respectively. Five pure compounds, 7 (4‐(2‐propenyl)phenylangelate), 12 (4‐(3‐methyloxiranyl)phenyltiglate), 17 (4‐methoxy‐2‐(3‐methyloxiranyl)phenyl isobutyrate), 18 (4‐methoxy‐2‐(3‐methyloxiranyl)phenylangelate) and 21 (epoxy pseudoisoeugenol‐2‐methylbutyrate) inhibited NF‐κB mediated transcription with IC50 values of 5.5, 1.2, 0.01, 3.6 and 11 µg/mL, respectively. None of the compounds were cytotoxic to mammalian cells. These findings add significant information to the pharmacological activity of Pimpinella species and their beneficial effects and use in disease prevention especially those related to inflammation. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Antiinflammatory effects of a combined herbal preparation (RAH13) ofPhellodendron amurenseandCoptis chinensis inanimal models of inflammation
Authors: Park Eun‐Kyung , Rhee Hae In , Jung Hye‐Sook , Ju Seoung Min , Lee Yeon‐Ah , Lee Sang‐Hoon , Hong Seung‐Jae , Yang Hyung‐In , Yoo Myung‐Chul , Kim Kyoung Soo
Published: April 2007

In an attempt to develop an antiinflammatory herbal remedy that is as potent as current synthetic medicines, the cortex ofPhellodendron amurenseRupr (Rutaceae) and the rhizomes ofCoptis chinensisFranch (Ranunculaceae) were combined in a 2:1 ratio. This ratio was chosen based onin vitroexperiments and traditional Asian medicine prescriptions. The combined ethanol extract, named RAH13, was evaluated for antiinflammatory properties using animal models of acute inflammation such as the croton oil‐induced ear edema test and an acetic acid‐induced capillary permeability test. Models of chronic inflammation were also tested using the cotton pellet test and a delayed‐type hypersensitivity (DTH) test. Oral administration of RAH13 at a dose of 200 mg/kg showedin vivoantiinflammatory activity as potent as the effects associated with 100 mg/mL of celecoxib or 1 mg/kg of dexamethasone. These effects were seen in both acute and chronic inflammation models, suggesting that RAH13 may be effective in controlling some inflammation‐related diseases. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Retracted: Cardioprotective effects of the combined use of puerarin and Danshensu on acute ischemic myocardial injury in rats
Authors: Wu Limao , Qiao Hongxiang , Li Yikui , Li Lianda
Published: April 2007

The following article from Phytotherapy Research, "Cardioprotective Effects of the Combined Use of Puerarin and Danshensu on Acute Ischemic Myocardial Injury in Rats" by L.Wu, H.Qiao, Y.Li, L.Li published online on 20 April 2007 in Wiley Interscience (www.interscience.wiley.com), and in print in August 2007 (Volume 21, Issue no 8, pages 751‐756, DOI: 10.1002/ptr.2157) has been retracted by agreement between the journal Editor in Chief, Elizabeth Williamson and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. The retraction has been agreed due to overlap with the following article: L.Wu, H.Qiao, Y.Li, L.Li. Protective roles of puerarin and Danshensu on acute ischemic myocardial injury in rats. Phytomedicine 2007, 14 (10): 652‐658. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Towards Nanoporous Membranes based on ABC Triblock Terpolymers
Authors: Sperschneider Alexandra , Schacher Felix , Gawenda Marcel , Tsarkova Larisa , Müller Axel H. E. , Ulbricht Mathias , Krausch Georg , Köhler Jürgen
Published: April 2007

Block copolymers represent an exciting class of complex materials as they self‐assemble into highly regular structures of nanoscopic dimensions. When prepared as thin films, such structures can be used for a variety of applications including lithographic masks or nanoporous membranes. Reported here are nanostructures in thin films of structurally analogous polybutadiene‐block‐poly(2‐vinyl pyridine)‐block‐poly(tert‐butyl methacrylate) (BVT) and polystyrene‐block‐poly(2‐vinyl pyridine)‐block‐poly(tert‐butyl methacrylate) (SVT) triblock terpolymers, which are synthesized via sequential living anionic polymerization. The morphological behavior of annealed SVT and BVT films is investigated by scanning force and electron microscopies. The difference in the terpolymer composition results in the formation of an ordered perforated lamella phase in SVT films and hexagonally packed core/shell cylinders in BVT films. Further, the BVT films show high potential for the fabrication of composite membranes using track‐etched poly(ethylene terephthalate) macroporous filters as a support.
In vitro and in vivo binding of neuroactive steroids to the sigma‐1 receptor as measured with the positron emission tomography radioligand [18F]FPS
Authors: Waterhouse Rikki N. , Chang Raymond C. , Atuehene Nana , Collier Thomas Lee
Published: April 2007

Sigma‐1 receptors are widely expressed in the mammalian brain and also in organs of the immune, endocrine and reproductive systems. Based on behavioral and pharmacological assessments, sigma‐1 receptors are important in memory and cognitive processes, and are thought to be involved in specific psychiatric illnesses, including schizophrenia, depression, and drug addiction. It is thought that specific neuroactive steroids are endogenous ligands for these sites. In addition, several sigma‐1 receptor binding steroids including progesterone, dihydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), and testosterone are being examined clinically for specific therapeutic purposes; however, their mechanisms of action have not been clearly defined. We previously described the high affinity sigma‐1 receptor selective PET tracer [18F]FPS. This study examines the effect of neuroactive steroids on [18F]FPS binding in vitro and in vivo. Inhibition constants were determined in vitro for progesterone, testosterone, DHEA, estradiol, and estriol binding to the [18F]FPS labeled receptor. The affinity order (Kivalues) for these steroids ranged from 36 nM for progesterone to >10,000 nM for estrodiol and estriol. Biodistribution studies revealed that i.v. coadministration of progesterone (10 mg/kg), testosterone (20 mg/kg), or DHEA (20 mg/kg) significantly decreased [18F]FPS uptake (%ID/g) by up to 50% in nearly all of eight brain regions examined. [18F]FPS uptake in several peripheral organs that express sigma‐1 receptors (heart, spleen, muscle, lung) was also reduced (54–85%). These studies clearly demonstrate that exogenously administered steroids can occupy sigma‐1 receptors in vivo, and that [18F]FPS may provide an effective tool for monitoring sigma‐1 receptor occupancy of specific therapeutic steroids during clinical trials. Synapse 61:540–546, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
18‐MC acts in the medial habenula and interpeduncular nucleus to attenuate dopamine sensitization to morphine in the nucleus accumbens
Authors: Taraschenko Olga D. , Shulan Joseph M. , Maisonneuve Isabelle M. , Glick Stanley D.
Published: April 2007

18‐Methoxycoronaridine (18‐MC), a novel iboga alkaloid congener, is a potential treatment for drug addiction. 18‐MC has been shown to decrease self‐administration of drugs (e.g., morphine, methamphetamine, nicotine) and attenuate opioid withdrawal in rats. In previous studies, systemic pretreatment with 18‐MC abolished the sensitized increase in accumbens dopamine levels induced by chronic morphine administration. In vitro studies have shown that 18‐MC is a potent antagonist of α3β4 nicotinic receptors, and α3β4 antagonism is believed to be the primary mechanism responsible for 18‐MC's effects on drug self‐administration and possibly on morphine‐induced changes in mesolimbic dopamine. While there are very low densities of α3β4 nicotinic receptors in the mesolimbic pathway, these receptors are prominently localized in the medial habenula (MHb) and in the interpeduncular nucleus (IPN). These nuclei and the habenulo‐interpeduncular pathway connecting them are believed to function as part of an alternate reward pathway modulating the dopaminergic mesolimbic pathway known to be involved in drug addiction. In the present study, to determine if 18‐MC acts in the MHb or in the IPN, the effects of local infusion of 18‐MC into these brain areas were assessed on mesolimbic dopamine responses to acute and repeated morphine treatment. Administration of 18‐MC (10 μg) into either the IPN or MHb blocked the sensitized dopamine response to repeated morphine in the nucleus accumbens; 18‐MC had no effect on the dopamine response to acute morphine. The results suggest that 18‐MC acts in the habenulo‐interpeduncular pathway to modulate the effects of repeated morphine in the dopaminergic mesolimbic system. Synapse 61:547–560, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Measurement of 5‐HT1A receptor binding in depressed adults before and after antidepressant drug treatment using positron emission tomography and [11C]WAY‐100635
Authors: Moses‐Kolko Eydie L. , Price Julie C. , Thase Michael E. , Meltzer Carolyn Cidis , Kupfer David J. , Mathis Chester A. , Bogers Wendy D. , Berman Susan R. , Houck Patricia R. , Schneider Trisha N. , Drevets Wayne C.
Published: April 2007

Objective: To assess effects of chronic antidepressant drug treatment on serotonin type‐1A receptor (5‐HT1AR) binding potential (BP) in major depressive disorder. Methods: Depressed subjects (n = 27) were imaged using PET and [11C]WAY‐100635 at baseline and following a median of 9.4 weeks of treatment with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor or dual reuptake inhibitor antidepressant agents. Fifteen subjects had complete pre‐ and post‐treatment scan data. The 5‐HT1AR BP was derived from the tissue time‐radioactivity concentrations from regions‐of‐interest defined a priori, using a simplified reference tissue model (SRTM), and in a subset of subjects, compartmental modeling (CMOD). Results: Chronic treatment had no effect on pre‐ or post‐synaptic 5‐HT1AR BP, as confirmed by both the SRTM and CMOD analyses. These results were unaffected by treatment response status and were consistent across brain regions. Among the 22 subjects for whom the clinical response‐to‐treatment was established, the treatment nonresponders (n = 7) had higher baseline BP values in the left (P = 0.01) and right orbital cortex (P = 0.02) than the responders (n = 15). Conclusions: Chronic antidepressant drug treatment did not significantly change cerebral 5‐HT1AR binding, consistent with preclinical evidence that the alterations in serotonergic function associated with antidepressant drug administration are not accompanied by changes in 5‐HT1AR density. Higher baseline 5‐HT1AR binding was associated with poorer response to treatment. Synapse 61:523–530, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Quantitative assessment of gestational sac shape: the gestational sac shape score
Authors: Deter R. L. , Li J. , Lee W. , Liu S. , Romero R.
Published: April 2007

Objective

To develop a quantitative method for characterizing gestational sac shape.

Methods

Twenty first‐trimester gestational sacs in normal pregnancies were studied with three‐dimensional (3D) ultrasonography. The 3D coordinates of surface‐point sets were obtained for each sac using 30‐, 15‐ and six‐slice sampling. Cubic spline interpolation was used with the 15‐ and six‐slice surface‐point samples to generate coordinates for those 30‐slice surface points not measured. Interpolated and measured values, the latter from the 30‐slice sample, were compared and the percent error calculated. Cubic spline interpolation was used to determine the coordinates of a standard surface‐point sample (3660) for each sac in each slice sample. These coordinate data were used to give each sac a standard configuration by moving its center of gravity to the origin, aligning its inertial axes along the coordinate axes and converting its volume to 1.0 mL. In this form, a volume shape descriptor could be generated for each sac that was then transformed into a vector containing only shape information. The 20 shape vectors of each slice sample were subjected to principal components analysis, and principal component scores (PCSs) calculated. The first four PCSs were used to define a gestational sac shape score (GSSS‐30, GSSS‐15 or GSSS‐6) for each sac in a given slice sample. The characteristics of each set of GSSSs were determined and those for the GSSS‐15 and GSSS‐6 were compared with the GSSS‐30 characteristics.

Results

Cubic spline interpolations were very accurate in most cases, with means close to 0%, and approximately 95% of the errors being less than 10%. GSSS‐30 accounted for 67.6% of the shape variance, had a mean of zero and an SD of 1.1, was normally distributed and was not related to menstrual age (R = − 0.16, P = 0.51). GSSS‐15 and GSSS‐6 had essentially the same characteristics. No significant differences between individual GSSS‐30 values and those for GSSS‐15 or GSSS‐6 were found, indicating the absence of a slice sample effect.

Conclusion

Using sophisticated mathematical methods, the gestational sac shape, initially represented by the 3D coordinates of 3660 surface points, was converted to a single number, the GSSS. This score had the appropriate properties for quantitatively characterizing normal, first‐trimester gestational sac shapes. As it can be obtained from as few as six slices, it should be useful in many clinical situations. This novel approach has the potential for providing quantitative shape information about a variety of biological shapes and how they change over time. Copyright © 2007 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Accuracy of ultrasound subjective ‘pattern recognition’ for the diagnosis of borderline ovarian tumors
Authors: Yazbek J. , Raju K. S. , Ben‐Nagi J. , Holland T. , Hillaby K. , Jurkovic D.
Published: April 2007

Objectives

To assess the value of pattern recognition for the preoperative ultrasound diagnosis of borderline ovarian tumors (BOTs).

Methods

This was a prospective study of women who were referred to our regional cancer center with the diagnosis of an adnexal mass on a Level II (routine) gynecological ultrasound scan. Women with lesions of uncertain nature were referred for a Level III (expert) ultrasound scan in our tertiary center. The tumor pattern recognition method was used to differentiate between various types of ovarian tumors. Morphological features suggestive of BOTs were: unilocular cyst with a positive ovarian crescent sign and extensive papillary projections arising from the inner wall, or a cyst with a well defined multilocular nodule. The ultrasound findings were compared with the final histological diagnosis.

Results

A total of 224 women with an adnexal mass of uncertain nature were referred for an expert scan, 166 (74.1%) of whom underwent surgery. In this group of women the final histological diagnoses were: 99 (60%) benign lesions, 32 (19%) invasive ovarian cancer and 35 (21%) BOTs. Using pattern recognition combining the different morphological features, a correct preoperative diagnosis of BOT was made in 24/35 (68.6%) women: area under the receiver–operating characteristics curve 0.812 (standard error 0.049; 95% CI, 0.716–0.908), sensitivity 0.69 (95% CI, 0.52–0.81), specificity 0.94 (95% CI, 0.88–0.97), positive likelihood ratio 11.3 (95% CI, 5.53–22.8) and negative likelihood ratio 0.34 (95% CI, 0.21–0.55).

Conclusions

Ultrasound diagnosis of BOTs is highly specific. However, typical features are absent in one‐third of cases, which are typically misdiagnosed as benign lesions. Copyright © 2007 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The role of CnTI‐SonoVue in the diagnosis of ovarian masses with papillary projections: a preliminary study
Authors: Testa A. C. , Timmerman D. , Exacoustos C. , Fruscella E. , Van Holsbeke C. , Bokor D. , Arduini D. , Scambia G. , Ferrandina G.
Published: April 2007

Objectives

To describe sonographically the distribution patterns of a second‐generation contrast agent in the microcirculation of unilocular and multilocular ovarian masses with papillary projections, and to investigate whether qualitative evaluation of the passage of the contrast agent can improve the performance of sonography in distinguishing between benign and malignant masses with papillary projections.

Methods

Thirty‐three patients with unilocular or multilocular ovarian masses with papillary projections were enrolled into the study in three clinical centers. The contrast‐enhanced transvaginal examination was performed using ‘Contrast Tuned Imaging’ (CnTI) technology and SonoVue® ultrasound contrast agent.

Results

Twenty‐four (73%) lesions were benign, eight (24%) were borderline ovarian tumors, and one patient presented with an endometrioid ovarian adenocarcinoma. On color and power Doppler examinations the presence of vessels was demonstrated in 17 papillary projections, while on CnTI‐SonoVue examination, the presence of vessels was shown in these 17 and in six additional cases. In all cases with absent papillary perfusion after SonoVue intravenous injection, the cyst wall appeared unequivocally regular. The sensitivity and specificity of conventional color Doppler examination with regard to malignancy were 100% and 67% and the positive and negative likelihood ratios were 3.03 and 0.16, respectively. For the contrast‐enhanced examination the corresponding values were 100%, 42%, 1.7 and 0.26. The difference in specificity was statistically significant (P < 0.05) because 14 cases, in which papillary perfusion was detected after SonoVue injection, proved to be benign on pathological examination.

Conclusion

Qualitative evaluation of blood circulation in papillary projections using CnTI‐SonoVue examination does not improve the discrimination of benign from borderline/malignant ovarian masses with papillary projections. Copyright © 2007 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Estimation of fetal weight: reference range at 20–36 weeks' gestation and comparison with actual birth‐weight reference range
Authors: Salomon L. J. , Bernard J. P. , Ville Y.
Published: April 2007

Objectives

To formulate reference charts and equations for estimated fetal weight (EFW) from a large sample of fetuses and to compare these charts and equations with those obtained for birth weight during the same study period and in the same single health authority.

Methods

Biometric data were obtained at 20–36 weeks' gestation from routine screening examinations spanning 4 years. Exclusion criteria were a known abnormal karyotype or congenital malformation and multiple pregnancy. No data were excluded on the basis of abnormal biometry. EFW was calculated based on Hadlock's formula. We used a polynomial regression approach (mean and SD model) to compute a new reference chart for EFW. This chart was compared with that of birth weight at 25–36 weeks' gestation during the same study period and in the same health authority.

Results

18 959 fetuses were included in the study. New charts and equations for Z‐score calculations at 20–36 weeks' gestation are reported. Comparison with the birth‐weight chart showed that the EFW was noticeably larger at 25–36 weeks' gestation. At 28–32 weeks' gestation, the 50th centile for birth weight compared approximately with the 10th centile for EFW.

Conclusion

We present new reference charts and equations for EFW. EFW is computed throughout gestation based on measurements in healthy fetuses. However, before full term, birth‐weight charts reflect a significant proportion of growth‐restricted fetuses that deliver prematurely. We provide additional evidence that comparing EFW with birth‐weight charts is misleading. Copyright © 2007 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effects of Octenidine HCl on Liver Tissue: Could It Be an Alternative Scolicidal for Hidatid Disease?
Authors: Arikan Yüksel , Akbulut Gökhan , Sahin Dursun Ali , Dilek Fatma Hüsniye , Saykol Volkan , Dilek Osman Nuri
Published: April 2007

Octenidine HCl is new topical antiseptic solution for wounds and abdominal washing that has been found to be highly effective for inactivating scolices in an in vitro study. However, the effects of octenidine HCl on the liver are not yet known. The aim of this study was to determine if there are any histopathologic changes after injecting octenidine HCl into the liver. A group of 50 male Sprague‐Dawley rats were included in the study and randomly divided into five groups of 10 rats each, as follows: sham group; 0.09% NaCl group; 20% NaCl group; undiluted octenidine HCl group; 1% octenidine HCl group. The scolicidal agents (0.3 ml) were directly injected into the left lobe of the liver (except in the sham group). At 3 and 7 days after the injection, the rats were sacrificed, and the left lobe of the liver was harvested. Liver tissue was scored for degree of necrosis and the diameter of the necrosis examined under light microscopy. The highest scores were found in the undiluted octenidine HCl group, although a similar effect was observed in the 20% NaCl group. There was no necrosis in the sham group, the 0.09% NaCl group, or the 1% octenidine HCl group. All of the injury was coagulation‐type necrosis. No mortality was observed throughout the study. The 1% octenidine HCl solution could thus be used as a scolicidal agent in liver tissue, whereas the undiluted form of octenidine and 20% NaCl solutions were shown to cause necrosis when directly injected into liver tissue in our animal model.
Building contexts that support effective community responses to HIV/AIDS: a South African case study
Authors: Campbell Catherine , Nair Yugi , Maimane Sbongile
Published: April 2007

In this paper we discuss our conceptualisation of a ‘health‐enabling social environment’, and some of the strategies we are currently using to build social contexts most likely to support effective HIV/AIDS management in southern Africa. In developing these ideas, we draw on our on‐going collaboration with residents of Entabeni, a remote rural community in South Africa where 43% of pregnant women are HIV positive. The aim of this collaboration is to facilitate contextual changes that will enable more effective community‐led HIV/AIDS management in an isolated area where people have little or no access to formal health or welfare support, and where HIV/AIDS is heavily stigmatised. We give an account of the three phases of collaboration to date. These include research; the dissemination of findings and community consultation about the way forward; preliminary project activities (skills training for volunteer health workers; partnership building and a youth rally) as a way of illustrating what we believe are six key strategies for facilitating the development of ‘AIDS‐competent’ communities: building knowledge and basic skills; creating social spaces for dialogue and critical thinking; promoting a sense of local ownership of the problem and incentives for action; emphasising community strengths and resources; mobilising existing formal and informal local networks; and building partnerships between marginalized communities and more powerful outside actors and agencies, locally, nationally and internationally. We discuss some of the triumphs and trials of this work, concluding with a discussion of the need to set realistic goals when working at the community level in highly conservative patriarchal communities to tackle problems which may be shaped by economic and political processes over which local people have little control.
Clan, ancestral hall, and sacrifice in the Song Dynasty
Authors: Biao YOU
Published: April 2007

The Song Dynasty is the most important period in Chinese history in terms of the establishment of a new type of clan system. During the Song, Chinese social organization, at the grass-roots level, experienced a fundamental change. In the wake of the late-Tang collapse of the local power system, it was necessary for the Song to replace the ancestral lineage structure and develop a new system to adapt itself to the new circumstances brought on by drastic changes in its economy. Song Confucians played a vital part in the changes. Not only did they gradually solve the theoretical problems of the new type of clan organization, but they also developed many feasible and standard models. Eventually this model would gain even wider acceptance after the Yuan Dynasty with the rise of Neo-Confucianism. Thus, ancestral halls, serving as the major centers for the new clan activities, became prevalent among common people.
On the phenomenon of “return to Marx” in China
Authors: Ping HE
Published: April 2007

From the point of view of the development of Chinese Marxist philosophy, this paper comprehensively analyzes the current phenomenon of “Return to Marx” by pointing out: (1) the phenomenon of “Return to Marx” meets the need to reconstruct ideology during the time of social change in China and it is a theoretical manifestation of the shift from planned economy to market economy in China; (2) the phenomenon of “Return to Marx” embodies the academic path of the past ten years of Chinese Marxist philosophy; (3) the phenomenon of “Return to Marx” places too much emphasis on logic while too little emphasis on history. This understanding, the epistemological root of “Return to Marx”, has caused the negative effect and is also worth our attention and further study.
Confucius and Aristotle on friendship: A comparative study
Authors: Yuanguo HE
Published: April 2007

Before and during the times of Confucius and Aristotle, the concept of friendship had very different implications. This paper compares Confucius’ with Aristotle’s thoughts on friendship from two perspectives: xin 信 (fidelity, faithfulness) and le 乐 (joy). The Analects emphasizes the xin as the basis of friendship. Aristotle holds that there are three kinds of friends and corresponding to them are three types of friendship. In the friendship for the sake of pleasure, there is no xin; in the legal form of friendship for the sake of utility, xin is guaranteed by law; and in the moral form of friendship for the sake of utility, xin is guaranteed by morality; in the friendship for the sake of virtue, xin is an indispensable part. Both thinkers believe friends can bring joy to human life. According to Confucius, it is the joy of rendao 仁道 (benevolence), whereas for Aristotle, it is the joy of Reason. There are many commonalities and differences between the two. The commonalities reveal some inner links between Confucian rendao and Aristotelian Reason. It seems that the differences between rendao and Reason are the differences between moral reason and logical reason. The comparative study is helpful for us to understand the two masters’ ethics, politics and philosophy.
Influence of scattering processes on electron quantum states in nanowires
Authors: Pozdnyakov Dmitry , Galenchik Vadim , Borzdov Andrei , Borzdov Vladimir , Komarov Fadei
Published: April 2007

In the framework of quantum perturbation theory the self-consistent method of calculation of electron scattering rates in nanowires with the one-dimensional electron gas in the quantum limit is worked out. The developed method allows both the collisional broadening and the quantum correlations between scattering events to be taken into account. It is an alternativeper se to the Fock approximation for the self-energy approach based on Green’s function formalism. However this approach is free of mathematical difficulties typical to the Fock approximation. Moreover, the developed method is simpler than the Fock approximation from the computational point of view. Using the approximation of stable one-particle quantum states it is proved that the electron scattering processes determine the dependence of electron energy versus its wave vector.
Pronounced improvement in systolic and diastolic ventricular long axis function after treatment with metoprolol
Authors: Sveälv Bente Grüner , Täng Margareta Scharin , Waagstein Finn , Andersson Bert
Published: April 2007

Background:

Although it is well known that left ventricular (LV) function improves after treatment with beta‐blockers in heart failure, little attention has been paid to the effects on LV long axis (LAX) function.

Aims:

To evaluate LV LAX function after treatment with metoprolol, and to assess whether LV LAX contractile reserve could predict future long‐term improvement.

Methods:

Twenty‐four heart failure patients were randomised to metoprolol or placebo for 6 months, followed by 6 months of open treatment with metoprolol. Rest and dobutamine stress echocardiography (DSE) was performed before and after each treatment period.

Results:

After treatment with metoprolol, LV LAX function improved significantly, systolic velocity from 29±8 to 32±15 mm/s, p<0.01 (metoprolol) vs. 28±7 to 28±11 mm/s, ns (placebo); atrioventricular plane fractional shortening (AVP‐FS) from 5.4±2.1 to 7.4±2.7%, p< 0.001 (metoprolol) vs. 5.9±2.1 to 5.8±2.9%, ns (placebo). The improvement in function was maintained during DSE. LV LAX contractile reserve could not predict treatment response; the treatment effect on LV LAX function was significantly greater than the contractile reserve at baseline. The relative improvement in LV LAX function after metoprolol was 38%, compared with a 20% improvement in LV ejection fraction (EF).

Conclusion

A significant improvement in LV LAX function was observed after treatment with metoprolol. AVP‐FS and systolic velocities increased significantly, and to a greater extent than LVEF.
Na+ transport in plants
Authors: Apse Maris P. , Blumwald Eduardo
Published: April 2007

The ability of plants to grow in high NaCl concentrations is associated with the ability of the plants to transport, compartmentalize, extrude, and mobilize Na+ ions. While the influx and efflux at the roots establish the steady state rate of entry of Na+ into the plant, the compartmentation of Na+ into the cell vacuoles and the radial transport of Na+ to the stele and its loading into the xylem establish the homeostatic control of Na+ in the cytosol of the root cells. Removal of Na+ from the transpirational stream, its distribution within the plant and its progressive accumulation in the leaf vacuoles, will determine the ability to deal with the toxic effects of Na+. The aim of this review is to highlight and discuss the recent progress in understanding of Na+ transport in plants.
Induction of labor on request in a resource‐poor setting
Authors: Chigbu C.O. , Ezeome I.V. , Okezie A.O. , Oyefara B.
Published: April 2007

Objective: To determine the prevalence of and reasons for induction of labor on maternal request in a setting where aversion to induction of labor is the norm. Method: Women undergoing induction of labor on maternal request at three maternity centers in Enugu, Nigeria were interviewed by means of pre‐tested self‐administered questionnaires. The outcomes of labor in these women were also compared with those of a control group consisting of women who had induction of labor for medical reasons. Results: The prevalence of induction of labor on maternal request was 7.4%. Maternal convenience was the commonest reason for request induction. The outcomes of labor were similar between the subjects and their controls. Conclusion: Nigerian women are beginning to request induction of labor without medical indications and have comparable outcomes with those who have medical indications. There is need for appropriate regulatory guidelines.
Consumption and portion sizes of tree nuts, peanuts and seeds in the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC) cohorts from 10 European countries
Authors: Jenab Mazda , Sabaté Joan , Slimani Nadia , Ferrari Pietro , Mazuir Mathieu , Casagrande Corinne , Deharveng Genevieve , Tjønneland Anne , Olsen Anja , Overvad Kim , Boutron-Ruault Marie-Christine , Clavel-Chapelon Françoise , Boeing Heiner , Weikert Cornelia , Linseisen Jakob , Rohrmann Sabine , Trichopoulou Antonia , Naska Androniki , Palli Domenico , Sacerdote Carlotta , Tumino Rosario , Mattiello Amalia , Pala Valeria , Bueno-de-Mesquita H. Bas , Ocké Marga C. , Peeters Petra H. , Engeset Dagrun , Skeie Gurie , Jakszyn Paula , Ardanaz Eva , Quirós J. Ramón , Chirlaque Maria Dolores , Martinez Carmen , Amiano Pilar , Berglund Goran , Palmqvist Richard , van Guelpen Bethany , Bingham Sheila , Key Timothy , Riboli Elio
Published: April 2007

Tree nuts, peanuts and seeds are nutrient dense foods whose intake has been shown to be associated with reduced risk of some chronic diseases. They are regularly consumed in European diets either as whole, in spreads or from hidden sources (e.g. commercial products). However, little is known about their intake profiles or differences in consumption between European countries or geographic regions. The objective of this study was to analyse the population mean intake and average portion sizes in subjects reporting intake of nuts and seeds consumed as whole, derived from hidden sources or from spreads. Data was obtained from standardised 24-hour dietary recalls collected from 36 994 subjects in 10 different countries that are part of the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC). Overall, for nuts and seeds consumed as whole, the percentage of subjects reporting intake on the day of the recall was: tree nuts = 4·4%, peanuts = 2·3% and seeds = 1·3%. The data show a clear northern (Sweden: mean intake = 0·15 g/d, average portion size = 15·1 g/d) to southern (Spain: mean intake = 2·99 g/d, average portion size = 34·7 g/d) European gradient of whole tree nut intake. The three most popular tree nuts were walnuts, almonds and hazelnuts, respectively. In general, tree nuts were more widely consumed than peanuts or seeds. In subjects reporting intake, men consumed a significantly higher average portion size of tree nuts (28·5v.23·1 g/d,P<0·01) and peanuts (46·1v.35·1 g/d,P<0·01) per day than women. These data may be useful in devising research initiatives and health policy strategies based on the intake of this food group.