bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fractionation of Micromeres, Mesomeres, and Macromeres of 16‐cell Stage Sea Urchin Embryos by Elutriation*
Authors: Yamaguchi Masaaki , Kinoshita Tsutomu , Ohba Yoshiki
Published: January 2005

A protocol was developed to fractionate micromeres, mesomeres and macromeres of 16‐cell stage sea urchin embryos by elutriation. The purities of these fractions were 99%, 93%, and 90%, and their recoveries were 75%, 31%, and 42%, respectively. Using this method, several hundred milligrams of each blastomere type were obtainable from a single‐pair mating. On culture, micromeres formed spicules in the presence of horse serum, mesomeres developed into ciliated ectodermal vesicles and macromeres formed gastrula‐like or exogastrula‐like embryoids with spicules. To analyze the different structures characteristic of the blastomere lineage, we examined the expressions of marker genes. Cells of the micromere lineage expressed the primary mesenchyme‐specific SM50 gene exclusively, those of the mesomere lineage expressed the ectoderm‐specific arylsulfatase gene strongly, and SM50 and the endoderm‐specific Endo 16 genes weakly, whereas those of the macromere lineage expressed all three marker genes. These results indicate that blastomeres fractionated by elutriation were equivalent to those isolated by hand under a microscope with respect to development and gene expression.
Presumptive Primordial Germ Cells (pPGCs) and PGCs in Tadpoles from UV‐irradiated embryos of Xenopus
Authors: Kotani Minoru , Ogiso Yurie , Ozaki Ritsuko , Ikenishi Kohji , Tsugawa Katsuji
Published: January 2005

In order to determine whether or not tadpoles that once lacked primordial germ cells (PGCs) in the genital ridges and dorsal mesentery as a result of ultraviolet (UV) irradiation subsequently contained germ cells at more advanced stages of larval development, the numbers of presumptive PGCs or PGCs were carefully examined in Xenopus tadpoles at Nieuwkoop and Faber's stage 35/36–52 that developed normally from UV‐irradiated eggs.

No late‐appearing germ cells were observed in almost all the UV‐irradiated tadpoles examined at stages 49–52. This same population had completely lacked PGCs at about stage 46. Moreover, presumptive PGCs (pPGCs) or cells with granular cytoplasm that reacted with a monoclonal antibody specific for the germ plasm of cleaving Xenopus eggs stayed in the central part of the endoderm cell mass in the irradiated tadpoles at stage 35/36, when the majority of those cells were located in the dorsal part of the endoderm in unirradiated controls. Furthermore, in the irradiated embryos pPGCs were demonstrated to decrease in number with development and eventually to disappear in tadpoles at about stage 40. The results strongly suggest that UV irradiation under the conditions used here totally eliminated germline cells from the irradiated animals.
Activation of Xenopus Eggs by an Extract of Cynops Sperm
Authors: Iwao Yasuhiro , Miki Akiko , Kobayashi Michiko , Onitake Kazuo
Published: January 2005

An extract obtained from Cynops sperm induced the activation of both Cynops and Xenopus eggs with accompanying changes in the potential of the egg membrane that were quite similar to those caused by the Cynops sperm. The activation‐inducing properties of the extract were abolished by treatment with proteinase K or by heating (60°C, 15 min) and were associated with a protease activity against peptidyl Arg‐MCA substrates. The activation of Xenopus eggs by the extract was inhibited by those substrates, or by protease inhibitors, aprotinin or leupeptin. The protease activity was localized in the acrosomal region of Cynops sperm. The activation of Xenopus eggs by the extract was prevented when the exterior concentration of Ca2+ions, [Ca2+]0, was reduced to 1.5 μM, but it was enhanced when [Ca2+]0 was increased to 340 μM. The activation of Xenopus eggs by the extract was not affected by positive clamping when [Ca2+]0 was 340 μM. These results suggest that the sperm extract contains a protease that causes an increase in the influx of Ca2+ions that results in voltage‐insensitive activation of the egg.
Immunohistochemical Analysis of the Development of the Floor Plate‐ and Notochord‐Deprived Neural Tube
Authors: Hirano Shigeki , Tanaka Hideaki
Published: January 2005

To analyze the characteristics of neurons and the ectopic fibers that occur in the floor plate‐deprived neural tube, the neural tube was separated ipsilaterally from the floor plate and notochord in chick embryos at H‐H stage 12. After fixation, operated embryos were labeled with several monoclonal antibodies for detecting cell types and defining the regional characteristics of the neural tube. On the operated side, the basement membrane of the neural tube showed characteristics similar to that of the alar plates. Many neurons had axons that extended outside of the neural tube but which lacked the antigen normally associated with motoneurons. Fibers from the dorsal root ganglia also displayed an atypical distribution within the neural tube. These observations suggest that the neurons in the alar plate can develop independently from the influence(s) of the floor plate and/or notochord and send their axons outside of the neural tube despite the fact that neurons developed in the alar plate do not send axons into the periphery during normal development. It is likely that inhibitory mechanisms, which normally function to restrict axonal growth to within the neural tube, either do not develop or are prevented from functioning in the basal plate lacking environment.
Molecular Cloning and Characterization of Protein Kinase C from the Sea Urchin Lytechinus pictus
Authors: Rakow Terese L. , Shen Sheldon S.
Published: January 2005

Protein kinase C (PKC) has been shown to play a role in events involved in fertilization such as activation of the Na+/H+antiporter and an NADPH dependent oxidase. In addition, it is involved in cell fate programming later in development of the sea urchin embryo. In order to further address the role of PKC in sea urchin development, we have screened a Lytechinus pictus ovary tissue cDNA library and identified one clone for sea urchin protein kinase C (suPKC1). This clone encodes a deduced protein with a molecular mass of 72.4 kDa, which shows strong homology to invertebrate and mammalian protein kinase C (PKC) sequences. PKC has been partially purified from eggs of L. pictus. This kinase activity has been shown to be dependent upon phosphatidylserine, diacylglycerol and Ca2+. In agreement with this biochemical data, suPKC1 has a C2 or Ca2+‐binding domain suggesting its activity would be Ca2+‐dependent. Polyclonal antibodies raised against peptides of the suPKC1 sequence recognize an antigen of approximately 71 kDa in DE52 fractions that contain PKC activity; this reactivity is not observed in fractions that lack PKC activity. Using a ribonuclease protection assay, we have demonstrated the presence of suPKC1 message throughout developmental stages of the sea urchin embryo.
In Vitro Control of the Embryonic Form of Xenopus laevis by Activin A: Time and Dose‐Dependent Inducing Properties of Activin‐Treated Ectoderm
Authors: Ariizumi Takashi , Asashima Makoto
Published: January 2005

The inducing properties of activin‐treated ectoderm of Xenopus laevis were examined by the preculture and sandwich culture methods. Presumptive ectodermal sheets of the late blastula were treated with 10–100 ng/ml of activin A and precultured for 0–7 hr in Steinberg's solution. They were then sandwiched between two sheets of ectoderm from other late blastulae. Ectoderm precultured for a short term induced trunk‐tail structures, whereas that precultured for a long term induced head structures in addition to trunk‐tail structures. These time‐dependent changes in inducing properties occurred more rapidly when the concentration of activin A was higher. These results suggest that the activin‐treated ectoderm functioned as a “head organizer” or “trunk‐tail organizer” depending upon the concentration of activin A and the duration of preculture.

To trace the cell lineage of the sandwich explants, activin‐treated ectoderm labeled with fluorescein‐dextran‐amine (FDA) was used in this study. The explants sandwiching the long term‐precultured ectoderm formed head structures equipped with non‐labeled neural tissues (brain and eye) as well as FDA‐labeled mesodermal tissues. These results suggest that the activin‐treated ectoderm mainly differentiates into mesodermal tissues and induces neural tissues as the organizer does in normal development.
Ecology of the fruit spotting bug, Amblypelta lutescens lutescens Distant (Hemiptera: Coreidae) in cashew plantations, with particular reference to the potential for its biological control
Authors: Peng Renkang , Christian Keith , Gibb Karen
Published: January 2005

Abstract  The fruit spotting bug, Amblypelta lutescens lutescens, is one of the principal insect pests of cashews in Australia. Its population dynamics were studied using field observations and long‐term monitoring to find suitable management methods. Observations of bugs reared in netting bags showed a sequence of change in bug‐damage symptoms after 12 h and up to 3 d. Field observations revealed that adults preferred to feed and rest on the shady side of the tree. The number of bugs observed accounted for only 17–35% of the total variability in the number of damaged shoots, suggesting that the number of flushing shoots (leaf, flower or young nuts) with fresh damage symptoms was a more reliable parameter for determining the presence and level of activity of bugs than was a direct estimate of the number of bugs. The green tree ant, Oecophylla smaragdina (F), was the most important factor regulating bug populations. When predation was excluded as a factor, the number of flushing shoots and maximum temperature accounted for 80% of the total variability in the bug damage. Green tree ants should be considered as an important biological control agent for fruit spotting bug, and monitoring should be commenced when cashew trees start to flush (using damaged shoots as indicator).
Asian citrus psyllid, Diaphorina citri Kuwayama (Hemiptera: Psyllidae), and huanglongbing disease do not exist in the Stapleton Station area of the Northern Territory of Australia
Authors: Bellis Glenn , Hollis David , Jacobson Sarah
Published: January 2005

Abstract  A series of specimens of the Asian citrus psyllid, Diaphorina citri, collected from the Northern Territory (NT) in 1915 was recently rediscovered in the Natural History Museum, London. Surveys were conducted in 2002 on suitable hosts in the locality of the 1915 collections to see if the infestation had persisted. These failed to detect either D. citri or the bacterium that it transmits and that causes huanglongbing disease in citrus. It is presumed that D. citri was eradicated fortuitously by the removal of all citrus plants above latitude 19°S during an eradication program for citrus canker in the NT from 1916 until 1922.
Chemical control of fig longicorn, Acalolepta vastator (Newman) (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae), infesting grapevines
Authors: Goodwin Stephen
Published: January 2005

Abstract  Chemical control trials against fig longicorn, Acalolepta vastator, were conducted on grapes in New South Wales between 1989 and 1994 using materials, some registered and others unregistered, for use in grapevines. Emerging adults and newly hatched larvae were exposed to direct and residual contact in a seasonal spraying strategy. Azinphos‐methyl, chlorpyrifos and methidathion initially demonstrated efficacy, but later trials produced variable results with the first two insecticides. Azinphos‐methyl gave superior residual adult control to chlorpyrifos. An urgent need for field control resulted in azinphos‐methyl, chlorpyrifos and methidathion being recommended against A. vastator. Initial industry adoption resulted in an immediate reduction in the pest population, but a subsequent pest resurgence stimulated further study into more effective chemicals. In a trial of some new chemicals, imidacloprid and λ‐cyhalothrin gave excellent control. A new spraying strategy comprising concentrated λ‐cyhalothrin applied twice, the first early in the season and the second post‐vintage gave excellent control. Difficulties with seasonal spraying provide encouragement for further development of this approach.
Australian species of Sinella (Sinella) Brook (Collembola: Entomobryidae)
Authors: Chen Jian‐xiu , Leng Zhangjun , Greenslade Penelope
Published: January 2005

Abstract  The Australian subgenus Sinella (Sinella) Brook is revised. Two species are recognised. A new species from New South Wales and South Australia, Sinella (Sinella) samueli, is described and the widely distributed species Sinella (Sinella) termitum Schött is redescribed based on examination of a specimen from the type series and fresh collections from a wide range of localities in south‐eastern Australia. New patterns of chaetotaxy for the genus are described from these species.
Orbital ectopic glial tissue in relation to medial rectus: a rare entity
Authors: Ghose Supriyo , Balasubramaniam Sankarapuram T , Mahindrakar Avinash , Sharma Vidushi , Sen Seema , Sarkar Chitra , Chhabra Manpreet Singh
Published: January 2005

Heterotopic brain tissue is a rare entity and it is rarer still in the orbit. There have been very few case reports of orbital ectopic glial tissue. The case is described herein of a 3‐month‐old baby presenting with an orbital glial hamartoma inseparable from the medial rectus muscle. The diagnosis was based on the histopathological features and a positive GFAP stain. The features of this case and the previously reported cases are discussed.
Two cases of AlphaCor surgery performed using a small incision technique
Authors: Crawford Geoffrey J , Eguchi Hiroshi , Hicks Celia R
Published: January 2005

The authors have evaluated the AlphaCor artificial cornea (previously Chirila KPro) in human patients since 1998, utilizing an intrastromal technique requiring extensive corneal lamellar dissection and recommending conjunctival flaps in all cases. Recent availability of low‐profile instruments has facilitated a simpler technique, which was first evaluated in two subjects followed for over 1 year prior to recommending the technique for wider adoption. The new technique is presented and illustrated herein, and its benefits and limitations compared with the traditional AlphaCor implantation are discussed.
Effect of p53 codon 72 polymorphism on p53 protein expression in pterygium
Authors: Tsai Yi‐Yu , Chang Kong‐Chao , Lee Huei , Cheng Ya‐Wen , Tsai Fuu‐Jen , Tseng Sung‐Huei , Ao Hei Sio , Chau Pak Sam
Published: January 2005

Background: The p53 protein is expressed in pterygial epithelium, but the reported prevalence of its expression varies widely. Although the cause of this variation is unknown, several factors that may play a role have been investigated, but without conclusive findings. In the present study, the role of p53 codon 72 polymorphism, and that of both age and gender, on p53 expression in pterygium was investigated.

Methods: Pterygium and blood samples were harvested from 55 patients undergoing pterygium surgery. The pterygial specimens were studied immunohistochemically using antibodies against p53 protein. Polymerase chain reaction based analysis was used to resolve the p53 codon 72 polymorphism.

Results: Thirty‐one (56.4%) of the 55 pterygial specimens were positive for p53 staining. The distributions of the three genotypes of the p53 codon 72 polymorphism in the p53‐positive and ‐negative staining groups were not statistically different. The allelic frequency in the two groups was also not statistically different, nor was there any significant difference between both groups with respect to age or gender.

Conclusions: A correlation between p53 codon 72 polymorphism, sex and gender and p53 protein expression was not found.
Serum oxidant/antioxidant balance in exfoliation syndrome
Authors: Yılmaz Ayça , Adıgüzel Ufuk , Tamer Lülüfer , Yıldırım Özlem , Öz Özay , Vatansever Halil , Ercan Bahadır , Değirmenci Ula¸s , Atik Uğur
Published: January 2005

Background: To evaluate the relationship between the serum oxidant–antioxidant balance and the presence of exfoliation syndrome (XFS) in a prospective study.

Methods: The study group comprised 27 cases of XFS. Serum concentrations of myeloperoxidase, malondialdehyde, vitamins A, C and E, catalase and total antioxidant were measured and compared with an independent group by t‐test.

Results: Serum myeloperoxidase, vitamins A and E, catalase and total antioxidant parameters were not statistically different among the groups (P > 0.05). Serum vitamin C concentrations were significantly lower and malondialdehyde concentrations were significantly higher in cases of XFS when compared with the control group (P = 0.008 and P = 0.002, respectively).

Conclusion: An altered oxidant–antioxidant balance may play a role in the pathogenesis of XFS.
Treatments for choroidal and retinal neovascularization: a focus on oligonucleotide therapy and delivery for the regulation of gene function
Authors: Marano Robert J , Rakoczy P Elizabeth
Published: January 2005

Blinding eye diseases caused by neovascularization of the retinal tissue are the leading cause of blindness in Western societies. Current treatments, such as laser photocoagulation, are limited in their effectiveness at halting the progression of angiogenesis and are unable to reduce the number of vessels once they have developed. In addition, although complete blindness is often avoided, vision is often permanently impaired by the treatment itself. Several less invasive treatments are being developed and one of these is oligonucleotide gene therapy in which short stretches of nucleotides are being used as inhibitors of key, metabolic processes involved in angiogenesis. Combined with this is the development of new and improved nucleotide chemistries aimed at overcoming many of the problems associated with oligonucleotide gene therapy, such as poor longevity because of endonuclease activity. In addition, advancements in delivery systems have further enhanced the efficacy of oligonucleotide gene therapy by increasing cellular penetration and localizing delivery to specific cell types and organs.
Experimental study of the killing effects of oxymatrine on human colon cancer cell line SW1116
Authors: ZOU Jian , RAN Zhi Hua , XU Qi , XIAO Shu Dong
Published: January 2005

OBJECTIVE:  To study the killing effects of oxymatrine (OM) on a human colon cancer cell line, SW1116, and evaluate its antineoplastic mechanism.

METHODS:  Methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium (MTT) analysis, flow cytometry, polymerase chain reaction (PCR)‐enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and RT‐PCR methods were used respectively to determine the killing effects of OM and its influence on cell cycle distribution, telomerase activity and the expressions of hTERT, c‐myc, p53 and mad1 in SW1116 cells.

RESULTS:  Oxymatrine exhibited dose‐dependent killing effects on SW1116 cells and induced G1/G0‐phase arrest. It suppressed the telomerase activity of the cells in a dose‐ and time‐dependent manner. After OM administration, the expression of hTERT in the SW1116 cells decreased, those of p53 and mad1 increased, and the expression of c‐myc was unchanged.

CONCLUSIONS:  Oxymatrine has dose‐dependent killing effects on SW1116 cells and its antineoplastic activity might be attributed to inhibition of telomerase activity by means of its effects on hTERT and the upstream regulating genes.
Inflammatory bowel disease pathogenesis: therapeutic implications
Authors: FIOCCHI Claudio
Published: January 2005

The pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is complex, involving environmental, genetic, microbial, and immune factors. Therefore, treatment should target components that either predispose to or mediate the chronic inflammatory response of IBD. At the moment it is assumed that all components are necessary to have the typical manifestations of IBD but, in reality, it is unclear to what extent each factor contributes to the disease process, and whether some are more important than others. In addition, some factors are not practical targets; for example, environmental factors are poorly defined, too numerous, and require changes that cannot be implemented by the physician or the patient alone. The same is true for genetic factors that are still not amenable to therapeutic manipulations for technical and ethical reasons. This leaves microbial and immune factors as the two categories that can be selected for therapeutic intervention and where all current treatments are focused. The commensal gut flora can be qualitatively or quantitatively modified with antibiotics, probiotics, or diet, and a better characterization of enteric bacteria strains should help greatly in developing more effective therapies. Most current drugs are focused on inhibiting pro‐inflammatory molecules produced by immune cells, including biological agents that block specific cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor‐alpha. It is anticipated that combination therapies targeting multiple pathogenic components will prove more effective than those blocking single components of IBD pathogenesis.
Acute management of a cyanotic episode in an infant after a Norwood procedure
Authors: Ginz Hans F. , Stotz Martin , Erb Thomas O. , Ummenhofer Wolfgang C.
Published: January 2005

In infants with a Norwood stage I reconstruction, the respiratory management to direct pulmonary to systemic blood flow ratio is of critical importance. Disturbance of this delicate blood‐flow balance can occur causing rapid deterioration of the infant's condition requiring urgent interventions. However, the emergency staff personnel that are generally the first to be called may not be familiar with these patients’ complex pathophysiology. We report on the resuscitation of an infant with a Norwood circulation who developed deep central cyanosis in an out‐of‐hospital environment. The infant deteriorated because of stenoses in both the neoaortic arch and the aortopulmonary shunt. Emergency therapy, especially for out‐of‐hospital treatment, can only consist of basic measures, which are discussed.
Caudal additives for postoperative pain management in children: S(+)‐ketamine and neostigmine
Authors: Almenrader N. , Passariello M. , D'amico G. , Haiberger R. , Pietropaoli P.
Published: January 2005

Background:  The aim of the present pilot study was to compare the analgesic efficacy of S(+)‐ketamine either alone or in combination with neostigmine for caudal blockade in pediatric surgery.

Methods:  A total of 40 children were randomly assigned to receive after induction of general anesthesia either caudal S(+)‐ketamine 1 mg·kg−1 (group K, n = 20) or caudal S (+)‐ketamine 0.5 mg·kg−1 plus neostigmine 10 μg·kg−1 (group KN, n = 20). Anesthesia was maintained with sevoflurane and a laryngeal mask airway (LMATM), no additional analgesics were administered. Postoperative pain and sedation were assessed by the Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Pain Score and Ramsay scale for 24 h.

Results:  No statistical difference in duration of analgesia and sedation was found. Mean duration of postoperative analgesia was 18 ± 9.4 h in group K and 21.8 ± 6.7 h in group KN. There was a significantly higher incidence of postoperative vomiting after administration of caudal ketamine with neostigmine (30% group KN Vs 0% group K; P < 0.05).

Conclusions:  This pilot study demonstrates equianalgesic effects on postoperative pain relief in children with both caudal S(+)‐ketamine 1 mg·kg−1 and caudal S(+)‐ketamine 0.5 mg·kg−1 plus neostigmine 10 μg·kg−1. Further studies are required to confirm adoption of caudal neostigmine into routine clinical practice.
Automatic atrial tachycardia in an infant following general anesthesia
Authors: Tripi Paul A. , Dorostkar Parvin
Published: January 2005

Automatic atrial tachycardia (AAT) is a rare supraventricular tachyarrhythmia (<10% of all supraventricular tachycardias), which can present in infants or young children. There are no published reports of AAT occurring in an infant or child following noncardiac surgery and general anesthesia. This report describes the management of a previously healthy 5‐month‐old infant, who developed AAT in the postanesthesia care unit following an uneventful circumcision under general anesthesia.
Intravenous patient‐controlled analgesia using remifentanil in a child with Axenfeld‐Rieger syndrome*
Authors: Yalcin Cok Oya , Ozkose Zerrin , Atabekoglu Serap , Yardim Sahin
Published: January 2005

Patient‐controlled analgesia (PCA) using intravenous opioids is increasing in popularity for children aged 5 years and over. To our knowledge there are no reports on the use of PCA in children with remifentanil in the postoperative period. We report successful use of remifentanil for intravenous (IV) PCA in a child scheduled for suprasellar arachnoid cystectomy with Axenfeld–Rieger syndrome who needed good postoperative analgesia because of accompanying serious problems.
Near‐infrared spectroscopic cerebral oxygenation reading in neonates and infants is associated with central venous oxygen saturation
Authors: WEISS MARKUS , DULLENKOPF ALEXANDER , KOLAROVA ANNA , SCHULZ GABRIELE , FREY BERNHARD , BAENZIGER OSKAR
Published: January 2005

Background:  The aim of the study was to elucidate easily determinable laboratory and vital parameters in clinical practice to explain variability of near‐infrared spectroscopic cerebral oxygenation readings in critically ill newborns and infants using the NIRO 300 spectrometer.

Methods:  Near‐infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) cerebral tissue oxygenation index (cTOI) was measured on the forehead of critically ill neonates and infants with existing arterial and/or central venous access. We recorded patient characteristics and simultaneously determined sedation state, hemodynamic, respiratory and laboratory data, such as arterial blood gas analysis, electrolytes, hemoglobin and arterial lactate concentration, blood glucose and central venous oxygen saturation. Data were compared using linear, multiple and forward stepwise regression analysis (P < 0.05).

Results:  A total of 155 neonates and infants aged from 0 to 365 days (median 12 days) were studied. cerebral tissue oxygenation index (cTOI) values ranged from 32.1 to 91.0% (60.5 ± 11.5%). Simple linear regression analysis revealed significant associations between cTOI and arterial oxygen saturation (r = 0.254, P = 0.001), transcutaneously measured arterial oxygen saturation (r = 0.320, P ≤ 0.0001), central venous oxygen saturation (r = 0.489, P < 0.0001), arteriovenous oxygen extraction (r = 0.445, P < 0.0001) and presence of a cardiac shunt (r = 0.250, P = 0.024). Multiple regression analysis and forward stepwise regression revealed two independent, significant predictors for cTOI, namely SvO2 (P < 0.0001) and presence or absence of a cardiac shunt (P = 0.003). SvO2 alone explained 23.9% of the variability of cTOI. The addition of the variable ‘cardiac shunt’ improved the model to 33%.

Conclusions:  Based on our study results cerebral tissue oxygenation readings by the NIRO 300 near‐infrared spectrometer is influenced by central venous oxygen saturation, which partially explains intersubject variability of NIRS cerebral oxygenation readings.
Intravenous ketamine sedation for painful oncology procedures
Authors: EVANS DAN , TURNHAM LUCY , BARBOUR KATHRYN , KOBE JEFF , WILSON LAURA , VANDEBEEK CHRISTINE , J. MONTGOMERY CAROLYNE , ROGERS PAUL
Published: January 2005

Background: The aim of the study was to determine the efficacy and adverse effects of intravenous (i.v.) ketamine sedation administered by nonanesthetist physicians for painful procedures.

Methods: A single‐agent, procedural sedation protocol using titrated doses of ketamine i.v. (maximum 2 mg·kg−1) was conducted in outpatient pediatric oncology patients undergoing lumbar puncture (LP), bone marrow biopsy/aspiration (BMBx/A) or combination (LP/BMBx/A) in a tertiary care setting. The efficacy of analgesia and sedation (ability to perform the procedure), procedure duration, recovery time and the occurrence of adverse events are described.

Results: Fifty‐eight subjects of a median age of 5 years (1–13) and median weight of 20 kg (10.5–68) underwent 119 sedations. An LP was performed in 73% of cases, a BMBx/A in 13% and LP/BMBx/A in 13%. Efficacy was 100% and the mean dose of ketamine was 1.3 mg·kg−1(0.4). The mean duration of the procedure was 6.6 min (4.2) and the recovery time was 11 min (4–45). Two subjects (1.7%) had a hypoxemia (SpO2of <94%). No major airway complications occurred. The prevalence of hypertension (systolic > 20% at 5 min) was 54%. The median pain visual analogue score (VAS) for an observer was 0 (range 0–3) and caregiver was 0 (range 0–4). The median VAS for satisfaction (observer) was 10 (range 7–10) and caregiver VAS was also 10 (range 5–10). At 24 h after discharge, the incidence of bad dreams was 3.3%; vomiting, 10.8%; and abnormal behavior, 4.2%.

Conclusion: Ketamine i.v. up to 2 mg·kg−1is an effective sedative for oncology procedures using a defined protocol.
Green's Rights Recognition Thesis and Moral Internalism
Authors: Gaus Gerald F.
Published: January 2005

T. H. Green claimed that ‘rights are made by recognition. There is no right but thinking makes it so’. This ‘rights recognition thesis’ is widely rejected. I argue in this article that, so far from being an idiosyncratic doctrine of 19th-century British Idealism, the rights recognition thesis implies a compelling conception of rights, and one that, surprisingly, is more in tune with contemporary meta-ethics than are many contemporary rights theories. Green's moral theory, I argue, is a form of the widely embraced doctrine of ‘moral internalism’. Such internalism, conjoined with a generally embraced analysis of rights, leads to some version of the rights recognition thesis.
Defending Bosanquet's Philosophical Theory of the State: A Reassessment of the ‘Bosanquet-Hobhouse Controversy’
Authors: Panagakou Stamatoula
Published: January 2005

This article focuses on the ‘Bosanquet-Hobhouse controversy’ and defends Bosanquet's political philosophy against Hobhouse's criticisms. A thorough textual investigation of The Philosophical Theory of the State (supported by references to the Gifford Lectures) demonstrates what Bosanquet actually wrote and rectifies Hobhouse's erroneous account of Bosanquet's philosophy. My analysis of the principles of self-transcendence and of the dialectic of the finite-infinite clarifies the nature and content of the logico-metaphysical assumptions underlying Bosanquet's philosophical theory of the state. I show that Hobhouse misunderstood, misinterpreted and misrepresented Bosanquet's views. I elucidate Bosanquet's definition of the state, and suggest that his views should be understood in the conceptual context of philosophical Idealism. This article defends Bosanquet's idea of the state as the instantiation of ethical life, and explores the logical interdependence between self-transcendence and the attainment of the best life in the context of the state.
Patrolling the Boundaries of Politics: Collingwood, Political Analysis and Political Action
Authors: Connelly James
Published: January 2005

Debates over whether a certain thing is (or ought to be) construed as ‘political’ are frequent and frequently interminable. This article argues that approaches to the proper understanding, scope and application of political concepts should recognise that they are both normative and contestable and also that, because they are employed by both theorist and theorised, they can never be sharply defined. It is argued that many debates achieve no theoretical closure because the terms of discussion are confined by a certain understanding of concepts as empirical and classificatory. This article examines these issues by using the work of R.G. Collingwood to suggest that conceptual overlap is inevitable and also that the theoretical analysis of politics should distinguish between the empirical and the theoretical phase of the concept. Philosophically, politics is not a separate sphere of activity but a dimension of all activity, and the correct way to understand politics is to understand it as activity, not as substance. For certain empirical purposes we categorise some things as political and others as non-political, but in doing so we should be careful whether we are doing so philosophically, historically or through stipulative definition. This article does not seek to cover all ramifications of the debate or its later literature, but to suggest that Collingwood's approach has something to contribute to the analysis of political concepts.
Reduced Elastic Mismatch Achieved by Interposing Vein Cuff in Expanded Polytetrafluoroethylene Femoral Bypass Decreases Intimal Hyperplasia
Authors: Cabrera Fischer Edmundo I. , Santana Daniel Bia , Cassanello Guillermo L. , Zócalo Yanina , Crawford Eduardo V. , Casas Ricardo F. , Armentano Ricardo L.
Published: January 2005

Abstract:  Background: Wall shear stress, arterial wall elasticity, and intimal hyperplasia are related. The aim of this study was to investigate the in vitro mechanical properties of ovine femoral arteries, jugular veins, and expanded polytetrafluoroethylene conduits, and to evaluate postoperative intimal hyperplasia. Methods: Arterial, venous, and ePTFE mechanical properties were studied in a circulating loop at isobaric systemic pressures. Histological studies of intimal hyperplasia in ePTFE‐bypassed femoral arteries with and without Miller cuffs were performed at the 40th and 120th day. Results: The incremental elastic modulus of veins was significantly higher than that of femoral arteries (P < 0.05), but significantly lower than that of ePTFE graft conduits (P < 0.05). Intimal hyperplasia was significantly less in Miller‐cuff‐bypassed arteries both at the 40th and 120th day (P < 0.01). Conclusions: The Miller cuff acts as a mechanical adapter enhancing wall shear stress and the elastic matching between ePTFE and the native artery, resulting in an early decrease of intimal hyperplasia.
An Implantable Subcutaneous Glucose Sensor Array in Ketosis‐prone Rats: Closed Loop Glycemic Control
Authors: Ward W. Kenneth , Wood Michael D. , Casey Heather M. , Quinn Matthew J. , Federiuk Isaac F.
Published: January 2005

Abstract:  A closed loop system of diabetes control would minimize hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia. We therefore implanted and tested a subcutaneous amperometric glucose sensor array in alloxan‐diabetic rats. Each array employed four sensing units, the outputs of which were processed in real time to yield a unified signal. We utilized a gain‐scheduled insulin control algorithm which rapidly reduced insulin delivery as glucose concentration declined. Such a system was generally effective in controlling glycemia and the degree of lag between blood glucose and the sensor signal was usually 3–8 min. After prolonged implantation, this lag was sometimes longer, which led to impairment of sensor accuracy. Using a prospective two‐point calibration method, sensor accuracy and closed loop control were good. A revised algorithm yielded better glycemic control than the initial algorithm did. Future research needs to further improve calibration methods and reduce foreign body fibrosis in order to avoid a time‐related increase  in  lag  duration.
Comparison of Standard and Artificial Neural Network Estimators of Hemodialysis Adequacy
Authors: Fernández Elmer Andrés , Valtuille Rodolfo , Presedo Jesus Rodriguez , Willshaw Peter
Published: January 2005

Abstract:  The National Kidney Foundation and the European Renal Association recommend routine measurement of hemodialysis (HD) dose and have set standards for adequacy of treatment. We compare the results of five methods for HD dose estimation, classifying each result as adequate or inadequate on the basis of equilibrated (eq) Urea Reduction Ratio (URReq) ≥ 65% or Kt/Veq ≥ 1.2, to assess the accuracy of each method as a diagnostic tool. Data from 113 patients from two different dialysis units were analyzed. Equilibrated postdialysis blood urea was measured 60 min after each hemodialysis session to calculate URReq and Kt/Veq, considered as gold standard indexes (GSI). URR and Kt/V were estimated by using the Smye formula, an artificial neural network (ANN), modified URR, the second generation Kt/V Daugirdas formula, and standard indexes based on postdialysis urea, then compared to the GSI. For URR, best estimator was ANN (error rate: ER% = 12.70), followed by modified URR (ER% = 17.46%), the Smye (ER% = 22.22), and standard URR (ER% = 23.81). For Kt/V, the Daugirdas equation and the ANN were similar (ER% = 9.52 and 11.11). The single‐pool Kt/V (Kt/Vsp) ≥ 1.4 (ERA recommended) produced an ER% = 7.94 and a false positive rate (FPR%) equal to that shown by the ANN (FPR% = 3.17). According to the current threshold limits for HD dose adequacy, the ANN was a reliable and accurate tool for URR monitoring, better than the Smye and the modified URR methods. The use of the ANN urea estimation yields accurate results when used to calculate Kt/V. The Kt/Vsp with an adequacy threshold of 1.4 is a superior approach for HD adequacy monitoring, suggesting that the current adequacy limits should be reviewed for both URR and Kt/V.
TNF Alpha−308 Genotype and Renin–Angiotensin System in Hemodialysis Patients: An Effect on Inflammatory Cytokine Levels?
Authors: Genctoy Gultekin , Altun Bulent , Alper Kiykim Ahmet , Arici Mustafa , Erdem Yunus , Çağlar Meltem , Yasavul Ünal , Turgan Çetin , Çağlar Şali
Published: January 2005

Abstract:  Background: Renin–angiotensin system (RAS) was suggested to modulate inflammatory cytokine production. Angiotensin II was consistently shown to increase production of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF‐α). However, inflammatory cytokines and RAS were modulated by genetic polymorphisms such as TNF‐α−308 G > A and angiotensin‐converting enzyme (ACE) I/D gene polymorphisms. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of ACE and TNF‐α genotypes on inflammatory cytokines in hemodialysis (HD) patients. Methods: ACE I/D and TNF‐α−308 G > A genotypes, pre‐ and postdialysis plasma renin activity (PRA), serum ACE, interleukin‐1 beta (IL‐1β), and TNF‐α levels were determined in 22 HD patients. Results: Predialysis serum ACE activity is correlated with TNF‐α (r = 0.63; P = 0.01), and PRA was correlated with IL‐1β levels (r = 0.49; P = 0.02). Pre/postdialysis IL‐1β and TNF‐α were similar in DD and II/ID ACE genotypes. Predialysis TNF‐α and IL‐1β (32.4 ± 5; 35.1 ± 4.2 vs. 28.1 ± 3.7; 26.5 ± 6.2 pg/mL; P < 0.05) and postdialysis TNF‐α levels (30.4 ± 1.4 vs. 28.4 ± 0.82 pg/mL; P < 0.05) were significantly higher in TNF1/2 than TNF1/1 patients. Conclusion: ACE and TNF‐α−308 G > A (1/2) gene polymorphisms may contribute to modulation of proinflammatory cytokine production and hence chronic inflammation in HD patients.
A Cost‐Benefit Analysis of External Hip Protectors in the Nursing Home Setting
Authors: Honkanen Lisa A. , Schackman Bruce R. , Mushlin Alvin I. , Lachs Mark S.
Published: January 2005

Objectives:To estimate potential cost savings generated by a program of hip protectors in the nursing home from a Medicare perspective.

Design:A state‐transition Markov model considering short‐term and long‐term outcomes of hip protectors for a hypothetical nursing home population, stratified by age, sex, and functional status. Costs, transition probabilities between health states, and estimates of hip protectors' effectiveness were derived from published secondary data.

Setting:Nursing home facilities in the United States.

Participants:Hypothetical cohort of permanent nursing home residents aged 65 and older without a previous hip fracture.

Intervention:Program of hip protectors reimbursed by Medicare.

Measurements:Number of fractures, life years, and dollars saved.

Results:Three pairs of hip protectors replaced annually would result in a weighted average lifetime absolute risk reduction for hip fracture of 8.5%, with net lifetime savings to Medicare of $223 per resident. When the annual cost of hip protectors is less than $151 per person, relative risk of fracture is less than or equal to 0.65 with hip protectors, or adherence is greater than 42%, hip protectors are cost saving to Medicare over a wide range of assumptions. Extrapolating these results to the estimated population of U.S. nursing home residents without a previous hip fracture, Medicare could save $136 million in the first year of a hip‐protector reimbursement program.

Conclusion:From a Medicare perspective, hip protectors are a cost‐saving intervention in the nursing home setting when hip protector effectiveness is less than or equal to 0.65 over the remaining lifetime of subjects.
Blood Pressure Response to Strength Training May Be Influenced by Angiotensinogen A–20C and Angiotensin II Type I Receptor A1166C Genotypes in Older Men and Women
Authors: Delmonico Matthew J. , Ferrell Robert E. , Meerasahib Anish , Martel Greg F. , Roth Stephen M. , Kostek Matthew C. , Hurley Ben F.
Published: January 2005

Objectives: To determine the influence of angiotensinogen (AGT) A–20C, M235 T, and angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AGTR1) A1166C genotypes on resting blood pressure (BP) response to strength training (ST) in older men and women.

Design: Prospective intervention study with retrospective genotyping.

Setting: University of Maryland Exercise Physiology Laboratory.

Participants: Seventy sedentary, healthy older men (n=34) and women (n=36).

Intervention: Approximately 23 weeks of ST performed 3 days per week.

Measurements: Resting BP was measured on six separate occasions before and after ST for each subject. AGT and AGTR1 genotyping was performed retrospectively from each subject's genomic deoxyribonucleic acid.

Results: Systolic BP decreased in C‐allele carriers at the AGT A–20C locus with ST (122±1 to 116±2 mmHg, P<.05), which was significantly greater than the decrease in the A homozygotes (126±1 to 123±1 mmHg, P<.05). At the AGTR1 A1166C locus, diastolic BP decreased to a greater extent in the C‐allele carriers (76±1 to 70±2 mmHg, P<.05) than in the A homozygotes (75±1 to 72±1 mmHg, P<.05).

Conclusion: The AGT A–20C and AGTR1 A1166C genotypes may influence resting BP response to ST, such that C‐allele carriers at each of these loci reduce their resting BP in response to ST to a greater extent than A homozygotes.
A 5‐Year Prospective Assessment of the Risk Associated with Individual Benzodiazepines and Doses in New Elderly Users
Authors: Tamblyn Robyn , Abrahamowicz Michal , Berger Roxane du , McLeod Peter , Bartlett Gillian
Published: January 2005

Objectives:To determine the risk of injury associated with the new use of individual benzodiazepines and dosage regimens in the elderly.

Design:Prospective database cohort study with 5 years of follow‐up.

Setting:Quebec, Canada.

Participants:Two hundred fifty‐three thousand two hundred forty‐four persons aged 65 and older who were nonusers of benzodiazepines in the year before follow‐up.

Measurements:Population‐based hospitalization and prescription and medical services claims databases were used to compare the risk of injury during periods of benzodiazepine use with those of nonuse. Periods of use were measured for 10 insured benzodiazepines by drug and dose as time‐dependent covariates. Injury was defined as the first occurrence of a nonvertebral fracture, soft‐tissue injury, or accident‐related hospital admission. Patient age, sex, previous injury history, concomitant medication use, and comorbidity were measured as fixed and time‐dependent confounders. Cox proportional hazards models were used to estimate the risk of injury with benzodiazepine use and to determine the extent to which patient characteristics, differences in dosage, or in the effect of increasing dosage for individual drugs explained differences between drugs.

Results:More than one‐quarter (27.6%) of 253,244 elderly were dispensed at least one prescription for a benzodiazepine, and 17.7% of elderly were treated for at least one injury during follow‐up, of which fractures were the most common. Patient characteristics, systematic differences in the risk of injury in elderly prescribed different benzodiazepines, and differences in dosage prescribed for individual drugs confounded the risk of injury with benzodiazepine use. The risk of injury with increasing dosage varied by drug from a hazard ratio of 0.92 (95% confidence interval (CI)=0.60, 1.42) for alprazolam to 2.20 (95% CI=1.39, 3.47) for flurazepam per 1 standardized adult dose increase.

Conclusion:The risk of injury varied by benzodiazepine, independent of half‐life, as did the risk associated with increasing dosage for individual products. Higher doses of oxazepam, flurazepam, and chlordiazepoxide are associated with the greatest risk of injury in the elderly.
Making Difficult Decisions About Hospice Enrollment: What Do Patients and Families Want to Know?
Authors: Casarett David , Crowley Roxane , Stevenson Carolyn , Xie Sharon , Teno Joan
Published: January 2005

Objectives: To define patients' and families' priorities for information about hospice.

Design: Cross‐sectional interview.

Setting: Urban, not‐for‐profit, Medicare‐certified hospice.

Participants: Patients and families recruited from consecutive hospice information visits.

Measurements: Understanding of hospice, assessment of the relative importance of eight categories of information (by direct rating and ranking tasks), and nurse observation of shared decision making between patient and family (5‐point scale).

Results: Interviews were conducted with 237 patients and families at a hospice information visit. Forty percent (n=94) said that they knew anything about hospice. Most often, family members made the enrollment decision (n=132, 57%). Of the eight categories of information, patients and families placed the greatest importance on visit frequency (n=143, 60%), payment for hospice (n=140, 59%), and the practical help that hospice provides (n=123, 52%). Principal component factor analysis reduced the categories to three distinct factors reflecting concerns related to impending death, practical support, and changes from established patterns of care.

Conclusion: Most patients and families who are referred for a hospice information visit know little about hospice and have substantial information needs. Referring physicians and hospice teams may be able to better support hospice enrollment decisions by anticipating common priorities for information.