bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neurosensory disturbances following bone harvesting in the symphysis: a prospective clinical study
Authors: Von Arx Thomas , Häfliger Jörg , Chappuis Vivianne
Published: August 2005

Objective: To analyse the occurrence and resolution of neurosensory disturbances following bone harvesting from the symphysis.

Material and methods: In 30 patients, skin sensitivity of the chin/lower lip area and pulp sensitivity of all mandibular anterior teeth were assessed preoperatively, at the time of suture removal, at 6 and 12 months postoperatively. In addition, bone defect dimensions of the donor site were measured intraoperatively, and distances from defect margins to adjacent anatomical structures, such as root apices, mental foramen and inferior border of mandible, were assessed postoperatively on a panoramic radiograph.

Results: Pulp sensitivity changes were found in 18.6% of adjacent teeth at the time of suture removal. At the 6‐month follow‐up, 8.1% of teeth, and at the 12‐month re‐examination, 0.6% of teeth presented with altered sensitivity. This decrease over time of the number of affected teeth per patients with sensitivity changes was significant (P=2.35e−007). Lower lip hypaesthesia was only observed in one patient postoperatively, with complete resolution at the 6‐month follow‐up. Radiographic measurements of distances between donor defect and adjacent anatomical structures only reached significant difference for one parameter in patients with sensitivity changes compared with patients without sensitivity changes.

Conclusions: Patients must be informed about possible transient and long‐term sensitivity changes of adjacent teeth and soft tissues following bone harvesting from the chin. However, by correctly placing mucoperiosteal incisions and bone cuts, the risk of sensitivity changes can be minimized.
UV‐Hauttumoren
Authors: Hönigsmann Herbert , Diepgen Thomas L.
Published: August 2005

Diese Übersicht behandelt die Epidemiologie und pathogenetische Aspekte von UV‐induzierten bösartigen Hauttumoren (Basaliom, Plattenepithelkarzinom und Melanom) an Hand der aktuellen Literatur. Während das gegenwärtige Wissen über das Plattenepithelkarzinom, vor allem aus experimentellen Ergebnissen, wesentliche Rückschlüsse über seine Entstehung gestattet, sind die Verhältnisse bei Basaliom und Melanom noch nicht eindeutig geklärt, da für diese beiden Tumoren keine adäquaten Tiermodelle existieren, die dem biologischen Verhalten beim Menschen genau entsprechen. Der zweifellos sichere Zusammenhang mit Sonnenexposition basiert vorwiegend auf der Extrapolation epidemiologischer Daten.
Nanoscale Motion Control With a Compact Minimum-Actuator Magnetic Levitator
Authors: Gu Jie , Kim Won-jong , Verma Shobhit
Published: August 2005

This paper presents a novel magnetically levitated (maglev) stage developed to meet the ever-increasing precise positioning requirements in nanotechnology. This magnetic levitator has 6 independent linear actuators necessary and sufficient to generate all 6-degree-of-freedom (6-DOF) motions. This minimum-actuator design concept led to a compact, 200 g lightweight moving part and the power consumption less than of a Watt, thereby reducing the thermal-expansion error drastically. The analysis and sizing of the magnetic linear actuators and the working principle of the maglev stage are presented. We designed and implemented stabilizing controllers for 6-DOF motion control with the dynamic model based on the actuator analysis. Test results showed nanoscale step responses in all six axes with 2nmrms horizontal position noise. A noise propagation model and analysis identified the capacitance sensor noise and the floor vibration as the dominant noise sources in the vertical and horizontal dynamics, respectively. A comparison of noise performances with controllers closed at 25, 65, and 90 Hz crossover frequencies illustrated how the selection of the control bandwidth should be made for nanopositioning. Experimental results including a 250μm step response, sinusoidal and square-wave trajectories, and spherical motion generation demonstrated the three-dimensional (3D) nanoscale motion-control capability of this minimum-actuator magnetic levitator. Potential applications of this maglev stage include manufacture of nanoscale structures, atomic-level manipulation, assembly and packaging of microparts, vibration isolation for delicate instruments, and seismic motion detection.
Modal Simulation and Testing of a Micro-Manipulator
Authors: Lai Yongjun , Kujath Marek , Hubbard Ted
Published: August 2005

A micro-machined manipulator with three kinematic degrees-of-freedom (DOF): x, y, and φ is presented. The manipulator is driven by three thermal actuators. A six DOF discrete spring-mass model of the compliant mechanism is developed which manifests the dynamic properties of the device. Numerical simulations are compared with experimental results.
Disk Wobble Control in Optical Disk Drives
Authors: Liu Jieng-Jang , Yang Yee-Pien
Published: August 2005

Focusing errors in optical disk drives comprise significant periodic components and an eventful dc content. The dc component is not explicitly taken into account in many periodic compensation methods. This paper investigates the design of adaptive feedforward cancellation (AFC) and frequency adaptive control technique (FACT) algorithms for periodic components as well as dc disturbance compensation. Both algorithms are applied as a plug-in module to an optical disk drive for demonstrating their facility in the reduction of focusing errors. By making good use of frequency sampling filter (FSF), the real-time harmonic identification can be fulfilled in FACT method for various playing speeds. Analysis and experimental results show that FACT has better properties than AFC in terms of dc cancellation and harmonic independence. It is also shown that AFC fails when both the dc content and harmonics are compensated simultaneously.
Extensive Diversity of Ig-Superfamily Proteins in the Immune System of Insects
Authors: Watson Fiona L. , Püttmann-Holgado Roland , Thomas Franziska , Lamar David L. , Hughes Michael , Kondo Masahiro , Rebel Vivienne I. , Schmucker Dietmar
Published: August 2005

The extensive somatic diversification of immune receptors is a hallmark of higher vertebrates. However, whether molecular diversity contributes to immune protection in invertebrates is unknown. We present evidence that
Drosophila
immune-competent cells have the potential to express more than 18,000 isoforms of the immunoglobulin (Ig)-superfamily receptor Down syndrome cell adhesion molecule (Dscam). Secreted protein isoforms of Dscam were detected in the hemolymph, and hemocyte-specific loss of Dscam impaired the efficiency of phagocytic uptake of bacteria, possibly due to reduced bacterial binding. Importantly, the molecular diversity of
Dscam
transcripts generated through a mechanism of alternative splicing is highly conserved across major insect orders, suggesting an unsuspected molecular complexity of the innate immune system of insects.
Incomplete Activation of Macrophage Apoptosis during Intracellular Replication of
Legionella pneumophila
Authors: Abu-Zant Alaeddin , Santic Marina , Molmeret Maelle , Jones Snake , Helbig Jürgen , Abu Kwaik Yousef
Published: August 2005

The ability of the intracellular bacterium
Legionella pneumophila
to cause disease is totally dependent on its ability to modulate the biogenesis of its phagosome and to replicate within alveolar cells. Upon invasion,
L. pneumophila
activates caspase-3 in macrophages, monocytes, and alveolar epithelial cells in a Dot/Icm-dependent manner that is independent of the extrinsic or intrinsic pathway of apoptosis, suggesting a novel mechanism of caspase-3 activation by this intracellular pathogen. We have shown that the inhibition of caspase-3 prior to infection results in altered biogenesis of the
L. pneumophila
-containing phagosome and in an inhibition of intracellular replication. In this report, we show that the preactivation of caspase-3 prior to infection does not rescue the intracellular replication of
L. pneumophila icmS
,
icmR
, and
icmQ
mutant strains. Interestingly, preactivation of caspase-3 through the intrinsic and extrinsic pathways of apoptosis in both human and mouse macrophages inhibits intracellular replication of the parental stain of
L. pneumophila
. Using single-cell analysis, we show that intracellular
L. pneumophila
induces a robust activation of caspase-3 during exponential replication. Surprisingly, despite this robust activation of caspase-3 in the infected cell, the host cell does not undergo apoptosis until late stages of infection. In sharp contrast, the activation of caspase-3 by apoptosis-inducing agents occurs concomitantly with the apoptotic death of all cells that exhibit caspase-3 activation. It is only at a later stage of infection, and concomitant with the termination of intracellular replication, that the
L. pneumophila
-infected cells undergo apoptotic death. We conclude that although a robust activation of caspase-3 is exhibited throughout the exponential intracellular replication of
L. pneumophila
, apoptotic cell death is not executed until late stages of the infection, concomitant with the termination of intracellular replication.
Characterization of MtsR, a New Metal Regulator in Group A Streptococcus, Involved in Iron Acquisition and Virulence
Authors: Bates Christopher S. , Toukoki Chadia , Neely Melody N. , Eichenbaum Zehava
Published: August 2005

Group A streptococcus (GAS) is a common pathogen of the human skin and mucosal surfaces capable of producing a variety of diseases. In this study, we investigated regulation of iron uptake in GAS and the role of a putative transcriptional regulator named MtsR (for Mts repressor) with homology to the DtxR family of metal-dependent regulatory proteins. An
mtsR
mutant was constructed in NZ131 (M49 serotype) and analyzed. Western blot and RNA analysis showed that
mtsR
inactivation results in constitutive transcription of the
sia
(streptococcal iron acquisition) operon, which was negatively regulated by iron in the parent strain. A recombinant MtsR with C-terminal His
6
tag fusion (rMtsR) was cloned and purified. Electrophoretic mobility gel shift assays demonstrated that rMtsR specifically binds to the
sia
promoter region in an iron- and manganese-dependent manner. Together, these observations indicate that MtsR directly represses the
sia
operon during cell growth under conditions of high metal levels. Consistent with deregulation of iron uptake, the
mtsR
mutant is hypersensitive to streptonigrin and hydrogen peroxide, and
55
Fe uptake assays demonstrate that it accumulates 80% ± 22.5% more iron than the wild-type strain during growth in complete medium. Studies with a zebrafish infection model revealed that the
mtsR
mutant is attenuated for virulence in both the intramuscular and the intraperitoneal routes. In conclusion, MtsR, a new regulatory protein in GAS, controls iron homeostasis and has a role in disease production.
Neisseria meningitidis
Lactate Permease Is Required for Nasopharyngeal Colonization
Authors: Exley Rachel M. , Goodwin Linda , Mowe Eva , Shaw Jonathan , Smith Harry , Read Robert C. , Tang Christoph M.
Published: August 2005

Neisseria meningitidis
is a human specific pathogen that is part of the normal nasopharyngeal flora. Little is known about the metabolic constraints on survival of the meningococcus during colonization of the upper airways. Here we show that glucose and lactate, both carbon energy sources for meningococcal growth, are present in millimolar concentrations within nasopharyngeal tissue. We used a mutant defective for the uptake of lactate (C311Δ
lctP
) to investigate the contribution of this energy source during colonization. Explants of nasopharyngeal tissue were inoculated with the wild-type strain (C311) and C311Δ
lctP
; the mutant was recovered at significantly lower levels (
P
= 0.01) than C311 18 h later. This defect was not due to changes in the expression of adhesins or initial adhesion in C311Δ
lctP
to epithelial cells. Instead, lactate appears to be important energy source for the bacterium during colonization and is necessary for growth of the bacterium in nasopharyngeal tissue. Studies with other strains defective for the uptake of specific nutrients should provide valuable information about the environment in which
N. meningitidis
persists during carriage.
Tracking Antigen-Specific CD8 T Lymphocytes in the Lungs of Mice Vaccinated with the Mtb72F Polyprotein
Authors: Irwin Scott M. , Izzo Angelo A. , Dow Steven W. , Skeiky Y. A. W. , Reed Steven G. , Alderson Mark R. , Orme Ian M.
Published: August 2005

This study used a major histocompatibility complex class I tetramer reagent to track antigen-specific CD8 T cells in the lungs of mice immunized with the tuberculosis vaccine candidate Mtb72F. The results show that CD8 T cells recognizing an immunodominant Mtb32-specific epitope could be detected in significant numbers over the course of infection in mice exposed to low-dose aerosol challenge withMycobacterium tuberculosisand that prior vaccination substantially increased the numbers of these cells early in the lungs. The effector phenotype of the cells was shown by the demonstration that many secreted gamma interferon, but very few contained granzyme B. As the course of the infection progressed, many activated CD8 T cells down-regulated expression of CD45RB and upregulated expression of the interleukin-7 receptor alpha chain, indicating a transition of these cells to a state of memory. These data support the hypothesis thatM. tuberculosis-specific CD8 T cells can be targeted by vaccination with the Mtb72F polyprotein.
Both
Corynebacterium diphtheriae
DtxR(E175K) and
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
IdeR(D177K) Are Dominant Positive Repressors of IdeR-Regulated Genes in
M. tuberculosis
Authors: Manabe Yukari C. , Hatem Christine L. , Kesavan Anup K. , Durack Justin , Murphy John R.
Published: August 2005

The diphtheria toxin repressor (DtxR) is an important iron-dependent transcriptional regulator of known virulence genes in
Corynebacterium diphtheriae
. The mycobacterial iron-dependent repressor (IdeR) is phylogenetically closely related to DtxR, with high amino acid similarity in the DNA binding and metal ion binding site domains. We have previously shown that an iron-insensitive, dominant-positive
dtxR
(
E175K
) mutant allele from
Corynebacterium diphtheriae
can be expressed in
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
and results in an attenuated phenotype in mice (Y. C. Manabe, B. J. Saviola, L. Sun, J. R. Murphy, and W. R. Bishai, Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 96:12844-12848, 1999). In this paper, we report the
M. tuberculosis
IdeR(D177K) strain that has the cognate point mutation. We tested four known and predicted IdeR-regulated gene promoters (
mbtI
, Rv2123, Rv3402c, and Rv1519) using a promoterless green fluorescent protein (GFP) construct. GFP expression from these promoters was abrogated under low-iron conditions in the presence of both IdeR(D177K) and DtxR(E175K), a result confirmed by reverse transcription-PCR. The IdeR regulon can be constitutively repressed in the presence of an integrated copy of
ideR
containing this point mutation. These data also suggest that mutant IdeR(D177K) has a mechanism similar to that of DtxR(E175K); iron insensitivity occurs as a result of SH3-like domain binding interactions that stabilize the intermediate form of the repressor after ancillary metal ion binding. This construct can be used to elucidate further the IdeR regulon and its virulence genes and to differentiate these from genes regulated by SirR, which does not have this domain.
Anamnestic Responses of Mice followingMycobacterium tuberculosisInfection
Authors: Kamath Arati B. , Behar Samuel M.
Published: August 2005

The anamnestic response is the property of the immune system that makes vaccine development possible. Although the development of a vaccine againstMycobacterium tuberculosisis an important global priority, there are many gaps in our understanding of how immunological memory develops followingM. tuberculosisinfection or after BCG vaccination. In experiments designed to compare the anamnestic response of susceptible and resistant mouse strains, major histocompatibility complex-matched memory-immune C3.SW-H2b/SnJ and C57BL/6 mice both demonstrated better control of bacterial replication following reinfection withM. tuberculosisthan control mice. Nevertheless, this memory response did not appear to have any long-term protective effect for either mouse strain. A greater understanding of the immunological factors that govern the maintenance of immunological memory following exposure toM. tuberculosiswill be required to develop an effective vaccine.
The Anti-
Candida albicans
Vaccine Composed of the Recombinant N Terminus of Als1p Reduces Fungal Burden and Improves Survival in Both Immunocompetent and Immunocompromised Mice
Authors: Spellberg Brad J. , Ibrahim Ashraf S. , Avenissian Valentina , Filler Scott G. , Myers Carter L. , Fu Yue , Edwards John E.
Published: August 2005

We have previously shown that intraperitoneal vaccination with the recombinant N terminus of Als1p (rAls1p-N) modestly improves survival during murine disseminated candidiasis. We now report marked efficacy with subcutaneous rAls1p-N vaccination. Efficacy is retained in neutropenic and corticosteroid-treated mice. The rAls1p-N vaccine is a promising candidate for the prevention of invasive candidiasis.
CANNABINOID RECEPTORS AS THERAPEUTIC TARGETS
Authors: Mackie Ken
Published: August 2005

▪ Abstract  CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors are the primary targets of endogenous cannabinoids (endocannabinoids). These G protein–coupled receptors play an important role in many processes, including metabolic regulation, craving, pain, anxiety, bone growth, and immune function. Cannabinoid receptors can be engaged directly by agonists or antagonists, or indirectly by manipulating endocannabinoid metabolism. In the past several years, it has become apparent from preclinical studies that therapies either directly or indirectly influencing cannabinoid receptors might be clinically useful. This review considers the components of the endocannabinoid system and discusses some of the most promising endocannabinoid-based therapies.
Characterization of the Na+-dependent Mg2+transport in sheep ruminal epithelial cells
Authors: Schweigel Monika , Park Hi-Sung , Etschmann Benjamin , Martens Holger
Published: August 2005

This study examines the routes by which Mg2+leaves cultured ovine ruminal epithelial cells (REC). Mg2+-loaded (6 mM) REC were incubated in completely Mg2+-free solutions with varying Na+concentrations, and the Mg2+extrusion rate was calculated from the increase of the Mg2+concentration in the incubation medium determined with the aid of the fluorescent probe mag-fura 2 (Na+salt). In other experiments, REC were also studied for the intracellular free Mg2+concentration ([Mg2+]i; using mag-fura 2), the intracellular Na+concentration (using Na+-binding benzofuran isophthalate), the intracellular cAMP concentration ([cAMP]i; using an enzyme-linked immunoassay), and Na+/Mg2+exchanger existence [using a monoclonal antibody (mAb) raised against the porcine red blood cell Na+/Mg2+exchanger]. Mg2+-loaded REC show a Mg2+efflux that was strictly dependent on extracellular Na+. The Mg2+extrusion rate increased from 0.018 ± 0.009 in a Na+-free medium to 0.73 ± 0.3 mM·l cells−1·min−1in a 145 mM Na+medium and relates to extracellular Na+concentration ([Na+]e) according to a typical saturation kinetic ( Kmvalue for [Na+]e= 24 mM; maximal velocity = 11 mM·l cells−1·min−1). Mg2+efflux was reduced by imipramine (48%) and increased after application of dibutyryl-cAMP (55%) or PGE2(17%). These effects are completely abolished in Na+-free media. Furthermore, an elevation of [cAMP]iled to an [Mg2+]idecrease that amounted to 375 ± 105 μM. The anti-Na+/Mg2+exchanger mAb inhibits Mg2+extrusion; moreover, it detects a specific 70-kDa immunoreactive band in protein lysates of ovine REC. The data clearly demonstrate that a Na+/Mg2+exchanger is existent in the cell membrane of REC. The transport protein is the main pathway (97%) for Mg2+extrusion and can be assumed to play a considerable role in the process of Mg2+absorption as well as the maintenance of the cellular Mg2+homeodynamics.
Prevalence of eNOS Glu298Asp Polymorphism in Healthy Volunteers from a Region of Northern India
Authors: Srivastava Kamna , Biswas Utpal Kumar , Narang Rajeev , Varghese Joji Jacob , Das Nibhriti
Published: August 2005

Objective: Endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) Glu298Asp polymorphisms are under extensive study worldwide due to their suggested role in cardiovascular disorders. This polymorphism had gained more attention since several reports suggest its association with hypertension and coronary artery disease (CAD). Asian Indians are highly susceptible to ischemic heart dis eases. We determined the prevalence of eNOS Glu298 Asp polymorphism in 139 healthy volunteers from Delhi and the surrounding areas. The subjects were recruited from those who willingly participated in this study in response to a publicized call and a standard questionnaire. Male to female ratio was 2.7:1 due to the larger number of male participants in this investigation. This, however, does not represent normal male to female distribution in the area. Despite the male bias, this investigation was justified. The prevalence of CAD in males is about 3 times higher in this region and no data had so far been available on the distribution of this polymorphism from India. Method: The eNOS Glu298Asp polymorphism was studied by PCR-RFLP. Results: Distribution of genotype GG, GT and TT in the study subjects was found to be 71.22, 28.06 and 0.72%, respectively, and allele frequency was G,0.853;T,0.147. Conclusion: T allele had been described as susceptibility allele for CAD in several population studies. The frequency of the T allele was found to be two times higher in our subjects than that reported for Japanese and Korean populations. This study does not provide any direct evidence for eNOS gene disease associations but is the first report on the prevalence of eNOS Glu298Asp gene polymorphism in Indian subjects. Whether the observed pattern of eNOS Glu298Asp polymorphism contributes to the greater susceptibility of Asian Indians to CAD as compared to the other population groups, needs to be investigated.
Effects of Timing Regularity and Metrical Expectancy on Spoken-Word Perception
Authors: Quené Hugo , Port Robert F.
Published: August 2005

Certain types of speech, e.g. lists of words or numbers, are usually spoken withhighly regular inter-stress timing. The main hypothesis of this study (derived fromthe Dynamic Attending Theory) is that listeners attend in particular to speech eventsat these regular time points. Better timing regularity should improve spoken-wordperception. Previous studies have suggested only a weak effect of speech rhythm onspoken-word perception, but the timing of inter-stress intervals was not controlledin these studies. A phoneme monitoring experiment is reported, in which listenersheard lists of disyllabic words in which the timing of the stressed vowels was eitherregular (with equidistant inter-stress intervals) or irregular. In addition, metricalexpectancy was controlled by varying the stress pattern of the target word, as eitherthe same or the opposite of the stress pattern in its preceding words. Resulting reac-tiontimes show a main effect of timing regularity, but not of metrical expectancy.These results suggest that listeners employ attentional rhythms in spoken-word per-ception,and that regular speech timing improves speech communication.
Monoamine Oxidase Activity and Tri-Iodothyronine Level in Violent Offenders with Early Behavioural Problems
Authors: Eklund Jenny , Alm Per Olof , af Klinteberg Britt
Published: August 2005

The focus is on evaluating the relationships between early behavioural problems and biochemical variables at adult age and their significance for early criminality and violent behaviour in a life perspective. In the present study, using prospective longitudinal data, a sample of males with a history of early criminal behaviour and male controls (n = 103) were investigated concerning (1) teacher-rated behaviours at age 11–14 years; (2) platelet monoamine oxidase (MAO) activity and tri-iodothyronine (T3) level at adult age; (3) registered early criminality (11–14 years); (4) records of violent offending up to age 35 years, and (5) interview data on smoking. The main finding was that a combined risk level pattern of low MAO activity and high T3 level was found significantly more frequently than expected in violent offenders with an early behavioural risk pattern. Furthermore, there was a significant interaction effect between early attention difficulties and smoking on MAO activity, as well as an effect by smoking on MAO activity. The findings are discussed in terms of the possible influence of biological vulnerability to certain behaviours, which in combination with possible childhood stress, enhance the risk for antisocial behaviours and subsequent violence.
Influence of Apolipoprotein E Genotype on Progression of Diabetic Nephropathy
Authors: Joss Nicola , Jardine Alan , Gaffney Dairena , Boulton-Jones J. Michael
Published: August 2005

Aims: Diabetic nephropathy progresses at a variable rate part of which may be explained by genetic polymorphisms. ApoE polymorphisms are associated with progression of atherosclerosis and because of the similarities between atherosclerosis and glomerulosclerosis, we chose to examine apoE and its role in progression of diabetic nephropathy. Methods: The apoE genotypes of 90 patients with type 2 diabetes and nephropathy who were recruited into a 2-year prospective randomised controlled study comparing intensive medical management with routine clinical care were analysed. The primary endpoint was the rate of progression of renal disease in the second year. Results: The apoE genotype frequencies were 49 with E3/3, 20 with E2/3, 17 with E3/4 and 4 with of E2/4. There were no significant differences in age, degree of renal failure, BP, albuminuria or glycaemic control between any genotype. The rate of progression of renal failure of patients with the E3/4 genotype was 0.80 ml/min/month compared to 0.30 ml/min/month for E2/3 and 0.18 ml/min/month for those with E3/3. Patients with E3/4 genotype had significantly faster rates of progression in the second year when compared with the other 3 genotypes (0.80 vs. 0.25 ml/min/month, p = 0.012). There was no difference in mortality according to apoE genotype. Conclusion: Patients who possess the apoE3/4 genotype had significantly faster rates of progression of renal failure.
Impaired Coronary Flow Reserve in Hemodialysis Patients: A Transthoracic Doppler Echocardiographic Study
Authors: Tok Derya , Gullu Hakan , Erdogan Dogan , Topcu Semra , Ciftci Ozgur , Yildirim Ibrahim , Muderrisoglu Haldun
Published: August 2005

Background: Coronary flow reserve (CFR) reflects the functional capacity of microcirculation to adapt to blood demand during increased cardiac work. In this study, CFR of hemodialysis patients with angiographically normal coronary arteries was evaluated using transthoracic second harmonic Doppler echocardiography. Methods and Results: Ten hemodialysis patients, and 14 sex-, age- and left ventricular mass index-matched hypertensive controls with angiographically normal coronary arteries underwent transthoracic second harmonic Doppler echocardiographic examination. Coronary basal diastolic peak flow velocities and hyperemic peak flow velocities after dipyridamole infusion (0.56 mg/kg over 4 min) were measured. CFR was defined as the ratio of hyperemic to basal diastolic peak velocities. CFR ≧2.0 was regarded as normal. Additionally, Doppler tissue imaging pulse wave measurements were taken from the lateral and septal corners of the mitral annulus. CFR values were significantly lower in the study group than in the control group (2.03 ± 0.3 vs. 2.61 ± 0.5, p = 0.005). In 5 of 10 hemodialysis patients, CFR was <2.0 (50%), however in only 1 of 14 control patients it was <2.0 (5%). Conclusions: Impairment of coronary microvasculature occurs earlier in patients with chronic renal failure and may be the harbinger of subsequent primary uremic myocardial disease. In patients with chronic renal failure and normal coronary arteries, decreased CFR by transthoracic echocardiography might be regarded as an early finding of an affected coronary vasculature.
Sunscreens – Which and What for?
Authors: Maier T. , Korting H.C.
Published: August 2005

It is well established that sun exposure is the main cause for the development of skin cancer. Chronic continuous UV radiation is believed to induce malignant melanoma, whereas intermittent high-dose UV exposure contributes to the occurrence of actinic keratosis as precursor lesions of squamous cell carcinoma as well as basal cell carcinoma. Not only photocarcinogenesis but also the mechanisms of photoaging have recently become apparent. In this respect the use of sunscreens seemed to prove to be more and more important and popular within the last decades. However, there is still inconsistency about the usefulness of sunscreens. Several studies show that inadequate use and incomplete UV spectrum efficacy may compromise protection more than previously expected. The sunscreen market is crowded by numerous products. Inorganic sunscreens such as zinc oxide and titanium oxide have a wide spectral range of activity compared to most of the organic sunscreen products. It is not uncommon for organic sunscreens to cause photocontact allergy, but their cosmetic acceptability is still superior to the one given by inorganic sunscreens. Recently, modern galenic approaches such as micronization and encapsulation allow the development of high-quality inorganic sunscreens. The potential systemic toxicity of organic sunscreens has lately primarily been discussed controversially in public, and several studies show contradictory results. Although a matter of debate, at present the sun protection factor (SPF) is the most reliable information for the consumer as a measure of sunscreen filter efficacy. In this context additional tests have been introduced for the evaluation of not only the protective effect against erythema but also protection against UV-induced immunological and mutational effects. Recently, combinations of UV filters with agents active in DNA repair have been introduced in order to improve photoprotection. This article reviews the efficacy of sunscreens in the prevention of epithelial and nonepithelial skin cancer, the effect on immunosuppression and the value of the SPF as well as new developments on the sunscreen market.
Endocrine Abnormalities in Patients with Frontoethmoidal Encephalomeningocele
Authors: Wacharasindhu S. , Asawutmangkul U. , Srivuthana S.
Published: August 2005

Background: Frontoethmoidal encephalomeningocele (FEEM) is a congenital neural tube defect which is more common in Southeast Asia. Its etiology is unknown. No one has ever reported endocrine abnormalities in this condition. Method: We retrospectively reviewed medical records of 84 patients with FEEM, primarily focused on the clinical data suggestive of endocrine disorders including growth parameter, thyroid function test, serum electrolyte and serum osmolality. Results: Nasoethmoidal was the most common subtype found in this study. Sixty-four percent of our patients had their heights below the mean height of normal Thai children. The incidence of hypothyroidism (1:28), central DI (1:42) and GHD (1:42) were higher than that in the general population. Conclusion: A significant number of patients with FEEM had clinical evidences suggestive of hypothalamopituitary insufficiency. Appropriate replacement therapy is mandatory in order to prevent untoward complications.
Plasma Adiponectin Levels and Five-Year Survival After First-Ever Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Efstathiou Stamatis P. , Tsioulos Dimitrios I. , Tsiakou Aphrodite G. , Gratsias Yannis E. , Pefanis Angelos V. , Mountokalakis Theodore D.
Published: August 2005

Background and Purpose—

This study aimed to investigate the association between plasma adiponectin levels and 5-year survival after first-ever ischemic stroke.

Methods—

Plasma adiponectin measured within 24 hours after first-ever ischemic stroke was related to 5-year outcome. The Kaplan–Meier technique was applied in survival analysis, and the Cox proportional hazards model was used to evaluate the relationship between risk factors and prognosis.

Results—

The probabilities of death were 92.8%, 52.5%, and 10.5% (
P
<0.001) for patients stratified according to tertiles of adiponectin (<4 μg/mL, 4 to 7 μg/mL, and >7 μg/mL, respectively). The relative risk of death was 8.1 (95% CI, 3.1, 24.5;
P
<0.001) for individuals with adiponectin levels in the lowest tertile compared with the upper tertile. Adiponectin <4 μg/mL (hazard ratio [HR], 5.2; 95% CI, 2.1, 18.4;
P
<0.001), score >15 in the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (HR, 3.6; 95% CI, 1.7, 15.9;
P
<0.001), and coronary heart disease (HR, 2.9; 95% CI, 1.5, 12.3;
P
<0.001) were independently associated with mortality.

Conclusions—

Low plasma adiponectin is related to an increased risk of 5-year mortality after first-ever ischemic stroke, independently of other adverse predictors.
On the USCRN Temperature System
Authors: Hubbard K. G. , Lin X. , Baker C. B.
Published: August 2005

In 2004 a new aspirated surface air temperature system was officially deployed nationally in the U.S. Climate Reference Network (USCRN) commissioned by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. The primary goal of the USCRN is to provide future long-term and high-quality homogeneous observations of surface air temperature and precipitation that can be coupled to past long-term observations for the detection and attribution of present and future climate change. In this paper two precision air temperature systems are included for evaluating the new USCRN air temperature system based on a 1-yr side-by-side field comparison. The measurement errors of the USCRN temperature sensor are systematically analyzed, and the components of error attributable to the datalogger, lead wires, fixed resistors, and the temperature coefficient of the resistors are presented. Although the current configuration is adequate, a more desirable configuration of USCRN temperature sensor coupled with the datalogger is proposed as a means of further reducing the uncertainty for the USCRN temperature measurement.
Combined Radar and Radiometer Analysis of Precipitation Profiles for a Parametric Retrieval Algorithm
Authors: Masunaga Hirohiko , Kummerow Christian D.
Published: August 2005

A methodology to analyze precipitation profiles using the Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) Microwave Imager (TMI) and precipitation radar (PR) is proposed. Rainfall profiles are retrieved from PR measurements, defined as the best-fit solution selected from precalculated profiles by cloud-resolving models (CRMs), under explicitly defined assumptions of drop size distribution (DSD) and ice hydrometeor models. The PR path-integrated attenuation (PIA), where available, is further used to adjust DSD in a manner that is similar to the PR operational algorithm. Combined with the TMI-retrieved nonraining geophysical parameters, the three-dimensional structure of the geophysical parameters is obtained across the satellite-observed domains. Microwave brightness temperatures are then computed for a comparison with TMI observations to examine if the radar-retrieved rainfall is consistent in the radiometric measurement space. The inconsistency in microwave brightness temperatures is reduced by iterating the retrieval procedure with updated assumptions of the DSD and ice-density models. The proposed methodology is expected to refine the a priori rain profile database and error models for use by parametric passive microwave algorithms, aimed at the Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) mission, as well as a future TRMM algorithms.
Air Temperature Measurement Errors in Naturally Ventilated Radiation Shields
Authors: Nakamura Reina , Mahrt L.
Published: August 2005

Two sources of systematic errors are considered for estimating air temperature. The first source is ambiguity of the definition of the standardized measurement height over vegetated surfaces of varying heights. Without such a standardization, evaluation of the horizontal air temperature gradient is contaminated by the vertical variation of air temperature. This error is generally small in daytime unstable conditions, but increases with increasing stability at night. In an attempt to reduce such error, the use of the zero-plane displacement height for standardizing the measurement height is proposed.

The second source of systematic errors is radiative forcing on the sensor–shield systems. A series of experiments is performed over a grass field to investigate the radiatively induced error in the air temperature estimate by the Onset HOBO Pro thermistor in a naturally ventilated multiplate shield. The magnitude of this error is estimated by comparing air temperature measurements by a platinum resistance temperature detector (RTD) sensor in a mechanically aspirated shield. In contrast to the errors resulting from the first source, the radiatively induced error increases with increasing instability. An empirical model is developed for correcting the radiatively induced temperature error using information on wind speed and net or shortwave radiation. The robustness of the model is examined with independent data.
Assessing the Accuracy of a Linearized Observation Operator for Assimilation of Radio Occultation Data: Case Simulations with a High-Resolution Weather Model
Authors: Sokolovskiy Sergey , Kuo Ying-Hwa , Wang Wei
Published: August 2005

Assimilation into numerical weather models of the refractivity, Abel-retrieved from radio occultations, as the local refractivity at ray tangent point may result in large errors in the presence of strong horizontal gradients (atmospheric fronts, strong convection). To reduce these errors, other authors suggested modeling the Abel-retrieved refractivity as a nonlocal linear function of the 3D refractivity, which can be used as a linear observation operator for assimiliation. The authors of this study introduce their approach for the nonlocal linear observation operator, which consists of modeling the excess phase path, calculated along certain trajectories below the top of an atmospheric model. In this study (not aimed at development of an observation operator for any specific atmospheric model), both approaches are validated by assessing the accuracy of both linearized observation operators by numerical simulations with the high-resolution Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model and comparing them to the accuracy of interpretation of the Abel-retrieved refractivity as local. Improvement of the accuracy of about an order of magnitude is found with the nonlocal refractivity and further improvement is found with the excess phase path. The effect of horizontal resolution of an atmospheric model on the accuracy of modeling local and nonlocal linear observables is also investigated, and it is demonstrated that the nonlocal linear modeling of radio occultation observables is especially important for weather prediction models with sufficiently high horizontal resolution, grid size <100 km (mesoscale models).
Multivariate Error Covariance Estimates by Monte Carlo Simulation for Assimilation Studies in the Pacific Ocean
Authors: Borovikov Anna , Rienecker Michele M. , Keppenne Christian L. , Johnson Gregory C.
Published: August 2005

One of the most difficult aspects of ocean-state estimation is the prescription of the model forecast error covariances. The paucity of ocean observations limits our ability to estimate the covariance structures from model–observation differences. In most practical applications, simple covariances are usually prescribed. Rarely are cross covariances between different model variables used. Here a comparison is made between a univariate optimal interpolation (UOI) scheme and a multivariate OI algorithm (MvOI) in the assimilation of ocean temperature profiles. In the UOI case only temperature is updated using a Gaussian covariance function. In the MvOI, salinity, zonal, and meridional velocities as well as temperature are updated using an empirically estimated multivariate covariance matrix.

Earlier studies have shown that a univariate OI has a detrimental effect on the salinity and velocity fields of the model. Apparently, in a sequential framework it is important to analyze temperature and salinity together. For the MvOI an estimate of the forecast error statistics is made by Monte Carlo techniques from an ensemble of model forecasts. An important advantage of using an ensemble of ocean states is that it provides a natural way to estimate cross covariances between the fields of different physical variables constituting the model-state vector, at the same time incorporating the model’s dynamical and thermodynamical constraints as well as the effects of physical boundaries.

Only temperature observations from the Tropical Atmosphere–Ocean array have been assimilated in this study. To investigate the efficacy of the multivariate scheme, two data assimilation experiments are validated with a large independent set of recently published subsurface observations of salinity, zonal velocity, and temperature. For reference, a control run with no data assimilation is used to check how the data assimilation affects systematic model errors. While the performance of the UOI and MvOI is similar with respect to the temperature field, the salinity and velocity fields are greatly improved when the multivariate correction is used, as is evident from the analyses of the rms differences between these fields and independent observations. The MvOI assimilation is found to improve upon the control run in generating water masses with properties close to the observed, while the UOI fails to maintain the temperature and salinity structure.
Résistance et conversion des Anishinaabeg au christianisme: bricolage, rupture ou coupure?
Authors: Servais Olivier
Published: August 2005

English

Analyzing the resistance to Christianity by the Anishinaabeg of the North American Great Lakes region in the 19th and 20th centuries, the author brings to light four ideal-typical Amerindian types of figures. These figures reveal four different strategies aimed at both the cognitive management of religious belonging and ideological positioning in relation to an Amerindian lifestyle. In doing so, the author sheds light on the limits of this model and the need to interpret it diachronically. This basically empirical synthesis reveals three different sorts of implementations of a religious bricolage in a context of symbolic mutations and profound identities.

French

Analysant la résistance au christianisme des Anishinaabeg de la région des grands lacs nord-américains, aux 19ème et 20ème siècles, l'auteur fait émerger quatre types de figures amérindiennes idéales-typiques. Ces figures traduisent quatre stratégies différentes visant à la fois la gestion cognitive des appartenances religieuses et le positionnement idéologique par rapport au mode de vie amérindien. Ce faisant, l'auteur met en lumière les limites de ce modèle et son impérative lecture diachronique. De cette synthèse à base empirique se révè- lent trois modalités différentes de mise en oeuvre d'un bricolage religieux dans un contexte de mutations symboliques et identitaires profondes.
Hajji Baba in St Petersburg
Authors: Polonsky Rachel
Published: August 2005

In ‘Journey to Arzrum’, set in the Caucasus during the Russo-Turkish War of 1828-9, Pushkin refers to Hajji Baba, rogue-hero of James Morier’s novels The Adventures of Hajji Baba of Ispahan (1824) and The Adventures of Hajji Baba in London (1828). Morier’s novels, set in Persia, the Ottoman Empire and London, became widely known to Russian readers in the early 1830s, in translations by the orientalist popular fiction writer and journalist, Osip Senkovskii. They were read both as entertaining satire and as a source of knowledge about the East. Since the 1820s, Pushkin and Senkovskii, contemporaries and rivals, had been experimenting with different literary styles for representing the East. While Senkovskii, an orientalist of world renown, turned to sarcastic satire, parody and masquerade after his encounter with Morier, Pushkin, whose library reveals a sustained interest in the English novelist, moved beyond satire, shaping a new genre of first-person travel prose.
Explanation for Cessation of Breastfeeding in Mothers of Twins
Authors: Damato Elizabeth G. , Dowling Donna A. , Standing Theresa S. , Schuster Shawn D.
Published: August 2005

This study used content analysis to examine reasons for cessation of breastfeeding of twins by 2 time points: 9.4 weeks and 28.3 weeks of age. From a convenience sample of 123 mothers, 110 initiated breastfeeding for their twins. Thirty women had stopped breastfeeding by time 1, with an additional 37 women stopping by time 2. Three major themes were identified regarding weaning: factors related to breastfeeding process, to mother’s role and health, and to infant behavior and health. Subcategories were identified for each theme, with additional subcategories emerging at time 2. Cited reasons are similar to those given by singleton mothers; however, mothers of twins identified unique issues related to infants’ behaviors, challenges presented by growth and development, and time commitments that interfered with breastfeeding continuation. Implications of the study suggest the need for continued lactation support as the twins grow and develop and new breastfeeding issues arise.
Preaching the Spirit: The Liberation of Preaching
Authors: Turner William
Published: August 2005

This article attempts to make a case for preaching as theological method for testing the veracity of systematic projects. Pneumatology is offered as a case study, especially for theologies where it is under-represented. More specifically, pneumatology is offered as a grounding point for Black Theology, which began as a ‘church project’ that needs to return to the church to offer and receive critique.
Discourses on inequality
Authors: Green Maia
Published: August 2005

This article examines the relation between witchcraft suppression institutions in southern Tanzania and the entrenchment of witchcraft. While practices against witches are acclaimed as a public good by grateful residents, such practices actually contribute to the institutionalization of witchcraft in the area. Witchcraft and practices to expose it and suppress it should be considered as part of a single system. Witchcraft as a system has serious social and political consequences, among these being its normativity, the expectation that misfortune and negative social relations are both cause and consequence of witchcraft. The expectation that witchcraft is an accepted fact of daily life in African communities is not confined to communities where witchcraft is an issue but extends to academic and, in particular, to anthropological discourse about Africa. Disciplinary blinds prioritizing culture may contribute to our reluctance to assess the consequences of what we see, and hence to the institutionalization of witchcraft in anthropology.
Rethinking biculturalism
Authors: Rata Elizabeth
Published: August 2005

Biculturalism is New Zealand’s experience of the shift from class to identity politics and multiculturalism that has characterized a number of liberal democracies since the 1970s. Originally a progressive project committed to incorporating Maori culture into the nation’s symbolic identity, biculturalism became the vehicle for separatist ethnic politics and a fundamentalist ‘blood and soil’ ideology under the control of an emergent neotribal elite. This article traces the shifts in biculturalism and its damaging effects on the conditions required for democracy. It argues that national identity within a universalist concept of humanity, rather than a localized and essentialized ethnic identity, is more likely to ensure the maintenance of the nation-state within the global community.