bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Coarse Particles on the Gelcasting of Ceramic Foams
Authors: Mao Xiaojian , Shimai Shunzo , Wang Shiwei
Published: May 2008

In order to study the effects of coarse particles on the gelcasting of ceramic foams, a coarse powder with a similar sintering ability as that of fine powder was designed. It was prepared by grinding the presintered foams manufactured using fine powder and by sieving with 200‐mesh sieves. The resultant coarse powder was mixed with the fine powder to manufacture ceramic foams by direct foaming and the gelcasting method. The viscosities of suspensions with different fractions of coarse powder were close to each other at high shear rates. The flexural strength of the foams obtained by the mixed powders was about 10 MPa, which was about 25% lower than that obtained by the fine powder, while the permeability of the foams by mixed powders was about 30% higher than that without coarse powder. On the other hand, both the flexural strength and the permeability of the foams by the mixed powders had no clear relation with the fraction of coarse powder when it varied in the range of 5%–40%.
Breath Figure Patterns in the Oxidation of Boron Nitride
Authors: Do Thanh Ba , Halloran John W.
Published: May 2008

Liquids condensing on solids can form a pattern known as “breath figures.” Here we report similar patterns for liquid boron oxide droplets formed by high temperature oxidation reaction of boron nitride. Boron oxide does not wet boron nitride, so the liquid B2O3 oxide forms small droplets. As oxidation proceeds at 1200°C, the oxide created by reaction on the surface migrates to existing droplets or forms new droplets. The average diameter and maximum diameter of the boron oxide droplets increase with time following the kinetics of breath figures, similar to water condensation breath figures for dew drops.
Measuring an Individual's Tendency to Take Risks: The Risk Propensity Scale1
Authors: Meertens Ree M. , Lion René
Published: May 2008

A new, short, and easily administered Risk Propensity Scale (RPS) is introduced that measures general risk‐taking tendencies. This paper investigates the reliability and discriminant validity of the RPS. The RPS provided scores that yielded a good internal reliability coefficient and adequate test–retest reliability, and the scores correlated moderately to well with those of the Everyday Risk Inventory and the short Sensation‐Seeking Scale. The correlation with the scores from other scales (Need for Cognition scale, Need for Structure scale, and 2 self‐esteem scales) was low to moderate, indicating good discriminant validity. The findings are discussed in relation to risk‐perception research using gambling experiments and in relation to their usefulness for risky decision‐making research.
Enhancing Employee Performance Through Positive Organizational Behavior
Authors: Ramlall Sunil J.
Published: May 2008

This paper explores the relationship among key issues discussed in positive organizational behavior (POB) and the implications for organizational success. One of the key outcomes of this paper is to have a better understanding of the relationship between work and a person's broader purpose of existence, and how work helps to accomplish one's purpose of life. In addition, quantitative measures are used to determine the relationship between work and happiness; a positive organizational culture and firm performance; and positive employee characteristics and employee performance. Through various statistical analyses, positive relationships were found among typical measures of positive psychology, positive organizational behavior, and employee performance. Implications for organizations and utilizations of research findings to create sustainable competitive advantages are discussed.
Ethnic‐Related Curricula and Intergroup Attitudes in College: Movement Toward and Away From the In‐Group1
Authors: Van Laar Colette , Sidanius Jim , Levin Shana
Published: May 2008

Using a 5‐year longitudinal study, we investigated the long‐term effects of courses with ethnic studies content and courses with Latino or Black professors on university students' intergroup attitudes. We found that these curricular variables significantly affected the intergroup attitudes of students beyond pre‐existing differences in attitudes and beyond other curriculum variables. As expected, we found differences between ethnic groups: White students showed movement toward other groups as a result of these curricular factors, whereas Latino and African American students showed both increased tolerance toward other groups and movement toward the in‐group. The results are discussed in terms of group status differences between the dominant White majority and the stigmatized Latino and Black minority groups.
Stereotype Threat in Applied Settings Re‐Examined
Authors: Danaher Kelly , Crandall Christian S.
Published: May 2008

Stricker & Ward (2004) examined stereotype threat with a national sample of students taking an Advanced Placement (AP) Calculus exam, and a smaller sample taking Computerized Placement Tests (CPT). They inquired about gender either before (traditional) or after the test (which can reduce stereotype threat). They reported no significant effects of question timing. We reanalyze their findings, and argue that their conservative criterion for evidence led them to overlook significant stereotype threat effects with real practical implications. Women benefited substantially on the Calculus test, and on the CPT–Reading when demographics were asked after testing rather than before. This simple, small, and inexpensive change could increase U.S. women receiving AP Calculus AB credit by more than 4,700 every year.
Stereotype Threat in Applied Settings Re‐Examined: A Reply1
Authors: Stricker Lawrence J. , Ward William C.
Published: May 2008

This is a rebuttal to Danaher & Crandall's (2008) rejoinder to Stricker & Ward's (2004) article. The article reports 2 field experiments concerning the effects of inquiring about gender and ethnicity on the performance of women and Black students taking operational tests. The rejoinder's conclusion (after reanalyzing our data) that several thousand more young women would pass the AP calculus test if they were not asked about their gender, thereby reducing stereotype threat, is unwarranted because of flawed estimates and extrapolations. Our findings are selectively described, distorting their overall thrust. Criticisms of our statistical analyses are debatable or incorrect. Our original conclusion appears justified: Inquiring about gender and ethnicity did not affect test performance of women or Black students.
Interactions between Papilionidae and ancient Australian Angiosperms: evolutionary specialization or ecological monophagy?
Authors: Scriber J. Mark , Larsen Michelle L. , Allen Geoff R. , Walker Paul W. , Zalucki Myron P.
Published: May 2008

The evolution of host range for insect herbivores involves many behavioral, physiological, and biochemical adaptations that often lead to locally specialized populations or species. Such specialization may be constrained by ecological factors (e.g., local host availability) or by evolutionary factors (e.g., phylogenetic divergence in behavioral, physiological, or biochemical detoxification enzymes; and potential inabilities to return to ancestral hosts). While insect adaptations to new hosts can be rapid, ancient detoxification systems may persist in some lineages of swallowtail butterflies (Papilionidae) for millions of years. Here, we test various species of specialized species/populations of Papilionidae (Lepidoptera) from North America and from Australia on an array of Australian host plant families in order to determine whether the current feeding constraints reflect loss of capabilities to recognize and use hosts other than their current (local) favorites. We selected two species of Lauraceae specialists (Papilio troilus L. and Papilio palamedes Drury) from North America and one locally specialized population of Papilio glaucus L. that only uses one plant species in the Magnoliaceae in Florida. We also examined three species/populations of Australian swallowtails for comparison, including the Monimiaceae‐specialized Graphium macleayanum moggana L. E. Couchman, the Rutaceae‐specialized Papilio aegeus Donovan, and the Annonaceae‐specialized Graphium eurypylus L. Our aim was to determine whether neonate larvae of these six specialists could survive on any plants other than their currently favored species. While the Lauraceae specialists could use nothing else and were thus evolutionarily constrained, the Magnoliaceae‐, Rutaceae‐, and Monimiaceae specialists all had common abilities to accept, feed, and grow on plants in the Lauraceae, Monimiaceae, Magnoliaceae, and Rutaceae families. Even the Annonaceae specialist was discovered using Magnoliaceae in the field, suggesting existence here also of both flexiblity in preferences and detoxification abilities and ‘ecological monophagy’.
Re‐examining the relationship between sexual maturation and age of response to methyl eugenol in males of the oriental fruit fly
Authors: Shelly Todd E. , Edu James , Pahio Elaine , Wee Suk Ling , Nishida Ritsuo
Published: May 2008

Males of the oriental fruit fly, Bactrocera dorsalis (Hendel) (Diptera: Tephritidae), are strongly attracted to, and feed voraciously on, methyl eugenol (ME) and use metabolites of this chemical to synthesize their sex pheromone. Previously, Wong et al. (1989) proposed that B. dorsalis males were attracted to ME even before attaining sexual maturity. However, their interpretation is possibly confounded by the fact that, in monitoring age‐related mating readiness, males were presented with equal‐aged females. As a result, if females mature more slowly than males, the age of male sexual maturation may have been overestimated, which may have accounted for the discrepancy observed between male age of ME responsiveness and mating activity. Here, we re‐examined the relationship between male age and mating readiness by comparing male mating activity when presented with same‐aged females vs. sexually mature females. In addition, we measured the age‐dependent response of B. dorsalis males to ME by recording (i) capture in ME‐baited traps, and (ii) feeding duration on ME‐containing paper discs. Our data support the conclusion of Wong et al. (1989) that B. dorsalis males show attraction to, and feed on, ME before attaining sexual maturity, but suggest that a marked difference in ME response and mating activity exists over a shorter age interval than indicated by Wong et al. (1989). Early attraction to, but not ingestion of, ME was related to accelerated sexual maturation. Unexpectedly, ingestion of ME by sexually immature males did not boost their mating success in trials conducted 10 days after feeding on the lure.
Reciprocal interactions between the cabbage root fly (Delia radicum) and two glucosinolate phenotypes of Barbarea vulgaris
Authors: Van Leur Hanneke , Raaijmakers Ciska E. , Van Dam Nicole M.
Published: May 2008

The cabbage root fly, Delia radicum L. (Diptera: Anthomyiidae), has a life cycle with spatially separated components: adults live and oviposit above ground, whereas larvae feed and pupate below ground. Oviposition choice is affected by shoot glucosinolates. However, little is known about below‐ground plant defence against D. radicum. Here, we investigate the effect of glucosinolates on oviposition preference and performance of D. radicum, using two naturally occurring heritable chemotypes of Barbarea vulgaris R. Br. (Brassicaceae) with different glucosinolate profiles: BAR‐type plants (the most common and genetically dominant glucosinolate profile, dominated by glucobarbarin) and NAS‐type plants (the recessive phenotype, dominated by gluconasturtiin). Performance was studied by applying 10 neonate D. radicum larvae per plant and measuring pupal biomass after 18 days. There was no difference in retrieval, but pupae had a higher biomass after development on BAR‐type plants. On average, BAR‐type plants received 1.8 times more eggs than NAS types, but this difference was not statistically significant. In a separate experiment, we compared the physiological response of both chemotypes to D. radicum feeding. Infestation reduced root and shoot biomass, root sugar and amino acid levels, and shoot sugar levels. Except for shoot sugar levels, these responses did not differ between the two chemotypes. Shoot or root glucosinolate profiles did not change on infestation. As glucosinolate profiles were the only consistent difference between the chemotypes, it is likely that this difference caused the reduced biomass of D. radicum pupae on NAS‐type plants. In an experimental garden, plants were heavily infested by root flies, but we found no differences in the percentage of fallen‐over flower stalks between the chemotypes. Overall, we found more pupae in the soil near BAR‐type plants, but this was not statistically significant. The results of the performance experiment suggest that BAR‐type plants may be more suitable hosts than NAS‐type plants.
Resistance of apple trees to Cydia pomonella egg‐laying due to leaf surface metabolites
Authors: Lombarkia Nadia , Derridj Sylvie
Published: May 2008

During host plant selection and particularly after alighting on a plant, chemical cues from the plant surface influence an insect's acceptance of the plant and, subsequently, its egg‐laying behaviour. Primary metabolites in the phylloplane may be more important than hitherto known. We have shown that soluble carbohydrates, such as glucose, fructose, and sucrose, and sugar alcohols, such as sorbitol, quebrachitol, and myo‐inositol, can be detected by insects after contacting the plant and that they positively influence egg‐laying of the codling moth, Cydia pomonella (L.) (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae), on apple trees. We addressed the question whether a lack of these substances could also explain apple tree resistance to C. pomonella in terms of reduced egg‐laying. Leaf surface washings were collected in an apple orchard by spraying water on the resistant cultivar X65‐11 and on the susceptible cultivar P5R50A4. The washings were tested on a nylon cloth on isolated females under no‐choice conditions. The washings were analysed and synthetic blends, each consisting of the six metabolites in the proportions established in the leaf surface washings of both cultivars, were then tested for their effect on egg‐laying of C. pomonella. Dose–response egg‐laying tests were carried out on substrates impregnated with the X65‐11 leaf surface blend at 1, 100, 1 000, and 10 000 times the natural dose. Egg‐laying behaviour in the bioassays with leaf surface washings of both cultivars closely resembled egg‐laying in the orchard. Washings of P5R50A4 stimulated egg‐laying to a greater extent than those of X65‐11 and the water control. Synthetic blends reduced substrate acceptance and egg‐laying, compared to the washings of X65‐11. Ratios between components within the blend are responsible for this resistance. In conclusion, quantities and ratios of the six primary metabolites found on the leaf surface may influence host preference of C. pomonella as well as their egg‐laying behaviour, thus they may play a role in the trees’ resistance to the codling moth.
Vasomotion dynamics following calcium spiking depend on both cell signalling and limited constriction velocity in rat mesenteric small arteries
Authors: VanBavel Ed , Van Der Meulen Esther T. , Spaan Jos A.E.
Published: May 2008

Vascular smooth muscle cell contraction depends on intracellular calcium. However, calcium‐contraction coupling involves a complex array of intracellular processes. Quantitating the dynamical relation between calcium perturbations and resulting changes in tone may help identifying these processes. We hypothesized that in small arteries accurate quantitation can be achieved during rhythmic vasomotion, and questioned whether these dynamics depend on intracellular signalling or physical vasoconstriction. We studied calcium‐constriction dynamics in cannulated and pressurized rat mesenteric small arteries (∼300 μm in diameter). Combined application of tetra‐ethyl ammonium (TEA) and BayK8644 induced rhythmicity, consisting of regular and irregular calcium spiking and superposition of spikes. Calcium spikes induced delayed vasomotion cycles. Their dynamic relation could be fitted by a linear second‐order model. The dirac impulse response of this model had an amplitude that was strongly reduced with increasing perfusion pressure between 17 and 98 mmHg, while time to peak and relaxation time were the largest at an intermediate pressure (57 mmHg: respectively 0.9 and 2.3 sec). To address to what extent these dynamics reside in intracellular signalling or vasoconstriction, we applied rhythmic increases in pressure counteracting the vasoconstriction. This revealed that calcium‐activation coupling became faster when vasoconstriction was counteracted. During such compensation, a calcium impulse response remained that lasted 0.5 sec to peak activation, followed by a 1.0 sec relaxation time, attributable to signalling dynamics. In conclusion, this study demonstrates the feasibility of quantitating calcium‐activation dynamics in vasomoting small arteries. These dynamics relate to both intracellular sig‐nalling and actual vasoconstriction. Performing such analyses during pharmacological intervention and in genetic models provides a tool for unravelling calcium‐contraction coupling in small arteries.
Identification of serum endoglin as a novel prognostic marker after acute myocardial infarction
Authors: Cruz‐Gonzalez Ignacio , Pabón Pedro , Rodríguez‐Barbero Alicia , Martín‐Moreiras Javier , Pericacho Miguel , Sánchez Pedro L , Ramirez Victor , Sánchez‐Ledesma María , Martín‐Herrero Francisco , Jiménez‐Candil Javier , Maree Andrew O , Sánchez‐Rodríguez Angel , Martín‐Luengo Cándido , López‐Novoa José M
Published: May 2008

Endoglin is a proliferation‐associated and hypoxia‐inducible protein expressed in endothelial cells. The levels of soluble circulating endoglin and their prognostic significance in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) are not known. In this observational prospective study serum endoglin levels were measured by ELISA in 183 AMI patients upon admission to hospital and 48 hrs later and in 72 healthy controls. Endoglin levels in AMI patients on admission were significantly lower than in healthy controls (4.25 ± 0.99 ng/ml versus 4.59 ± 0.87 ng/ml; P= 0.013), and decreased further in the first 48 hours (3.65 ± 0.76 ng/ml, P < 0.001). Upon follow‐up (median 319 days), patients who died had a significantly greater decrease in serum endoglin level over the first 48 hrs than those who survived (1.03 ± 0.91 versus 0.54 ± 0.55 ng/ml; P= 0.025). Endoglin decrease was an independent predictor of short‐term (30 days) (hazard ratio 2.33;95% CI = 1.27–4.23; P= 0.006) cardiovascular mortality, and also predicts overall cardiovascular mortality during the follow‐up (median 319 days) in AMI patients (hazard ratio 2.13;95% CI = 1.20–3.78; P= 0.01). In conclusion, early changes in serum endoglin may predict mortality after AMI.
Na+‐independent Mg2+ transport sensitive to 2‐aminoethoxydiphenyl borate (2‐APB) in vascular smooth muscle cells: involvement of TRPM‐like channels
Authors: Hamaguchi Yukihisa , Matsubara Tatsuaki , Amano Tetsuya , Uetani Tadayuki , Asano Haruhiko , Iwamoto Takashi , Furukawa Koichi , Murohara Toyoaki , Nakayama Shinsuke
Published: May 2008

Magnesium is associated with several important cardiovascular diseases. There is an accumulating body of evidence verifying the important roles of Mg2+‐permeable channels. In the present study, we estimated the intracellular free Mg2+ concentration ([Mg2+]i) using 31P‐nuclear magnetic resonance (31P‐NMR) in porcine carotid arteries. pHi and intracellular phosphorus compounds were simultaneously monitored. Removal of extracellular divalent cations (Ca2+ and Mg2+) in the absence of Na+ caused a gradual decrease in [Mg2+]i to ∼60% of the control value after 125 min. On the other hand, the simultaneous removal of extracellular Ca2+ and Na+ in the presence of Mg2+ gradually increased [Mg2+]i in an extracellular Mg2+‐dependent manner. 2‐aminoethoxydiphenyl borate (2‐APB) attenuated both [Mg2+]i load and depletion caused under Na+‐ and Ca2+‐free conditions. Neither [ATP]i nor pHi correlated with changes in [Mg2+]i. RT‐PCR detected transcripts of both TRPM6 and TRPM7, although TRPM7 was predominant. In conclusion, the results suggest the presence of Mg2+‐permeable channels of TRPM family that contribute to Mg2+ homeostasis in vascular smooth muscle cells. The low, basal [Mg2+]i level in vascular smooth muscle cells is attributable to the relatively low activity of this Mg2+ entry pathway.
Antinociceptive activity of the S1P‐receptor agonist FTY720
Authors: Coste Ovidiu , Pierre Sandra , Marian Claudiu , Brenneis Christian , Angioni Carlo , Schmidt Helmut , Popp Laura , Geisslinger Gerd , Scholich Klaus
Published: May 2008

FTY720 is a novel immunosuppressive drug that inhibits the egress of lymphocytes from secondary lymphoid tissues and thymus. In its phosphorylated form FTY720 is a potent S1P receptor agonist. Recently it was also shown that FTY720 can reduce prostaglandin synthesis through the direct inhibition of the cytosolic phospholipase A2 (cPLA2). Since prostaglandins are important mediators of nociception, we studied the effects of FTY720 in different models of nociception. We found that intraperitoneal administration of FTY720 reduced dose‐dependently the nociceptive behaviour of rats in the formalin assay. Although the antinociceptive doses of FTY720 were too low to alter the lymphocyte count, prostanoid concentrations in the plasma were dramatically reduced. Surprisingly, intrathecally administered FTY720 reduced the nociceptive behaviour in the formalin assay without altering spinal prostaglandin synthesis, indicating that additional antinociceptive mechanisms beside the inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis are involved. Accordingly, FTY720 reduced also the nociceptive behaviour in the spared nerve injury model for neuropathic pain which does not depend on prostaglandin synthesis. In this model the antinociceptive effect of FTY720 was similar to gabapentin, a commonly used drug to treat neuropathic pain. Taken together we show for the first time that FTY720 possesses antinociceptive properties and that FTY720 reduces nociceptive behaviour during neuropathic pain.
In silico promoters: modelling of cis‐regulatory context facilitates target predictio
Authors: Venter Mauritz , Warnich Louise
Published: May 2008

Introduction

Combined in silico strategies contribute to accurate deciphering

Systematic module analysis leads to target discovery

Applications of in silico promoters based on conserved regulatory context

Conclusion

Elucidation of gene regulatory complexity holds much promise towards aiding therapeutic interventions in medical research. It has become progressively more evident that the characterization of highly conserved regulatory modules within promoters may assist in the elucidation of distinct cis‐motif and trans‐element regulatory interactions, shared in response to stimulus‐evoked pathological changes. With special emphasis on the promoter, accurate analyses of cis‐motif architecture combined with integrative in silico modelling might serve as a more refined approach for prediction and study of regulatory targets and major regulators governing transcriptional control. In this review, we have highlighted key examples and recent advances implementing in silico promoter models that could serve as essential contributions for future research in molecular medicine.
The pro‐apoptotic protein Par‐4 facilitates vascular contractility by cytoskeletal targeting of ZIPK
Authors: Vetterkind Susanne , Morgan Kathleen G.
Published: May 2008

Par‐4 (prostate apoptosis response 4) is a pro‐apoptotic protein and tumour suppressor that was originally identified as a gene product up‐regulated during apoptosis in prostate cancer cells. Here, we show, for the first time, that Par‐4 is expressed and co‐localizes with the actin filament bundles in vascular smooth muscle. Furthermore, we demonstrate that targeting of ZIPK to the actin filaments, as observed upon PGF‐2α stimulation, is inhibited by the presence of a cell permeant Par‐4 decoy peptide. The same decoy peptide also significantly inhibits PGF‐2α induced contractions of smooth muscle tissue. Moreover, knockdown of Par‐4 using antisense morpholino nucleotides results in significantly reduced contractility, and myosin light chain and myosin phosphatase target subunit phosphorylation. These results indicate that Par‐4 facilitates contraction by targeting ZIPK to the vicinity of its substrates, myosin light chain and MYPT, which are located on the actin filaments. These results identify Par‐4 as a novel regulator of myosin light chain phosphorylation in differentiated, contractile vascular smooth muscle.
Necrotizing vasculitis with a polyarteritis nodosa‐like pattern and selective immunoglobulin A deficiency: case report and review of the literature
Authors: Paradela Sabela , Sacristán Felipe , Almagro Manuel , Prieto Víctor G. , Kantrow Sara M. , Fonseca Eduardo
Published: May 2008

Selective immunoglobulin A deficiency (IgAD) is a primary immunodeficiency disease characterized by low levels (< 7 mg/dl) of serum immunoglobulin (Ig) A and normal serum levels of IgG and IgM. Patients with IgAD have increased risk for recurrent respiratory and gastrointestinal infections, autoimmune disease, asthma and allergy. A 26‐year‐old woman was admitted with sudden onset of painful cutaneous lesions on her lower extremities, pyrexia and arthromyalgia. Her medical history was remarkable for recurrent respiratory tract infections, self‐limited episodes of acute diarrhea, atopy, splenomegaly and a 4‐year history of a lung granulomatous lesion. Laboratory and imaging tests ruled out severe life‐threatening infection, connective tissue disease and neoplasm. Serum protein electrophoresis showed a low IgA serum level (6.67 mg/dl), with normal serum levels of IgG and IgM, conducting to a diagnosis of selective IgAD. A skin biopsy showed necrotizing vasculitis without any sign of internal organ disease. We report a patient with IgAD and granulomatous involvement of lungs, spleen and medium‐sized arteries of the skin. Although IgAD results from a failure of B‐cell differentiation, we propose that deregulated immune response with production of cross‐reactive antibodies and hyperstimulation of T cells and macrophages could contribute to this widespread granulomatous reaction.
Folliculosebaceous cystic hamartoma or trichofolliculoma? A spectrum of hamartomatous changes inducted by perifollicular stroma in the follicular epithelium
Authors: Wu Yu‐Hung
Published: May 2008

Background:  Folliculosebaceous cystic hamartoma (FSCH) histologically resembles trichofolliculoma.

Methods:  The clinical and histologic characteristics of both tumors were studied retrospectively, comparing these findings with those of other similar follicular tumors described in the literature.

Results:  Fourteen cases of FSCH and 15 cases of trichofolliculoma were diagnosed over 5 years. FSCH were larger, of longer duration, located mostly in the head and neck region. Histologically, the two lesions had a similar architecture except for the presence of a secondary follicle in trichofolliculoma.

Conclusion:  FSCH are probably more common than previously thought and may be part of a spectrum of cystic follicular tumors. The perifollicular stroma may influence differentiation of the cystic wall, resulting in a variety of follicular tumors with overlapping features.
Cutaneous granulocytic sarcoma in myelodysplastic syndrome
Authors: De Arruda Câmara Viviane Marins , Morais José Carlos , Portugal Rodrigo , Da Silva Carneiro Sueli Coelho , Ramos‐e‐Silva Marcia
Published: May 2008

Granulocytic sarcoma is an extramedullary tumor of immature cells of granulocytic series, generally associated to acute myelogenous leukemia. The skin is one of the most commonly affected sites. Granulocytic sarcoma can complicate myelodysplastic syndromes and is considered a sign of poor prognosis. They are often misdiagnosed with non‐Hodgkin lymphoma of the lymphoblastic type, Burkitt lymphoma and large cell lymphoma. In children, the differential diagnoses also include small, round cell tumors. It is important to diagnose these lesions early because they can precede peripheral blood and bone marrow transformation to acute myelogenous leukemia. We report a case of an elderly patient with myelodysplastic syndrome who developed multiple cutaneous granulocytic sarcoma lesions and discuss prognostic and treatment implications.
Lichen aureus with clonal T cells in a child possibly induced by regular consumption of an energy drink
Authors: Yazdi Amir S. , Mayser Peter , Sander Christian A.
Published: May 2008

Lichen aureus is a rare disease of unknown origin that is classified under the group of pigmented purpuric dermatoses. Its most important differential diagnosis is both clinically and histologically mycosis fungoides, into which the disease can proceed in very rare cases. We describe an unusual multilocular lichen aureus possibly induced by the almost daily consumption of an energy drink. An 11‐year‐old boy presented with a history of asymptomatic ochre patches on his extremities and abdomen occurring after regular consumption of an energy drink. Histologic examination showed a band‐like lymphocytic infiltrate, containing hemosiderin deposits and extravasal erythrocytes adjacent to dermal blood vessels, in the iron‐stain detection of hemosiderin. Because of these findings, lichen aureus was diagnosed. After a 2‐month abstention from the energy drink, no new lesions appeared and the present lesions grew pale and finally disappeared. The case shows a rare multilocular lichen aureus, which disappeared after the consumption of an energy drink was stopped. The ingredients of the energy drink are an example of a possible trigger of the disease.
Delay in diagnosis: trauma‐ and coinfection‐related cutaneous leishmaniasis because of Leishmania guyanensis infection
Authors: Mulvaney Patrick , Aram Gazelle , Maggiore Peter R. , Kutzner Heinz , Carlson John Andrew
Published: May 2008

Trauma can trigger the onset of some lesions of cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL). In this study, we present the case of a 65‐year‐old man who developed persistent, ulcerative, nodular lymphangiitis at the site of elbow abrasions from a fall during a trip to northeastern Brazil. Skin and lymph node biopsy showed tuberculoid granulomatous inflammation and Grocott‐methamine silver‐positive yeast forms consistent with Sporothrix and Staphylococcus lugdunensis was identified from tissue culture. Antibacterial and antifungal treatment produced short‐term healing. Crusted papules recurred at the sites of injury 3 months later and persisted despite therapy. After 15 months, two punch biopsies showed scarring and granulomatous inflammation; cultures and histochemical stains were negative for microorganisms. Because of refractory disease, multiple polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays for infectious agents on DNA extracted from the biopsy specimens were performed, and Leishmania guyanensis was detected in all specimens. The patient refused pentavalent antimonial therapy and elected for excision of the CL lesions. After 2 years of follow up, he is without disease. CL should be considered in the differential diagnosis in patients who present with ulcerative, nodular lymphangiitis; have a history of travel to endemic regions; and describe a traumatic insult to the affected region. PCR methods for infectious agents increase the sensitivity and specificity of detecting causative agents in these patients who are negative by routine methods. In some, leishmaniasis may be an occult infection whose presence is heralded by trauma. Coinfection, by altering the immune response, may have facilitated the clinical acquisition of CL.
A Functional GFP Fusion for Imaging Clathrin‐Mediated Endocytosis
Authors: Rappoport Joshua Z. , Simon Sanford M.
Published: May 2008

The ability to localize proteins of interest in live cells through imaging inherently fluorescent protein tags has provided an unprecedented level of information on cellular organization. However, there are numerous cases where fluorescent tags alter the localization and/or function of the proteins to which they are appended. Clathrin‐mediated endocytosis from the plasma membrane is a physiologically important process evolutionarily conserved from yeast to humans. Some proteins that are associated with the machinery of clathrin‐mediated endocytosis have been tagged with fluorescent proteins. However, it has not yet been possible to study this process through a protein marker that is specific to this step and still fully functional when linked to a fluorescent protein. In this study, we present the first demonstration that one of these proteins, in this case a green fluorescent protein (GFP) fusion to α‐adaptin, a marker of the adaptor protein‐2 complex, functionally complements knockdown of endogenous protein through small interfering RNA silencing. GFP–α‐adaptin, as well as the techniques used to test the fusion protein, represents an important contribution to the cell biologist’s toolbox, which will permit a greater understanding of vesicle trafficking in live cells.
Delayed-onset delirium tremens – a diagnostic and management challenge
Authors: Saddichha Sahoo , Manjunatha Narayana , Prasad Sinha Baxi Neeraj , Khess Christoday R.J.
Published: May 2008

Background:

Delirium tremens (DT) is one of the most serious complications of alcohol withdrawal, affecting 5–10% of in-patients with a mortality rate up to 15%. DT, characterised by delirium and tremors, appears within 48–72 h of abstinence and persists for about 5–10 days.

Case presentation:

We report a case of DT in a young man with delayed onset on the 15th day after the cessation of alcohol use, despite an uncomplicated detoxification with benzodiazepine treatment.

Conclusion:

We hypothesise that the intake of country liquor in our patient, which contains higher percentages of alcohol, causes a prolonged imbalance ofN-methyl-d-aspartic acid and glutamate receptor activity, leading to the picture of delayed-onset DT and that an atypical presentation at the time of admission and atypicality in early course are clinical pointers to the subsequent development of delayed-onset DT.
Herpes simplex vegetans: atypical genital herpes infection with prominent plasma cell infiltration in B‐cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia
Authors: Römer Annette , Greiner Axel , Enk Alexander , Hartschuh Wolfgang
Published: May 2008

Herpes simplex vegetans is a rare disorder even in immunocompromised patients. It typically affects patients with HIV or myeloproliferative diseases.The atypical cutaneous lesions show papillomatous vegetations in varying locations. Histologically the lesions show pseudoepitheliomatous hyperplasia of squamous epithelium, plasma cell infiltration and are positive for HSV 1 and/or HSV 2. Herpes simplex vegetans often responds poorly to treatment in immunocom‐promised patients.
Interleukin‐2 immediate type hypersensitivity?
Authors: Caucig Peri , Lescau Susanne , Knop Jürgen , Maurer Marcus , Von Stebut Esther
Published: May 2008

Two patients with metastatic malignant melanoma developed immediate type hypersensitivity‐like symptoms while being treated with recombinant interleukin‐(IL‐)2 immunotherapy. Both patients showed positive skin prick tests to IL‐2, enhanced basophil degranulation in vitro and responded to anti‐histamines, but laboratory investigations suggested an IgE‐independent, pseudoallergic mast cell degranulation against IL‐2.
End‐of‐life care for older adults with dementia living in group homes in Japan
Authors: KOBAYASHI Sayuri , YAMAMOTO‐MITANI Noriko , NAGATA Satoko , MURASHIMA Sachiyo
Published: May 2008

Aim:  The aim of this study was to elucidate the components of end‐of‐life care provided to older adults with dementia who live in group homes (GHs) in Japan.

Introduction:  The number of GHs in Japan is rapidly increasing. Although GHs were originally not established to care for elderly people with advanced‐stage dementia, many residents remain in the GH even after their stage of dementia advances; thus, end‐of‐life care is required.

Methods:  Interviews were conducted with seven GH administrators on their experience in providing end‐of‐life care to their residents. The constant comparative approach was used for data collection and analysis.

Findings:  Four themes emerged as essential components of end‐of‐life care in the GH setting: (i) maintaining a familiar lifestyle; (ii) minimizing physical and mental discomfort; (iii) proactively utilizing desirable medical care; and (iv) collaborating with family members.

Conclusion:  The combination of the four components seems to be a unique characteristic of end‐of‐life care in GHs in Japan. These findings may be used to establish a framework for end‐of‐life care at GHs.
Relationship of experience and the place of work to the level of competency among public health nurses in Japan
Authors: OKAMOTO Reiko , SHIOMI Misa , IWAMOTO Saori , HATONO Yoko , CHIBA Yumi , OJIMA Toshiyuki , BESSYO Yuko , NAKAYAMA Kimiko , INOUE Kiyomi
Published: May 2008

Aim:  To examine the actual competencies of public health nurses (PHNs) working in public organizations in Japan in order to clarify the relationship between the level of competency and the number of years of experience and the place of work.

Methods:  The subjects were 1799 full‐time PHNs working at 135 prefectural public health centers and 115 municipal health centers, which were randomly selected. Each subject received a questionnaire in the mail, requesting basic personal information and a self‐evaluation of six levels of achievement in 11 topics in five categories of competencies.

Results:  The number of respondents was 1261 (70.1%), with a total of 1184 valid responses (65.8%). In terms of the level of competency, the average score was >3 for all items and the number of PHNs who achieved Ladders 5 and 6 was low, with very few achieving Ladder 6, despite having more years of experience. Furthermore, the level of achievement depended on the workplace, position, and academic background.

Conclusion:  The tasks regarding the education of PHNs in Japan are to establish achievement goals clearly and incrementally and to develop methods and systems that consistently and systematically increase competencies, not only in basic undergraduate education, but also for employed PHNs, through specialized education. In particular, educational methods that lead to high‐quality experiences need to be selected in order to develop competencies.
Penile Prosthesis Pump Tubing Erosion into Urethra Appearing as Inability to Catheterize: A Case Report
Authors: Brown Elizabeth T. , Saunders Susan E. , Zaslau Stanley
Published: May 2008

Introduction

Erosion of penile prosthesis tubing represents a late complication of penile prosthesis surgery. To our knowledge, this is the first report of isolated erosion of penile implant pump tubing into the urethra in an otherwise asymptomatic patient. The patient had no signs of infection or erosion and no voiding complaints. His only problem was that his urinary catheter was not able to be placed during his vascular surgery procedure.

Methods

Patient with a 5-year history of erectile dysfunction refractory to therapy with PDE5 inhibitors, injection therapy, and vacuum erection device therapy underwent placement of an Alpha-1 Mentor inflatable penile prosthesis. The patient underwent femoral-popliteal bypass at month 21, and during the procedure, the vascular service was unable to place a urinary catheter. Erosion of the tubing from his penile prosthesis was then noted at approximately the junction between the membranous and bulbar urethra.

Results

Patient was without signs of infection and had no voiding complaints. These findings were discovered because of the inability to place a urinary catheter for his femoral-popliteal bypass. Diagnosis was made by flexible cystoscopy.

Conclusions

No evidence of infection was noted on examination, and the patient was otherwise asymptomatic. Diagnosis can be made by flexible cystoscopy. Subsequent removal of the penile implant was curative.
Formation of blue compact dwarf galaxies from merging and interacting gas-rich dwarfs
Authors: Bekki Kenji
Published: May 2008

We present the results of numerical simulations which show the formation of blue compact dwarf (BCD) galaxies from merging between very gas-rich dwarfs with extended H i gas discs. We show that dwarf–dwarf merging can trigger central starbursts and form massive compact cores dominated by young stellar populations. We also show that the pre-existing old stellar components in merger precursor dwarfs can become diffuse low surface brightness components after merging. The compact cores dominated by younger stellar populations and embedded in more diffusely distributed older ones can be morphologically classified as BCDs. Since new stars can be formed from gas transferred from the outer part of the extended gas discs of merger precursors, new stars can be very metal-poor ([Fe/H] < -1). Owing to very high gaseous pressure exceeding 105kB (where kB is the Boltzmann constant) during merging, compact star clusters can be formed in forming BCDs. The BCDs formed from merging can still have extended H i gas discs surrounding their blue compact cores. We discuss whether tidal interaction of gas-rich dwarfs without merging can also form BCDs.
Peripheral blood candidosis infection leading to spurious platelet and white blood cell counts
Authors: LESESVE J. F. , KHALIFA M. A. , DENOYES R. , BRAUN F.
Published: May 2008

We report a patient with thrombocytopenia secondary to disseminated stomach adenocarcinoma and sepsis whose platelet and white blood cells were falsely enumerated by two automated haematology analyzers. The cause of the spurious counts became obvious when numerous yeast forms were observed on the peripheral blood smear. Artefactual automated analyzer results are detailed.
Integrating Bioethics into Clinical and Translational Science Research: A Roadmap
Authors: Shapiro Robyn S. , Layde Peter M.
Published: May 2008

Recent initiatives to improve human health emphasize the need to effectively and appropriately translate new knowledge gleaned from basic biomedical and behavioral research to clinical and community application. To maximize the beneficial impact of scientific advances in clinical practice and community health, and to guard against potential deleterious medical and societal consequences of such advances, incorporation of bioethics at each stage of clinical and translational science research is essential. At the earliest stage, bioethics input is critical to address issues such as whether to limit certain areas of scientific inquiry. Subsequently, bioethics input is important to assure not only that human subjects trials are conducted and reported responsibly, but also that results are incorporated into clinical and community practices in a way that promotes and protects bioethical principles. At the final stage of clinical and translational science research, bioethics helps to identify the need and approach for refining clinical practices when safety or other concerns arise. The framework we present depicts how bioethics interfaces with each stage of clinical and translational science research, and suggests an important research agenda for systematically and comprehensively assuring bioethics input into clinical and translational science initiatives.
A Patient Suffering from Hypokalemic Periodic Paralysis Is Deficient in Skeletal Muscle ATP‐sensitive K+ channels
Authors: Jovanović Sofija , Du Qingyou , Mukhopadhyay Somnath , Swingler Robert , Buckley Richard , McEachen Jane , Jovanović Aleksandar
Published: May 2008

Hypokalemic periodic paralysis (HOPP) is a rare disease associated with attacks of muscle weakness and hypokalemia. In the present study, immunoprecipitation/Western blotting has shown that a HOPP patient was deficient in sarcolemmal KATP channels. Real‐time RT‐PCR has revealed that HOPP has decreased mRNA levels of Kir6.2, a pore‐forming KATP channel subunit, without affecting the expression of other KATP channel‐forming proteins. Based on these findings, we conclude that HOPP could be associated with impaired expression of Kir6.2 which leads to deficiency in skeletal muscle KATP channels, which may explain the symptoms and clinical signs of this disease.
Simultaneous Administration of Insulin‐Like Growth Factor‐1 and Darbepoetin Alfa Protects the Rat Myocardium Against Myocardial Infarction and Enhances Angiogenesis
Authors: Boucher Matthieu , Pesant Stéphanie , Lei Yong Hong , Nanton Natasha , Most Patrick , Eckhart Andrea D. , Koch Walter J. , Gao Erhe
Published: May 2008

Recent studies have shown that insulin growth factor‐1 (IGF‐1) and either erythropoietin (EPO) or the long‐acting EPO analog Darbepoetin alfa (DA) protect the heart against ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) and myocardial infarction (MI). The present study examined the cardioprotective effect of simultaneous treatments with IGF‐1 and DA in these models of cardiac injury. Rats were subjected to I/R or MI and were treated with IGF‐1, DA, and a combination of IGF‐1 and DA, or vehicle treatment. IGF‐1 and DA treatments imparted similar protective effect by reducing infarct size. Moreover, these treatments led to improvement of cardiac function after I/R or MI compared to vehicle. In the reperfused heart, apoptosis was reduced with either or both IGF‐1 and DA treatments as measured by reduced TUNEL staining and caspase‐3 activity. In addition, after MI, treatment with IGF‐1 or DA significantly induced angiogenesis. This angiogenic effect was enhanced significantly when IGF‐1 and DA were given simultaneously compared to vehicle or either agents alone. These data indicate simultaneous pharmacological treatments with IGF‐1 and DA protect the heart against I/R and MI injuries. This protection results in reduced infarct size and improved cardiac function. Moreover, this treatment reduces apoptosis and enhances angiogenesis in the ischemic heart.
Functional Capillary Rarefaction in Mild Blood Pressure Elevation
Authors: Cheng Cynthia , Diamond James J. , Falkner Bonita
Published: May 2008

Capillary rarefaction is described in patients with moderate‐to‐severe hypertension. The study objective was to determine if structural and/or functional capillary rarefaction is detectable and associated with endothelial dysfunction in patients with mild blood pressure elevation (HBP: Systolic blood pressure 130–160 mm Hg). Capillary density was quantified by direct capillaroscopy in 110 nondiabetic black and non‐black subjects. Endothelial function was quantified by plethysmographic measures of flow‐mediated vasodilation. Compared to normotensives (NBP: N = 90), functional capillary rarefaction was detected in HBP (N = 20; p < 0.001). Functional capillary density measures correlated with endothelial function (p < 0.001). Functional, but not structural, capillary rarefaction is detectable and associated with endothelial dysfunction in both black and non‐black individuals with mild blood pressure elevation.
MicroRNAs as New Players in the Genomic Galaxy and Disease Puzzles
Authors: Barbarotto Elisa , Secchiero Paola , Dasgupta Abhijit , Fortina Paolo , Calin George A. , Hyslop Terry
Published: May 2008

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a large family of short, single‐stranded, highly conserved noncoding RNAs involved in gene regulation that can regulate gene expression through sequence‐specific base pairing with target messenger RNAs (mRNAs). miRNAs have been implicated in the development of a wide variety of cancers as well as heart disease and other diseases. This review describes the role of miRNAs in human disease, methodology for evaluating miRNA gene expression, and the potential role of miRNAs as therapeutic agents and targets for the treatment of disease.