bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Research Presentations: Disseminating Knowledge for Practice
Authors: Dumas Mary Anne Staudt , Gallo Kathleen , Shurpin Kathleen Moriarity
Published: May 2007

The abstract should have a title and should include the purpose and the significance of the study to the target audience, the design and procedures used for data collection, a succinct summary of the most important findings, and a brief statement of conclusion (Table 1). Careful attention should be given when constructing a title. The title should be interesting, brief, representative of the focus of the study, and attract attention to the research. Most research titles include the type of study, the variables, and the population studied (Ryan, 1989).

It is important to identify whether there is a limitation on the number of words to be contained in the abstract. If there is not a limitation, follow the rule, “Never more than one typewritten page.” The abstract that is sent with a query letter to an editor of a journal does not have a word limit, but the above rule generally applies. The limit for conferences can vary from 150 to 300 words, and will be indicated in the Call for Abstracts. Use of the word count feature in a word processing program will assist in the construction of an abstract that adheres to the word count stated in the Call for Abstracts (Plaut, 1982).

Specific references to the literature are included in rare instances. The language used in writing the abstract should not be highly technical. It should be clear and concise and should communicate to the reader the motive of the study, why and how the study was conducted, and what knowledge was gained from the study. Many conferences print the abstracts in the conference syllabus. A clear, concise, well‐organized abstract has a greater probability of being accepted for presentation and is more likely to be well attended at a conference than one that is highly technical or disorganized.
The Acute Care Nurse Practitioner in Collaborative Practice
Authors: Buchanan Lynne
Published: May 2007

Nurse‐physician relationships remain, for the most part, hierarchical in nature. A hierarchical structure allows the person at the top, most notably the physician, the highest level of authority and power for decision making. Other health care providers are delegated various tasks related to the medical plan of care. One role of nonmedical health care providers, including nurses, is to support the medical plan of care and increase the productivity of physicians. Medical centers have house staff, usually interns and residents, who work collaboratively with the attending physicians in care delivery. At one medical center, a shortage of medical house staff for internal medicine prompted the development and evaluation of an alternative service. The alternative service utilized master prepared, certified nurse practitioners on a nonteaching service to provide care for selected types of medical patients. Physicians consulted with nurse practitioners, but retained decision‐making authority concerning patient admission to the service. This paper describes the development and evaluation of an alternative service based on a collaborative practice model and the role of nurse practitioners working under such a model. Discussion includes suggestions for process guideline development for organizations that want to improve collaborative practice relationships between unit nursing staff, nurse practitioners, and physicians.
Screening for Spousal or Partner Abuse in a Community Health Setting
Authors: Quillian Janet Parkinson
Published: May 2007

The most frequent victims of domestic violence are women. Although estimates of spousal or partner abuse vary from 3.8% to 44%, this type of abuse is unrecognized and underreported. A screening study for abuse occurred in a community health setting. Some 2,410 women were screened. The results indicated an incidence rate of 8.4%. Health care providers have an obligation to identify, treat, and provide appropriate resources for victims of spousal abuse. Screening for spousal or partner abuse should take place in primary care settings.
Breast Cancer Among Men: Raising Awareness for Primary Prevention
Authors: Fullerton Judith T. , Lantz John , Sadler Georgia Robins
Published: May 2007

The American Cancer Society estimated that in 1993 1,000 new cases of male breast cancer would be diagnosed in the United States and 300 men would die from the disease. The clinical picture of breast cancer among men resembles that seen in women, and the development of the disease among men has been attributed to similar hormonal and genetic causes. The mortality rate from breast cancer is also similar, when corrected for chronological age and stage of the disease at the time of diagnosis and treatment. Guidelines for patient education, health screening, and patient support are presented.
A Nurse Practitioner‐Managed After‐hours Clinic for a Native American Reservation
Authors: Berry Ronald A.
Published: May 2007

The Indian Health Service implemented a plan for an after‐hours clinic which has been providing services since May 1991 on the Wind River Indian Reservation in Wyoming. Integral to the plan for the after‐hours clinic was the family nurse practitioner as primary care provider. The after‐hours clinic expands the health care services of the clinic by 3 hours on weekdays and 8 hours on Sundays. The role of the nurse practitioner as a primary care provider was introduced to the Wind River Service Unit, along with an after‐hours clinic operation. Since the inception of the after‐hours clinic, behavioral health and dental services and a women's clinic have been added.
Mentoring and Self‐Efficacy for Advanced Nursing Practice: A Philosophical Approach for Nurse Practitioner Preceptors
Authors: Hayes Eileen
Published: May 2007

Nurse practitioners (NPs), frequently called upon by graduate schools of nursing to be preceptors for NP students, are asked to play an active role in the socialization of these students as capable primary care providers. Much is expected of the preceptor in the typical short‐term clinical preceptorship with little guidance available to her or him. A mentoring model of clinical education, while representing a longer‐term commitment for preceptors than usual precepting arrangements, may ultimately be a more effective model for student learning and more satisfying for the preceptor than currently practiced models. Eastern philosophical principles, very much in harmony with valued nursing approaches to relationships, can provide a framework for examining mentoring as a strategy for promotion of self‐efficacy for advanced practice that can be of benefit to both the NP preceptor and the NP neophyte.
THIS ARTICLE HAS BEEN RETRACTED Management of Antidepressant Withdrawal Reactions
Authors: Yerger Shelley
Published: May 2007

The following article from Journal of the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners, "Management of Antidepressant Withdrawal Reactions" by Shelley Yerger Huffstutler, published in print in April 1998 and online in Wiley InterScience (http://www.interscience.wiley.com), has been retracted by agreement between the authors, the journal Editor‐in‐Chief, Charon Pierson, and Wiley Periodicals, Inc. The retraction has been agreed due to due to overlap between this article and the following article published in the American Family Physician"Antidepressant withdrawal reactions" by R. M. Wolfe, Volume 56 (August), 1997, pages 455–462.
Regional and Global Responses to the Asian Crisis
Authors: GRENVILLE Stephen
Published: May 2007

This paper examines how economic policy‐making changed as a result of the Asian crisis of 1997–1998, in the countries affected, in the region, and at the global level. It is perhaps surprising how little change has occurred in the broad approach to economic policy, but there is a much greater awareness of the vulnerabilities posed by large international capital flows. The broad tenets of the Washington Consensus, with its market‐based policies, remain in place, but there is a recognition that well‐functioning markets require complex institutions, rules, and procedures, and that these take time and effort to develop. Most of this institutional development will have to take place at the national level, but regional arrangements can offer support, and multilateral agencies, such as the International Monetary Fund, have learned from the crisis.
Indonesia After the Asian Crisis*
Authors: HILL Hal , SHIRAISHI Takashi
Published: May 2007

Indonesia was deeply affected by the 1997–1998 crisis, more so than its East Asian neighbors. Its economic contraction was deeper and more prolonged. It was the only one to experience a (temporary) loss of macroeconomic control. It also suffered “twin crises,” in the sense that its serious economic and financial problems were accompanied by regime collapse. Consequently, recovery was a slow and complex process, as new institutions had to be created, and old ones reformed under successive short‐lived administrations. But this process is largely over. The directly elected president with a strong popular mandate is in power. The new institutional framework for economic policy‐making is in place. Macroeconomic stability has been restored. Although growth has yet to return to pre‐crisis levels, by 2004 per capita income and poverty incidence had recovered to levels prevailing in the mid‐1990s, and in the circumstances economic recovery has arguably proceeded about as quickly as could reasonably have been expected.
A plant-transformation-competent BIBAC/BAC-based map of rice for functional analysis and genetic engineering of its genomic sequence
Authors: Li Yaning , Uhm Taesik , Ren Chengwei , Wu Chengcang , Santos Teofila S. , Lee Mi-Kyung , Yan Bo , Santos Felipe , Zhang Aimin , Scheuring Chantel , Sanchez Alma , Millena Anna C. , Nguyen Henry T. , Kou Hongda , Liu Daqun , Zhang Hong-Bin
Published: May 2007

Sequencing of the rice genome has provided a platform for functional genomics research of rice and other cereal species. However, multiple approaches are needed to determine the functions of its genes and sequences and to use the genome sequencing results for genetic improvement of cereal crops. Here, we report a plant-transformation-competent, binary bacterial artificial chromosome (BIBAC) and bacterial artificial chromosome (BAC) based map of rice to facilitate these studies. The map was constructed from 20 835 BIBAC and BAC clones, and consisted of 579 overlapping BIBAC/BAC contigs. To facilitate functional analysis of chromosome 8 genomic sequence and cloning of the genes and QTLs mapped to the chromosome, we anchored the chromosomal contigs to the existing rice genetic maps. The chromosomal map consists of 11 contigs, 59 genetic markers, and 36 sequence tagged sites, spanning a total of ca. 38 Mb in physical length. Comparative analysis between the genetic and physical maps of chromosome 8 showed that there are 3 “hot” and 2 “cold” spots of genetic recombination along the chromosomal arms in addition to the “cold spot” in the centromeric region, suggesting that the sequence component contents of a chromosome may affect its local genetic recombination frequencies. Because of its plant transformability, the BIBAC/BAC map could provide a platform for functional analysis of the rice genome sequence and effective use of the sequencing results for gene and QTL cloning and molecular breeding.
Introgressive hybridization between the allotetraploid Coffea arabica and one of its diploid ancestors, Coffea canephora, in an exceptional sympatric zone in New Caledonia
Authors: Mahé L. , Le Pierrès D. , Combes M.-C. , Lashermes P.
Published: May 2007

The importance of introgressive hybridization in plant evolution has long been recognized. Nevertheless, information on gene flow between allopolyploids and their diploid relatives is very limited, even though gene flow could play a major role in polyploid establishment and evolution. Here, we investigated the processes governing hybrid formation and introgression between the allotetraploid Coffea arabica and one of its ancestral diploid progenitors, C. canephora, in a sympatric zone of New Caledonia. The occurrence of a large assortment of hybridization events between the 2 coffee species is clearly established. First-generation hybrids (F1) and post-F1hybrids were characterized. The involvement of unreduced gametes of C. canephora is suggested, because tetraploid F1hybrid plants were detected. Moreover, although bidirectional mating was observed, only unidirectional gene flow from C. canephora to C. arabica was noted in post-F1hybrids. Most of the collected post-F1hybrid plants exhibited a high level of introgression, and the frequency of introgression observed among the different analyzed loci was homogeneous, suggesting no significant counterselection against introgressions from C. canephora. Overall, the New Caledonian central mountains appear to be a highly favourable environment for introgressive hybridization and a genetic diversity center for C. arabica.
STRUCTURAL AND ELECTRONIC PROPERTIES OF ONE DIMENSIONAL KxC60 CRYSTAL ENCAPSULATED IN CARBON NANOTUBE
Authors: SONG WEI , LU JING , GAO ZHENGXIANG , NI MING , GUAN LUNHUI , SHI ZUJIN , GU ZHENNAN , NAGASE SHIGERU , YU DAPENG , YE HENGQIANG , ZHANG XINWEI
Published: May 2007

The structural and electronic properties of potential one dimensional (1D) superconductor — K x C 60 chain encapsulated inside a single-walled carbon nanotube is studied using first principles calculations. The stoichiometry of K to C 60 of the 1D K x C 60 crystal can reach 9, in contrast to a maximal stoichiometry of 6 found in the K doped bulk fullerides. The K 4s electrons are completely ionized, and fill chiefly the C 60-derived bands in a nonrigid way. The density of states at the Fermi level of the encapsulated 1D K x C 60 crystal is comparable to that in K doped bulk fullerides.
A STUDY ON STRUCTURAL AND OPTOELECTRONIC PROPERTIES OFZnOFILM PREPARED BY PULSED LASER DEPOSITION ONSi(111) SUBSTRATES
Authors: WEI XIAN-QI , MAN BAO-YUAN , WANG YU-TAI , ZHUANG HUI-ZHAO
Published: May 2007

Zinc oxide (ZnO) thin films grown on Si (111) substrates by pulsed laser deposition at O2ambient pressure of 1.3 Pa at different deposition temperatures have been studied. ZnO thin films underwent annealing treatment after deposition. The structural and optoelectronic properties of deposited and annealed thin films have been characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), atomic force microscopy (AFM), infrared absorption (IR) spectra, four-probe measurements and photoluminescence (PL) spectra. The XRD observation shows that the best crystalline quality of ZnO thin films with hexagonal structure are those grown at a temperature of 400°C and annealed at a temperature of 600°C, respectively. AFM results show that the surface roughness of the ZnO films can be decreased with increasing annealing temperature up to 600°C and then increased by further increasing the annealing temperature. The intense absorption peak sited at 417.54 cm-1has been observed by IR spectra for ZnO film grown at 400°C and annealed at 600°C, and the property of absorption is improved by post-annealing. ZnO film grown at 400°C with a resistivity of 12.3 Ω· cm shows the best n-type semiconductor property. The PL spectra show the dominant increase in UV emission by annealing. It is concluded that the best post-annealing temperature is about 600°C.
CONTROL OF CODIMENSION ONE STATIONARY BIFURCATIONS
Authors: VERDUZCO FERNANDO
Published: May 2007

The control of the saddle-node, transcritical and pitchfork bifurcations are analyzed in nonlinear control systems with one zero eigenvalue. It is shown that, provided some conditions on the vector fields are satisfied, it is possible to design a control law such that the bifurcation properties can be modified in some desirable way. To simplify the analysis to dimension one, the center manifold theory is used.
IMPULSIVE SYNCHRONIZATION FOR A NEW CHAOTIC OSCILLATOR
Authors: BENÍTEZ SINUHÉ , ACHO LEONARDO
Published: May 2007

Synchronization for a new proposed chaotic system based on impulsive control theory is presented. This new chaotic oscillator is a third order polynomial system (Jerk system), which was developed after the addition of a third state and innovation terms to the well known second order Van der Pol oscillator. The chaotic behavior of this new system is confirmed by using Lyapunov exponents, Poincaré maps, Fourier spectrum analysis and numerical experiments. Impulsive synchronization is achieved using just one channel of communication.
Sensory Organization of the Human Thalamus
Authors: Tasker R.R. , Organ L.W. , Hawrylyshyn P.
Published: May 2007

A computerized program has been developed for on-line display and tape-library storage of stimulation-mapping data collected during stereotactic procedures. Using computer-generated displays of pooled clinical physiological data it has been possible to map through the upper midbrain and thalamus the lemniscal, spinoquintothalamic, auditory, vestibular, visual, extrapyramidal, and motor pathways, as well as the location of the pia. Each system is recognizable by a stereotyped, artificial, somatotopically organized stimulation-induced response that is devoid of modality information and independent of the site and parameters of stimulation.
Thalamus Degeneration in Japan
Authors: Oda Masaya
Published: May 2007

12 Japanese cases with marked thalamus degeneration are reviewed. They are divided into 3 groups. The 4 cases of the first group showed a relatively short clinical course. Neuropathologically, the lesions of this group are selectively severe in the thalamus, and olivocerebellar atrophy is also observed. Because of the significance of the thalamic changes, this group is called ‘primary thalamus degeneration’. The cases of combined system degeneration and presenile dementia, such as Pick''s disease, are described in the 2nd and 3rd groups. In the thalamus, the developmentally younger, and medially and dorsolaterally located nuclei are most severely affected in all the cases. The substantia nigra, globus pallidus and cerebellar afferent systems, and occasionally the dentate nucleus, subthalamic nucleus and reticular formation, are also involved. In the cases of presenile dementia, in which the frontal and posterior parietal lobes are damaged, degenerated areas in the cerebrum and thalamus have a close relationship with each other genetically as well as in fiber connections. The clinicopathological relationship is discussed on the basis of those neurophathological findings.
Role of Computerized Transverse Axial Tomography on Stereotactic Surgery of the Diencephalon
Authors: Amano Keiichi , Iseki Hiroshi , Kawabatake Hiroko , Notani Masao , Kawamura Hirotsune , Kitamura Koiti
Published: May 2007

67 cases of various functional disorders of the diencephalon were examined by EMI scanner. The patients were composed of 38 cases of parkinsonism, 7 cases of thalamic syndrome, 6 cases of choreoathetoid movement, 2 cases of dystonia, 11 cases of involuntary movement of unknown etiology and 1 case of torticollis, tic, and ballismus, respectively. In parkinsonism, 79% showed diffuse cerebral atrophy, 5% had focal low density in the substantia nigra and the thalamus, whereas 16% remained normal. Pre- and postoperative assessment with CT scan was briefly discussed with reference to stereotactic surgery of the diencephalon.
Correlation between the Neural Noise in the Thalamus after Cerebrovascular Disease and Computerized Tomography
Authors: Isobe Itsuo , Nojiri Ken , Tsukahara Yoshio , Shibasaki Tohru , Miyazaki Mizuho , Ohye Chihiro
Published: May 2007

The case is presented of a 45-year-old man who suffered from a sudden attack of unconsciousness with right hemiplegia and later developed a spastic hemiparesis accompanied by involuntary movement of the right upper limb. CT scan revealed an old putaminal hemorrhage and almost intact thalamus, but neural noise recordings during the stereotactic thalamotomy of this case showed marked decrease of the neural activity in the thalamus suggesting some functional changes.
Long-Term Follow-Up Results of Bilateral Thalamotomy for Parkinsonism
Authors: Matsumoto Keizo , Asano Taku , Baba Toshimi , Miyamoto Toshihiko , Ohmoto Takashi
Published: May 2007

27 patients who underwent bilateral thalamotomy for parkinsonism over the past 10 years have been clinically evaluated. Mean follow-up period was 6.2 years after second surgery. In these cases, 8 returned to full social life without any medication, 4 were capable of social life with medical treatment, 6 were self-sufficient and 3 were semi-selfsufficient in ADL, respectively. Therapeutic drug doses were reduced in all cases. L-Dopa-induced dyskinesia was not observed after second surgery. Speech disturbance, which was not severe, was recognized in 12 cases as a complication.
Readiness Potentials Recorded from the Scalp and Depth Leads
Authors: Baba Yoshimi , Asano Taku , Nakamura Shigeo , Ohmoto Takashi
Published: May 2007

Readiness potentials on voluntary hand movements were recorded from the scalp (C3, C4), premotor cortex, subcortical white matter and VL nucleus of the thalamus. Subjects were healthy right-handed men and patients with involuntary movement disorders. We obtained a slow negative shift of brain electrical potentials from the scalp and cortex preceding voluntary hand movements. The mean time interval between the onset of the readiness potential and the onset of motor activity (mean T) was 0.8 sec on right hand movements and 1.0 sec on left hand movements in healthy men. In cases with parkinsonism, the mean T value was 1.4 sec in patients with akinesia, 1.1 sec in those without akinesia. The amplitude of readiness potentials was higher in the scalp contralateral to the hand movement. The readiness potentials recorded from the VL nucleus and white matter were reversed in polarity from those of scalp and cortex. Simultaneous recordings from cortex and VL nucleus showed early onset of readiness potentials from the cortex by approximately 0.1 sec compared with the VL nucleus.
Physiologically Defined VIM Nucleus
Authors: Ohye Chihiro , Maeda Takahiro , Narabayashi Hirotaro
Published: May 2007

In the course of stereotactic surgery for some 100 parkinsonian patients, correlative study of recording and stimulation has been done in and around the thalamic nucleus ventralis intermedius (VIM) under local anesthesia. The VIM nucleus is roughly identified either by the increase of neural noise level or radiological measurement. More accurately, in the thus identified VIM, sensory neurons related to kinesthetic sense of the contralateral extremity were found in about half of the cases. Electrical stimulation of this point at threshold intensity produced paresthesia on the contralateral area around its receptive field. With increased stimulus intensity, increment of grouping discharge in EMG of that part was pertinent in the majority of cases. A small localized lesion at such a thalamic point was shown to be quite effective for alleviation of tremor without any neurological, especially sensory, deficit.
Influence of Subcortical Stimulation on Amygdaloid Kindled Cats
Authors: Tanaka T. , Naquet R.
Published: May 2007

Amygdaloid kindling seizures with threshold stimulation was modified by electrical stimulation of certain subcortical structures such as the VL, the CGM and the MRF. Low frequency stimulations of the VL and the CGM (10 Hz) were effective for seizure inhibition. On the contrary, high frequency stimulation of the MRF (300 Hz) tended to facilitate the generalization of the seizure.
Analysis of Tremulous Movements after Thalamotomy Correlated to Intrathalamic Therapeutic Lesions
Authors: Yoshida Masafumi , Okada Kazuhiro , Watanabe Mitsuo , Kuramoto Shinken
Published: May 2007

Residual tremulous movements after thalamotomy were examined using an accelerometer and EMG. Various types of tremor-provoking procedures were performed and the tremulous movements were classified according to the pattern of modification by these procedures. Four types of postoperative tremulous movements were noted, and a correlation was made to the intrathalamic therapeutic lesions.
Cytotoxic Activity of Schisandrolic and Isoschisandrolic Acids Involves Induction of Apoptosis
Authors: Tian Ze , Xu Lijia , Chen Sibao , Zhou Liang , Yang Mengsu , Chen Shilin , Xiao Peigen , Wu Erxi
Published: May 2007

Cycloartane triterpenoid schisandrolic acid and isoschisandrolic acid were isolated from Schisandra propinqua (Wall.) Baill (Schisandraceae). Their cytotoxicity was evaluated in several cancer cell lines and primary cultured normal mouse hepatocytes. The two triterpenoids showed moderate cytotoxic activity on all tested cell lines. Fluorescence staining and cell cycle analyses were employed to elucidate the primary mechanisms of their cytotoxicity. Our results showed that two triterpenoids exerted their cytotoxic activity via G₀/G1 arrest and subsequent apoptosis. Furthermore, proteolytic cleavage of poly-ADP-ribose polymerase (PARP), substrate of the caspase family, was detected and associated with apoptosis in HepG2 cells induced by the two compounds.
Antifungal Susceptibility of Cryptococcus neoformans Isolates in HIV-Infected Patients to Fluconazole, Itraconazole and Voriconazole in Spain: 1994–1996 and 1997–2005
Authors: Aller A.I. , Claro R. , Castro C. , Serrano C. , Colom M.F. , Martín-Mazuelos E.
Published: May 2007

The antifungal drug susceptibility of 70 Cryptococcus neoformans isolates obtained in Spain from 1994 to 1996 (23 isolates) and from 1997 to 2005 (47 isolates) was investigated. The MICs of fluconazole, itraconazole and voriconazole were determined by the modified Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI; formerly National Committee for Clinical Laboratory Standards) broth microdilution method. The MIC50 and MIC90 for itraconazole and voriconazole did not change significantly from 1994 to 2005. The MIC50 of fluconazole remained stable and the MIC90 decreased by 2 log2 dilution in the isolates collected from 1997 to 2005. We conclude that the in vitro resistance to fluconazole decreased over an 11-year period. In addition, a tendency for the development of possible cross-resistance between the three triazoles was observed.
A Case of 3β-Hydroxysteroid Dehydrogenase Type II (HSD3B2) Deficiency Picked up by Neonatal Screening for 21-Hydroxylase Deficiency: Difficulties and Delay in Etiologic Diagnosis
Authors: Nordenström Anna , Forest Maguelone G. , Wedell Anna
Published: May 2007

Background: 3β-Hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type II deficiency, a rare form of congenital adrenal hyperplasia, is characterized by varying degrees of salt loss and incomplete masculinization in males and mild virilization or normal external genitalia in females. The clinical signs may be difficult to recognize, increasing the risk of a neonatal adrenal crisis. In addition, elevated 17α-hydroxyprogesterone and androstenedione levels due to peripheral HSD3B1 activity may lead to a delay of the correct diagnosis and even to misdiagnosis as CYP21 deficiency. Method: We report a patient who was detected on neonatal screening for 21-hydroxylase deficiency, in part because of cross-reactivity in the commonly used assay. Results: The diagnostic difficulties in this case were overcome by the use of more specific antibodies. Conclusion: This case emphasizes the importance of confirming the etiological diagnosis with molecular genetic analyses.
PPAR Ligands: Are They Potential Agents for Cardiovascular Disorders?
Authors: Balakumar Pitchai , Rose Madhankumar , Singh Manjeet
Published: May 2007

Peroxisome proliferator activated receptors (PPARs) are members of the nuclear hormone receptor superfamily of ligand-activated transcription factors. The PPAR subfamily consists of three members: PPARα, PPARγ, and PPARβ/δ. Fibrates are acting via PPARα, and they are used as lipid-lowering agents. PPARγ agonists reduce insulin resistance and have been used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes. As the knowledge of the pleiotropic effects of these agents advances, further potential indications are being revealed, including a novel role in the management of cardiovascular disorders (CVD). PPARα/γ dual agonists are currently under development and hold considerable promise in the management of type 2 diabetes and provide an effective therapeutic option for treating the multifactorial components of CVD. Several experimental and clinical evidences elucidated the beneficial effects of PPAR ligands in prevention and treatment of various CVD. However, PPARα and PPARγ agonists have been shown to be proinflammatory and proatherogenic in a few studies. Further, PPARγ ligands have been noted to be involved in the pathogenesis of congestive heart failure. These controversial results obtained from a few studies created further complication in understanding the role of PPARs. The function of PPARδ and its potential as a cardiovascular therapeutic target are currently under investigation. The present review focuses on the merits and limitations of PPAR agonists with regard to their use in CVD.
Prevalence of Nondiabetic Renal Disease in Diabetic Patients
Authors: Pham Tam T. , Sim John J. , Kujubu Dean A. , Liu In-Lu Amy , Kumar Victoria A.
Published: May 2007

Background: Diabetic nephropathy is the leading cause of end-stage renal disease in the USA, yet most patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus are not formally evaluated with a renal biopsy. Our aim was to evaluate the prevalence of nondiabetic renal disease (NDRD) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus to determine common clinical indicators suggestive of NDRD. Methods: A retrospective analysis was performed on biopsy reports of patients who had undergone native renal biopsy between January 1, 1995, and December 31, 2005. Results: After exclusion of 57 patients, 233 patients with DM2 were included in our analysis. Mean age at the time of biopsy was 58.1 ± 13.7 years, and 53.0% of the study population were male. There were 124 cases (53.2%) with a pathologic diagnosis of NDRD, 64 (27.5%) with pure diabetic glomerulosclerosis (DGS) and 45 (19.3%) with concurrent NDRD and DGS (CD). Patients with NDRD tended to be younger than those with DGS and had significantly less associated diabetic retinopathy. Focal segmental glomerulosclerosis was the most common lesion found in patients with NDRD and accounted for 21.0% of all NDRD, followed by minimal-change disease (15.3%). IgA nephropathy (15.6%) and membranous glomerulonephritis (13.3%) were the most prevalent lesions found in patients with CD. Conclusions: The high prevalence of NDRD found in our population underscores the need for clinicians to consider renal biopsy in diabetic patients with an atypical clinical course, since additional disease-specific therapies may be helpful for this subset of the population.
Mirror Movements in Hemiparesis
Authors: Chaco J. , Blank A.
Published: May 2007

25 patients with hemiparesis and without overt mirror movements were examined. EMG needle electrodes were inserted into the opponens pollicis and abductor digiti minimi muscles of the affected hand and the EMG recording was filmed during opposition of the thumb and abduction of the fifth finger of the intact hand. In 10 patients action potentials were recorded from both examined muscles. The study shows that muscle contractions equivalent to overt mirror movements are a frequent finding in hemiplegia.
Second Case of an Infantile Motor Neuron Disease
Authors: Reif-Kohn Renate , Mundel George
Published: May 2007

The second case of an unusual motor neuron disease in an infant is described. The disease shows primarily an involvement of motor neurons, less of the proprioceptive and the extrapyramidal systems. The most prominent change is the vacuolization of many ganglion cells with a secondary denervation atrophy of muscle. Identical changes, but slightly more severe, were seen in our first case. Clinically and morphologically, the disease does not resemble the infantile spinal muscular atrophy of Werdnig-Hoffmann. The etiology is unknown.
Percutaneous Trigeminal Tractotomy
Authors: Fox J.L.
Published: May 2007

During percutaneous trigeminal tractotomy, the obex, the floor of the 4 ventricle and the dorsum of the brain stem were satisfactorily outlined by contrast radiography in 20 patients. Emulsified Pantopaque was injected into the cisterna magna with the patient prone. The variations of the pattern of the obex seen on translateral X-ray film are described.
The Computer Brain Atlas: lts Use in Stereotaxic Surgery
Authors: Bertrand G. , Olivier A. , Thompson C.J.
Published: May 2007

Difficulties are often encountered in plotting the position of stereotaxic probe tracts against available human brain atlases because of differences in the dimensions of the patient and the atlas brain and because probe tracts are usually oblique to the planes of the atlas. This problem is compounded by the use of curved side electrodes protruding at an angle from the probe tip. To facilitate this task during surgery a Digital Equipment Corporation PDP-12 Computer has been programmed to display on the Tektronix type 4002 ‘Computer Graphics Terminal’ any of 48 of the stereotaxic brain maps of the Schaltenbrand and Bailey atlas including their legends with slight modifications. Any dimension of these maps can then be individually compressed, expanded or shifted to match the patient''s actual measurements as determined on the ventriculogram (intercommissural distance thalamic height width of the third ventricle etc). After selection of the target site on the appropriate map display and given the angles of approach as read on the stereotaxic instrument the probe tract can be shown in relation to any corrected atlas map in any of the three planes of space the portion of the probes extending beyond the displayed plane appearing in dotted outline on the terminal viewing screen. The shape and dimensions of the therapeutic lesion can also be displayed. The loci at which particular physiological phenomena are encountered can be labeled and stored on tape or disk memory by the computer for future display and analysis. Any display can be photographed with a Polaroid camera or drawn on paper with a ‘Complot DP-1-N2’ incremental plotter for permanent record. The same computer programme can also be used to store animal stereotaxic brain maps in the experimental laboratory and to correct them for varying head sizes within the same species.
Computer-Aided Localization Techniques for Stereotaxic Surgery
Authors: Colloff E. , Gleason C.A. , Alberts W.W. , Wright Jr E.W.
Published: May 2007

Two computer programs were written which localize coordinates of interest for stereotaxic procedures using the Leksell frame. The first program computes frame coordinates for a given point in a reference brain atlas. Landmarks used are the anterior and posterior commissures and the brain midline. The input required are the X-ray data for the coordinates of the commissures, X-ray beam center, and the patient’s brain midline. The second program computes the angles to be set up on the frame so that the electrode introducer will pass through two desired targets. The program will also compute the reference brain atlas coordinates for any point along a specific path of electrode introduction. The user can thereby determine the path of the electrode through various reference sections in the brain atlas. Inputs to the second program are the same as to the first plus the further input of either the two targets to be passed through or the frame angles to be used. Output is typed out immediately on the teletype.
The Influence of Topically Applied D-Tubocurarine on the Taste-Induced Electrical Nerve Activity in the Frog
Authors: Steiner J.E. , Gadoth N. , Moses S.W.
Published: May 2007

The influence of the topical application of d-tubocurarine on the taste-induced nerve activity was studied. Resting electrical activity of the glossopharyngeal nerve, as well as the stimulus-induced activity, was found to be affected by application of curare on the tongue. The results point to the existence of a cholinergic transmitter system in the peripheral tasting apparatus. The results of this model experiment are discussed in the light of the clinical findings regarding taste dysfunctions in familial dysautonomia (Riley-Day syndrome).
The Unilateral Forms of Finger Agnosia
Authors: Gainotti Guido , Tiacci Camillo
Published: May 2007

The unilateral forms of finger ‘agnosia’ (UFA) were studied in 60 control and in 176 brain-damaged patients by means of a non-verbal test of finger localization. Both right and left brain-damaged patients showed a prevalence of finger agnosia on the hand contralateral to the damaged hemisphere, but this prevalence was significantly more important in the right hemispheric group. When the task performed was under visual control, the prevalence of UFA among the right brain-damaged patients seemed due mostly to unilateral spatial neglect, but this interpretation could not account for the results obtained with the hands hidden from view. Some implications of these findings are discussed.
Physostigmine in Rigid Huntington’s Disease
Authors: Fann William E. , Gerber Carl J. , McKenzie G.M.
Published: May 2007

Physostigmine, a centrally active anticholihesterase agent, was given to three patients with rigid Huntington’s disease (RHD). Neurologic examinations before, during and after the administration showed no change in the manifestations of RHD. The theoretical implications of these data are discussed.
Quantitative Testing and its Usefulness in the Evaluation of Therapy in Neurological Diseases
Authors: Henderson William G. , Sadowsky Doris A. , Shapiro Douglas Y. , Van Buren John M.
Published: May 2007

Clinical neurologists and neurosurgeons are beginning to realize the usefulness of quantitative testing batteries to augment the qualitative measurements of the standard neurological examination in evaluating treatments for neurological diseases. This paper briefly reviews the literature on the subject, defines what is meant by a clinical quantitative neurological test, discusses the advantages of quantitative testing, considers some essential ingredients in constructing a quantitative testing system, and describes the battery of tests which is being used currently by the authors. A sample of patients from a recent study of the efficacy of thalamotomy in Parkinson’s disease is used to develop an example illustrating the usefulness of quantitative testing.
Prolonged Drug-Induced Parkinsonism
Authors: Klawans Jr. Harold L. , Bergen Donna , Bruyn George W.
Published: May 2007

Three non-schizophrenic individuals with drug-induced parkinsonism of a prolonged nature were presented. This is the first report of the occurrence of this extrapyramidal side effect in patients without a diagnosis of psychosis and demonstrates that neuroleptic-induced parkinsonism can occur in such individuals. The prolonged nature of the disability following withdrawal was unusual. Although such occurrences have been previously reported, no long-term study of the natural history of this syndrome has been reported. This study suggests that neuroleptic-induced parkinsonism can last at least 18 months and still disappear completely. This is possibly related to the long persistence of neuroleptic agents within the body.
Acute Coronary Care in the Elderly, Part II
Authors: Alexander Karen P. , Newby L. Kristin , Armstrong Paul W. , Cannon Christopher P. , Gibler W. Brian , Rich Michael W. , Van de Werf Frans , White Harvey D. , Weaver W. Douglas , Naylor Mary D. , Gore Joel M. , Krumholz Harlan M. , Ohman E. Magnus
Published: May 2007

Background—

Age is an important determinant of outcomes for patients with acute coronary syndromes. However, community practice reveals a disproportionately lower use of cardiovascular medications and invasive treatment even among elderly patients who would stand to benefit. Limited trial data are available to guide care of older adults, which results in uncertainty about benefits and risks, particularly with newer medications or invasive treatments and in the setting of advanced age and complex health status.

Methods and Results—

Part II of this American Heart Association scientific statement summarizes evidence on presentation and treatment of ST-segment–elevation myocardial infarction in relation to age (<65, 65 to 74, 75 to 84, and ≥85 years). The purpose of this statement is to identify areas in which the evidence is sufficient to guide practice in the elderly and to highlight areas that warrant further study. Treatment-related benefits should rise in an elderly population, yet data to confirm these benefits are limited, and the heterogeneity of older populations increases treatment-associated risks. Elderly patients with ST-segment–elevation myocardial infarction more often have relative and absolute contraindications to reperfusion, so eligibility for reperfusion declines with age, and yet elderly patients are less likely to receive reperfusion even if eligible. Data support a benefit from reperfusion in elderly subgroups up to age 85 years. The selection of reperfusion strategy is determined more by availability, time from presentation, shock, and comorbidity than by age. Additional data are needed on selection and dosing of adjunctive therapies and on complications in the elderly. A “one-size-fits-all” approach to care in the oldest old is not feasible, and ethical issues will remain even in the presence of adequate evidence. Nevertheless, if the contributors to treatment benefits and risks are understood, guideline-recommended care may be applied in a patient-centered manner in the oldest subset of patients.

Conclusions—

Few trials have adequately described treatment effects in older patients with ST-segment–elevation myocardial infarction. In the future, absolute and relative risks for efficacy and safety in age subgroups should be reported, and trials should make efforts to enroll the elderly in proportion to their prevalence among the treated population. Outcomes of particular relevance to the older adult, such as quality of life, physical function, and independence, should also be evaluated, and geriatric conditions unique to this age group, such as frailty and cognitive impairment, should be considered for their influence on care and outcomes. With these efforts, treatment risks can be minimized, and benefits can be placed within the health context of the elderly patient.
Momentum and Energy Transport by Gravity Waves in Stochastically Driven Stratified Flows. Part I: Radiation of Gravity Waves from a Shear Layer
Authors: Bakas Nikolaos A. , Ioannou Petros J.
Published: May 2007

In this paper, the emission of internal gravity waves from a local westerly shear layer is studied. Thermal and/or vorticity forcing of the shear layer with a wide range of frequencies and scales can lead to strong emission of gravity waves in the region exterior to the shear layer. The shear flow not only passively filters and refracts the emitted wave spectrum, but also actively participates in the gravity wave emission in conjunction with the distributed forcing. This interaction leads to enhanced radiated momentum fluxes but more importantly to enhanced gravity wave energy fluxes. This enhanced emission power can be traced to the nonnormal growth of the perturbations in the shear region, that is, to the transfer of the kinetic energy of the mean shear flow to the emitted gravity waves. The emitted wave energy flux increases with shear and can become as large as 30 times greater than the corresponding flux emitted in the absence of a localized shear region.

Waves that have horizontal wavelengths larger than the depth of the shear layer radiate easterly momentum away, whereas the shorter waves are trapped in the shear region and deposit their momentum at their critical levels. The observed spectrum, as well as the physical mechanisms influencing the spectrum such as wave interference and Doppler shifting effects, is discussed. While for large Richardson numbers there is equipartition of momentum among a wide range of frequencies, most of the energy is found to be carried by waves having vertical wavelengths in a narrow band around the value of twice the depth of the region. It is shown that the waves that are emitted from the shear region have vertical wavelengths of the size of the shear region.
Meridional Momentum Flux and Superrotation in the Multiscale IPESD MJO Model
Authors: Biello Joseph A. , Majda Andrew J. , Moncrieff Mitchell W.
Published: May 2007

The derivation of the meridional momentum flux arising from a multiscale horizontal velocity field in the intraseasonal, planetary, equatorial synoptic-scale dynamics (IPESD) multiscale models of the equatorial troposphere is presented. It is shown that, because of the balance dynamics on the synoptic scales, the synoptic-scale component of the meridional momentum flux convergence must always vanish at the equator. Plausible Madden–Julian oscillation (MJO) models are presented along with their planetary-scale meridional momentum fluxes. These models are driven by synoptic-scale heating fluctuations that have vertical and meridional tilts. Irrespective of the sign of the synoptic-scale meridional momentum flux (direction of the tilts) in each of the four MJO examples, the zonal and vertical mean meridional momentum flux convergence from the planetary scales always drives westerly winds near the equator: this is the superrotation characteristic of actual MJOs. The concluding discussion demonstrates that equatorial superrotation occurs when the planetary flow due to the vertical upscale momentum flux from synoptic scales reinforces the horizontally convergent flow due to planetary-scale mean heating.
The Relationship Between Neutralizations and Perceived Delinquent Labeling On Criminal History in Young Offenders Serving Community Orders
Authors: Cechaviciute Ieva , Kenny Dianna T.
Published: May 2007

This study examined the associations between young offenders' justifications for delinquent behavior, their perceptions of being labeled “delinquent,” and criminal history. Young offenders ( N = 153) serving community orders completed a questionnaire that assessed their use of justifications for offending (neutralizations) and their perceptions of being delinquent. More than half did not believe that others labeled them as delinquent. Those who did believe so self-reported more delinquency and other problem behaviors but did not a have more serious official criminal history than “unlabeled” offenders. Factor analysis revealed a two-factor structure (minimization and rationalization) for the neutralization items. Neutralization factors were weak predictors of official criminal history but were stronger predictors of self-reported delinquency and other problem behaviors. Findings are discussed with reference to the implications for risk and responsivity principles in the treatment of young offenders.
The Impact of Incarceration On Intimate Relationships
Authors: Harman Jennifer J. , Smith Vernon E. , Egan Louisa C.
Published: May 2007

Although incarceration has a substantial impact on intimate relationships, little is known about how individuals cope with their separation and reunification. Incarceration also poses serious health risks for HIV infection, as rates are up to 6 times higher in the prison than the general population. A series of focus groups were conducted with individuals affected by incarceration to examine specific relationship challenges and factors that may place them at increased risk for HIV infection during and after their incarceration. Results highlight how institutional barriers and dependency lead to emotional withdrawal and disengagement from relationships. In addition, power differentials, avoidant communication strategies, and relationship instability were found to place these relationships at increased risk for HIV infection. Intervention recommendations for working with this population are discussed.