bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Polysensory Interneuronal Projections to Foot Contractile Pedal Neurons in Hermissenda
Authors: Crow Terry , Tian Lian-Ming
Published: December 2008

A Pavlovian-conditioning procedure may produce modifications in multiple behavioral responses. As an example, conditioning may result in the elicitation of a specific somatomotor conditioned response (CR) and, in addition, other motor and visceral CRs. In the mollusk Hermissenda conditioning produces two conditioned responses: foot-shortening and decreased locomotion. The neural circuitry supporting ciliary locomotion is well characterized, although the neural circuit underlying foot-shortening is poorly understood. Here we describe efferent neurons in the pedal ganglion that produce contraction or extension of specific regions of the foot in semi-intact preparations. Synaptic connections between polysensory type Ib and type Is interneurons and identified foot contractile efferent neurons were examined. Type Ib and type Is interneurons receive synaptic input from the visual, graviceptive, and somatosensory systems. Depolarization of type Ib interneurons evoked spikes in identified tail and lateral foot contractile efferent neurons. Mechanical displacement of the statocyst evoked complex excitatory postsynaptic potentials (EPSPs) and spikes recorded from type Ib and type Is interneurons and complex EPSPs and spikes in identified foot contractile efferent neurons. Depolarization of type Ib interneurons in semi-intact preparations produced contraction and shortening along the rostrocaudal axis of the foot. Depolarization of Is interneurons in semi-intact preparations produced contraction of the anterior region of the foot. Taken collectively, the results suggest that type Ib and type Is polysensory interneurons may contribute to the neural circuit underlying the foot-shortening CR in Hermissenda.
Dopamine Neuron Responses Depend Exponentially on Pacemaker Interval
Authors: Putzier Ilva , Kullmann Paul H. M. , Horn John P. , Levitan Edwin S.
Published: December 2008

Midbrain dopamine neuron activity results from the integration of the responses to metabo- and ionotropic receptors with the postsynaptic excitability of these intrinsic pacemakers. Interestingly, intrinsic pacemaker rate varies greatly between individual dopamine neurons and is subject to short- and long-term regulation. Here responses of substantia nigra dopamine neurons to defined dynamic-clamp stimuli were measured to quantify the impact of cell-to-cell variation in intrinsic pacemaker rate. Then this approach was repeated in single dopamine neurons in which pacemaker rate was altered by activation of muscarinic receptors or current injection. These experiments revealed a dramatic exponential dependence on pacemaker interval for the responses to voltage-gated A-type K+channels, voltage-independent cation channels and ionotropic synapses. Likewise, responses to native metabotropic (GABAb and mGluR1) inhibitory synapses depended steeply on pacemaker interval. These results show that observed variations in dopamine neuron pacemaker rate are functionally significant because they produce a >10-fold difference in responses to diverse stimuli. Both the magnitude and the mathematical form of the relationship between pacemaker interval and responses were not previously anticipated.
GABAAReceptor α5 Subunits Contribute to GABAA,slowSynaptic Inhibition in Mouse Hippocampus
Authors: Zarnowska Ewa D. , Keist Ruth , Rudolph Uwe , Pearce Robert A.
Published: December 2008

γ-Aminobutyric acid type A (GABAA) receptor α5 subunits, which are heavily expressed in the hippocampus, are potential drug targets for improving cognitive function. They are found at synaptic and extrasynaptic sites and have been shown to mediate tonic inhibition in pyramidal neurons. We tested the hypothesis that α5 subunits also contribute to synaptic inhibition by measuring the effect of diazepam (DZ) on spontaneous and stimulus-evoked inhibitory postsynaptic currents (IPSCs) in genetically modified mice carrying a point mutation in the α5 subunit (α5-H105R) that renders those receptors insensitive to benzodiazepines. In wild type mice, DZ (1 μM) increased the amplitude of spontaneous IPSCs (sIPSCs) and stimulus-evoked GABAA,slowIPSCs (eIPSCs) and prolonged the decay of GABAA,fastsIPSCs. In α5-mutant mice, DZ increased the amplitude of a small-amplitude subset of sIPSCs (<50 pA) and eIPSCs (<300 pA) GABAA,slowand prolonged the decay of GABAA,fastsIPSCs, but failed to increase the amplitude of larger sIPSCs and eIPSCs GABAA,slow. These results indicate that α5 subunits contribute to a large-amplitude subset of GABAA,slowsynapses and implicate these synapses in modulation of cognitive function by drugs that target α5 subunits.
Reordering for Improved Constrained Reconstruction from Undersampled k‐Space Data
Authors: Adluru Ganesh , DiBella Edward V. R.
Published: December 2008

Recently, there has been a significant interest in applying reconstruction techniques, like constrained reconstruction or compressed sampling methods, to undersampled k‐space data in MRI. Here, we propose a novel reordering technique to improve these types of reconstruction methods. In this technique, the intensities of the signal estimate are reordered according to a preprocessing step when applying the constraints on the estimated solution within the iterative reconstruction. The ordering of the intensities is such that it makes the original artifact‐free signal monotonic and thus minimizes the finite differences norm if the correct image is estimated; this ordering can be estimated based on the undersampled measured data. Theory and example applications of the method for accelerating myocardial perfusion imaging with respiratory motion and brain diffusion tensor imaging are presented.
Liver Resections Combined with Closure of Loop Ileostomies: A Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Lordan Jeffrey T. , Riga Angela T. , Karanjia Nariman D.
Published: December 2008

Background. The management of patients with colorectal liver metastases and loop ileostomies remains controversial. This study was performed to assess the outcome of combined liver resection and loop ileostomy closure. Methods. Analysis of prospectively collected perioperative data, including morbidity and mortality, of 283 consecutive hepatectomies for colorectal liver metastases was undertaken. Consecutive liver resections were performed from 1996 to 2006 in one centre by a single surgeon (NDK). Fourteen of these patients had combined liver resection and ileostomy closure. Case-matched analysis was undertaken. Results. Six (2.2%) patients died in the hepatectomy only group and none died in the combined group. There was no difference in operative blood loss between the two groups (0.09). Perioperative morbidity was 36% in the combined group and 23% in the hepatectomy alone group (P=0.33). Mean hospital stay was 14 days in the combined group and 11 days in the hepatectomy only group (P=0.046). Case-matched analysis showed a significant increase in hospital stay (P=0.03) and complications (P=0.049) in the combined group. Conclusion. In patients with CRLM, combined liver resection and closure of ileostomy may be associated with a higher operative morbidity and a prolonged hospital stay.
Polyamide 66/Brazilian Clay Nanocomposites
Authors: Araújo E. M. , Araujo K. D. , Paz R. A. , Gouveia T. R. , Barbosa R. , Ito E. N.
Published: December 2008

Polyamide 66 (PA66)/Brazilian clay nanocomposites were produced via direct melt intercalation. A montmorillonite sample from the Brazilian state of Paraíba was organically modified with esthearildimethylammonium chloride (Praepagen), quaternary ammonium salt and has been tested to be used in polymer nanocomposites. The dispersion analysis and the interlayer spacing of the clay particles in matrix were investigated by X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Thermal behavior of the obtained systems was investigated by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermogravimetry (TG), and heat deflection temperature (HDT) was reported too. The nanocomposites exhibited a partially exfoliated structure, very interesting HDT values which are higher than those of pure PA66, and good thermal stability.
Synthesis and Characterization of Magnetic Nanosized Fe3O4/MnO2 Composite Particles
Authors: Shu Zhang , Wang Shulin
Published: December 2008

Using the prepared Fe3O4 particles of 10 nm–25 nm as magnetic core, we synthesized Fe3O4/MnO2 composite particles with MnO2 as the shell by homogeneous precipitation. Their structure and morphology were characterized by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), X‐Ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), transmission electronic microscopy (TEM), Fourier transform infrared spectra (FTIR), and vibration‐sample magnetometer (VSM). We show that with urea as precipitant transparent and uniform MnO2 coating of ca.3 nm thick on Fe3O4, particles can be obtained. The composite particles have better dispersivity than the starting materials, and exhibit super‐paramagnetic properties and better chemical adsorption ability with saturated magnetization of 33.5 emu/g. Decoloration experiment of methyl orange solution with Fe3O4/MnO2 composite suggested that the highest decoloration rate was 94.33% when the pH of methyl orange solution was 1.3 and the contact time was 50 minutes. So this kind of Fe3O4/MnO2 composite particle not only has super‐paramagnetic property, but also good ability of chemical adsorption.
Evaluating a Decision Aid for Patients with Localized Prostate Cancer in Clinical Practice
Authors: Isebaert S. , Van Audenhove C. , Haustermans K. , Junius S. , Joniau S. , De Ridder K. , Van Poppel H.
Published: December 2008

Aim: The aim of the study was to evaluate the usefulness of a decision aid regarding treatment options for patients with early-stage localized prostate cancer. Methods: 50 patients with newly diagnosed localized prostate cancer received the decision aid and were interviewed twice: before the decision-making consultation with the physicians and before treatment or, in case of watchful waiting, before the follow-up consultation. The physicians (radiation oncologists and urologists) were interviewed after the consultation. Results: The patients became more active partners in the decision-making process: They were better prepared for the consultation, asked more direct information, and were able to make a more deliberative choice. Generally, the use of the decision aid improved the quality of the consultation and resulted in a treatment decision agreed upon by both parties. Sometimes the consultation turned out to be more time-consuming. The decision aid did not only improve the patient-physician interaction but also helped patients to discuss the disease with their partner and family members. Conclusion: The use of the decision aid has a positive impact on the consultation and the decision-making process. The policy of involving patients more actively in the decision process should be further implemented in daily practice.
Computerized Tomography for Detecting Perivesical Infiltration and Lymph Node Metastasis in Invasive Bladder Carcinoma
Authors: Baltaci Sumer , Resorlu Berkan , Yagcı Cemil , Turkolmez Kadir , Gogus Cagatay , Beduk Yasar
Published: December 2008

Objectives: Computerized tomography (CT) is used in the preoperative staging of invasive bladder carcinoma. We evaluated the role of CT for detecting perivesical invasion and lymph node metastases in patients who had undergone radical cystectomy and pelvic lymphadenectomy for invasive bladder carcinoma. Patients and Methods: We retrospectively analyzed the clinical and pathological data of 100 patients with invasive bladder carcinoma who had undergone radical cystectomy. The preoperative CT images were reevaluated and interpreted by one uroradiologist blinded to the final pathological results for evidence of extravesical tumor extension or lymph node metastases. Results: Of the 100 patients, CT showed extravesical tumor involvement in 57. Of these 57 cases, 22 displayed no evidence of extravesical tumor involvement in the final pathological analysis. In 6 cases, although perivesical invasion was identified in the final pathological analysis, preoperative CT showed no evidence of extravesical tumor involvement. Regarding extravesical tumor spread, the differences between CT and pathological stages were statistically significant (p < 0.001). CT was highly suggestive of lymph node metastases in 9 cases, but only 4 were pathologically confirmed. On the other hand, in 9 patients pelvic lymph node metastasis were pathologically diagnosed, but there was no evidence of lymphadenopathy on CT. Regarding lymph node involvement, there was moderate concordance between CT and pathological findings (p = 0.003, κ = 0.29 ± 0.14). Conclusion: CT has limited accuracy in detecting perivesical infiltration and lymph node metastasis in invasive bladder carcinoma. The information provided by CT is insufficient and we urgently need more reliable staging techniques.
A Study of the Bacterial Flora before and after Antiseptic Skin Preparation of the Perineum in Male Urology Patients
Authors: Kehinde Elijah O. , Ali Yusuf , Khodakhast Fathima , Jamal Wafaa Y. , Seshah Mohammed , Rotimi Vincent O.
Published: December 2008

Objective: To establish the bacterial flora of the perineum before and after antiseptic preparation in male urology patients. Patients/Methods: Adult male patients undergoing cystoscopic procedures were studied. Three sets of swab specimens, labelled A, B and C, were taken from the perineum in the theatre. Specimen A was taken before cleaning and disinfection of the skin with Savlon® (Chlorhexidine- cetrimide mixture), specimen B after disinfection and draping, and C after completion of the operative procedure. Specimens were processed on standard laboratory media for aerobic and anaerobic bacteria and yeasts. Results: Of the 114 patients studied, 43 (37.7%) had a positive culture for significant microorganisms in specimen A, 7 (6.1%) in specimen B and 13 (11.4%) in specimen C (A vs. B p < 0.001, A vs. C p < 0.001, B vs. C p < 0.01). The commonest isolates in specimen A wereGram-positive organisms (84.1%). The positive-culture rate for patients with end-stage renal failure was 71.4%, for those with a urethral catheter it was 53.8%, for those without systemic diseases it was 36.6% and for patients with diabetic mellitus it was 28.1%. Conclusion: About 38% of patients undergoing cystoscopic procedures had a significant positive perineal culture, with Staphylococcus species being the predominant skin flora. The bacteria culture rate was affected by the presence of systemic diseases. The use of Savlon to disinfect the perineum resulted in a significant reduction in the bacterial count of the perineum.
Retroperitoneoscopic Nephrectomy in Overweight and Obese Japanese Patients: Complications and Outcomes
Authors: Makiyama Kazuhide , Nakaigawa Noboru , Miyoshi Yasuhide , Murakami Takayuki , Yao Masahiro , Kubota Yoshinobu
Published: December 2008

Introduction: The objective of the present study was to evaluate the safety of retroperitoneoscopic nephrectomy (RN) in obese Japanese patients. Patients and Methods: We retrospectively reviewed 190 consecutive RN procedures performed from May 2002 to May 2006. We divided patients into an obese group (BMI ≥25, n = 54) and a normal group (BMI <24.9, n = 136). Operation time, estimated blood loss, and complications were compared between the two groups. Results: The mean operation time was longer in the obese group than in the normal group (203 vs. 184 min, respectively; p = 0.029). The mean estimated blood loss in the obese and normal groups was 127 and 91 ml, respectively. This difference was not significant (p = 0.39). There was no significant difference in complications and the open conversion rate between the two groups. Conclusions: Although the operation time in obese patients was slightly longer than in non-obese patients, RN in obese patients was safely performed.
Evolution of the Technique of Laparoscopic Live Donor Nephrectomy at a Single Center: Experience with More than 350 Cases
Authors: Srivastava A. , Gupta N. , Kumar A.
Published: December 2008

Aim: To present our experience with laparoscopic live donor nephrectomy (LLDN), evolution of the technique and analysis with respect to the cost-effective modifications. Materials and Methods: This is a retrospective review of all the LLDNs performed at our institute from January 2001 to November 2006. Few of the cost-effective modifications to the procedure include use of metallic autoclavable ports and instruments, Hem-o-lock clips for ureter, renal artery and vein, and extraction of the graft manually without use of a specimen retrieval bag. Results: From January 2001 to December 2001, 42 laparoscopy-assisted LLDNs, and since December 2001 380 LLDNs were performed, which includes 342 cases of transperitoneal and 38 cases of retroperitoneal LLDN. The mean operative time was 180 ± 45 and 192 ± 35 min, mean blood loss was 85 ± 50 and 115 ± 50 ml, warm ischemia time was 4.5 ± 2 and 3.5 ± 1.5 min in transperitoneal and retroperitoneal LLDNs, respectively. The total number of conversions was 14, with 12 in the transperitoneal group and 2 in the retroperitoneal group. Mean hospital stay was 3.14 ± 1.5 days. Recipient mean serum creatinine at days 1, 3 and 7 was 2.56 ± 0.91, 1.63 ± 0.46 and 1.72 ± 0.25, respectively. The total cost incurred by the patient at our institute for LLDN including stay in the hospital was USD 500 ± 150. Conclusion: LLDN provides all the benefits of minimally invasive therapy to the donors while preserving allograft function in the recipients. Few technical modifications can make the procedure more cost-effective for routine use.
Effects of Propiverine and Its Metabolite Propiverine-N-Oxide on Bladder Contraction and Salivation in Mini Pigs
Authors: Scheepe J.R. , Braun P.M. , Jünemann K.P. , Alken P.
Published: December 2008

Purpose: The objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of propiverine-HCl (P4) and propiverine-N-oxide (P4NO), one of the major metabolites of P4, on bladder contraction in a standardized in vivo model. Additionally, salivary flow measurements enabled the evaluation of hyposalivation, one of the most predominant anticholinergic side effects. Materials and Methods: Ten male mini pigs were anesthetized. P4 (0.4 mg/kg b.w.) and P4NO (0.422 mg/kg b.w.) were administered intravenously. Bladder contractions were induced through sacral anterior root stimulation and cystometrogram evaluation was performed. For stimulation-induced salivary flow measurements, the lingual nerve was exposed for neurostimulation. The effects of P4 and P4NO on stimulation-induced bladder contraction and salivation were evaluated in 5 mini pigs, respectively. Results: In all experiments, for each animal reproducible intravesical pressure values (Pves) were elicited during sacral anterior root stimulation before administration of the study drug. After administration of P4, Pves decreased by 64% whereas P4NO decreased Pves by 28%. Inhibition of salivary flow with P4 and P4NO was 71 and 32%, respectively. Directly following intravenous administration of P4, a short-term and reversible period of mild fluctuations in heart rate was observed. Administration of P4NO revealed no changes in either heart rate, or blood pressure. Conclusion: All of the investigated parameters revealed less anticholinergic effects for P4NO compared to P4. Under the experimental conditions described above, it may be assumed that P4NO behaves as a substance with poor anticholinergic effects with respect to side effects. As expected, P4 showed anticholinergic effects on bladder contraction and salivation.
Minimally Invasive Strabismus Surgery for Rectus Muscle Posterior Fixation
Authors: Mojon Daniel S.
Published: December 2008

Aims: To present a novel, minimally invasive strabismus surgery (MISS) technique for rectus muscle posterior fixation. Methods: This study reports the results of 32 consecutive MISS rectus muscle posterior fixation surgeries performed on 19 patients by applying only two small L-shaped openings where the two retroequatorial scleromuscular sutures were placed. Results: On the first postoperative day, in primary position, redness was hardly visible in 16 eyes (50%) and only moderate redness was visible in 6 eyes (19%). No serious complication occurred. Preoperative visual acuity and refraction remained unchanged at 6 months (p > 0.1). The preoperative convergence excess (n = 13) decreased from 10.3 ± 4.1 to 5.2 ± 4.0° at 6 months (p < 0.005). In all patients operated on for gaze incomitance (n = 6) improvement was achieved at 6 months. Conclusions: This study shows that keyhole minimal-dissection rectus muscle posterior fixation surgery is feasible and effective to improve ocular alignment. The MISS technique seems to be superior in the direct postoperative period since only minimal conjunctival swelling and no corneal complications were observed.
Differentiation of Early-Stage Alzheimer’s Disease from Other Types of Dementia Using Brain Perfusion Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography with Easy Z-Score Imaging System Analysis
Authors: Waragai M. , Mizumura S. , Yamada T. , Matsuda H.
Published: December 2008

Introduction: We performed brain perfusion single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) to evaluate computer-assisted automated discrimination of early Alzheimer’s disease (AD) from other types of dementia using the easy Z-score imaging system (eZIS). Subjects and Methods: eZIS analysis of brain perfusion SPECT images was used in patients with early AD, vascular dementia (VD), mixed dementia (VD + AD), frontotemporal dementia (FTD), dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB), and normal controls. Significant changes in regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) in the volume of interest were assessed in the posterior cingulate gyrus, precuneus and parietal cortices; the severity and extent of decreases in rCBF and the ratio of the extent of the decrease in rCBF to the decrease in whole-brain blood flow (rCBF ratio) were determined. Results: The severity of the decrease in rCBF in AD patients was significantly greater than in VD and FTD patients and controls. The extent of the decrease in rCBF in AD patients was significantly greater than in FTD patients and controls. The rCBF ratio in AD patients was higher than in VD and FTD patients and controls. Conclusion: The eZIS indices, especially the rCBF ratio, may be useful in establishing the differential diagnosis between early-stage AD and FTD or VD, but the differentiation of AD from VD + AD or DLB remains difficult.
Long-Term Follow-Up of Solitary Intracerebral Juvenile Xanthogranuloma
Authors: Fulkerson Daniel H. , Luerssen Thomas G. , Hattab Eyas M. , Kim Daniel L. , Smith Jodi L.
Published: December 2008

Juvenile xanthogranuloma is a benign, non-Langerhans-cell histiocytic infiltrate that typically presents as a solitary cutaneous lesion in childhood. There are reports of extracutanous involvement, including tumors in the central nervous system. A solitary, intraparenchymal tumor without skin manifestations is a rare event, with only 3 prior cases reported in the literature. Cerebral lesions have been associated with multifocal or systemic forms of the disease, with an occasionally fulminate clinical course. Considering the rarity of this tumor, it is unclear whether patients need adjuvant therapy after excision of a solitary intraparenchymal tumor. Previous reports suggested that complete excision of the lesion was curative; however long-term follow-up was not provided. This report illustrates a case of surgical excision of a solitary juvenile xanthogranuloma in an 8-year-old male with a 3-year follow-up period.
Cerebrovascular Complications of Neck Manipulation
Authors: Paciaroni Maurizio , Bogousslavsky Julien
Published: December 2008

The safety of spinal manipulation is an issue that demands regular and rigorous assessment, as manipulation of the upper spine has been associated with serious adverse events such as cerebrovascular accidents due to cervical artery dissection. A correlation between stroke and cervical manipulation has been reported with increasing frequency, and each new report seems to reignite debate between neurologists and manual therapists. Specific risk factors for cerebrovascular complications related to spinal manipulation have not been identified yet; for this reason, any patient may be at risk, particularly those below 45 years of age. Patients undergoing spinal manipulative therapy need to consent to the possible risk of stroke or vascular injury from the procedure.
Role of the Gastrin-Gastrin Receptor System in the Expansive Growth of Human Gastric Neoplasms
Authors: Ito Masanori , Tanaka Shinji , Maeda Masahiro , Takamura Akemi , Tatsugami Masana , Wada Yoshihiro , Matsumoto Yoshiaki , Yoshihara Masaharu , Haruma Ken , Chayama Kazuaki
Published: December 2008

Background and Aim: Gastrin is one of the most important gut hormones. However, the role of the gastrin-gastrin receptor (GR) system in the growth of gastric tumors is still unclear. Methods: We examined serum gastrin levels in 957 patients with early gastric carcinoma. Next, we raised antibody against the GR and examined GR expression in 5 gastric carcinoma cell lines and 48 human gastric tumor tissues. In 28 cases, Helicobacter pylori eradication therapy was performed and morphological tumor changes were examined. Results: Serum gastrin levels were significantly higher in patients with elevated tumors than in patients with depressed tumors (p = 0.02). All gastric carcinoma cell lines expressed GR. Thirty-one of 48 (65%) gastric tumors expressed GR, and its expression was prominent in elevated-type tumor with an intestinal histologic feature. Of 28 patients who underwent eradication therapy, 9 showed gastric tumors that became flat or depressed. In these 9 cases, GR expression was detected in all tumors, and the decrease in gastrin levels was more prominent than in those without morphological change (p = 0.01). Conclusion: The gastrin-GR system plays an important role in the elevated morphology of gastric tumors.
A Placebo-Controlled Trial of Oral Pyridoxine in Hyperemesis Gravidarum
Authors: Tan Peng Chiong , Yow Choon Ming , Omar Siti Zawiah
Published: December 2008

Objective: To evaluate oral pyridoxine in conjunction with standard therapy in women hospitalized for hyperemesis gravidarum (HG). Methods: Patients with HG were randomized at hospitalization to 20 mg oral pyridoxine thrice daily or to placebo. Intravenous rehydration, metoclopramide and oral thiamine were also administered. Metoclopramide and thiamine were continued for 2 weeks after discharge. Rehospitalization for HG in the 2-week study period was ascertained, vomiting was recorded by diary, and nausea was evaluated with a 10-point visual analogue scale (VAS) at enrolment, after hospital discharge and on week 1 and 2 reviews. Results: Ninety-two women were included in the analysis. The rehospitalization rate was 37.5 versus 21.1% (relative risk 1.8, 95% confidence interval 0.9–3.7, p = 0.14) for pyridoxine and placebo, respectively. Daily vomiting episodes after discharge were not different (mean ± SD): 1.9 ± 2.4 versus 1.4 ± 1.1, p = 0.28 during week 1 and 1.4 ± 1.3 versus 1.4 ± 1.6, p = 0.98 during week 2. Repeated-measures analysis of variance showed no difference in the nausea visual analogue scale (p = 0.59). Conclusion: The use of oral pyridoxine in conjunction with metoclopramide during the inpatient stay and during the 2 weeks after hospital discharge for hyperemesis gravidarum did not improve the rehospitalization rate, the vomiting frequency or the nausea score. Larger studies need to be done.
Histological Confirmation of Endometriosis in a 9-Year-Old Girl Suffering from Unexplained Cyclic Pelvic Pain since Her Eighth Year of Life
Authors: Ebert Andreas D. , Fuhr Norbert , David Matthias , Schneppel Lorena , Papadopoulos Thomas
Published: December 2008

Objective: Endometriosis is considered an estrogen-dependent disease of women in their reproductive age and characterized by the occurrence of stromal cells and endometrial-like glands outside the uterine cavity. Patient: A report of a 9-year-old premenarcheal girl who was transferred to the Endometriosis Research Center Berlin-Brandenburg Level III (Academic Teaching Hospital) because of cyclic pelvic pain since her 8th year of life. Interventions: History, examination, abdominal ultrasound, laboratory tests, laparoscopic resection of visible lesions. Paraffin-embedded histology (HE staining) and immunohistochemistry. Results: Endometriosis, defined as the presence of stromal tissue and epithelial glands, was confirmed both by HE staining and immunohistochemistry (CD10), respectively. Conclusions: Young pre- or perimenarcheal girls with chronic/cyclic pelvic pain can have endometriosis, and thus the possibility of endometriosis should be included in the differential diagnosis.
Hypoxia-Inducible Factor-1α and -2α Additively Promote Endothelial Vasculogenic Properties
Authors: Ben-Shoshan Jeremy , Maysel-Auslender Sofia , Luboshits Galia , Barshack Iris , Polak-Charcon Sylvie , Tzahor Eldad , Keren Gad , George Jacob
Published: December 2008

Objective: While both play a role in the transcriptional response of hypoxic endothelial cells (ECs), hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) and HIF-2α differ in their transactivation sites, pointing at potentially different target genes. We studied the discrete and common effects of HIF-1α and HIF-2α on the cytokine expression and vasculogenic properties of ECs. Methods and Results: H5V and bovine aortic ECs were transfected to express HIF-1α, HIF-2α or both. Overexpression of HIF-1α or HIF-2α and, to a greater extent, cotransfection of HIF-1α and HIF-2α resulted in EC activation, as revealed by analysis of the adhesion capacities and adhesion molecule surface expression of ECs. From the paracrine aspect, conditioned medium from HIF-expressing ECs was found to promote the migration and tube formation capacity of wild-type ECs, mostly following HIF-1α and HIF-2α coexpression. Antibody arrays revealed altered expression of multiple cytokines, pointing at consistent additive effects of HIF-1α and HIF-2α on angiogenic protein expression. Finally, HIF-1α and HIF-2α additively promoted vessel formation in vivo, as demonstrated by a Matrigel angiogenesis assay. Conclusion: Our results further clarify the functional roles of HIF-1α and HIF-2α in ECs and for the first time demonstrate a common contribution of HIF-1α and HIF-2α to vasculogenesis.
The Operational Use of QuikSCAT Ocean Surface Vector Winds at the National Hurricane Center
Authors: Brennan Michael J. , Hennon Christopher C. , Knabb Richard D.
Published: December 2008

The utility and shortcomings of near-real-time ocean surface vector wind retrievals from the NASA Quick Scatterometer (QuikSCAT) in operational forecast and analysis activities at the National Hurricane Center (NHC) are described. The use of QuikSCAT data in tropical cyclone (TC) analysis and forecasting for center location/identification, intensity (maximum sustained wind) estimation, and analysis of outer wind radii is presented, along with shortcomings of the data due to the effects of rain contamination and wind direction uncertainties. Automated QuikSCAT solutions in TCs often fail to show a closed circulation, and those that do are often biased to the southwest of the NHC best-track position. QuikSCAT winds show the greatest skill in TC intensity estimation in moderate to strong tropical storms. In tropical depressions, a positive bias in QuikSCAT winds is seen due to enhanced backscatter by rain, while in major hurricanes rain attenuation, resolution, and signal saturation result in a large negative bias in QuikSCAT intensity estimates.

QuikSCAT wind data help overcome the large surface data void in the analysis and forecast area of NHC’s Tropical Analysis and Forecast Branch (TAFB). These data have resulted in improved analyses of surface features, better definition of high wind areas, and improved forecasts of high-wind events. The development of a climatology of gap wind events in the Gulf of Tehuantepec has been possible due to QuikSCAT wind data in a largely data-void region.

The shortcomings of ocean surface vector winds from QuikSCAT in the operational environment at NHC are described, along with requirements for future ocean surface vector wind missions. These include improvements in the timeliness and quality of the data, increasing the wind speed range over which the data are reliable, and decreasing the impact of rain to allow for accurate retrievals in all-weather conditions.
The Hydrometeor Classification Algorithm for the Polarimetric WSR-88D: Description and Application to an MCS
Authors: Park Hyang Suk , Ryzhkov A. V. , Zrnić D. S. , Kim Kyung-Eak
Published: December 2008

This paper contains a description of the most recent version of the hydrometeor classification algorithm for polarimetric Weather Surveillance Radar-1988 Doppler (WSR-88D). This version contains several modifications and refinements of the previous echo classification algorithm based on the principles of fuzzy logic. These modifications include the estimation of confidence factors that characterize the possible impacts of all error sources on radar measurements, the assignment of the matrix of weights that characterizes the classification power of each variable with respect to every class of radar echo, and the implementation of a class designation system based on the distance from the radar and the parameters of the melting layer that are determined as functions of azimuth with polarimetric radar measurements. These additions provide considerable flexibility and improve the discrimination between liquid and frozen hydrometeors. The new classification scheme utilizes all available polarimetric variables and discerns 10 different classes of radar echoes. Furthermore, a methodology for the new fuzzy logic classification scheme is discussed and the results are illustrated using polarimetric radar data collected with the Norman, Oklahoma (KOUN), WSR-88D prototype radar during a mesoscale convective system event on 13 May 2005.
Conversational Profiles
Authors: Ford Jeffrey D. , Ford Laurie W.
Published: December 2008

This article provides a practical tool that managers and change agents can use to see their own conversational patterns in the management of a change, determine whether those patterns may be contributing to the progress of change, and if so, provide insights into what modifications might enhance progress. Based on the conversational model developed by Ford and Ford, this article explains a methodology for creating and analyzing a conversational profile, provides three illustrative cases, and explores implications for research and practice.
How Learning Leadership and Organizational Learning from Failures Enhance Perceived Organizational Capacity to Adapt to the Task Environment
Authors: Carmeli Abraham , Sheaffer Zachary
Published: December 2008

Organizational learning from failures is a key organizational process that can lead to improved outcomes. In this study, the authors address two key questions that have received only limited attention in the literature: (a) how learning leadership enables organizational learning from failures and (b) how these learning behaviors enhance organizational capacities for adaptation to environmental turbulence. Data from a sample of 121 organizations support a mediation model in which learning leadership is linked indirectly, through learning from failures, to perceived organizational capacity to adapt to environmental jolts. The authors discuss the theoretical and practical implications of these findings for the importance of learning leadership, organizational learning from failures, and organizational adaptability.
In the Aftermath of an Acquisition
Authors: Kovoor-Misra Sarah , Smith Marlene A.
Published: December 2008

This study examines how the POIs of members of an online retail organization were affected after an acquisition. The authors find that (a) POI is more complex than previously understood, and continuity, change and confusion in POI can coexist. (b) The organizational change reactivated previously unresolved POI issues. (c) The structure of POI includes cognitive, affective, and behavioral dimensions, and changes occurred in these dimensions. (d) Top managers and employees who have more interactions with outsiders in their jobs tend to be more confused and make less POI change than employees who primarily deal with internal operations. Finally, (e) the image of the acquired organization and the change strategies used are triggers of POI confusion and/or change in the acquiring organization. This article highlights the experience of individuals in the acquiring organization and suggests that POI is an important lens for understanding and managing organizational changes.
Employee Self-Perceived Creativity After Mergers and Acquisitions
Authors: Jing Zhou  , Shin Shung J. , Cannella Albert A.
Published: December 2008

This study examined employees' subjective experiences of creativity after mergers. Based on a sample of 484 employees, results showed the following: First, if employees considered the merger as an opportunity (threat), then they perceived that they exhibited greater (less) creativity after the merger; second, organizational support for creativity moderated the relationship between threat perception and self-perceived creativity in such a way that, when compared with employees who saw the merger as an opportunity, employees who saw the merger as a threat experienced greater creativity when support for creativity was high than when support for creativity was low; and, third, there was a three-way interaction among threat perception, support for creativity, and access to resources such that the two-way interaction between threat perception and support for creativity described in the second point was present only when access to resources was high.
X-Rated
Authors: Brown Jane D. , L'Engle Kelly L.
Published: December 2008

Correlates of use and subsequent sexual attitudes and behaviors predicted by exposure to sexually explicit content (i.e., pornography and erotica) in adult magazines, X-rated movies, and the Internet were examined in a prospective survey of a diverse sample of early adolescents (average age at baseline = 13.6 years; N = 967). Two-thirds (66%) of males and more than one-third (39%) of females had seen at least one form of sexually explicit media in the past year. At baseline, being black, being older, and having less-educated parents, lower socioeconomic status, and high need for sensation were related to greater exposure for both males and females. Longitudinal analyses showed that early exposure for males predicted less progressive gender role attitudes, more permissive sexual norms, sexual harassment perpetration, and having oral sex and sexual intercourse two years later. Early exposure for females predicted subsequently less progressive gender role attitudes, and having oral sex and sexual intercourse. Implications for healthy sexual socialization are discussed.
Including visually impaired students in physical education lessons: a case study of teacher and pupil experiences
Authors: Herold Frank , Dandolo Jack
Published: December 2008

Following recent education policy and curriculum changes in England, the notion of inclusion of children with special educational needs in physical education has increasingly become a topic of research interest and concern. It was the aim of this study to explore personal experiences and perspectives of inclusion in physical education. To this end this study used a series of interviews and observations with a visually impaired (blind) pupil, a physical education teacher and a learning support assistant at a school for children with moderate learning difficulties. The findings highlighted four significant areas of impact: the role of teacher training and development; the role of learning support assistants; resources; and the limitations of the National Curriculum in Physical Education as a framework for inclusion. Recommendations on how to address these issues in order to improve the standards of inclusion for visually impaired pupils in physical education are made.
Factor structure of the TOEFL Internet-based test
Authors: Sawaki Yasuyo , Stricker Lawrence J. , Oranje Andreas H.
Published: December 2008

This construct validation study investigated the factor structure of the Test of English as a Foreign Language™ Internet-based test (TOEFL® iBT). An item-level confirmatory factor analysis was conducted for a test form completed by participants in a field study. A higher-order factor model was identified, with a higher-order general factor (ESL/EFL ability) and four first-order factors for reading, listening, speaking and writing. Integrated Speaking and Writing tasks, which require language processing in multiple modalities, defined the target modalities (speaking and writing). These results broadly supported the current practice of reporting a total score and four scores corresponding to the modalities for the test, as well as the test design that permits the integrated tasks to contribute only to the scores of the target modalities.
Cognitive diagnostic assessment of L2 reading comprehension ability: Validity arguments for Fusion Model application to LanguEdge assessment
Authors: Jang Eunice Eunhee
Published: December 2008

With recent statistical advances in cognitive diagnostic assessment (CDA), the CDA approach has been increasingly applied to non-diagnostic tests partly to meet accountability demands for student achievement. The study aimed to evaluate critically the validity of the CDA application to an existing non-diagnostic L2 reading comprehension test and to provide information about challenges and conditions for the CDA approach. Based on Jang's study (2005), this paper focuses on the dependability of the Fusion Model's skill profiling, the characteristics of resulting L2 skill profiles, and the diagnostic capacity of LanguEdge™ test items. In addition, the paper examines the validity arguments from the users' perspective by focusing on the usefulness of the diagnostic feedback. The results suggest that the CDA approach can provide more fine-grained diagnostic information about the level of competency in reading skills than traditional aggregated-test scoring can. While various empirical evidence supported the dependability of the skill profiling process, the results also raised some concerns about the application of the CDA approach to a test developed for non-diagnostic purposes, most significantly, a lack of diagnostic capacity of some of the test items with extremely easy or difficult levels. The results offer useful information about the potential challenges and conditions for future application of cognitive diagnostic assessment.
Lexical patterns in L2 textual gist identification assessment
Authors: Yamada Kyoko
Published: December 2008

Gist identification or coherent situation model construction performance is an important criterion not only in L1 and L2 reading comprehension assessment but also in every aspect of discourse processing. Whereas most previous L2 research has investigated schematic knowledge of readers about relations within a text, more recent studies have used models of comprehension that also pay attention to external reference and world knowledge. The present study proposes a way to assess gist identification by L2 readers using Hoey's (1991) theory of networks of repetition of lexical items including morphologically similar words and paraphrases of keywords containing the gist of a text. Based on Hoey's tax-onomy, two models were tested. One, following Kintsch (e.g. 1998), assessed the ability to identify the gist of a text using minimal lookbacks. The other encouraged multiple lookbacks. The second model, which involved more reader involvement in finding referential relationships within a text, resulted in more detailed understanding of gist.
Using videotelephony to support paediatric oncology-related palliative care in the home: from abandoned RCT to acceptability study
Authors: Bensink ME , Armfield NR , Pinkerton R , Irving H , Hallahan AR , Theodoros DG , Russell T , Barnett AG , Scuffham PA , Wootton R
Published: December 2008

Videotelephony (real-time audio-visual communication) has been used successfully in adult palliative home care. This paper describes two attempts to complete an RCT (both of which were abandoned following difficulties with family recruitment), designed to investigate the use of videotelephony with families receiving palliative care from a tertiary paediatric oncology service in Brisbane, Australia. To investigate whether providing videotelephone-based support was acceptable to these families, a 12-month non-randomised acceptability trial was completed. Seventeen palliative care families were offered access to a videotelephone support service in addition to the 24 hours ‘on-call’ service already offered. A 92% participation rate in this study provided some reassurance that the use of videotelephones themselves was not a factor in poor RCT participation rates. The next phase of research is to investigate the integration of videotelephone-based support from the time of diagnosis, through outpatient care and support, and for palliative care rather than for palliative care in isolation. Trial registration ACTRN 12606000311550
Does Office Location Influence the Work Actions of Public Sector Human Service Managers?
Authors: Preston Mark S.
Published: December 2008

Numerous studies have empirically examined the influence of situational determinants on the nature of managerial work. One important determinant that has received little attention is office location, or, more specifically, rural versus urban practice settings. The present study addresses this underexplored area of inquiry by assessing the relative influence of office location on core managerial role competencies. Eighty-one office managers responsible for three types of county-based human service agencies in New York State were surveyed. Public managers responsible for larger, more rural human service offices reported engaging in human resource management role competencies significantly more than their urban colleagues. After controlling for the effects of office size, public managers situated in more rural practice and settings were significantly more likely to engage in the role competencies of mentoring and staff development than were their urban counterparts. Possible explanations for the findings are discussed, along with implications for public management research and practice.