bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
3D modeling using an extended cell enumeration representation
Authors: Toennies K. D. , Tronnier U.
Published: November 2005

3D imaging offers the opportunity to gather new kinds of information for diagnosis and therapy. In order to access this information efficiently we need a model for the integration of knowledge which is extracted from the images. In this paper we present such a model for the description of image information as well as results of image analysis and manipulation. The purpose of the model is its application in computer assisted treatment planning. Therefore, we present a volume representation based on discrete 3D space to map the model on the computer. The representation is an extension of the well-known cell enumeration (CE) representation. We show how to transfer information into this representation and how to access the represented information. We give examples of applications in the planning of radiation therapy, stereotaxy and plastic surgery.
Volume rendering and data feature enhancement
Authors: Krueger Wolfgang
Published: November 2005

This paper describes a general visualization model for 3D scalar data fields based on linear transport theory which contains common volume rendering models as special cases and/or approximations. The concept of "virtual" particles for the extraction of information from data fields is introduced. The role of different types of interaction of the data field with those particles such as absorption, scattering, source and color shift are discussed and demonstrated.Special attention is given to possible tools for the enhancement of interesting data features. Random distortions or noise of the data field are mapped onto the image plane in a well-defined way such that picture processing methods can be used to reconstruct the appearance of the undistorted data set. Random texturing can provide visual insights as to the magnitude and distribution of deviations of related data fields, e.g., originating from analytic models and measurements, or in the noise content of a given data field. Hidden symmetries of a data set can often be identified visually by allowing it to interact with a preselected beam of "physical" particles with the attendant appearance of characteristic structural effects such as channeling.
A decomposition algorithm for visualizing irregular grids
Authors: Neeman Henry
Published: November 2005

Few methods exist for visualizing scientific data on irregular grids. An important reason is the lack of an efficient method of point location on such grids. An algorithm is presented to address this problem. On
d
-dimensional grids of
n
irregularly shaped voxels, empirical studies have shown ∝
dn
log
n
preprocessing time, ∝
dn
preprocessing storage, ∝ log
n
query time and ∝
n
storage space. An example is followed through several steps to demonstrate the algorithm; other examples are tested. Applications of the algorithm to visualization are also discussed.
Three-pass affine transforms for volume rendering
Authors: Hanrahan Pat
Published: November 2005

Affine transformations of volume arrays are important for implementing volume modeling and orthographic viewing transformations and for registering multiple data sets. In this paper we extend the two-pass algorithm for affine image transformations to a three-pass affine volume transformation algorithm. The mathematics of the decomposition is derived and the issues involved in resampling the transformed volume are discussed.
Stimulation of gluconeogenesis by intravenous lipids in preterm infants: response depends on fatty acid profile
Authors: van Kempen Anne A. M. W. , van der Crabben Saskia N. , Ackermans Mariëtte T. , Endert Erik , Kok Joke H. , Sauerwein Hans P.
Published: November 2005

In preterm infants, both hypo- and hyperglycemia are a frequent problem. Intravenous lipids can affect glucose metabolism by stimulation of gluconeogenesis by providing glycerol, which is a gluconeogenic precursor, and/or free fatty acids (FFA), which are stimulants of the rate of gluconeogenesis. In 25 preterm infants, glucose production and gluconeogenesis were measured using stable isotope techniques during a 6-h infusion of glucose only, glucose plus glycerol, or glucose plus an intravenous lipid emulsion. Two lipid emulsions differing in FFA composition were used: Intralipid (∼60% polyunsaturated FFA) and Clinoleic (∼60% monounsaturated FFA). The rate of glucose infusion was 22 μmol·kg−1·min−1in all groups. During the study infusion, the FFA concentrations were higher in both lipid groups vs. the glycerol group ( P < 0.001). Compared with baseline, the glucose production rate increased in the Intralipid group, whereas it decreased in the other groups ( P = 0.002) due to a significant increase in gluconeogenesis in the Intralipid group ( P = 0.016). The plasma glucose concentration was significantly higher during Intralipid infusion vs. the other groups ( P = 0.046). Our conclusion was that Intralipid enhanced glucose production by increasing gluconeogenesis in preterm infants. This can be ascribed to the stimulatory effect of FFA in addition to any effect of glycerol alone. The lack of stimulation of gluconeogenesis in the Clinoleic vs. the Intralipid group suggests that different classes of fatty acids exert different effects on glucose kinetics in preterm infants.
Activation of the farnesoid X receptor improves lipid metabolism in combined hyperlipidemic hamsters
Authors: Bilz Stefan , Samuel Varman , Morino Katsutaro , Savage David , Choi Cheol Soo , Shulman Gerald I.
Published: November 2005

The transcription factor farnesoid X receptor (FXR) has recently been implicated in the control of hepatic triglyceride production. Activation of FXR may ameliorate hypertriglyceridemia, a cardinal feature of the metabolic syndrome. Because hamsters share many characteristic features of human lipid metabolism, we used a high-fructose-fed hamster model to study the impact of FXR activation with chenodeoxycholic acid (CDCA) on plasma lipoprotein metabolism. Male Syrian hamsters fed a diet containing 60% kcal from fructose for 2 wk developed hypertriglyceridemia and hypercholesterolemia (+120 and +60%, P = 0.005 and 0.0004 vs. controls) due to increased hepatic lipoprotein production. This could be largely attributed to enhanced hepatic de novo lipogenesis, as indicated by increased expression of sterol regulatory element-binding protein-1, fatty acid synthase, and steaoryl-CoA desaturase-1. Lipoprotein analysis demonstrated that the increase in plasma triglycerides occurred in the VLDL density range, whereas increases in VLDL, IDL/LDL, and HDL cholesterol accounted for the elevated plasma cholesterol concentrations. Addition of 0.1% CDCA to the high-fructose diet decreased hepatic de novo lipogenesis and consequently triglyceride production and prevented the increases in plasma triglycerides and cholesterol (−40 and −18%, P = 0.03 and 0.03 vs. high fructose-fed animals). CDCA-treated animals had lower VLDL triglycerides and decreased VLDL and IDL/LDL cholesterol plasma concentrations. These data demonstrate that activation of FXR with CDCA effectively lowers plasma triglyceride and cholesterol concentrations, mainly by decreasing de novo lipogenesis and hepatic secretion of triglyceride-rich lipoproteins. Our studies identify activators of FXR as promising new tools in the therapy of hypertriglyceridemic states, including the insulin resistance syndrome and type 2 diabetes.
Activity of the renal Na+-K+-2Cl−cotransporter is reduced by mutagenesis ofN-glycosylation sites: role for protein surface charge in Cl−transport
Authors: Paredes Anahí , Plata Consuelo , Rivera Manuel , Moreno Erika , Vázquez Norma , Muñoz-Clares Rosario , Hebert Steven C. , Gamba Gerardo
Published: November 2005

The renal-specific Na+-K+-2Cl−cotransporter NKCC2 belongs to the SLC12 gene family; it is the target for loop diuretics and the cause of type I Bartter's syndrome. Because the NKCC2 sequence contains two putative N-linked glycosylation sites, one of which is conserved with the renal Na+-Cl−cotransporter in which glycosylation affects thiazide affinity, we assessed the role of glycosylation on NKCC2 functional properties. One (N442Q or N452Q) or both (N442,452Q) N-glycosylation sites were eliminated by site-directed mutagenesis. Wild-type NKCC2 and mutant clones were expressed in Xenopus laevis oocytes and analyzed by86Rb+influx, Western blotting, and confocal microscopy. Inhibition of glycosylation with tunicamycin in wild-type NKCC2-injected oocytes resulted in an 80% reduction of NKCC2 activity. Immunoblot of injected oocytes revealed that glycosylation of NKCC2 was completely prevented in N442,452Q-injected oocytes. Functional activity was reduced by 50% in N442Q- and N452Q-injected oocytes and by 80% in oocytes injected with N442,452Q, whereas confocal microscopy of oocytes injected with wild-type or mutant enhanced green fluorescent protein-tagged NKCC2 clones revealed that surface fluorescence intensity was reduced ∼20% in single mutants and 50% in the double mutant. Ion transport kinetic analyses revealed no changes in cation affinity and a small increase in Cl−affinity by N442Q and N442,452Q. However, a slight decrease in bumetanide affinity was observed. Our data demonstrate that NKCC2 is glycosylated and suggest that prevention of glycosylation reduces its functional expression by affecting insertion into the plasma membrane and the intrinsic activity of the cotransporter.
The human organic anion transporter 3 (OAT3;SLC22A8): genetic variation and functional genomics
Authors: Erdman Andrew R. , Mangravite Lara M. , Urban Thomas J. , Lagpacan Leah L. , Castro Richard A. , de la Cruz Melanie , Chan Wendy , Huang Conrad C. , Johns Susan J. , Kawamoto Michiko , Stryke Douglas , Taylor Travis R. , Carlson Elaine J. , Ferrin Thomas E. , Brett Claire M. , Burchard Esteban G. , Giacomini Kathleen M.
Published: November 2005

The human organic anion transporter, OAT3 ( SLC22A8), plays a critical role in renal drug elimination, by mediating the entry of a wide variety of organic anions, including a number of commonly used pharmaceuticals, into the renal proximal tubular cells. To understand the nature and extent of genetic variation in OAT3, and to determine whether such variation affects its function, we identified OAT3 variants in a large, ethnically diverse sample population and studied their transport activities in cellular assays. We identified a total of 10 distinct coding-region variants, which altered the encoded amino acid sequence, in DNA samples from 270 individuals (80 African-Americans, 80 European-Americans, 60 Asian-Americans, and 50 Mexican-Americans). The overall prevalence of these OAT3 variants was relatively low among the screened population, with only three variants having allele frequencies of >1% in a particular ethnic group. Clones of each variant were created by site-directed mutagenesis, expressed in HEK-293 cells, and tested for function using the model substrates, estrone sulfate (ES) and cimetidine (CIM). The results revealed a high degree of functional heterogeneity among OAT3 variants, with three variants (p. Arg149Ser, p. Gln239Stop, and p. Ile260Arg) that resulted in complete loss of function, and several others with significantly reduced function. One of the more common variants (p. Ile305Phe), found in 3.5% of Asian-Americans, appeared to have altered substrate specificity. This variant exhibited a reduced ability to transport ES, but a preserved ability to transport CIM. These data suggest that genetic variation in OAT3 may contribute to variation in the disposition of drugs.
Activity- and BDNF-Induced Plasticity of Miniature Synaptic Currents in ES Cell-Derived Neurons Integrated in a Neocortical Network
Authors: Copi Andrea , Jüngling Kay , Gottmann Kurt
Published: November 2005

In vitro differentiated embryonic stem (ES) cells have been proposed as potential donor cells for cell replacement therapies of neurodegenerative diseases. The functional synaptic integration of such cells appears conceivable because ES cell-derived neurons are well known to establish excitatory and inhibitory synapses. However, long-term synaptic plasticity, a prerequisite of memory formation, has not yet been demonstrated at these synapses. After in vitro differentiation and purification by immunoisolation, we co-cultured ES cell-derived neurons with neocortical explants, which strongly innervated the ES cell-derived target neurons. ES cell-derived neurons exhibited action potential firing similar to primary cultured neocortical neurons. The formation of glutamatergic synapses was indicated by AMPA receptor-mediated miniature excitatory postsynaptic currents (AMPA mEPSCs). In addition, a N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor-mediated, d-2-amino-5-phosphonopentanoic acid-sensitive mEPSC component was observed. We first studied activity-dependent homeostatic plasticity (synaptic scaling) of mEPSCs at glutamatergic synapses. Chronic blockade of action potential activity by TTX resulted in an increase in the amplitudes of AMPA mEPSCs. This indicates that ES cell-derived neurons are capable of a homeostatic regulation of postsynaptic AMPA receptors. In addition, we investigated neurotrophin-induced synaptic plasticity of mEPSCs at glutamatergic synapses. Chronic addition of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF; 100 ng/ml) to the culture medium resulted in an increase in both the frequency and the amplitudes of AMPA mEPSCs. These results suggest that BDNF induces the formation and/or the functional maturation of presynaptic release sites in parallel with an upregulation of postsynaptic AMPA receptors. Thus BDNF represents a potential co-factor that could improve functional synaptic integration of ES cell-derived neurons into neocortical networks.
Photic-Induced Sensitization: Acquisition of an Augmenting Spike-Wave Response in the Adult Rat Through Repeated Strobe Exposure
Authors: Uhlrich D. J. , Manning K. A. , O'Laughlin M. L. , Lytton W. W.
Published: November 2005

It is well established that patterns of sensory input can affect neuroplastic changes during early development. The scope and consequences of experience-dependent plasticity in the adult are less well understood. We studied the possibility that repeated exposure to trains of stroboscopic stimuli could induce a sensitized and potentially aberrant response in ordinary individuals. Chronic electrocorticographic recording electrodes enabled measurement of responses in awake, freely moving animals. Normal adult rats, primarily Sprague-Dawley, were exposed to 20–40 strobe trains per day after a strobe-free adaptation period. The common response to strobe trains changed in 34/36 rats with development of a high-amplitude spike-wave response that emerged fully by the third day of photic exposure. Onset of this sensitized response was marked by short-term augmentation of response to successive strobe flashes. The waveform generalized across the brain, reflected characteristics of the visual stimulus, as well as an inherent 6- to 8-Hz pacing, and was suppressed with ethosuximide administration. Spike-wave episodes were self-limiting but could persist beyond the strobe period. Sensitization lasted 2–4 wk after last strobe exposure. The results indicate visual stimulation, by itself, can induce in adult rats an enduring sensitization of visual response with epileptiform characteristics. The results raise the question of the effects of such neuroplastic change on sensation and epileptiform events.
Expression profiling of purified male germ cells: stage-specific expression patterns related to meiosis and postmeiotic development
Authors: Pang Alan L. Y. , Johnson Warren , Ravindranath Neelakanta , Dym Martin , Rennert Owen M. , Chan Wai-Yee
Published: November 2005

Gene expression profiling was performed using the National Institute on Aging 15,000-cDNA microarray to reveal the differential expression pattern of 160 genes between meiotic pachytene spermatocytes and postmeiotic round spermatids of the mouse. Our results indicate that more genes are expressed in spermatids than in spermatocytes. Genes participating in cell cycle regulation and chromatin structure and dynamics are preferentially expressed in spermatocytes, while genes for protein turnover, signal transduction, energy metabolism, and intracellular transport are prevalent in spermatids. This suggests that a switch of functional requirement occurs when meiotic germ cells differentiate into haploid spermatids. Concordant expression patterns were obtained when quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction was performed to verify the microarray data. Interestingly, the majority of the differentially expressed genes were underrepresented in mitotic type A spermatogonia, and they were preferentially expressed in the testis. Our results suggest that an even higher proportion of the mouse genome is devoted to male gamete development from meiosis than was previously estimated. We also provide evidence that underscores the advantage of using purified germ cells over whole testes in profiling spermatogenic gene expression to identify transcripts that demonstrate stage-specific expression patterns.
Expression of p53, EGFR, pRb and bcl-2 Proteins in Pediatric Glioblastoma Multiforme: A Study of 54 Patients
Authors: Ganigi P.M. , Santosh V. , Anandh B. , Chandramouli B.A. , Sastry Kolluri V.R.
Published: November 2005

Pediatric glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) tumors, which have been established as ‘de novo’ neoplasms, are known to differ from their adult counterparts in terms of biology, genetics and ultimately survival of patients. In order to evaluate the utility of markers of tumor biology for refining prognostic assessment, we retrospectively analyzed 54 pediatric GBMs (age range 9 months to 15 years) occurring at different anatomical sites in the brain, operated at our institute between 1995 and 2001. The expression of p53, epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), bcl-2 and retinoblastoma proteins (pRb) was analyzed by immunohistochemistry and the results were compared with the clinical profile, MIB-1 labeling index (LI) and patient survival. p53 immunoreactivity was noted in 53.7% of cases, predominantly in thalamic (75%) and cerebral lobar (62.2%), followed by brainstem tumors (30%). It was absent in cerebellar tumors. p53-positive tumors had a higher MIB-1 LI, compared to p53-negative tumors (p = 0.003). EGFR and bcl-2 overex pression was observed in 25.9% and 33.3% of cases, respectively, and loss of pRb expression was evident in only 7.4% of cases, indicating that loss of this gene function is not significantly involved in pediatric GBMs. p53 and bcl-2 expression were maximally noted in patients with poorer outcome. Our results indicate that p53 expression status is noted in a significant number of pediatric supratentorial neoplasms. p53 with bcl-2 overexpression is more often associated with ominous prognosis. Further molecular characterization would provide newer insights into the biology of these neoplasms and form a basis for future therapeutic decision making.
The Retrograde Ventriculo-Sinus Shunt (El Shafei RVS Shunt)
Authors: El Shafei Ismail L. , El Shafei Hassan I.
Published: November 2005

Since 1990, 110 retrograde ventriculo-sinus (RVS) shunts were implanted; 98 patients (89.1%) benefited – 1 of them (0.9%) after shunt revision. The manifestations of high intra cranial pressure (ICP) disappeared, there were no problems related to improper cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) drainage, and the transcranial Doppler (TCD) resistive index (RI) measurements decreased to within normal ranges. Radiologically, the ventriculomegaly showed no regression in patients with open craniums and variable degrees of mild regression in patients with rigid craniums. Complications that needed shunt removal or revision occurred in 13 patients (11.8%); 1 patient (0.9%) died before shunt revision; they were all due to technical errors committed during the stages of evolution of the surgical technique for shunt implantation. The follow-up ranged between 4 months and 11 years (mean 3.42 years). Conclusion: the RVS shunt is a simple, minimally invasive, physiological procedure for treatment of hydrocephalus and is suitable for all ages.
Acute Basilar Artery Dissection Treated by Emergency Stenting in a 13-Year-Old Boy
Authors: Komiyama Masaki , Yoshimura Masaki , Honnda Yuji , Matsusaka Yasuhiro , Yasui Toshihiro
Published: November 2005

We report a 13-year-old boy who presented with acute basilar artery occlusion due to traumatic arterial dissection. Because a grave prognosis was expected if left untreated, and the chance of neurological recovery was believed to be unlikely but not zero, given that emergency stenting for the dissection was performed within 6 h of ictus. Recanalization of the basilar artery with stent placement did not change the poor prognosis in this patient because there was extension of dissection into the posterior cerebral arteries.
Three Unusual Arteriovenous Fistulas Presenting in Young Children Successfully Treated with Transarterial Endovascular Embolization
Authors: Gupta Rishi , Yi Hyeong Joong , Jovin Tudor G. , Horowitz Michael B.
Published: November 2005

Endovascular approaches can be utilized to manage arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs) either as a stand alone therapy or in conjunction with surgical excision. The goal of treatment is to completely obliterate the AVF. These vascular malformations are rare in childhood and pose a treatment challenge. We describe 3 children who were diagnosed with vascular malformations on magnetic resonance imaging and were subsequently found to have unusual AVFs on angiography. These single-feeder fistulas were successfully occluded with transarterial embolization using platinum coils.
Gene Transfer of Vasostatin, a Calreticulin Fragment, into Neuroendocrine Tumor Cells Results in Enhanced Malignant Behavior
Authors: Liu Minghui , Imam Hassan , Öberg Kjell , Zhou Yinghua
Published: November 2005

Vasostatin, a fragment of calreticulin, was transfected in the BON cell line to evaluate the feasibility of using it for gene therapy in neuroendocrine tumors. Vasostatin transfected cells were subcutaneously inoculated in nude mice. Burkitt lymphoma cell line, CA46, colorectal adenocarcinoma cell line, SW480, as well as endothelial cells PAE and SVEC4 were used for evaluating the function of vasostatin. The results demonstrated that vasostatin transfer caused enhanced malignant behavior of neuroendocrine tumor cell line, BON. Cell adhesion, spreading and cellular invasion were also enhanced in vasostatin-expressing BON cells. Tumor suppressor genes including p53, nm23, Rb and vinculin were down-regulated. Moreover, cell cycle regulatory protein, p27kip1, and cell differentiation-related protein kinase, PKR, were also significantly down-regulated. Furthermore, expression of NKG2D ligands, MICA and MICB, were down-regulated. Mice implanted with vasostatin-expressing BON cells showed an earlier and faster tumor growth compared to wild type. Anti-proliferative effects of vasostatin could not be proven in other cells except in PAE. These results indicated that vasostatin does probably not have a tumor growth inhibitory effect by itself, but rather modulates processes which are necessary for tumor growth. Therefore, one should be very careful when using vasostatin as an anti-tumoral agent in clinical trials, at least for neuroendocrine tumors.
Efficacy of Nebulized Flunisolide Combined with Salbutamol and Ipratropium Bromide in Stable Patients with Moderate-to-Severe Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Authors: Paggiaro P.L. , Vagaggini B. , Di Franco A. , Zingoni M. , Fano M. , Biraghi M.
Published: November 2005

Background: The efficacy of nebulized corticosteroids in the prevention of exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) has been poorly studied. Objective: To evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of nebulized flunisolide (1 mg) + salbutamol/ipratropium bromide (1,875/375 µg) b.i.d. in comparison with placebo + salbutamol/ipratropium bromide. Methods: This was a randomized, parallel-group, double-blind study on 114 patients with COPD of moderate-to-severe degree. The main outcome was the frequency of severe exacerbations over a 6-month period. Before and after treatment, respiratory symptoms, forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1), shuttle walking test distance and St. George’s Respiratory Questionnaire scores were evaluated. Results: The total number of exacerbations was slightly lower in the flunisolide group compared to the placebo group (19 vs. 34, p = 0.054); the number of patients experiencing at least one exacerbation during the study was also decreased (16 vs. 26, p = 0.059). In particular, type 3 Anthonisens’s exacerbations were significantly reduced by flunisolide (p = 0.044). In the placebo group, scores were higher than in the flunisolide group but nonsignificant for dyspnea, cough, sputum amount and purulence. FEV1 was significantly increased compared to baseline in both groups, and the area under the FEV1-time curve during the 6-month period was significantly greater in the flunisolide group (5.2 ± 10.6 vs. 2.1 ± 5.0, flunisolide vs. placebo, respectively; p = 0.047). For shuttle walking test distance and scores of the St. George’s Respiratory Questionnaire, no significant difference between the baseline evaluation and the end of the study was observed in both groups. Conclusions: Nebulized flunisolide is a good alternative to other inhaled corticosteroids when added to nebulized salbutamol/ipratropium bromide in the long-term treatment of moderate-to-severe COPD patients.
Angiographic and Clinical Outcomes in Patients Receiving Low-Molecular-Weight Heparin Versus Unfractionated Heparin in ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction Treated With Fibrinolytics in the CLARITY-TIMI 28 Trial
Authors: Sabatine Marc S. , Morrow David A. , Montalescot Gilles , Dellborg Mikael , Leiva-Pons Jose L. , Keltai Matyas , Murphy Sabina A. , McCabe Carolyn H. , Gibson C. Michael , Cannon Christopher P. , Antman Elliott M. , Braunwald Eugene
Published: November 2005

Background—

Low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) offers pharmacological and practical advantages over unfractionated heparin (UFH). Whether these advantages translate into greater infarct-related artery patency and fewer adverse clinical events in patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) receiving fibrinolytic therapy remains under study.

Methods and Results—

We compared angiographic and clinical outcomes in patients treated with LMWH (n=1429) versus UFH (n=1431) in CLARITY-TIMI 28, a randomized trial of clopidogrel versus placebo in STEMI patients aged 18 to 75 years undergoing fibrinolysis. After comprehensive adjustment for baseline characteristics, therapeutic interventions, and a propensity score, treatment with LMWH was associated with a significantly lower rate of a closed infarct-related artery or death or myocardial infarction before angiography (13.5% versus 22.5%, adjusted OR 0.76,
P
=0.027). Treatment with LMWH was also associated with a significantly lower rate of cardiovascular death or recurrent myocardial infarction through 30 days (6.9% versus 11.5%, adjusted OR 0.68,
P
=0.030). The lower event rates were observed in patients allocated to clopidogrel and in those who underwent percutaneous coronary intervention. Rates of TIMI major bleeding through 30 days (1.6% versus 2.2%,
P
=0.27) and intracranial hemorrhage (0.6% versus 0.8%,
P
=0.37) were similar in the LMWH and UFH groups. Patients who received both clopidogrel and LMWH, in addition to a standard fibrinolytic and aspirin, had a particularly high rate of infarct-related artery patency (90.9%) and particularly low rates of cardiovascular death (3.2%), recurrent myocardial infarction (3.0%), and major bleeding (1.8%).

Conclusions—

In patients with STEMI receiving fibrinolytic therapy, use of LMWH with other standard therapies, including clopidogrel and aspirin, is associated with improved angiographic outcomes and lower rates of major adverse cardiovascular events.
Extended safe havens and between-group dispersal of helpers in a cooperatively breeding cichlid
Authors: Bergmüller Ralph , Taborsky Michael , Peer Katharina , Heg Dik
Published: November 2005

In cooperative breeders, between-group dispersal of helpers is expected to occur if it increases their fitness. Genetic data suggest that helpers in the cooperatively breeding Lake Tanganyika cichlid Neolamprologus pulcher occasionally migrate into nearby groups where they again become helpers. We studied in the field how and why helpers migrate between groups by recording their ranging and social behaviours. We found that helpers spent 5.3% of their time visiting other groups, where they received similar low levels of aggression as within their home group. Large helpers visited other groups more often than small helpers and helpers visited other groups more frequently when the queue in their home group was large, suggesting that helpers with low chances to inherit the territory search for alternatives. Our data show that helpers may use other groups' territories as a refuge, as helpers actively sought shelter within territories of neighbouring groups when we experimentally increased the perceived risk of staying in their home territory. We observed two attempted and one successful case of 'voluntary' (i.e., strategic) between-group dispersal, and experimentally induced three helpers to disperse into other groups. By regular visits, helpers appear to establish familiarity and social relationships with nearby groups, which serve as 'extended safe havens' to hide from predators. In the long run frequent visiting behaviour may facilitate between group dispersal.
Contrasting effects of reduced incubation cost on clutch attendance by male and female European starlings
Authors: van Overveld Thijs , Magrath Michael J.L. , Komdeur Jan
Published: November 2005

In biparental birds, the relative contribution of the sexes to parental care can be viewed as a co-operative equilibrium that reflects the relative costs and benefits to each parent. If there are asymmetries in these costs or benefits, then any changes to the cost of care could result in a corresponding adjustment to their relative contribution. Incubation is a parental activity, shared in many species, which is costly both in terms of energy expenditure and time. In this study we manipulated the cost of incubation for pairs of European starlings (Sturnus vulgaris) by experimentally warming selected clutches to examine how this affected attendance by each parent. We found that total nest attendance did not differ between heated and control nests, although there was some evidence among heated nests that attendance declined with increasing effectiveness of the heater. Furthermore, relative male contribution was greater at heated than control nests resulting from the net effect of females tending to reduce, and males increase, attendance. We suggest that this shift in relative attendance may have been observed because females have a more developed brood patch and are more sensitive and responsive to clutch temperature than males. Consequently, females tended to reduce attendance at heated nests while males, with less reliable information on the clutch's thermal status, increased attendance to compensate for the reduction by the female. We also found that females at heated nests were lighter than at control nests, possibly because they were able to shed the additional fat reserves, a characteristic of incubating birds, earlier than females at control nests. We suggest that adjustment of clutch temperature in biparental species provides a valuable approach to investigating factors, including functional differences, asymmetries in brood value, and parental negotiation rules, that shape the roles of the sexes in incubation.
Size differences within a dominance hierarchy influence conflict and help in a cooperatively breeding cichlid
Authors: Bender Nicole , Hamilton Ian M. , Heg Dik
Published: November 2005

In size-structured groups, conflict over rank, resources or access to breeding opportunities is expected to be greatest among individuals that are similar in size. We tested this general prediction using the cooperatively breeding African cichlid, Neolamprologus pulcher. We predicted that, when size differences between group members were small, we would observe some or all of: increased aggression, increased submissive behaviour, increased help by subordinates or avoidance of dominants by subordinates. We created standardised groups each with a breeder male and female and a large and small helper (both males). The size of all group members was kept constant, with the exception of the breeder males, which were either only slightly larger than the largest helper or much larger. This created either large or small size differences between breeder males and the large helper (the 2nd ranked male in the group). We found that large helpers showed more submissive behaviours, reduced affiliative behaviour and kept further from breeding sites when male breeders were small. We did not find a consistent influence of breeder size on aggression. Together, these results support the prediction that conflict between breeder and helper is increased when breeders are small, but that this conflict is expressed through changes in submissive and affiliative behaviours and in space use rather than aggression. In contrast to our predictions, large helpers increased helping (territorial defence) when the male breeder was large; the reasons for this are unclear.
No evidence for adaptive suppression of joint laying by dominant female Seychelles warblers: an experimental study
Authors: Komdeur Jan
Published: November 2005

Several theoretical frameworks exist for explaining variation in reproductive allocation between same-sex individuals living within social groups. To determine this adequately, we need to know which party is more able to manipulate reproduction of the other. Theoretical models often sidestep this problem by making the assumption that dominants either have complete or partial control of reproduction by subordinates. This study clearly indicates that in the cooperatively breeding Seychelles warbler (Acrocephalus sechellensis) this assumption is not met. Seychelles warblers occupy year-round territories of different quality (measured as amount of insect food available). Joint laying, in which the dominant and subordinate females lay eggs in the same nest, decreases the fitness of primary females on low-quality territories, but not on high-quality territories. This study found good experimental evidence that dominant females on low-quality territories have no modes to suppress or prevent subordinate females from joint laying: (i) The frequency of joint laying in multi-female groups is independent of territory quality; (ii) There is no aggression among females at the nest around the time of egg laying at either low- or high-quality territories; (iii) Dominant females do not remove the other female's egg or experimentally introduced eggs, before or after laying their own. (iv) Dominant females do not reject an experimentally introduced egg through nest desertion. Given the absence of reproductive control, increased attention to alternative models of reproductive partitioning in vertebrate societies is needed and a realistic model has to take into account interactions within the sexes.
Large group size yields group stability in the cooperatively breeding cichlid Neolamprologus pulcher
Authors: Taborsky Michael , Brouwer Lyanne , Heg Dik , Bachar Zina
Published: November 2005

Group size has been shown to positively influence survival of group members in many cooperatively breeding vertebrates, including the Lake Tanganyika cichlid Neolamprologus pulcher, suggesting Allee effects. However, long-term data are scarce to test how these survival differences translate into changes in group extinction risk, group size and composition. We show in a field study of 117 groups from six different colonies (three from two populations each), that group size critically influences these parameters between years. Within one year, 34% of the groups went extinct. Group size correlated positively between years and large groups did not go extinct. The latter were more likely to contain small helpers the subsequent year, which is a cumulative measure of the previous months' reproductive success. Finally, there was a tendency that large groups were more likely to contain a breeding male and female still a year after the first check. The breeder male size, breeder female size, and largest helper size did not influence these parameters, and also did not correlate with the sizes of these categories of fish after one year. This suggests that group size, and not the body size or fighting ability of group members, was the critical variable determining the success of groups. In total, seven groups had fused with other groups between years. To our knowledge, this is the first study showing long-term benefits of large group size in a cooperatively breeding fish. We discuss the importance of differential survival and dispersal of group members for the demonstrated group size effects.
Music teaching as culture: introducing the pontes approach
Authors: Oliveira Alda
Published: November 2005

The pontes (bridges) approach may be viewed as a teaching guide for action in music education. It may help music teachers to articulate the different aspects that surround the teaching–learning process, especially those related to cultural interfaces, such as: the student’s personal characteristics, the elements and essence of the sociocultural context, student’s knowledge and previous musical experiences, and the new knowledge to be learned. The pontesapproach implies significant musical encounters between the student and the music. Pontesrelates to: positive attitude, observation, naturalness, technique, expressiveness and sensibilities. This article is based on the partial results of a study about the music pedagogical knowledge of the masters of musical oral traditions. It is organized in two sections: (a) the theoretical basis for the proposed practices; and (b) specific examples for the use of pontes.
Teaching and learning African music and Jaques-Dalcroze’s eurhythmics
Authors: Phuthego Mothusi
Published: November 2005

This article looks at the indigenous music of Botswana as an African musical idiom, to illustrate common aspects between approaches to teaching and learning music in African societies and the Jaques-Dalcroze approach. The author argues that a strong foundation exists in African musical practices upon which the Dalcroze approach can build. That foundation is provided by the evidence of emphasis on certain musical concepts as displayed in the performance of a sample of song and dance genres discussed in this article. It is further contended that musical performance in African societies develops the same skills that the Dalcroze approach aims to develop.
Integrated arts textbooks in Taiwan and the USA: a single series examination
Authors: Chu Jia-Ying , Kennedy Mary Copland
Published: November 2005

The purpose of this article is to examine current arts and humanities elementary school textbooks in Taiwan and to make recommendations for the future. Using the paradigms of curriculum integration of Beane, Berton, Jacobs, and Snyder as a basis, the article compares selected current arts and humanities texts in both Taiwan and the USA, noting, first, the proportion of music versus other disciplines in each, and, second, the organizational method. Important findings are that the selected Taiwanese texts do not feature sufficient musical material in comparison with their US counterparts and also that the organizational method of the Taiwanese texts fosters confusion among teachers. Implications for the wider community include the facts that new textbooks should be piloted prior to receiving government approval, that the uniqueness of each art discipline should be preserved within carefully crafted thematic units, and that music can serve as an effective bridge between the various art disciplines.
‘Taiko SouthWest’: developing a ‘new’ musical tradition in English schools
Authors: Hennessy Sarah
Published: November 2005

This article reports on a project to establish taiko drumming groups in schools throughout the southwest of England. The project is funded by the National Foundation for Youth Music (YM) which aims to increase access to music-making activity for young people in the UK. Taiko is a relatively new phenomenon in the UK. In the southwest, Kagemusha Taiko, a professional company, has been performing and teaching for 6 years and has built a strong reputation in both. The current project is focused on the professional development of teachers in achieving the aim of establishing a permanent foundation for taiko in schools across the region. Thirteen secondary schools and two primary schools were involved, and taiko was offered as an after-school activity.
The Internet and Political Participation
Authors: Polat Rabia Karakaya
Published: November 2005

There is a growing literature exploring the role of the Internet in influencing levels and styles of political participation. However, it is not yet clear why the Internet is perceived as a medium that can, at least potentially, increase participation. Moreover, putting the emphasis on the Internet as a technology rather than on its information and communication capabilities signals a tendency for technological determinism. In order to avoid this, the article explores the relation between the Internet and political participation by examining three different facets of the Internet: the Internet as an information source, as a communication medium and as a virtual public sphere. The main argument of the article is that it is these facets of the Internet that may affect levels and styles of political participation and hence are of interest for political scientists. The article also emphasizes the relevance of established theories of participation within political science in evaluating the potential role of the Internet for affecting levels and styles of political participation.
Media, Madness and Misrepresentation
Authors: Harper Stephen
Published: November 2005

In the last 10 years, media studies have started to address the problem of the stigmatization of mental illness in the media. This article argues that while much of this work has been invaluable in identifying unsatisfactory media representations of madness, it also contains certain argumentational and theoretical weaknesses. Anti-stigma discourse, it is claimed, tends to homogenize the texts it examines and can even contribute to the stigmatization of popular culture. It is also overreliant on an individualistic definition of violence and on notions of representational ‘accuracy’ and verisimilitude, while inadvertently misrepresenting the statistics about mental illness and violence. While it argues for the vital importance of anti-stigma research and criticism, the article recommends that critics pay more attention to the exigencies of particular media forms, and to the social and political functions, as well as the ‘accuracy’, of media images of madness.
Media-Hype
Authors: Vasterman Peter L.M.
Published: November 2005

News often seems to develop a life of its own, creating huge news waves on one specific story or topic. The term ‘media-hype’ is often used in popular debate about this kind of self-inflating media coverage, but the concept has never made it into the scientific discourse, mainly because of its implicit value judgements. However, by excluding criteria like ‘exaggeration’ and ‘distortion’ and by focusing on the process of amplification and magnification during these media-generated news waves, the concept can become a valuable tool for news research. A theoretical framework of media-hype is developed in this article, not only to analyse the specific dynamic of media-hype, but also to deal with the role it plays in the process of framing and social amplification. A content analysis of media coverage of ‘senseless’ street violence in the Netherlands is used to evaluate the consequences of media-hype for the role the media play in society.
Cross-National Differences and Accounting for Social Class Inequalities in Education
Authors: Marks Gary N.
Published: November 2005

This article focuses on two questions relating to social class inequalities in education: cross-national differences and the contribution of material, cultural and school factors in accounting for the relationship. These questions are addressed using the EGP measure of occupational class and student performance in reading literacy in 30 countries. The pattern of cross-national differences is more closely associated with indicators of modernization and the organization of the school system, rather than indicators of overall societal inequality and economic development. Both material and cultural factors contribute to the relationship between class background and student achievement with cultural factors marginally more important overall. In countries with highly tracked school systems, schools mediate the relationship in that children from lower class backgrounds are more likely to attend lower performing schools. However, the inverse is not true: school differences in student performance are only partially accounted for by class background and other socioeconomic factors.
Academic Boundary Work in Non-Western Academies
Authors: Chew Matthew
Published: November 2005

Is academic boundary work in non-western academies different from that in the modern and contemporary West? In what ways are they different? What are the consequences of these differences for academic production? This study approaches these questions through a comparative-historical analysis of modern Japan and China. The cases show that because non-western academies have the option of importing modern academic institutional formats from the West, they do not experience the ‘expansion’ types of academic boundary work. Because of the comparatively abrupt and fast-paced academic modernization in non-western academies, traditional scholarly communities are often powerful and they become the major target of ‘monopolization’ types of academic boundary work. General intellectuals and the state become major targets of ‘protection of autonomy’ types of boundary work. Through comparative analyses, the author finds that the exclusion of traditional scholars from positions in modern academic organizations contributes to academic boundary work against traditional scholars. The author also finds that undesirable social, cultural, political and economic contexts tend to pressure academics to venture outside professional boundaries to do general intellectual work for the civil society. A developed general intellectual field could, on the one hand, alleviate this pressure and, on the other, lend general intellectuals a stronger platform to interfere with academics. The author concludes that a strong and centralized state tends to frustrate academics’ efforts at boundary work, while a weak state gives academics the freedom to build tight academic boundaries, on the one hand, and allows them to undermine academic boundaries through political activism, on the other hand.
Nonprofits and the Job Retention of Former Welfare Clients
Authors: Perlmutter Felice Davidson , Deckop John R. , Konrad Alison M. , Freely Joshua L.
Published: November 2005

Legislation has shifted power and authority for welfare policies and programs to the states, with few federal guidelines. However, the intent was clearly to move people from welfare to work. Nonprofit organizations have played a major role in providing jobs for this population, along with the public and for-profit sectors. A critical issue is what nonprofits and other employers, through their human resource (HR) practices, can do to enhance the job retention of former welfare clients. The authors conducted a large-scale empirical study that examined effects of a broad range of HR practices associated with the retention of welfare clients in the nonprofit, for-profit, and public sectors. Results indicate that job retention is higher in the nonprofit sector compared to the others, and that this retention may be a result of HR practices that emphasize investment in and commitment to employees. Implications for public policy are also presented.