bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of wall shear stress in the common carotid artery of healthy subjects using 3.0-tesla magnetic resonance
Authors: Sui B. , Gao P. , Lin Y. , Gao B. , Liu L. , An J.
Published: April 2008

Background: Wall shear stress (WSS) has been proven to play a critical role in the formation and development of atherosclerotic plaques. Measurement of WSS in vivo is significant for the clinical assessment of atherosclerosis.

Purpose: To assess the magnitude and distribution of local WSS in the common carotid artery (CCA) in vivo using 3.0T magnetic resonance (MR).

Material and Methods: The common carotid artery of eight healthy volunteers was studied using a cine phase-contrast MR sequence. A three-dimensional paraboloid model was applied to fit the velocity profiles, and the WSS values were calculated. The cross-sectional area, average flow velocity, maximum velocity, and flow rate were also obtained.

Results: Mean WSS was 0.850±0.195 (range 0.132–3.464) N/m2 for the common carotid arteries; the spatial and temporal distribution and change of WSS were displayed. During a cardiac cycle, the mean velocity was 22.8±3.5 (16.9–28.3) cm/s, blood flow rate 8.03±1.45 (5.73–10.72) ml/s, and luminal vessel area 34.94±7.06 (24.25–49.01) mm2.

Conclusion: Local WSS values in CCAs can be measured using 3.0T MR imaging combined with image-processing techniques. Intersubject variations were found in the distribution and magnitude of wall shear stress as well as in the flow profile pattern in CCAs, which may be caused by different vessel morphologies.
Clinical evaluation of a dual-side readout technique computed radiography system in chest radiography of premature neonates
Authors: Carlander A. , Hansson J. , Söderberg J. , Steneryd K. , Båth M.
Published: April 2008

Background: Recently, the dual-side readout technique has been introduced in computed radiography, leading to an increase in detective quantum efficiency (DQE) compared with the single-side readout technique.

Purpose: To evaluate if the increase in DQE with the dual-side readout technique results in a higher clinical image quality in chest radiography of premature neonates at no increase in radiation dose.

Material and Methods: Twenty-four chest radiographs of premature neonates were collected from both a single-side readout technique system and a double-side readout technique system. The images were processed in the same image-processing station in order for the comparison to be only dependent on the difference in readout technique. Five radiologists rated the fulfillment of four image quality criteria, which were based on important anatomical landmarks. The given ratings were analyzed using visual grading characteristics (VGC) analysis.

Results: The VGC analysis showed that the reproduction of the carina with the main bronchi and the thoracic vertebrae behind the heart was better with the dual-side readout technique, whereas no significant difference for the reproduction of the central vessels or the peripheral vessels could be observed.

Conclusions: The results indicate that the higher DQE of the dual-side readout technique leads to higher clinical image quality in chest radiography of premature neonates at no increase in radiation dose.
Poland's syndrome complicated with breast cancer: mammographic, ultrasonographic, and computed tomographic findings
Authors: Ji J. , Zhang S. , Shao C. , Xu M. , Chen S. , Lu C. , Wang Z. , Zhao Z. , Fan X. , Tu J.
Published: April 2008

Poland's syndrome is a rare congenital anomaly characterized by unilateral chest wall hypoplasia and ipsilateral hand abnormalities. It has been reported in association with various malignancies and other developmental defects. We report here the case of a 58-year-old woman with Poland's syndrome who developed breast cancer in the ipsilateral normal breast. A review of the literature reveals that two studies of breast carcinoma associated with Poland's syndrome have been reported, but this paper is the first example of a carcinoma occurring in an otherwise normal breast associated with Poland's syndrome.
Essential role of TNF receptor superfamily 25 (TNFRSF25) in the development of allergic lung inflammation
Authors: Fang Lei , Adkins Becky , Deyev Vadim , Podack Eckhard R.
Published: April 2008

We identify the tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily 25 (TNFRSF25)/TNFSF15 pair as critical trigger for allergic lung inflammation, which is a cardinal feature of asthma. TNFRSF25 (TNFR25) signals are required to exert T helper cell 2 (Th2) effector function in Th2-polarized CD4 cells and co-stimulate interleukin (IL)-13 production by glycosphingolipid-activated NKT cells. In vivo, antibody blockade of TNFSF15 (TL1A), which is the ligand for TNFR25, inhibits lung inflammation and production of Th2 cytokines such as IL-13, even when administered days after airway antigen exposure. Similarly, blockade of TNFR25 by a dominant-negative (DN) transgene, DN TNFR25, confers resistance to lung inflammation in mice. Allergic lung inflammation–resistant, NKT-deficient mice become susceptible upon adoptive transfer of wild-type NKT cells, but not after transfer of DN TNFR25 transgenic NKT cells. The TNFR25/TL1A pair appears to provide an early signal for Th2 cytokine production in the lung, and therefore may be a drug target in attempts to attenuate lung inflammation in asthmatics.
Daxx represses RelB target promoters via DNA methyltransferase recruitment and DNA hypermethylation
Authors: Puto Lorena A. , Reed John C.
Published: April 2008

The apoptosis-modulating protein Daxx functions as a transcriptional repressor that binds to and suppresses the activity of nuclear factor-κB member RelB, among other transcription factors. The mechanism by which Daxx represses RelB target genes remains elusive. In this report, we demonstrate that Daxx controls epigenetic silencing of RelB target genes by DNA methylation. Daxx potently represses the RelB target genes dapk1, dapk3, c-flip, and birc3 (ciap2) at both the mRNA and protein levels. Recruitment of Daxx to target gene promoters, and its ability to repress them, is RelB-dependent, as shown by experiments using relB−/− cells. Importantly, methylation of target promoters is decreased in daxx−/− cells compared with daxx+/+ cells, and stable transfection of daxx−/− cells with Daxx restores DNA methylation. Furthermore, Daxx recruits DNA methyl transferase 1 (Dnmt1) to target promoters, resulting in synergistic repression. The observation that Daxx functions to target DNA methyltransferases onto RelB target sites in the genome provides a rare example of a gene-specific mechanism for epigenetic silencing. Given the documented role of several of the RelB-regulated genes in diseases, particularly cancer, the findings have implications for developing therapeutic strategies based on epigenetic-modifying drugs.
The E3 ubiquitin ligase c-Cbl restricts development and functions of hematopoietic stem cells
Authors: Rathinam Chozhavendan , Thien Christine B.F. , Langdon Wallace Y. , Gu Hua , Flavell Richard A.
Published: April 2008

Hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) are multipotent progenitors that give rise to all types of blood cells. In the present study, we document that HSC development and functions are negatively regulated by the E3 ubiquitin ligase c-Cbl (casitas B-cell lymphoma). HSCs of c-Cbl−/− mice exhibit augmented pool size, hyperproliferation, greater competence, and enhanced long-term repopulating capacity. Our mechanistic studies identified that c-Cbl−/− HSCs are hyperresponsive to thrombopoietin (TPO) and display elevated levels of STAT5 phosphorylation, thus leading to increased c-Myc expression. In essence, our data unequivocally identify c-Cbl as a novel negative regulator of developmental and functional properties of HSCs.
pRb and condensin—local control of global chromosome structure
Authors: Lavoie Brigitte D.
Published: April 2008

Rb mutants exhibit aneuploidy and aberrant chromosome structure during mitosis. In this issue of Genes & Development, a new paper from Longworth and colleagues (1011–1024) describes both physical and functional interactions between Drosophila Rbf1 and the dCAP-D3 subunit of condensin II. This work directly implicates the Rb family proteins in mitotic chromosome condensation and suggests that a failure in targeting condensin II to chromatin underlies the aneuploidy in rbf1 mutants.
Small RNA guides for de novo DNA methylation in mammalian germ cells: Figure 1.
Authors: Aravin Alexei A. , Bourc’his Déborah
Published: April 2008

Germline genomic methylation is essential for gamete identity and integrity in mammals. The study by Kuramochi-Miyagawa and colleagues (908–917) in the previous issue of Genes & Development links the process of DNA methylation-dependent repression of retrotranspons with the presence of piwi-interacting RNAs (piRNAs) in fetal male germ cells undergoing de novo methylation.
Budding yeast RNA polymerases I and II employ parallel mechanisms of transcriptional termination
Authors: Kawauchi Junya , Mischo Hannah , Braglia Priscilla , Rondon Ana , Proudfoot Nick J.
Published: April 2008

Both RNA polymerase I and II (Pol I and Pol II) in budding yeast employ a functionally homologous “torpedo-like” mechanism to promote transcriptional termination. For two well-defined Pol II-transcribed genes, CYC1 and PMA1, we demonstrate that both Rat1p exonuclease and Sen1p helicase are required for efficient termination by promoting degradation of the nascent transcript associated with Pol II, following mRNA 3′ end processing. Similarly, Pol I termination relies on prior Rnt1p cleavage at the 3′ end of the pre-rRNA 35S transcript. This is followed by the combined actions of Rat1p and Sen1p to degrade the Pol I-associated nascent transcript that consequently promote termination in the downstream rDNA spacer sequence. Our data suggest that the previously defined in vitro Pol I termination mechanism involving the action of the Reb1p DNA-binding factor to “road-block” Pol I transcription close to the termination region may have overlooked more complex in vivo molecular processes.
Gypsy Children in Post‐Communist Eastern Europe
Authors: Buchanan Ann , Sluckin Alice
Published: April 2008

SUMMARY: Far generations Gypsies have suffered from oppression and discrimination. Five centuries of slavery, attempted genocide during the Holocaust, forced assimilation and separation under communism have all been part of their history. In some areas of Eastern Europe, 90 per cent of children in state care are of Gypsy origin. In post‐communist Eastern Europe economic recession has brought a new wave of anti‐Gypsy feeling and violence. In such a climate Gypsy children face a forbidding future. Here in the UK we are currently debating new proposals under the Criminal Justice and Public Order Bill which could radically affect the lives of Gypsy children and their families. As we consider this legislation, do we have something to learn from the experience of Gypsy children in Eastern Europe?
On treatment mechanisms—what can we learn from the COMBINE study?
Authors: Bergmark Anders
Published: April 2008

Aim  To discuss the results of combined pharmacotherapies and behavioural interventions for alcohol dependence as presented by the COMBINE study.

Methods and results  Although the main hypothesis in the COMBINE study was to determine if improvements in treatment outcome can be achieved by combining pharmacotherapy and behavioural interventions, the lack of support for this idea in the results of the study is merely mentioned in passing, but not really discussed. Instead, the COMBINE study group claims that the results of their study constitute support for the use of naltrexone in primary care settings. However, the empirical basis for this recommendation appears somewhat weak. Furthermore, the COMBINE study group's discussions of the results could have benefited from a discussion of the treatment mechanisms that are supposed to have generated the improvement in the participants' drinking practices: what importance should we attribute to common mechanisms that are embedded in the treatment context, and what weight should we ascribe to the pharmacological interventions and the specific behavioural intervention?

Conclusions  In the context of other major studies within the alcohol field, such as Project MATCH and the UK Alcohol Treatment Trial (UKATT) study, and contemporary psychotherapy research, it seems reasonable to regard the main results from the COMBINE as supportive of a need to change the focus of future addiction treatment research.
Workers' drinking patterns: the impact on absenteeism in the Australian work‐place
Authors: Roche Ann M. , Pidd Ken , Berry Jesia G. , Harrison James E.
Published: April 2008

Aims  To examine the relationship between Australian workers' patterns of alcohol consumption and absenteeism.

Design  A secondary analysis of the 2001 National Drug Strategy Household Survey data.

Setting  Australia 2001.

Participants  A total of 13 582 workers aged ≥14 years.

Measurements  Alcohol consumption levels associated with National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) guidelines for short‐ and long‐term harm were identified and compared with self‐reported measures of absenteeism due to alcohol use and due to any illness/injury.

Findings  More than 40% of the Australian work‐force consumed alcohol at risky or high‐risk levels at least occasionally. High‐risk drinkers were up to 22 times more likely to be absent from work due to their alcohol use compared to low‐risk drinkers. Short‐term high‐risk drinkers were also significantly more likely to be absent from work due to any illness or injury than employed low‐risk drinkers. Young employees and males were more likely to report alcohol‐related absenteeism compared to older workers and females.

Conclusions  The relationship between workers' alcohol consumption patterns and absenteeism is more substantial than previously recognized or documented. Alcohol‐related absenteeism is not restricted to small numbers of chronic heavy drinkers, but also involves the much larger number of risky non‐dependent drinkers who drink less frequently at risky levels. To improve workers' health and wellbeing and enhance productivity and economic prosperity, appropriate education, prevention and policy strategies are warranted and necessitate revision of previously narrow approaches undertaken with work‐place programmes.
Cannabis withdrawal predicts severity of cannabis involvement at 1‐year follow‐up among treated adolescents
Authors: Chung Tammy , Martin Christopher S. , Cornelius Jack R. , Clark Duncan B.
Published: April 2008

Aims  Controversy exists regarding the inclusion of cannabis withdrawal as an indicator of dependence in the next revision of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) and International Classification of Diseases (ICD). This study contrasted the concurrent and predictive validity of three operational definitions of cannabis withdrawal in a sample of treated adolescents.

Design  Prospective study of treated adolescents with 1‐year follow‐up.

Setting and participants  Adolescents (n = 214) were recruited from intensive out‐patient treatment programs for substance abuse, and followed at 1 year (92% retention). Youth who were included in the analyses reported regular cannabis use.

Measurements  The number of DSM‐IV cannabis abuse and dependence symptoms at baseline and 1‐year follow‐up, past year frequency of cannabis use at baseline and follow‐up, and periods of abstinence at 1‐year follow‐up. Cannabis withdrawal was defined based on (i) the presence of two or more cannabis withdrawal symptoms; (ii) a definition proposed by Budney and colleagues (2006) that requires four or more withdrawal symptoms (four‐symptom definition); and (iii) the use of latent class analysis to identify subgroups with similar cannabis withdrawal symptom profiles.

Findings and conclusions  All three definitions of cannabis withdrawal demonstrated some concurrent validity. Only the four‐symptom and latent class‐derived definitions of withdrawal predicted severity of cannabis‐related problems at 1‐year follow‐up. No cannabis withdrawal definition predicted frequency of use at follow‐up. Further research is needed to determine the clinical utility and validity of the four‐symptom definition, as well as alternative definitions of cannabis withdrawal, to inform revisions leading to DSM‐V and ICD‐11.
The incidence and severity of hangover the morning after moderate alcohol intoxication
Authors: Howland Jonathan , Rohsenow Damaris J. , Allensworth‐Davies Donald , Greece Jacey , Almeida Alissa , Minsky Sara J. , Arnedt J. Todd , Hermos John
Published: April 2008

Aims  To determine the incidence and covariates of hangover following a night of moderate alcohol consumption at a targeted breath alcohol level.

Design  Data were combined from three randomized cross‐over trials investigating the effects of heavy drinking on next‐day performance. A total of 172 participants received either alcoholic beverage (mean = 0.115 g% breath alcohol concentration) or placebo on one night and the other beverage a week later. The next day, participants completed a hangover scale.

Participants  Participants were 54 professional merchant mariners attending a recertification course at Kalmar Maritime Academy (Kalmar, Sweden) and 118 university students or recent graduates recruited from greater Boston.

Setting  One trial was conducted at Kalmar Maritime Academy (Sweden); the other two were conducted at the General Clinical Research Center at Boston Medical Center.

Measurements  A nine‐item scale assessed hangover.

Findings  Hangover was reported by 76% of participants. Neither alcoholic beverage type nor participant characteristics was associated with incidence of hangover.

Conclusions  Our findings on the propensity of hangover suggest that 25–30% of drinkers may be resistant to hangover.
Using computer‐guided implantology in flapless implant surgery of a maxilla: a clinical report
Authors: AZARI A. , NIKZAD S. , KABIRI A.
Published: April 2008

Summary  The current notion in implantology is to utilize techniques that can provide function, aesthetics and comfort with a minimally invasive surgical approach. The flapless implant surgery has been suggested to fulfil these requirements. Traditionally, the flapless implant surgery was performed by using a tissue punch technique, which may be potentially harmful because of the inherent blindness of the technique. Today, computer software programs and 3D radiographic techniques, such as CT technology, have been developed to provide the practitioner with precise implant placement planning. Although this sophisticated approach has many advantages, transferring this information to the surgical phase has only recently been developed. The purpose of this paper was to introduce a more predictable flapless approach for treatment of a patient’s maxilla through principles of computer‐assisted implantology.
Mutualism, hybrid inviability and speciation in a tropical ant–plant
Authors: LÉOTARD G. , SALTMARSH A. , KJELLBERG F. , MCKEY D.
Published: April 2008

Although biotic interactions are particularly intricate in the tropics, few studies have examined whether divergent adaptations to biotic interactions lead to speciation in tropical organisms. Ant–plant mutualisms are widespread in the tropics. WithinLeonardoxa africana, two subspecies present contrasting defences against herbivores. Young leaves of subsp.africanaare defended by mutualistic ants, whereas subsp.gracilicaulissatiates herbivores by synchronized leaf production. Subsp.africanapossesses hollow internodes and many large foliar nectaries, housing and feeding ants. We detected no genetic introgression between the two subspecies in the contact zone between them. F1 hybrids were present. They were intermediate in phenotype, expressing reduced, nonfunctional but costly myrmecophilic traits. However, they suffered more herbivory than their parents. Hybrids remained small, failing to reach reproductive size, probably due to their maladapted defence phenotype. Hence, there could be a direct link between adaptation to mutualism and reproductive isolation: biotic interactions could be a driver of tropical diversity.
Consultation frequency and perceived consultation time in a Japanese psychiatric clinic: Their relationship with patient consultation satisfaction and depression and anxiety
Authors: Igarashi Hiromi , Kitamura Toshinori , Ohuchi Kiyoshi , Mitoma Hiroshi
Published: April 2008

Aim:  To examine the relationship of the consultation frequency and the perceived consultation time of psychiatric clinic attenders with their satisfaction towards the consultation and depression and anxiety (measured by the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale).

Methods:  Questionnaires were distributed to 186 outpatients attending a psychiatric clinic.

Results:  In a path analytic model, a longer session with shorter interval (‘dense’ session) predicted lowered depression and anxiety level of the patientsthrough the perceived satisfaction of the patients, and it was also predicted by the higher anxiety level. The dense session was also influenced by shorter duration of clinic attendance.

Conclusion:  Dense psychiatric sessions in busy Japanese outpatient clinics may benefit patients.
Patterns of temperament and character in a clinical sample of Korean children with attention‐deficit hyperactivity disorder
Authors: Cho Soo‐Churl , Hwang Jun‐Won , Lyoo In‐Kyoon , Yoo Hee‐Jung , Kin Boong‐Nyun , Kim Jae‐Won
Published: April 2008

Aims:  The purpose of the present study was to assess patterns of temperament and character in a clinical sample of Korean children with attention‐deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and to investigate the relationship between patterns of temperament and character and the severity of ADHD symptoms.

Methods:  Fifty‐one children who met DSM‐IV criteria for ADHD and 51 age‐ and sex‐matched healthy comparison subjects completed the Junior Temperament and Character Inventory (JTCI) and the DuPaul's ADHD Rating Scale (ARS‐IV).

Results:  Children with ADHD had significantly higher scores of Novelty Seeking and lower scores of Self‐directedness in both parents' rating and children's self‐rating. In addition, low Self‐directedness scores predicted higher total scores of ARS‐IV.

Conclusions:  In a clinical sample of Korean children with ADHD, a distinct pattern of temperament and character was found. The current findings suggest that low Self‐directedness may be related to the severity of ADHD symptoms.
Effect of mood states on QT interval and QT dispersion in eating disorder patients
Authors: Takimoto Yoshiyuki , Yoshiuchi Kazuhiro , Akabayashi Akira
Published: April 2008

Aim:  Prolonged QT interval and QT dispersion have been reported in patients with eating disorders. Although the factors that cause prolongation remain unclear, mood states such as anxiety have been reported to influence QT interval and dispersion, probably via the autonomic nervous system. Therefore the aim of the present paper was to investigate mood effect on prolonged QT interval and QT dispersion.

Method:  The subjects were 47 female anorexia nervosa (AN) and 48 female bulimia nervosa (BN) patients. In all of the patients, serum electrolyte levels were normal. QT interval and QT dispersion were measured from 12‐lead electrocardiographic recordings. Mood states in each patient were measured using a Profile of Mood States (POMS) evaluation, and the patients were divided into high‐ and low‐score groups for each POMS subscale. The differences in QT variables were compared between the two groups for each subscale.

Results:  In the BN group, QT interval and QT dispersion in the high depression score group were significantly longer than those in the low depression score group, and QT dispersion was significantly greater in the high anxiety score group than in the low anxiety score group. In addition, QT interval and QT dispersion were significantly correlated with depression scores. In the AN group there were no significant differences in QT interval or QT dispersion between the high‐ and low‐score groups for any POMS subscale.

Conclusions:  BN patients with worse states of depression or anxiety had longer QT intervals and larger QT dispersion. In BN patients, mood disturbance might increase the risk of arrhythmias.
β‐Tropomyosin mutations alter tropomyosin isoform composition
Authors: Nilsson J. , Tajsharghi H.
Published: April 2008

Background and purpose:  Tropomyosin (TM) is an actin‐binding protein, which is localized head to tail along the length of the actin filament. There are three major TM isoforms in human striated muscle. Mutations in β‐tropomyosin (TPM2) have recently been identified as an important cause of neuromuscular disorders.

Materials and methods:  The expression of TM isoforms in patients carrying mutations in TPM2 was detected using a combination of SDS‐PAGE, Western blotting, and a new method to measure the relative abundance of the various TM transcripts.

Results:  The level of γ‐TM is reduced in patients with mutations in TPM2. β‐Tropomyosin was expressed at high levels in muscle specimens of the patients.

Discussion:  Our study indicates that β‐TM gene mutations can alter the expression of other sarcomeric TM isoforms and that the perturbation of TM isoform levels may affect the dimer preference within the thin filaments, which may contribute to muscle weakness as a result of both functional and structural changes in muscle.
Posterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy Associated With Migraine
Authors: Foroozan Rod , Marx Douglas P. , Evans Randolph W.
Published: April 2008

Posterior ischemic optic neuropathy (PION) is an uncommon form of optic nerve ischemia that results from damage to the intraorbital, intracanalicular, or intracranial optic nerve. It has been reported perioperatively, in association with systemic vasculitis, and in the nonsurgical setting with no identifiable cause. Review of the literature reveals only 2 patients with PION associated with migraine in a single report. We report a patient who developed PION in the setting of a migraine headache without any other identifiable risk factors.
A Randomized Double‐Blind Study Comparing Rizatriptan, Dexamethasone, and the Combination of Both in the Acute Treatment of Menstrually Related Migraine
Authors: Bigal Marcelo , Sheftell Fred , Tepper Stewart , Tepper Deborah , Ho Tony W. , Rapoport Alan
Published: April 2008

Objectives.— To assess the efficacy and tolerability of rizatriptan (RI), dexamethasone (DE), and RI combined with DE (RI+DE) in the acute treatment of menstrually related migraine (MRM).

Methods.— This was a randomized, double‐blind, 6‐attack crossover study comparing RI 10 mg, DE 4 mg, and RI+DE (2 attacks each). The primary endpoint was 24‐hour sustained‐relief. The secondary endpoint was 24‐hour sustained pain‐free. We treated the primary and secondary endpoint as dichotomous outcomes and used matched nonparametric statistics to assess proportions. We used logistic regression to determine the effect of treatment order and if response to previous treatment influenced treatment response.

Results.— A total of 35 patients treated 190 attacks (mean of 5.4 per participant). For the primary endpoint, RI was significantly superior to DE (62.7% vs 33.3%, P = .001). RI+DE was superior to RI (81.5% vs 62.7%, P < .05) and to DE (81.5% vs 33.3%%, P < .001). For the secondary endpoint RI was also superior to DE (32.2% vs 12.1%, P < .05). RI+DE was superior to RI (50.7% vs 32.2%, P < .05) and DE (P < .01, RR). Similar findings were seen for the other endpoints. More attacks treated with DE+RI (33.8%) were associated with side effects, compared to RI (18.6%) and DE (15.2%).

Conclusions.— Rizatriptan is an effective treatment for MRM. RI+DE is significantly more effective than RI alone, although is associated with higher rate of adverse events. The combination should be considered for subjects with high disability, incomplete relief, or recurrence of pain with triptan monotherapy. The use of DE alone in the treatment of MRM is not justified based on our data.
Rizatriptan Efficacy in ICHD‐II Pure Menstrual Migraine and Menstrually Related Migraine
Authors: Nett Robert , Mannix Lisa K. , Mueller Loretta , Rodgers Anthony , Hustad Carolyn M. , Skobieranda Franck , Ramsey Karen E.
Published: April 2008

Objective.— To examine the efficacy of rizatriptan for the treatment of pure menstrual migraine (PMM).

Background.— In 2004, the International Headache Society proposed new research criteria for menstrual migraine (International Classification of Headache Disorders [ICHD‐II]). Two subtypes were defined: PMM, in which attacks occur exclusively with menstruation, and menstrually related migraine (MRM), in which attacks may also occur at other times of the cycle.

Methods.— The 2 protocols (MM1 and MM2) were identical randomized, double‐blind studies. Adult patients with ICHD‐II menstrual migraine were assigned to either rizatriptan 10‐mg tablet or placebo (2:1). Patients were to treat a single menstrual migraine attack of moderate or severe pain intensity. This prospectively planned substudy pooled data from patients with a diagnosis of PMM from both studies. The primary substudy endpoint was 2‐hour pain relief. Efficacy data were summarized for patients with a diagnosis of MRM.

Results.— Of 707 (MM1: 357, MM2: 350) patients treated in the study, 146 patients (MM1: 81, MM2: 65) had a diagnosis of PMM. The percentage of patients reporting 2‐hour pain relief was significantly greater for rizatriptan than for placebo for both PMM (73% vs 50%, P = .006) and MRM subgroups (71% vs 52%, P < .001). Most other efficacy endpoints favored rizatriptan compared with placebo in patients with either PMM or MRM.

Conclusion.— Rizatriptan 10 mg was superior to placebo for the treatment of PMM, as measured by 2‐hour pain relief. Rizatriptan was also effective for the treatment of MRM and for relief of migraine‐associated symptoms for both headache subtypes.
Formation and Densification Behavior of MgAl2O4Spinel: The Influence of Processing Parameters
Authors: Ganesh Ibram , Olhero Susana M. , Rebelo Avito H. , Ferreira J. M. F.
Published: April 2008

Different types of dense stoichiometric and nonstoichiometric magnesium aluminate (MgAl2O4) spinel (MAS) ceramics were prepared following a conventional double‐stage firing process using different commercially available alumina and magnesia raw materials. Stoichiometric, magnesia‐rich, and alumina‐rich spinels were sintered at 1500°–1800°C for 1–2.5 h. The influence of the different processing parameters (average particle size, degree of spinel phase, green density, mass of the powder compact, sintering temperature, holding time at the peak temperature, and starting composition) on the densification behavior of MAS was assessed by measuring the bulk density, apparent porosity, and water absorption capacity, and microstructural observations. Most of the MAS compositions tested exhibited excellent sintering properties.
Salivary 8-OHdG: A Useful Biomarker for Predicting Severe ED and Hypogonadism
Authors: Yasuda Mitsuko , Ide Hisamitsu , Furuya Kumiko , Yoshii Takashi , Nishio Kojiro , Saito Keisuke , Isotani Shuji , Kamiyama Yutaka , Muto Satoru , Horie Shigeo
Published: April 2008

Introduction

Erectile and endothelial dysfunction are common pathologies of multiple cardiovascular risk factors and are considered longitudinal predictors of cardiovascular events. Oxidative stress and decreases in testosterone levels play an important role in the pathogenesis of endothelial dysfunction.

Aim

We sought to determine whether the severity of erectile dysfunction (ED) was associated with individual levels of testosterone and oxidative stress, and whether treatment with a phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitor could reduce oxidative stress and increase testosterone availability.

Methods

We evaluated the association of salivary 8-hydroxy-2′-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), salivary testosterone, International Index of Erectile Function-erectile function domain (IIEF-EF) scores, and Medical Outcome Study (MOS) 36-item Short-Form Healthy Survey (SF-36) questionnaires in 128 middle-aged male volunteers. We investigated the changes in testosterone levels, salivary 8-OHdG levels, IIEF-EF scores, and SF-36 scores in 20 ED patients (according to the IIEF-EF) who took 50 mg of sildenafil once a week for 6 months.

Main Outcome Measures

IIEF-EF scores were used to assess ED severity. Antioxidant status was defined by salivary 8-OHdG. Salivary testosterone was used to evaluate serum bioavailable testosterone availability.

Results

Salivary 8-OHdG (OR=9.88, 95% CI: 1.52–64.10), salivary testosterone (Odds ratio [OR]=0.96, 95% CI: 0.93–0.98), and vitality on the SF-36, version 2 (SF-36 v2) (OR=0.92, 95%CI: 0.84–0.98) were significantly associated with the severity of ED in healthy volunteers. Treatment with sildenafil for 6 months significantly increased the total serum testosterone (426.4 ± 174.8 vs. 569.6 ± 146.1 ng/dL, P =0.021) and salivary testosterone levels (56.1 ± 22.3 vs. 110.0 ± 48.4 pg/mL, P <0.001), whereas it decreased salivary 8-OHdG levels (2.30 ± 0.23 vs. 0.90 ± 0.05 ng/mL, P =0.0046).

Conclusions

Salivary 8-OHdG is a useful biomarker for predicting severe ED and hypogonadism in middle-aged men. Once-a-week treatment with sildenafil can have beneficial effects on men's health by decreasing oxidative stress and increasing testosterone levels.
Breeding systems in the clam shrimp family Limnadiidae (Branchiopoda, Spinicaudata)
Authors: Weeks Stephen C. , Sanderson Thomas F. , Zofkova Magdalena , Knott Brenton
Published: April 2008

Abstract. Crustaceans in the class Branchiopoda exhibit a wide range of breeding systems, including dioecy (gonochorism), androdioecy, parthenogenesis, cyclic parthenogenesis, and hermaphroditism. The largest subgroup of the Branchiopods, the Diplostraca, is reported to encompass all five of these breeding systems. However, many of these reports are based primarily on simple observations of sex ratios in natural populations. Herein we report the beginnings of a more rigorous approach to breeding system determination in the Diplostraca, starting with the family Limnadiidae. We combine measurements of sex ratio, offspring rearings, and behavior to identify three breeding systems within the Limnadiidae: dioecy, androdioecy, and selfing hermaphroditism. To date, no instances of parthenogenetic reproduction have been identified in this family. Comparisons of breeding system determination via simple population sex ratios with our more controlled studies show that simple sex ratios can be useful when these sex ratios are ∼50% males (=dioecy) or 5–30% males (androdioecy). However, population sex ratios of 0–5% males or 35–45% males necessitate further investigation because estimates in these ranges cannot distinguish selfing hermaphroditism from androdioecy or androdioecy from dioecy, respectively. We conclude by noting that the genetic sex‐determining system outlined for one of these limnadiid species, Eulimnadia texana, provides a parsimonious framework to describe the evolution of the three breeding systems observed within the Limnadiidae.
Canine serum C‐reactive protein detected by means of a near‐patient test for human C‐reactive protein
Authors: Kjelgaard‐Hansen M. , Stadler M. , Jensen A. L.
Published: April 2008

Objectives:The aim of the study was to evaluate the reliability of a rapid human C‐reactive protein near‐patient slide reversed passive latex agglutination test (Randox) for the semi‐quantitative determination of canine serum C‐reactive protein.

Methods:The concentration of C‐reactive protein was determined in 244 canine serum samples by an established automated immunoturbidimetric method and in various predilutions by a commercially available reversed passive latex agglutination test for human C‐reactive protein. The results were compared to assess if the reversed passive latex agglutination test reflected the results of the established method with special emphasis on the reversed passive latex agglutination test’s ability to identify samples characterised as positive or negative by the established method.

Results:The reversed passive latex agglutination test reflected the C‐reactive protein concentration in canine serum samples at all the tested predilutions (undiluted, 1:4, 1:8 and 1:16). When applying a predilution of 1:8, the positive and negative analytical predictive values for discriminating between positive and negative samples (according to the established quantitative method) were high (0·94 [0·82 to 0·99] and 0·97 [0·93 to 0·99], respectively).

ClinicalSignificance:In conclusion, this near‐patient test was able to reflect the serum C‐reactive protein concentration in canine samples in a reliable and clinically useful manner and could be applicable for general practice for evaluating C‐reactive protein levels in canine serum.
Photoprotection by Porcine Eumelanin Against Singlet Oxygen Production†
Authors: Wang Alice , Marino Anthony R. , Gasyna Zbigniew , Gasyna Elzbieta , Norris James
Published: April 2008

Melanin, a major pigment found in retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells, is considered to function in dual roles, one protective and one destructive. By quenching free radical species and reactive oxygen species (ROS) melanin counteracts harmful redox stress. However, melanin is also thought to be capable of creating ROS. In this destructive role, melanin increases redox strain in the cell. This study uses readily available eumelanin extracted from porcine RPE cells as a more authentic model than synthetic melanin to determine specific mechanisms of melanin activity with regard to singlet oxygen in the presence and absence of rose bengal, a singlet‐oxygen photosensitizer. Optical detection of singlet‐oxygen was determined by monitoring the bleaching of p‐nitrosodimethylaniline in the presence of histidine. Production of singlet oxygen in aqueous oxygen‐saturated solutions of rose bengal without eumelanin was readily accomplished. In contrast, detection of singlet oxygen in oxygen‐saturated solutions of eumelanin without rose bengal failed, consistent with results of others. However, a significant decrease in singlet oxygen production by rose bengal was observed in the presence of eumelanin. After correction for light absorption and chemical bleaching of eumelanin, the results show that eumelanin also provides a photoprotective mode arising from chemistry, that is, not just the physical process of light absorption followed by energy dissipation as heat.
Analysis and Modeling of Optical Elements and Systems
Authors: Lin Psang Dain
Published: April 2008

In this paper a new generalized methodology to analyze optical elements and systems is introduced. The reflection and refraction laws are formulated in the form of a homogeneous transformation matrix. A system to measure the roughness of a surface is designed and modeled using this method, and a converging lens is analyzed as an illustrative example. The results show that the imperfections of this lens can be easily assessed and the performance of this measurement system is excellent even in measuring surfaces with orientation changes.
On the Possibility of Process Monitoring in Grinding by Spark Intensity Measurements
Authors: Rajmohan B. , Radhakrishnan V.
Published: April 2008

Precision manufacturing processes like grinding are capable of producing parts to high dimensional accuracies and excellent surface finish. Process monitoring is critical in grinding to achieve accuracy, finish and surface integrity. In this paper an attempt has been made to explore the possibility of process monitoring in grinding by spark field measurements. After establishing the correlation between the chip sizes and roughness produced in grinding, a thermal model is presented showing the relationship between chip size, temperature and time. Using a CCD camera and a computer, the spark field in grinding was monitored and analyzed. Results indicate the possibility of monitoring the process by this approach.
Acoustic Emission Source and Transmission Path Characterization Through Homomorphic Processing
Authors: Rice J. A. , Wu S. M.
Published: April 2008

Acoustic emission (AE) has been chosen as a means of monitoring cutting system changes from remote sensor locations. The determination of a processing strategy which can remove signal transmission path variability has been explored. This strategy, termed homomorphic processing, is developed and tested on both simulated and experimentally collected data. The recovery properties of this strategy are analyzed in terms of both AE source characterization and signal path transmission effects. These properties are found to be influenced by the choice of homomorphic lifter cutoff time. Guidelines are given for the selection of this parameter. Spectral representations of the recovered AE source show that signatures collected at remote sensor locations can be successfully used to identify process and structural changes in the cutting system.
Error Compensation Algorithms for Sculptured Surface Production
Authors: Dinauer W. R. , Duffie N. A. , Philpott M. L.
Published: April 2008

Four algorithms for removing shape and waviness errors in sculptured surface production processes are described in the paper. One of the algorithms employs an open-loop strategy without inspection, error analysis, and error compensation. The other three algorithms employ closed-loop inspection error analysis and error compensation strategies to manipulate control surfaces used in sculptured surface production. Coordinate measurements made on the surface being produced are compared with a designed surface and the results are used to modify related control surfaces that are used to guide processing equipment. Two of the closed-loop algorithms also use intermediate planned surfaces to improve error compensation and production control. Experiments are described in the paper in which the algorithms were tested on an experimental surface finishing system that included an optical probe, grinding spindle, and computer control system integrated with a CNC machining center. The results obtained using open-loop and closed-loop algorithms are compared, and it is shown that surface inspection, surface error analysis, surface compensation, and surface grinding can be iteratively applied to converge rough-machined test surfaces to their designed shape. The closed-loop algorithms are shown to be capable of compensating for disturbances in the finishing process that went undetected when the open-loop algorithm was used. The closed-loop algorithms have significant potential for application in automated finishing systems for molds and dies.
An Enhanced End Milling Surface Texture Model Including the Effects of Radial Rake and Primary Relief Angles
Authors: Melkote S. N. , Thangaraj A. R.
Published: April 2008

An enhanced surface texture model for predicting the two- and three-dimensional structure of the surface generated by the end cutting edges on the bottom of an end mill is presented. This model includes the effects of the radial rake and the primary end tooth relief angles which have been neglected in the models available to date. Non-ideal effects such as cutter runout and back-cutting are explicitly modeled. An algorithm to simulate the two- and three-dimensional milled surface is presented. It is shown that the main effect of the radial rake and the primary end tooth relief angles is to increase the surface roughness parameter values. The effectiveness of the enhanced model in accurately capturing the major features of the machined surface texture and in closely predicting the roughness parameter values is demonstrated through experiments and model simulations. It is shown that the enhanced model predicts both the shape of the surface profile and the surface roughness parameters more accurately than the existing models in the literature.
Restraint Analysis of Fixtures Which Rely on Surface Contact
Authors: DeMeter E. C.
Published: April 2008

Total restraint analysis is used to evaluate the ability of a machining fixture to restrain workpiece motion. Thus far models have been limited to point contact and frictionless planar contact. This paper shows how to apply restraint analysis to a fixture which relies on frictionless or frictional surface contact. It presents models of the wrench systems defined by frictionless and frictional planar, spherical, and cylindrical contact as well as hard point contact. These models are applicable to the restraint analysis of other work holding devices such as gripper and assembly fixtures. In addition, they are the basis for other types of fixture analysis. This paper also presents a linear program which uses static equilibrium constraints to directly prove the existence of total restraint. Both the models and the linear program are applied to the analysis of a modular fixture.
Single-Subgroup Performance Measures and Diagnostic Procedures for X-Bar Control Charts
Authors: Rahn G. E. , Kapoor S. G. , DeVor R. E.
Published: April 2008

Although Shewhart control charts have had a tremendous impact on quality improvement, the inability to precisely measure chart performance has limited their role, and subsequently overall effectiveness in the control of manufacturing processes. Measures of performance in terms of operational characteristics (OC) are defined on two distinct levels: (a) single-subgroup level, which examines the probability of a rule violation at any given subgroup (b) multiple-subgroup level, which considers the probability of one or more rule violations throughout process monitoring. Single-subgroup performance measures for X-bar charts that employ four rules are formulated. These measures are exact expressions of operational characteristics, except for the numerical approximation to the integral of the normal distribution. Applications of these models to simulated data demonstrate their accuracy in predicting chart performance. In addition, a diagnostic methodology is described which utilizes the derived performance measures to predict the mean of a shifted distribution. The proposed diagnostic procedure is illustrated in validation and application examples.
Tool Wear Monitoring in Diamond Turning by Fuzzy Pattern Recognition
Authors: Ko Tae Jo , Cho Dong Woo
Published: April 2008

This paper introduces a fuzzy pattern recognition technique for monitoring single crystal diamond tool wear in the ultraprecision machining process. Selected features by which to partition the cluster of patterns were obtained by time series AR modeling of dynamic cutting force signals. The wear on a diamond tool edge appears to be classifiable into two types, micro-chipping and gradual, both very small compared to conventional tool wear. In this regard, we used a fuzzy technique in pattern recognition, which considers the ambiguity in classification as well as the weakness of the cutting force variation, to monitor the diamond tool wear status, with satisfactory results.
Image Enhancement: A Data Dependent Systems Approach
Authors: Pandit S. M. , Joshi G. A.
Published: April 2008

A new image enhancement scheme based on a mathematical model obtained by data dependent systems (DDS) approach is described in this paper. A separable 2-D AR model is fitted to the image. Analysis of this model leads to the identification of modes corresponding to dominant physical features. Other intrinsic modes, inherent to the image, are highly damped and constitute difficult-to-interpret local image behavior. Although exerting a minor influence on the image intensities, they hinder a clear perception of the image. In order to enhance the image, these modes must be filtered out. ARMA image enhancement filters are formed using the major inherent modes. Residuals, the part of the image not modeled by this ARMA filter, comprise the enhanced image. This approach can also be used to selectively enhance the desired image features. Examples illustrating clear enhancement of a real image, with natural degradations created by shadows and other artifacts as well as artificially added noise, are given.