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Indicative
Kinds of Indicative Selected AbstractsAn Abnormal Right Ventricular Apical Angle is Indicative of Global Right Ventricular ImpairmentECHOCARDIOGRAPHY, Issue 5 2006Angel López-Candales M.D. The presence of right ventricular (RV) dysfunction is an adverse prognostic indicator but current echocardiographic methods have some limitations. RV apical angles in systole and diastole were correlated with known parameters of RV function in patients without pulmonary hypertension (Group 1) and in patients with pulmonary hypertension (Group 2). RV apical angles were significantly smaller in both systole (22 ± 7°) and diastole (33 ± 6°) in Group 1 patients when compared to Group 2 (54 ± 18°, p < 0.0001 and 59 ± 17°, p < 0.0001, respectively). RV apical angles, both in systole and diastole, were strongly correlated with RV end-systolic area (R = 0.89, p < 0.0001) and end-diastolic area (R = 0.81, p < 0.0001), respectively. Similarly, the apical systolic and diastolic angle correlated well with decreased tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE, R =,0.76 and R =,0.73, p < 0.001) as well as with decreased RV fractional area change (R =,0.81 and R =,0.77, p < 0.001). Therefore, we conclude that this new measurement of RV apical angle is simple and useful to quantify RV apical structural and functional abnormalities that are well correlated with global RV impairment in patients with chronic pulmonary hypertension. [source] Evidence for local control of gene expression in the epidermal differentiation complex,EXPERIMENTAL DERMATOLOGY, Issue 5 2002James T. Elder Abstract: The epidermal differentiation complex (EDC), located on chromosomal band 1q21, consists of at least 43 genes that are expressed during keratinocyte differentiation. Indicative of a role for chromatin structure in tissue specificity of EDC gene expression, we identified an inverse correlation between expression and DNA methylation for two EDC genes (S100A2 and S00A6) in human keratinocytes and fibroblasts. 5-azacytidine (5AC) and sodium butyrate (NaB) are two agents known to promote ,open' chromatin structure. To explore the relationship between chromatin structure and keratinocyte differentiation, we treated normal human keratinocytes (NHK) with 5AC or NaB, or with protocols known to promote their terminal differentiation. We then measured the steady-state mRNA levels for several S100 genes, small proline rich region-1, -2, and -3, loricrin, and involucrin by Northern blotting. 5AC and NaB each markedly increased expression of SPRR1/2 and involucrin in NHK. In contrast, expression of S100A2 was reduced by both agents, and by induction of keratinocyte differentiation. Moreover, while the clustered EDC genes displayed a general tendency to be expressed in epithelial cells, they displayed different patterns of cell type-specific expression. These results indicate that local, gene-specific factors play an important role in the regulation of EDC gene expression in the keratinocyte lineage and during keratinocyte terminal differentiation. [source] Foreign Policy Making Under Koizumi: Norms and Japan's Role in the 2003 Iraq WarFOREIGN POLICY ANALYSIS, Issue 4 2009Yukiko Miyagi Japan's policy toward the 2003 Iraq War is a test of the constructivist argument about the weight of norms as opposed to material systemic factors in foreign policy making. Constructions of external threats and interests were contested between a largely realist-minded elite around prime minister Koizumi bent on Japan's remilitarization and those still holding to antimilitarist norms. This contest is traced in an analysis of the policy-making process, including the role of bureaucratic and political institutions, the opposition parties and the public. Indicative of the power of norms, Koizumi was forced to compromise his ambition to use the Iraq crisis to help make Japan a "normal" great power. [source] Prevention of Postmenopausal Bone Loss by a Low-Magnitude, High-Frequency Mechanical Stimuli: A Clinical Trial Assessing Compliance, Efficacy, and Safety,JOURNAL OF BONE AND MINERAL RESEARCH, Issue 3 2004Clinton Rubin Abstract A 1-year prospective, randomized, double-blind, and placebo-controlled trial of 70 postmenopausal women demonstrated that brief periods (<20 minutes) of a low-level (0.2g, 30 Hz) vibration applied during quiet standing can effectively inhibit bone loss in the spine and femur, with efficacy increasing significantly with greater compliance, particularly in those subjects with lower body mass. Introduction: Indicative of the anabolic potential of mechanical stimuli, animal models have demonstrated that short periods (<30 minutes) of low-magnitude vibration (<0.3g), applied at a relatively high frequency (20,90 Hz), will increase the number and width of trabeculae, as well as enhance stiffness and strength of cancellous bone. Here, a 1-year prospective, randomized, double-blind, and placebo-controlled clinical trial in 70 women, 3,8 years past the menopause, examined the ability of such high-frequency, low-magnitude mechanical signals to inhibit bone loss in the human. Materials and Methods: Each day, one-half of the subjects were exposed to short-duration (two 10-minute treatments/day), low-magnitude (2.0 m/s2 peak to peak), 30-Hz vertical accelerations (vibration), whereas the other half stood for the same duration on placebo devices. DXA was used to measure BMD at the spine, hip, and distal radius at baseline, and 3, 6, and 12 months. Fifty-six women completed the 1-year treatment. Results and Conclusions: The detection threshold of the study design failed to show any changes in bone density using an intention-to-treat analysis for either the placebo or treatment group. Regression analysis on the a priori study group demonstrated a significant effect of compliance on efficacy of the intervention, particularly at the lumbar spine (p = 0.004). Posthoc testing was used to assist in identifying various subgroups that may have benefited from this treatment modality. Evaluating those in the highest quartile of compliance (86% compliant), placebo subjects lost 2.13% in the femoral neck over 1 year, whereas treatment was associated with a gain of 0.04%, reflecting a 2.17% relative benefit of treatment (p = 0.06). In the spine, the 1.6% decrease observed over 1 year in the placebo group was reduced to a 0.10% loss in the active group, indicating a 1.5% relative benefit of treatment (p = 0.09). Considering the interdependence of weight, the spine of lighter women (<65 kg), who were in the highest quartile of compliance, exhibited a relative benefit of active treatment of 3.35% greater BMD over 1 year (p = 0.009); for the mean compliance group, a 2.73% relative benefit in BMD was found (p = 0.02). These preliminary results indicate the potential for a noninvasive, mechanically mediated intervention for osteoporosis. This non-pharmacologic approach represents a physiologically based means of inhibiting the decline in BMD that follows menopause, perhaps most effectively in the spine of lighter women who are in the greatest need of intervention. [source] Assessment Criteria Indicative of Deception (ACID): an integrated system of investigative interviewing and detecting deceptionJOURNAL OF INVESTIGATIVE PSYCHOLOGY AND OFFENDER PROFILING, Issue 3 2007Kevin Colwell Abstract This study describes the assimilation and validation of Assessment Criteria Indicative of Deception (ACID). ACID is derived from investigative interviewing, Criteria-Based Content Analysis, Reality Monitoring, and interpersonal deception. Each component has been previously published. Thirty-eight university undergraduates entered a professor's office and either stole an exam or replaced an exam that had been stolen previously. They were interviewed 1 week later with the Reality Interview, which is deliberately challenging and aims to enhance the detection of deception. Half responded honestly and completely; half distorted their responses to avoid incrimination. Incentives were provided. Honest responses were longer, more detailed, and contained more admissions of potential mistakes. Most importantly, honest respondents benefited from attempts to enhance recall, whereas these same attempts caused deceptive respondents to provide shorter, more repetitive statements. This is a promising technique; 33 of 38 cases were classified accurately. Discussion includes characteristics of deception, process of deception during an investigative interview, hypothetical interview strategies to facilitate the detection of deception, strengths and weaknesses of the study, and areas for future research. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] Reed-Sternberg cells in atypical primary EBV infectionACTA PAEDIATRICA, Issue 2 2001M Bitsori The presence of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) in the Hodgkin's/Reed-Sternberg (HRS) cells of a significant proportion of cases of Hodgkin's lymphoma (HL) is a matter of consideration when a case of presumptive HL has to be differentiated from infectious mononucleosis (IM). A 15-y-old boy was admitted with a presumptive diagnosis of extranodal HL, based on the biopsy of a painless ulcer on the right mandibular alveolar crest. Histologic examination of the lesion was consistent with mixed cellularity HL. The patient additionally presented with hepatosplenomegaly and regional lymphadenopathy. Serology for EBV was indicative of acute infection. Histological examination of regional lymphoid tissue was consistent with immunologic activation due to primary EBV infection. The patient was left untreated, under close observation. All clinical findings resolved within 3 mo and EBV viral capsid antigen (VCA) IgM antibodies converted to negative after 6 mo. A 3-y follow-up period was uneventful. [source] Significance of Modeling Error in Structural Parameter EstimationCOMPUTER-AIDED CIVIL AND INFRASTRUCTURE ENGINEERING, Issue 1 2001Masoud Sanayei Structural health monitoring systems rely on algorithms to detect potential changes in structural parameters that may be indicative of damage. Parameter-estimation algorithms seek to identify changes in structural parameters by adjusting parameters of an a priori finite-element model of a structure to reconcile its response with a set of measured test data. Modeling error, represented as uncertainty in the parameters of a finite-element model of the structure, curtail capability of parameter estimation to capture the physical behavior of the structure. The performance of four error functions, two stiffness-based and two flexibility-based, is compared in the presence of modeling error in terms of the propagation rate of the modeling error and the quality of the final parameter estimates. Three different types of parameters are used in the parameter estimation procedure: (1) unknown parameters that are to be estimated, (2) known parameters assumed to be accurate, and (3) uncertain parameters that manifest the modeling error and are assumed known and not to be estimated. The significance of modeling error is investigated with respect to excitation and measurement type and locations, the type of error function, location of the uncertain parameter, and the selection of unknown parameters to be estimated. It is illustrated in two examples that the stiffness-based error functions perform significantly better than the corresponding flexibility-based error functions in the presence of modeling error. Additionally, the topology of the structure, excitation and measurement type and locations, and location of the uncertain parameters with respect to the unknown parameters can have a significant impact on the quality of the parameter estimates. Insight into the significance of modeling error and its potential impact on the resulting parameter estimates is presented through analytical and numerical examples using static and modal data. [source] Impaired cardiac functional reserve in type 2 diabetic db/db mice is associated with metabolic, but not structural, remodellingACTA PHYSIOLOGICA, Issue 1 2010A. Daniels Abstract Aim:, To identify the initial alterations in myocardial tissue associated with the early signs of diabetic cardiac haemodynamic dysfunction, we monitored changes in cardiac function, structural remodelling and gene expression in hearts of type 2 diabetic db/db mice. Methods:, Cardiac dimensions and function were determined echocardiographically at 8, 12, 16 and 18 weeks of age. Left ventricular pressure characteristics were measured at 18 weeks under baseline conditions and upon dobutamine infusion. Results:, The db/db mice were severely diabetic already at 8 weeks after birth, showing elevated fasting blood glucose levels and albuminuria. Nevertheless, echocardiography revealed no significant changes in cardiac function up to 18 weeks of age. At 18 weeks of age, left ventricular pressure characteristics were not significantly different at baseline between diabetic and control mice. However, dobutamine stress test revealed significantly attenuated cardiac inotropic and lusitropic responses in db/db mice. Post-mortem cardiac tissue analyses showed minor structural remodelling and no significant changes in gene expression levels of the sarcoplasmic reticulum calcium ATPase (SERCA2a) or ,1-adrenoceptor (,1-AR). Moreover, the phosphorylation state of known contractile protein targets of protein kinase A (PKA) was not altered, indicating unaffected cardiac ,-adrenergic signalling activity in diabetic animals. By contrast, the substantially increased expression of uncoupling protein-3 (UCP3) and angiopoietin-like-4 (Angptl4), along with decreased phosphorylation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) in the diabetic heart, is indicative of marked changes in cardiac metabolism. Conclusion:, db/db mice show impaired cardiac functional reserve capacity during maximal ,-adrenergic stimulation which is associated with unfavourable changes in cardiac energy metabolism. [source] Mediation, power, and cultural differenceCONFLICT RESOLUTION QUARTERLY, Issue 3 2003Morgan Brigg In Western mediation practice, conflict and violence are typically seen as destructive and unhelpful ways of being, and this does not allow for the constitutive and productive role of conflict in many non-Western traditions. The playing out of these assumptions in mediation practice effects an operation of power that is particularly significant in intercultural mediations. Explicit and implicit mediator techniques lead disputants in intercultural mediations to behave in ways consistent with the goals of mediation and Western norms around conflict and selfhood. The specificity of this analysis means that the findings are indicative and explorative rather than comprehensive. Nevertheless, the results highlight the need to consider ways in which researchers and mediators can begin to mitigate this operation of power and respond to cultural difference in ethical ways. [source] Epigenetic control of skeletal muscle fibre typeACTA PHYSIOLOGICA, Issue 4 2010K. Baar Abstract Adult muscle is extremely plastic. However, the muscle precursor cells associated with those fibres show stable and heritable differences in gene expression indicative of epigenetic imprinting. Epigenetic processes in the development of skeletal muscle have been appreciated for over a decade; however, there are a paucity of studies looking at whether epigenetics determines the phenotype of adult and/or ageing skeletal muscle. This review presents the evidence that epigenetics plays a role in determining adult muscle function and a series of unanswered questions that would greatly increase our understanding of how epigenetics works in adult muscle. With the increased interest in epigenetics, over the next few years this field will begin to unfold in unimaginable directions. [source] Usefulness of Serial Assessment of Natriuretic Peptides in the Emergency Department for Patients With Acute Decompensated Heart FailureCONGESTIVE HEART FAILURE, Issue 4 2008Salvatore DiSomma MD The value of natriuretic peptides, both B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) and N-terminal prohormone brain natriuretic peptide (NTproBNP), for determining diagnosis, severity, and prognosis of emergency department (ED) patients with acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF) has been well documented. Emerging data support the hypothesis that repeated natriuretic peptide determinations in the acute phase of ADHF may assist in confirming the diagnosis, monitoring drug therapy, and evaluating the adequacy of patient stabilization. Data from the authors' group demonstrate that in patients admitted to the ED for acute dyspnea, serial NTproBNP measurement at admission and 4, 12, and 24 hours later was useful in confirming the diagnosis of ADHF compared with patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Moreover, in the same patients receiving intensive intravenous diuretic therapy, there was a progressive reduction of NTproBNP blood levels from hospitalization to discharge (P<.001), accompanied by clinical improvement and stabilization of heart failure. More recently, the authors also demonstrated that in ADHF patients improving with diuretics, a progressive reduction in BNP levels was observed, starting 24 hours after ED admission and continuing until discharge. Comparing BNP and NTproBNP, there was a significant correlation between NTproBNP and BNP levels but not between NTproBNP's and BNP's percent variation compared with baseline. In ADHF, serial ED measurements of BNP are useful for monitoring the effects of treatment. A reduction in BNP from admission to discharge is indicative of clinical improvement. [source] Photopatch testing , a retrospective review using the 1 day and 2 day irradiation protocolsCONTACT DERMATITIS, Issue 2 2006R. J. Batchelor Photopatch testing is indicated in the investigation of patients with eczematous eruptions, affecting mainly light-exposed sites and in those who give a history of worsening of their condition with sun exposure. 3 different protocols are described by the British Photodermatology Group (Br J Dermatol 1997:136:371,376), 1 of which includes irradiation of allergens 1 day after application and 2 using irradiation of allergens 2 days after application. There is no evidence for superiority of any of these protocols. We reviewed the records of all patients who underwent photopatch testing in Leeds over a 50-month period, who had had the allergens applied in triplicate with 1 set irradiated after 1 day occlusion and another after 2 days. The control was occluded for 2 days. Readings were performed at 2 days and 4 days. 15 of 74 patients photopatch tested during this period had 49 positive results between them. 43 of these were felt to be of current relevance to their clinical problem. 34 of the positive results were indicative of photoallergy. Additional photoallergic reactions were detected following 2 days occlusion and irradiation compared with 1 day occlusion (16 versus 5). In conclusion, our case series suggests that 2 days occlusion before irradiation of allergens is more sensitive at detecting photoallergy. [source] Skin-sensitizing and irritant properties of propylene glycolCONTACT DERMATITIS, Issue 5 2005Data analysis of a multicentre surveillance network (IVDK, review of the literature In the several publications reviewed in this article, propylene glycol (PG; 1,2-propylene glycol) is described as a very weak contact sensitizer, if at all. However, particular exposures to PG-containing products might be associated with an elevated risk of sensitization. To identify such exposures, we analysed patch test data of 45 138 patients who have been tested with 20% PG in water between 1992 and 2002. Out of these, 1044 patients (2.3%) tested positively, 1083 showed a doubtful, follicular or erythematous reaction (2.4%) and 271 explicit irritant reactions (0.6%). This profile of patch test reactions is indicative of a slightly irritant preparation, and thus, many of the ,weak positive' reactions must probably be interpreted as false positive. No private or occupational exposures associated with an increased risk of PG sensitization were identified, except for lower leg dermatitis. Therefore, according to our patch test data, PG seems to exhibit very low sensitization potential, and the risk for sensitization to PG on uncompromised skin seems to be very low. [source] Independence Threats, Litigation Risk, and the Auditor's Decision Process,CONTEMPORARY ACCOUNTING RESEARCH, Issue 4 2005Allen D. Blay Abstract This study examines the effect of independence threats and litigation risk on auditors' evaluation of information and subsequent reporting choices. Using a Web-based experiment, I tracked auditors' information gathering and evaluation leading to a going-concern reporting decision. Specifically, 48 audit managers assessed client survival likelihood, gathered additional information, and suggested audit report choices. I found that auditors facing high independence threats (fear of losing the client) evaluated information as more indicative of a surviving client and were more likely to suggest an unmodified audit report, consistent with client preferences. In contrast, auditors facing high litigation risk evaluated information as more indicative of a failing client and were more likely to suggest a modified audit report. In addition, the association between risk and report choice was fully mediated by final information evaluation. This suggests that it is unlikely that different reporting choices resulted from a conscious choice bias, but rather that motivated reasoning during evidence evaluation plays a key role in the effect of risk in auditor decision making. [source] Imaging of the lymphatic system: new horizons,CONTRAST MEDIA & MOLECULAR IMAGING, Issue 6 2006Tristan Barrett Abstract The lymphatic system is a complex network of lymph vessels, lymphatic organs and lymph nodes. Traditionally, imaging of the lymphatic system has been based on conventional imaging methods like computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), whereby enlargement of lymph nodes is considered the primary diagnostic criterion for disease. This is particularly true in oncology, where nodal enlargement can be indicative of nodal metastases or lymphoma. CT and MRI on their own are, however, anatomical imaging methods. Newer imaging methods such as positron emission tomography (PET), dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI (DCE-MRI) and color Doppler ultrasound (CDUS) provide a functional assessment of node status. None of these techniques is capable of detecting flow within the lymphatics and, thus, several intra-lymphatic imaging methods have been developed. Direct lymphangiography is an all-but-extinct method of visualizing the lymphatic drainage from an extremity using oil-based iodine contrast agents. More recently, interstitially injected intra-lymphatic imaging, such as lymphoscintigraphy, has been used for lymphedema assessment and sentinel node detection. Nevertheless, radionuclide-based imaging has the disadvantage of poor resolution. This has lead to the development of novel systemic and interstitial imaging techniques which are minimally invasive and have the potential to provide both structural and functional information; this is a particular advantage for cancer imaging, where anatomical depiction alone often provides insufficient information. At present the respective role each modality plays remains to be determined. Indeed, multi-modal imaging may be more appropriate for certain lymphatic disorders. The field of lymphatic imaging is ever evolving, and technological advances, combined with the development of new contrast agents, continue to improve diagnostic accuracy. Published in 2006 by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] Nucleation kinetics and growth of nonlinear optical bis (dimethyl sulfoxide) manganese mercury thiocyanate single crystalsCRYSTAL RESEARCH AND TECHNOLOGY, Issue 10 2008C. M. Raghavan Abstract Nonlinear optical (NLO) material of bis (dimethyl sulfoxide) manganese mercury thiocyanate (MMTD) was synthesized by two step reaction method. The solubility and metastable zonewidth were experimentally determined in order to optimize the growth parameters. Bulk crystals of MMTD were grown by slow cooling and slow evaporation methods. The structure of the grown crystal was confirmed by X-ray diffraction analysis. Presence of functional groups and the coordination of Lewis base ligand of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) were confirmed by FT-IR analysis. Optical transparency of the grown crystals was studied by UV-Vis spectroscopy. Nonlinear optical property of the grown crystal was confirmed by Kurtz powder method. Etching studies reveal the formation of triangular hillock etch patterns, indicative of 2D nucleation mechanism. (© 2008 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim) [source] Effect of Pb on the properties of Sr2YRu1-xCuxO6 crystals grown from PbO-PbF2 solutions at high temperaturesCRYSTAL RESEARCH AND TECHNOLOGY, Issue 6 2007S. M. Rao Abstract Single crystals of Sr2YRu1-xCuxO6 with x=0 and x=0.1 were grown using PbO-PbF2 based solutions at different temperatures in the range 1150,1350°C. The influence of Pb from the solutions and the Cu from the solid solutions of Sr2YRu1-xCuxO6 on the resulting crystals was studied using microstructure and magnetic property measurements. The peaks in the powder X-ray diffraction patterns and Raman spectra do not change in the case of x=0 crystals but shift in the presence of Cu. A diamagnetic transition indicative of superconductivity was observed in the presence of Cu and an antiferromagnetic behavior with x=0. Based on these results it is concluded that Pb may not be incorporated in the crystals and even if it does the influence is not observed. (© 2007 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim) [source] Growth and properties of ferroelectric potassium ferrocyanide trihydrate single crystalsCRYSTAL RESEARCH AND TECHNOLOGY, Issue 9 2006R. Kanagadurai Abstract Single crystals of potassium ferrocyanide trihydrate, K4[Fe(CN)6·3H2O (KFCT), a ferroelectric material with Curie temperature 251K were grown in silica gel at room temperature for the first time by the solubility reduction method. Resorcinol and ethyl alcohol were used for the purpose of gel setting and supernatant liquid respectively. Optical and mechanical properties were studied for the grown crystal. The structure of the grown crystal was confirmed by X-ray diffraction analysis. Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) and FT Raman spectral analysis of the crystalline samples reveal that the crystalline sample consist consists of all functional groups. Thermal analysis of the crystalline sample was performed by TGA and DTA methods. The Vicker's micro hardness value was measured for KFCT crystals. The square etch pits with a hopper-like structure is an indicative of 2D nucleation mechanism. (© 2006 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim) [source] Exercise is the primary factor associated with Hsp70 induction in muscle of treadmill running ratsACTA PHYSIOLOGICA, Issue 4 2006E. G. Noble Abstract Aim:, The cytoprotective, inducible stress protein, Hsp70, increases in muscles of rodents subjected to strenuous treadmill running. Most treadmill running protocols employ negative reinforcement to encourage animals to exercise. As these stimuli may themselves activate stress responses, the present investigation was conducted to determine their contribution to the exercise-induced expression of Hsp70. Methods:, Twenty-one male Sprague,Dawley rats were randomly divided into three equal groups including an exercise group (EX), which ran on a treadmill at 30 m min,1 for 60 min; a stimulation group (STIM), which was not allowed to run, but was stimulated with compressed air and mild electric shock concurrently with their exercising cohort; and a control group (CON), which was housed in the treadmill room during the exercise period. Animals were killed 24 h post-experiment and hearts (H), soleii (SOL) and white gastrocnemii (WG) were harvested and analysed for Hsp70 content (mean% ± SEM of standard). Results:, Significant increases in Hsp70 (as a % of standard) were noted in H and WG (H = 77.4 ± 8.5; WG = 93.9 ± 18.4) of EX but not in STIM (H = 32.5 ± 4.6; WG = 32.0 ± 3.4) or CON (H = 20.5 ± 3.7; WG = 32.4 ± 7.4). In SOL, Hsp70 expression in EX (126.7 ± 6.2) was different from STIM (98.3 ± 10.9) only. This occurred, despite the fact that all groups were exposed to a stressful environment and exhibited elevated (P < 0.001) temperatures (EX ,41.2 ± 0.1 °C > STIM ,40.5 ± 0.2 °C > CON ,39.0 ± 0.1 °C) indicative of a general stress response. Conclusions:, These data suggest that exercise per se, rather than environmental conditions or noxious stimuli, are responsible for the induction of Hsp70 in rat muscle during treadmill running. [source] Prospective study of urine cytology screening for BK polyoma virus replication in renal transplant recipientsCYTOPATHOLOGY, Issue 6 2008M. Koukoulaki Objective:, BK virus (BKV) may be associated with interstitial nephritis in renal transplant recipients and this can lead to irreversible chronic allograft dysfunction. Early diagnosis of BKV nephropathy determines its progress because no specific antiviral therapy exists. Urine cytology, detection of viral DNA in urine or blood and renal biopsy are the main diagnostic tools. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the use of urine cytology for diagnosis of BKV replication in renal graft recipients. Patients and methods:, We studied 32 de novo renal transplant recipients prospectively with sequential urine samples for a period of 1 year. Thin-Prep methodology was used to prepare the slides. Cytology results were correlated with polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in urine and blood. Results:, Decoy cells indicative of BKV infection were detected in 14 (7.3%) of the 190 urine samples derived from 11 recipients. In three cases with positive decoy cells, BK viraemia and viruria were simultaneously identified. In a further three cases, BKV active replication was confirmed in urine by both cytology and PCR. Conclusions:, Urine cytology is an easy and rapid method of detecting decoy cells in cases where renal biopsy is not possible. However, the low incidence of detection of decoy cells in the present study, together with poor correlation with PCR results, questions its sensitivity and specificity in diagnosing BKV reactivation. [source] Borderline nuclear change; can a subgroup be identified which is suspicious of high-grade cervical intraepithelial neoplasia, i.e. CIN 2 or worse?CYTOPATHOLOGY, Issue 5 2002J. M. Edwards Borderline nuclear change; can a subgroup be identified which is suspicious of high-grade cervical intraepithelial neoplasia, i.e. CIN 2 or worse? Only 10% of first borderline smears are associated with a histological high-grade (HG) abnormality, i.e. CIN 2,3, invasive malignancy or glandular neoplasia on subsequent investigation. The advantages of highlighting this subgroup are obvious but is this possible? From 1996 and 1997, 242 borderline smears with histological follow-up were examined by two independent experienced observers (observer 1 and 2) without prior knowledge of further investigation results. For each smear a profile of nuclear details was produced, also noting the type of cell mainly affected by the process; then the observers were asked to assess the degree of worry of HG disease for each smear i.e. whether the smear fell into group 1 borderline changes indicative of low-grade (normal, inflammatory, CIN1/HPV) disease (BL/LG) or group 2 difficult borderline smear, HG disease (CIN 2,3, invasive neoplasia or glandular neoplasia) cannot be excluded (BL/HG). Observer 1 selected a group of BL/HG with a PPV for HG disease of 38%, with observer 2 having a PPV of 50%; this compared with the overall laboratory HG disease PPV for borderline smears of 14%. Both observers found the most useful criterion to be the increase in nuclear:cytoplasmic ratio. Our results show that it is possible to separate a small group of borderline smears which should be classified as ,borderline/high grade lesion difficult to exclude' (BL/HG). Both observers had some success in arriving at this classification although their method of selecting out this group was quite different. [source] Escalation: The Role of Problem Recognition and Cognitive BiasDECISION SCIENCES, Issue 3 2007Mark Keil ABSTRACT Escalation of commitment to a failing course of action is an enduring problem that remains central to the study of managerial behavior. Prior research suggests that escalation behavior results when decision makers choose to ignore negative feedback concerning the viability of a previously chosen course of action. Previous work has also suggested that certain cognitive biases might promote escalation behavior, but there has been little attempt to explore how biases other than framing affect escalation. In this article, we explore the extent to which decision makers actually perceive negative feedback as indicative of a problem and how this influences their decision to escalate. Although problem recognition and cognitive biases have been intensively studied individually, little is known about their effect on escalation behavior. In this research, we construct and test an escalation decision model that incorporates both problem recognition and two cognitive biases: selective perception and illusion of control. Our results revealed a significant inverse relationship between problem recognition and escalation. Furthermore, selective perception and illusion of control were found to significantly affect both problem recognition and escalation. The implications of these findings for research and practice are discussed. To improve problem recognition and reduce the incidence of escalation, practicing managers should implement modern project management practices that can help to identify and highlight potential problems while guarding against these two key cognitive biases that promote the behavior. [source] RNA expression microarray analysis in mouse prospermatogonia: Identification of candidate epigenetic modifiers,DEVELOPMENTAL DYNAMICS, Issue 4 2008Christophe Lefèvre Abstract The mammalian totipotent and pluripotent lineage exhibits genome-wide dynamics with respect to DNA methylation content. The first phase of global DNA demethylation and de novo remethylation occurs during preimplantation development and gastrulation, respectively, while the second phase occurs in primordial germ cells and primary oocytes/prospermatogonia, respectively. These dynamics are indicative of a comprehensive epigenetic resetting or reprogramming of the genome in preparation for major differentiation events. To gain further insight into the mechanisms driving DNA methylation dynamics and other types of epigenetic modification, we performed an RNA expression microarray analysis of fetal prospermatogonia at the stage when they are undergoing rapid de novo DNA remethylation. We have identified a number of highly or specifically expressed genes that could be important for determining epigenetic change in prospermatogonia. These data provide a useful resource in the discovery of molecular pathways involved in epigenetic reprogramming in the mammalian germ line. Developmental Dynamics 237:1082,1089, 2008. © 2008 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source] The developing embryonic cardiac outflow tract is highly sensitive to oxidant stressDEVELOPMENTAL DYNAMICS, Issue 12 2007Steven A. Fisher Abstract This study tested the hypothesis that the remodeling of the cardiac outflow tract (OFT) may represent a developmental window of vulnerability to reactive oxygen species (ROS). Chick embryos were exposed in ovo or ex ovo to increasing concentrations of the stable oxidant hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). As assessed by trypan blue staining, H2O2 induced cell injury in the stage 25,30 OFT at concentrations as low as 1 nM. Higher concentrations were required to induce cell injury in the ventricular and atrial myocardium. Using DCFDA as an indicator of oxidant stress, H2O2 also induced a greater fluorescent signal in the OFT myocardium. H2O2 at these low concentrations also induced Caspase activity, indicative of activation of the pathway of PCD. Interestingly, the induction of Caspase-3 activity was predominately in the OFT cushion mesenchymal cells. Thus, the developing OFT is particularly sensitive to ROS-mediated injury, suggesting that ROS could play a role in the development of congenital defects of the cardiac OFT. Developmental Dynamics 236:3496,3502, 2007. © 2007 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source] Cell proliferation during blastema formation in the regenerating teleost finDEVELOPMENTAL DYNAMICS, Issue 2 2002Leonor Santos-Ruiz Abstract Epimorphic regeneration in teleost fins occurs through the establishment of a balanced growth state in which a blastema gives rise to all the mesenchymal cells, whereas definite areas of the epidermis proliferate leading to its extension, thus, allowing the enlargement of the whole structure. This type of regeneration involves specific mechanisms that temporally and spatially regulate cell proliferation. To understand how the blastema is formed and how this growth situation is set up, we investigated cell proliferation patterns in the regenerating fin of the goldfish Carassius auratus from the time of amputation to that of blastema formation by using proliferating cell nuclear antigen immunostaining and bromodeoxyuridine labeling. Wound closure and apical epidermal cap formation took place by epidermal migration and re-arrangement, without the contribution of cell proliferation. As soon as the apical cap had formed, the epidermis started to proliferate at its lateral surfaces, in which all layers maintained cycling for the duration of the studied process. The distal epidermal cap, on the contrary, presented very few cycling cells, and its cytoarchitecture was indicative of continuous remodeling due to ray growth. The basal layer of this epidermal cap showed a typical morphology and remained nonproliferative whilst in contact with the proliferating blastema. Proliferation in the mesenchymal compartment of the ray started far from the amputation plane. Subsequently, cycling cells approached that location, until they formed the blastema in contact with the apical epidermal cap. Differences observed between the epidermis and mesenchyma, regarding activation of the cell cycle and the establishment of proliferative patterns, suggest that differential mechanisms regulate cell proliferation in each of these compartments during the initial stages of regeneration. © 2002 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source] Childhood encephalopathy: viruses, immune response, and outcomeDEVELOPMENTAL MEDICINE & CHILD NEUROLOGY, Issue 4 2006Michael Clarke BSc MB ChB FRCPCH This study examined children with an acute encephalopathy illness for evidence of viral infection, disordered blood-brain barrier function, intrathecal immunoglobulin synthesis, and interferon (IFN) production, and related their temporal occurrence to outcome. A prospective study of 22 children (13 males, 9 females; age range 1mo to 13y, median 2y 4mo), recorded clinical details, with serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis near presentation and then on convalescent specimens taken up to day 39 of the neurological illness. Outcome was assessed with standard scales between 18 months and 3 years after presentation. A history consistent with viral infection was given in 17 children but laboratory evidence of viral infection was found in only 7 (7/17). In 18 out of 21 children, an elevated CSF: serum albumin ratio indicative of impairment of the blood,CSF and blood,brain barriers was detected at some stage of the illness. In 14 of the 15 children with a raised immunoglobulin G index, and in 12 of the 14 children where the CSF was positive for oligoclonal bands, this was preceded by, or was observed at the same time as, an abnormal albumin ratio. Sixteen children (16/18) had elevated IFN-, levels in serum, or CSF, or in both. We conclude that these findings indicate an initial disruption of the blood-brain barrier followed by intrathecal antibody production by activated lymphocytes, clonally restricted to a few antigens. This is the first in vivo study to show this as an important pathogenetic mechanism of encephalitis in children. Poor outcome was associated with young age, a deteriorating electroencephalogram pattern from grade 1 to grade 2, and the degree of blood-brain barrier impairment, particularly when prolonged, but not with Glasgow Coma Scale score. The persistence of IFN-, was associated with a good prognosis. [source] Polysialic acid controls NCAM-induced differentiation of neuronal precursors into calretinin-positive olfactory bulb interneuronsDEVELOPMENTAL NEUROBIOLOGY, Issue 9 2008Iris Röckle Abstract Understanding the mechanisms that regulate neurogenesis is a prerequisite for brain repair approaches based on neuronal precursor cells. One important regulator of postnatal neurogenesis is polysialic acid (polySia), a post-translational modification of the neural cell adhesion molecule NCAM. In the present study, we investigated the role of polySia in differentiation of neuronal precursors isolated from the subventricular zone of early postnatal mice. Removal of polySia promoted neurite induction and selectively enhanced maturation into a calretinin-positive phenotype. Expression of calbindin and Pax6, indicative for other lineages of olfactory bulb interneurons, were not affected. A decrease in the number of TUNEL-positive cells indicated that cell survival was slightly improved by removing polySia. Time lapse imaging revealed the absence of chain migration and low cell motility, in the presence and absence of polySia. The changes in survival and differentiation, therefore, could be dissected from the well-known function of polySia as a promoter of precursor migration. The differentiation response was mimicked by exposure of cells to soluble or substrate-bound NCAM and prevented by the C3d-peptide, a synthetic ligand blocking NCAM interactions. Moreover, a higher degree of differentiation was observed in cultures from polysialyltransferase-depleted mice and after NCAM exposure of precursors from NCAM-knockout mice demonstrating that the NCAM function is mediated via heterophilic binding partners. In conclusion, these data reveal that polySia controls instructive NCAM signals, which direct the differentiation of subventricular zone-derived precursors towards the calretinin-positive phenotype of olfactory bulb interneurons. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Develop Neurobiol, 2008 [source] Tenascin-R and axon growth-promoting molecules are up-regulated in the regenerating visual pathway of the lizard (Gallotia galloti)DEVELOPMENTAL NEUROBIOLOGY, Issue 7 2008Dirk M. Lang Abstract It is currently unclear whether retinal ganglion cell (RGC) axon regeneration depends on down-regulation of axon growth-inhibitory proteins, and to what extent outgrowth-promoting substrates contribute to RGC axon regeneration in reptiles. We performed an immunohistochemical study of the regulation of the axon growth-inhibiting extracellular matrix molecules tenascin-R and chondroitin sulphate proteoglycan (CSPG), the axon outgrowth-promoting extracellular matrix proteins fibronectin and laminin, and the axonal tenascin-R receptor protein F3/contactin during RGC axon regeneration in the lizard, Gallotia galloti. Tenascin-R and CSPG were expressed in an extracellular matrix-, oligodendrocyte/myelin- and neuron-associated pattern and up-regulated in the regenerating optic pathway. The expression pattern of tenascin-R was not indicative of a role in channeling or restriction of re-growing RGC axons. Up-regulation of fibronectin, laminin, and F3/contactin occurred in spatiotemporal patterns corresponding to tenascin-R expression. Moreover, we analyzed the influence of substrates containing tenascin-R, fibronectin, and laminin on outgrowth of regenerating lizard RGC axons. In vitro regeneration of RGC axons was not inhibited by tenascin-R, and further improved on mixed substrates containing tenascin-R together with fibronectin or laminin. These results indicate that RGC axon regeneration in Gallotia galloti does not require down-regulation of tenascin-R or CSPG. Presence of tenascin-R is insufficient to prevent RGC axon growth, and concomitant up-regulation of axon growth-promoting molecules like fibronectin and laminin may override the effects of neurite growth inhibitors on RGC axon regeneration. Up-regulation of contactin in RGCs suggests that tenascin-R may have an instructive function during axon regeneration in the lizard optic pathway. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Develop Neurobiol, 2008 [source] Childhood trauma, psychosis and schizophrenia: a literature review with theoretical and clinical implicationsACTA PSYCHIATRICA SCANDINAVICA, Issue 5 2005J. Read Objective:, To review the research addressing the relationship of childhood trauma to psychosis and schizophrenia, and to discuss the theoretical and clinical implications. Method:, Relevant studies and previous review papers were identified via computer literature searches. Results:, Symptoms considered indicative of psychosis and schizophrenia, particularly hallucinations, are at least as strongly related to childhood abuse and neglect as many other mental health problems. Recent large-scale general population studies indicate the relationship is a causal one, with a dose-effect. Conclusion:, Several psychological and biological mechanisms by which childhood trauma increases risk for psychosis merit attention. Integration of these different levels of analysis may stimulate a more genuinely integrated bio-psycho-social model of psychosis than currently prevails. Clinical implications include the need for staff training in asking about abuse and the need to offer appropriate psychosocial treatments to patients who have been abused or neglected as children. Prevention issues are also identified. [source] Doesn't see, doesn't know: is anticipatory looking really related to understanding or belief?DEVELOPMENTAL SCIENCE, Issue 1 2001Wendy A. Garnham Clements and Perner (Cognitive Development, 9 (1994), 377,397) reported that children show understanding of a story character's belief in their anticipatory looking responses before they show this in their answers to test questions. According to Clements and Perner the anticipatory looking responses provide evidence of implicit understanding of belief. This paper examines the possibility that the anticipatory looking measure is indicative of (a) children using a seeing = knowing rule, i.e. children linking not seeing with ignorance rather than a sensitivity to belief, or (b) a tendency to associate the protagonist with the left-hand container. Thirty-two children aged between 2 years 11 months and 4 years were told a false belief story similar to that used in Clements and Perner (1994) except that three containers were used instead of two. The protagonist first looks inside the middle box but then puts the object in the left-hand box. In his absence, a second character moves the object unexpectedly to the right-hand box. If children's anticipatory looking was based on sensitivity to belief then they should have looked clearly to the left-hand box. If it was based on an association bias or sensitivity to the character not knowing then they should have looked equally to the left-hand and middle boxes. The results were consistent with the former prediction suggesting that children's anticipatory looking responses may indeed be governed by an implicit sensitivity to belief. [source] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||