bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Three‐Dimensional Vessel Analyses Provide More Accurate Length Estimations than the Gold Standard QCA
Authors: MEERKIN DAVID , MAROM HADAR , COHEN‐BITON ORNIT , EINAV SHARON
Published: March 2010

Objectives: The aim of this study was to compare lesion dimensions as determined by a three‐dimensional quantitative coronary angiographic (QCA) system to that of a validated two‐dimensional QCA system.

Background: In an era of drug‐eluting stents, device sizing has become an important clinical application of online QCA. The CardiOp‐B system integrates two standard angiographic projections to provide a three‐dimensional reconstruction of the arterial segment of interest.

Methods: Phase 1 — 47 stenoses from consecutive coronary angiograms were assessed in two projections with both systems providing two data sets for the CMS‐Medis system and a single data set for CardiOp‐B. Phase 2 — a perspex phantom with a known lesion length, was analyzed at increasing degrees of foreshortening with acceptance criteria set at 5% from the absolute value.

Results: Phase 1 demonstrated an adequate correlation between the CardiOp‐B and Medis systems when minimal luminal diameter was measured in the optimal view (1.32 ± 0.47 mm vs 1.42 ± 0.49 mm respectively; r = 0.82). A stronger correlation was noted when length was measured (25.27 ± 10.76 mm and 21.32 ± 8.08 mm, respectively; r = 0.95); however CardiOp‐B provided a consistently longer length (P < 0.0001). On phantom length measurements the mean accuracy result for the CardiOp‐B system was −1.3%. This compared favorably with the two‐dimensional system where all measures performed at greater than 20 degrees of forshortening were beyond the 5% criteria from the known length.

Conclusions: Three‐dimensional QCA provides accurate and precise vessel diameter assessments. Length assessments are consistently longer than two‐dimensional measures and are significantly less affected by foreshortened projections. (J Interven Cardiol 2010;23:152‐159)
Contemplating the Role of Precision and Range in Homeland Security Policy Analysis: A Response to Mueller
Authors: Eller Warren S. , Gerber Brian J.
Published: March 2010

In an effort to address some of the gaps in homeland security policy analysis—at present a relatively understudied topic from an analytic perspective—Professor Mueller offers an examination of policy decision making for a subset of low probability–high consequence events; particularly the idea of passive asset defense. This article provides a critical examination of Professor Mueller's work, tendering what we identify as a number of critical limitations with his framework and argues it does not provide an adequate basis for sound analysis in this policy area. We also offer several suggestions where one could build upon a portion of the groundwork his paper lays, especially in moving toward a greater appreciation of what terrorism means for an all‐hazards management system.
Aboriginal Performance on Standardized Tests: Evidence and Analysis from Provincial Schools in British Columbia
Authors: Richards John G. , Vining Aidan R. , Weimer David L.
Published: March 2010

Many indigenous populations are experiencing rural‐to‐urban migration. In making this transition, indigenous peoples are entering industrial societies where most income derives from wages or salaries, and formal educational achievement is crucial in determining economic prospects. This research analyzes the gap in test score results between Aboriginal and non‐Aboriginal students in public schools in the Canadian province of British Columbia. It finds a strong effect of school quality, as measured by non‐Aboriginal achievement, on Aboriginal achievement. It also finds a nonlinear negative relationship between Aboriginal achievement and the number of Aboriginal students in a school over the empirically observed range. It thus suggests a possible trade‐off and dilemma between, on the one hand, policies that enable Aboriginal students to concentrate in a few schools able to provide a culturally sensitive curriculum and, on the other, policies to maximize Aboriginal academic achievement.
Understanding Local Policymaking: Policy Elites' Perceptions of Local Agenda Setting and Alternative Policy Selection
Authors: Liu Xinsheng , Lindquist Eric , Vedlitz Arnold , Vincent Kenneth
Published: March 2010

Despite the increasing interest in policy agenda research in recent years, very few studies have focused their attention on the relevant processes at the local level. Drawing on agenda‐setting research, particularly Kingdon's multiple‐streams framework, this study examines the key forces and factors, as well as their relative importance, in local agenda setting, problem identification, and alternative policy selection. Data are collected from 271 in‐depth interviews with local policy stakeholders in three U.S. Gulf Coast areas. Interview materials are coded using a protocol focused on capturing stakeholders' perceptions of the key elements and forces in local policy dynamics. Our interview data indicate that (i) governmental actors and various interest groups have relatively more influence in shaping local agendas than the general public, experts, and election‐related actors, while the mass media are found to have little agenda‐setting power in local policy processes; (ii) budgetary consideration and various forms of feedback to local government are more important than objective problem indicators and focusing events in setting local policy priorities; (iii) policy alternatives that are deemed compatible with existing policies and regulations are more likely to be selected than those relying on other criteria such as technical feasibility, value acceptability, and future constraints; and (iv) consensus and coalition building is perceived as the most important political factor in local policy processes. Limitations of our study and recommendations for future research are discussed in the concluding section.
Land Recycling, Community Revitalization, and Distributive Politics: An Analysis of EPA Brownfields Program Support
Authors: Dull Matthew , Wernstedt Kris
Published: March 2010

This article examines social, economic, and political factors influencing the distribution of resources to local governments under the EPA Brownfields Program, an innovative federal effort to encourage the remediation and redevelopment of contaminated properties. Signed into law in 2002, the Small Business Liability Relief and Brownfields Revitalization Act provided the program with a congressional mandate, new tools to promote reuse such as liability protections, and increased funding up to a level of $250 million per year. This article contributes to research on environmental regulatory reform with an analysis of successful and unsuccessful local government applicants for EPA Brownfields Program support between 2003 and 2007. Building on prior research, we develop a series of expectations and an empirical model, and estimate the influence of program priorities, government and civic capacity, interest group pressures, and institutional politics. Results point to significant relationships between program priorities and award patterns. Contrary both to EPA's explicit commitments to equity and to analysis of pre‐2003 award patterns, however, we find negative correlations between the proportions of local populations that are nonwhite or low‐income and the likelihood of receiving an award. In addition, better‐resourced governments and several dimensions of political representation show strong associations with the likelihood of winning awards. We conclude by discussing implications.
Local Media and Experts: Sources of Environmental Policy Initiation?
Authors: Crow Deserai Anderson
Published: March 2010

Research on the process of policy change often involves a direct or indirect analysis of the roles of policy entrepreneurs and the mass media. In Colorado, beginning in 1998, twelve communities decided to obtain water rights for recreational in‐channel purposes such as kayaking and whitewater rafting. These water rights stirred political controversy within some communities in Colorado related to spending public money, appropriate uses of water, and the role of recreation in local economies. Using a comparative case study research method, this research analyzes the role that policy entrepreneurs and local media coverage of recreational water rights played in initiating policy change in local communities. The most critical finding from this study is that in communities where citizens acted as policy entrepreneurs there was more controversy, less positive media coverage, and more media coverage early in the process. This case contradicts the assumption that local media coverage helps to highlight policy problems within communities. It supports the idea that experts wield higher levels of influence than citizens in promoting policy agendas.
Improved Photoluminescence of Y3Al5O12:Ce Nanoparticles by Silica Coating
Authors: Nien Yung‐Tang , Chen Kun‐Ming , Chen In‐Gann
Published: March 2010

Nanoscaled Y3Al5O12:Ce (YAG:Ce) particles prepared through a coprecipitation method and heated to elevated temperatures were treated in different weights with tetraethyl orthosilicate at room temperature for surface coating. The IR absorption measurements attested to the presence of silica in YAG:Ce by a broad absorption band at 1000–1400 cm−1, while maintaining a cubic structure and constant lattice parameters as revealed from the X‐ray diffraction analysis. Transmission electron micrographs also presented the encapsulation of YAG:Ce nanoparticles in silica as the IR results. The optical properties of photoluminescence (PL) of these silica‐coated YAG:Ce were found to depend on the quantity of YAG:Ce nanoparticles in the coating solution with an optimal weight ratio of 0.16 (silica/YAG:Ce). The increased PL intensity of these YAG:Ce after silica coating was proposed to result from the quenching inhibition of surface states in YAG:Ce nanoparticles and the increased light extraction from the silica/YAG:Ce interface.
Microstructure and Electrical Properties of (1−x)Bi(Li1/3Zr2/3)O3–xPbTiO3 Piezoelectric Ceramics
Authors: Chen Jun , Wang Xiaowei , Jo Wook , Rödel Jürgen
Published: March 2010

A new type of BiMeO3–PbTiO3 was prepared by using Li1+ as part of the Me site cations. Several (1−x)Bi(Li,Me″)O3–xPbTiO3 compositions were prepared with Me″ cations of a higher valence (Me″=Ti4+, Zr4+, Mn4+, Sn4+, Nb5+, and Ta5+). (1−x)Bi(Li,Me″)O3–xPbTiO3 exhibits a low solubility of Bi(Li,Me″)O3 in PbTiO3. Although there are many possible compositions of (1−x)Bi(Li,Me″)O3–xPbTiO3, no morphotropic phase boundary was found. After the initial screening, (1−x)Bi(Li1/3Zr2/3)O3–xPbTiO3 was identified as the most promising material for actuator applications due to its relatively large solubility limit (x=0.7) and low lattice distortion (c/a=1.036). It was then chosen for systematical study with respect to structure, ferroelectric, and piezoelectric properties. In addition, La was further added to improve the piezoelectric properties of (1−x)Bi(Li1/3Zr2/3)O3–xPbTiO3. The temperature dependence of 0.3Bi(Li1/3Zr2/3)O3−0.7PbTiO3 and 0.3(Bi0.9La0.1)(Li1/3Zr2/3)O3−0.7PbTiO3 was assessed by investigating the dielectric constant

and large‐signal d33. 0.3Bi(Li1/3Zr2/3)O3−0.7PbTiO3 exhibits a dielectric constant

with a low loss (0.025), ferroelectric properties (EC=5.9 kV/mm, Pr=20.8 μC/cm2, and Psat=25.9 μC/cm2), piezoelectric coefficients (small‐signal d33=78 pC/N and large‐signal d33=106 pm/V), and Curie temperature (TC=290°C). La (10 mol%) substitution for Bi acts as a soft role with an enhanced d33 (98 pC/N) and reduced TC (215°C).
Macroporous Alumina Ceramics with Aligned Microporous Walls by Unidirectionally Freezing Foamed Aqueous Ceramic Suspensions
Authors: Yoon He‐Jin , Kim Uoong‐Chul , Kim Ji‐Hwan , Koh Young‐Hag , Choi Won‐Young , Kim Hyoun‐Ee
Published: March 2010

This paper reports a novel way of producing macroporous ceramics with aligned microporous walls by unidirectionally freezing foamed aqueous ceramic suspensions. The stability of the air bubbles introduced by magnetic stirring was improved remarkably using polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) as both a binder and emulsifying agent. Furthermore, the unidirectional freeze casting method could not only trap the air bubbles in the solidified sample successively but also induce the preferential growth of ice dendrites. This endowed the samples with uniform macropores surrounded by aligned microporous alumina walls after freeze drying and sintering. The sample produced with a PVA content of 8 wt% showed a high compressive strength of 4.6 ± 1.6 MPa at a high porosity of 91 vol%.
Fabrication and Electrical Properties of Bulk Textured LiCoO2
Authors: Zhang Hongtao , Baker Peter J. , Grant Patrick S.
Published: March 2010

In order to study the orientation dependence of the electrical properties of layered structure cathode materials used in lithium‐ion thin‐film microbatteries, a typical composition, LiCoO2, has been hot‐press sintered in bulk with a strong crystallographic texture. Microstructural characterization using X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and Raman spectroscopy showed that the degree of LiCoO2 texture depended upon the precise hot‐press conditions used. There was a pronounced orientation of the polycrystalline LiCoO2c‐axis in the pressing direction with a high Lotgering factor (f=0.96) for sintering at 950°C. The pronounced texture led to a remarkable anisotropy in electronic conductivity between directions parallel (σ∥) and perpendicular (σ⊥) to the pressing direction in the temperature range 190–400 K, with σ⊥/σ∥=187 at 300 K. The results suggest that texture can be used to tune not only the well‐known electrochemical performance of all‐solid‐state lithium‐ion thin‐film batteries, but also their electronic conductivity.
Relevance of the Percentage of Active Barriers in the Dielectric Response of CaCu3Ti4O12 Ceramics
Authors: Leret Pilar , De La Rubia Miguel Ángel , Romero Juan José , Fernández José Francisco
Published: March 2010

In this work, ceramic CaCu3Ti4O12 has been prepared by a conventional solid‐state route. The samples present rectifying properties. The study of the I–V curve with the sintering time shows an evolution of the nonlinear coefficient and the increase of barriers suitable to rectify. The dielectric constant increases with the sintering time, following the same trend observed for the number of rectifying barriers. This suggests the existence of a close relation between the barriers that produce electric rectification and the insulating barriers producing the high dielectric constant by the insulating barrier layer capacitor effect.
Ni‐Containing Conducting Ceramic as an Oxidation Protective Coating on Metallic Interconnects by Aerosol Deposition
Authors: Choi Jong‐Jin , Ryu Jungho , Hahn Byung‐Dong , Yoon Woon‐Ha , Lee Byoung‐Kuk , Choi Joon‐Hwan , Park Dong‐Soo
Published: March 2010

Thick (∼5 μm) conducting perovskite LaNiO3 films were deposited on ferritic stainless steel (SS) by aerosol deposition (AD) for use as an oxidation resistance coating layer in the metallic interconnector of a solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC). The microstructural evolution and electrical resistivity of the LaNiO3‐coated SS at the SOFC operating temperature (800°C) were examined. The coated oxide layers were fairly dense without pores or cracks, and good adhesion was maintained, even after oxidation at 800°C for 1000 h. The interface oxides formed between LaNiO3 and SS consisted of Ni and Mn‐containing spinel and a Cr‐rich oxide layer. The initial area specific resistance (ASR) of the LaNiO3‐coated SS was 2.68 mΩ·cm2, which was increased to 7.34 mΩ·cm2 after post heat treatment at 800°C for 1000 h. The ASR of the LaNiO3‐coated SS was ∼30% lower than that of the (La0.8Sr0.2)MnO3‐coated SS post heat treated for the same time. Ni2+ substitution for Mn3+ in the octahedral sites of the spinel structures appears to decrease the resistivity of the interface oxide layer, and increase the long‐term stability of the ASR at high temperatures.
Spatial variation in keystone effects: small mammal diversity associated with black‐tailed prairie dog colonies
Authors: Cully Jack F. , Collinge Sharon K. , VanNimwegen Ron E. , Ray Chris , Johnson Whitney C. , Thiagarajan Bala , Conlin David B. , Holmes Brian E.
Published: March 2010

Species with extensive geographic ranges may interact with different species assemblages at distant locations, with the result that the nature of the interactions may vary spatially. Black‐tailed prairie dogs Cynomys ludovicianus occur from Canada to Mexico in grasslands of the western Great Plains of North America. Black‐tailed prairie dogs alter vegetation and dig extensive burrow systems that alter grassland habitats for plants and other animal species. These alterations of habitat justify the descriptor “ecological engineer,” and the resulting changes in species composition have earned them status as a keystone species. We examined the impact of black‐tailed prairie dogs on small mammal assemblages by trapping at on‐ and off‐colony locations at eight study areas across the species' geographic range. We posed 2 nested hypotheses: 1) prairie dogs function as a keystone species for other rodent species; and 2) the keystone role varies spatially. Assuming that it does, we asked what are the sources of the variation?

Black‐tailed prairie dogs consistently functioned as a keystone species in that there were strong statistically significant differences in community composition on versus off prairie dog colonies across the species range in prairie grassland. Small mammal species composition varied along both latitudinal and longitudinal gradients, and species richness varied from 4 to 11. Assemblages closer together were more similar; such correlations approximately doubled when including only on‐ or off‐colony grids. Black‐tailed prairie dogs had a significant effect on associated rodent assemblages that varied regionally, dependent upon the composition of the local rodent species pool. Over the range of the black‐tailed prairie dog, on‐colony rodent richness and evenness were less variable, and species composition was more consistent than off‐colony assemblages.
Modelling spatial patterns in harbour porpoise satellite telemetry data using maximum entropy
Authors: Edrén Susi M. C. , Wisz Mary S. , Teilmann Jonas , Dietz Rune , Söderkvist Johan
Published: March 2010

The distribution of harbour porpoises in EU waters is poorly understood, and modelled predictions of their distributions could inform the strategic spatial planning of future exploitation of the marine environment to avoid potential conflicts. We analysed satellite telemetry data from 39 harbour porpoises Phocoena phocoena in inner Danish waters using a modelling tool rooted in maximum entropy: Maxent. Maxent does not require absence data and has been shown to be effective for data characterised by small sample size, sampling bias and locational errors. For each season we used an iterative bootstrapping procedure to randomly select among the most precise records from each of the 39 tagged individuals, and ran Maxent on pooled records based on explanatory environmental variables hypothesised to serve as good proxies for harbour porpoise prey abundance. Among our environmental variables, distance to coast and bottom salinity had the most explanatory power, and their response shapes were relatively consistent across most seasons. The predictive power of the models (assessed by ROC‐AUC) ranged from 0.70 to 0.86 within seasons. The southern Kattegat, the Belt Seas, most western part of the Baltic Sea and the Sound were predicted to have relatively high probabilities of occurrence across seasons. In contrast, the central part of Kattegat and the Baltic Sea south and east of Limhamn and Darss Ridge consistently showed low probabilities of occurrence. Areas with the lowest probabilities of occurrence were generally characterised by high predictive uncertainty. Our methods have implications for the analyses of satellite tagged animals in terrestrial and marine environments. By coupling a bootstrapping procedure with Maxent we circumvented some of the statistical challenges presented by satellite telemetry data to generate spatial predictions within the inner Danish waters.
Looking at the unseen: combining animal bio‐logging and stable isotopes to reveal a shift in the ecological niche of a deep diving predator
Authors: Bailleul Frédéric , Authier Matthieu , Ducatez Simon , Roquet Fabien , Charrassin Jean‐Benoît , Cherel Yves , Guinet Christophe
Published: March 2010

Understanding how marine top predators exploit their environment is a central topic in marine ecology. Among all methodologies used to investigate this part of ecology, electronic devices are very useful to track animals' movements and foraging habitats, but they do not provide any dietary information. Stable isotopes provide information on trophic levels but remain imprecise to identify small spatial‐scale habitats. In this study, we combined the two approaches to obtain a synoptic view of the foraging behaviour variability of southern elephant seals Mirounga leonina. Our results suggested marked differences in distribution, diving behaviour, foraging habitats, trophic levels, and dietary habits of elephant seals according to their sex and age. Thus, we characterized main foraging habitats over the Kerguelen‐Heard Plateau and the Antarctic shelf for juvenile males, while females foraged mainly in oceanic waters of the Polar Frontal Zone and the Antarctic Zone. In addition, we highlighted the ontogeny of niche partitioning in this sexually dimorphic species. While females did not exhibit a major dietary shift in relation to their age and their breeding status, a different picture emerged for males. Young males had a trophic level identical to that of all females. However, at 3–4 yr of age, males showed a progressive increase in trophic level. The inter‐annual combination of bio‐logging and stable isotopes could provide a powerful tool to investigate possible shifts in ecological niche between years according to environmental changes.
A Five‐Country Comparative Review of Accommodation Support Policies for Older People With Intellectual Disability
Authors: Bigby Christine
Published: March 2010

International covenants and domestic social policies in most developed countries regard people with intellectual disability as citizens with equal rights, suggesting they should have the similar aspirations of a healthy and active old age as the general community, and an expectation of the necessary supports to achieve this. This article compares the development and implementation of accommodation support policies for people aging with intellectual disabilities in five liberal welfare states. It describes the limited development of policies in this area and suggests possible reasons why this is the case. A review of the peer reviewed and grey or unpublished advocacy and policy literature on aging policies for people with intellectual disability was conducted which covered Australia, Canada, Ireland, the UK, and the U.S. Despite consistent identification of similar broad policy issues and overarching goals, little progress has been made in the development of more specific policies or implementation strategies to address issues associated with accommodation support as people age. Policy debates have conceptualized the problem as aging in place and the shared responsibility of the aged‐care and disability sectors. This may have detracted from either sector leading the development of, or taking responsibility for, formulating, implementing, and resourcing a strong policy framework.
Siblings of Adults With Developmental Disabilities: Psychosocial Outcomes, Relationships, and Future Planning
Authors: Heller Tamar , Arnold Catherine Keiling
Published: March 2010

As siblings play an increasing role in the lives of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities as a result of the longer lifespan of this population and the aging of their parents, more investigative work in this area is warranted. To lay a foundation for this, the authors reviewed the English‐language literature on siblings of adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, focusing on three main questions: (1) what are the psychosocial outcomes of having a sibling with an intellectual and developmental disabilities on the sibling without a disability?; (2) what factors relate to the nature of the sibling relationship?; and (3) what factors relate to future planning, including expected and future relationships when parents can no longer provide care? This literature review looked at published work for the period 1970–2008 on adult siblings over 21 years of age that addressed relationships, psychosocial outcomes, and/or involvement in future planning. Twenty‐three relevant studies were identified. Overall, these studies present a mixed, but generally positive picture of the psychosocial outcomes of having a sibling with a disability. They also indicate that siblings tend to have long‐lasting close relationships with their siblings with a disability and anticipate taking on greater supportive roles as both grow older.
Reliance on Carer Reports of Early Symptoms of Dementia Among Adults With Intellectual Disabilities
Authors: Jamieson‐Craig Rebekah , Scior Katrina , Chan Trevor , Fenton Cormac , Strydom Andre
Published: March 2010

As clinicians often rely on carer reports to identify adults with intellectual disabilities (ID) with early signs of dementia, this study focused on carer‐reported symptoms to ascertain whether carer reports of decline in everyday function would be a more effective screening method to detect possible cases of dementia than reports of memory decline in older adults with ID. Subjects were 154 participants who were reassessed along with their carers two to three years after baseline. A questionnaire for carer‐reported change in everyday function and the Dementia Questionnaire for Persons with Mental Retardation (DMR) were used to assess carer views of everyday function and memory. The diagnosis of dementia was confirmed by two psychiatrists working independently. Participants who developed dementia displayed both everyday function and memory decline. Overall, decline in everyday function appeared to be the best indicator of new dementia cases. Retrospective carer report of change in everyday function was as good as, if not better than, prospective ratings to identify dementia; however, in those with mild ID, memory change was a better indicator of dementia, while in those with more severe ID, decline in everyday function was a better indicator. Decline in everyday function (whether prospective change from baseline or reported retrospectively by carers) appears to be a better screening method for dementia than memory decline, particularly for participants with moderate/severe ID.
Aging in Down Syndrome: Morbidity and Mortality
Authors: Torr Jennifer , Strydom Andre , Patti Paul , Jokinen Nancy
Published: March 2010

The life expectancy of adults with Down syndrome has increased dramatically over the last 30 years, leading to increasing numbers of adults with Down syndrome now living into middle and old age. Early‐onset dementia of the Alzheimer type is highly prevalent in adults with Down syndrome in the sixth decade, and this has overshadowed other important conditions related to aging among adults with Down syndrome. The authors' aim was to update and summarize current knowledge on these conditions, and examine causes of morbidity and mortality in older people with Down syndrome by conducting a systematic review of the published literature for the period: 1993–2008. They reviewed English‐language literature drawn from searches in the electronic databases Medline, CINAHL, and PsycINFO, as well as supplementary historical papers. The authors conclude that functional decline in older adults with Down syndrome cannot be assumed to be due only to dementia of the Alzheimer type (which is not inevitable in all adults with Down syndrome). Functional decline may be the result from a range of disorders, especially sensory and musculoskeletal impairments. Given the high rates of early‐onset age‐related disorders among adults with Down syndrome, programmatic screening, monitoring, and preventive interventions are required to limit secondary disabilities and premature mortality. With respect to assessment and treatment, in the absence of specialist disability physicians, geriatricians have a role to play.
Helicobacter pylori acidic stress response factor HP1286 is a YceI homolog with new binding specificity
Authors: Sisinni Lorenza , Cendron Laura , Favaro Gabriella , Zanotti Giuseppe
Published: March 2010

HP1286 from Helicobacter pylori is among the proteins that play a relevant role in bacterial colonization and persistence in the stomach. Indeed, it was demonstrated to be overexpressed under acidic stress conditions, together with other essential virulence factors. Here we describe its crystal structure, determined at 2.1 Å resolution. The molecular model, a dimer characterized by two‐fold symmetry, shows that HP1286 structurally belongs to the YceI‐like protein family, which in turn is characterized by the lipocalin fold. The latter characterizes proteins possessing an internal cavity with the function of binding and/or transport of amphiphilic molecules. Surprisingly, a molecule of erucamide was found bound in the internal cavity of each monomer of recombinant HP1286, cloned and expressed in an Escherichia coli heterologous system. The shape and length of the cavity indicate that, at variance with other members of the family, HP‐YceI has a binding specificity for amphiphilic compounds with a linear chain of about 22 carbon atoms. These features, along with the fact that the protein is secreted by the bacterium and is involved in adaptation to an acidic environment, suggest that its function could be that of sequestering specific fatty acids or amides from the environment, either to supply the bacterium with the fatty acids necessary for its metabolism, or to protect and detoxify it from the detergent‐like antimicrobial activity of fatty acids that are eventually present in the external milieu.

Structured digital abstract

 MINT‐7557675: HP 1286 (uniprotkb:O25873) and HP 1286 (uniprotkb:O25873) bind (MI:0407) by x‐ray crystallography (MI:0114)
Mitochondrial chaperone tumour necrosis factor receptor‐associated protein 1 protects cardiomyocytes from hypoxic injury by regulating mitochondrial permeability transition pore opening
Authors: Xiang Fei , Huang Yue‐Sheng , Shi Xiao‐Hua , Zhang Qiong
Published: March 2010

Tumour necrosis factor receptor‐associated protein 1 (TRAP1) is a mitochondrial chaperone that plays a role in maintaining mitochondrial function and regulating cell apoptosis. The opening of the mitochondrial permeability transition pore (MPTP) is a key step in cell death after hypoxia. However, it is still unclear whether TRAP1 protects cardiomyocytes from hypoxic damage by regulating the opening of the pore. In the present study, primary cultured cardiomyocytes from neonatal rats were used to investigate changes in TRAP1 expression after hypoxia treatment as well as the mechanism and effect of TRAP1 on hypoxic damage. The results obtained showed that TRAP1 expression increased after 1 h of hypoxia and continued to increase for up to 12 h of treatment. Hypoxia caused an increase in cell death and decreased cell viability and mitochondrial membrane potential; overexpressing TRAP1 prevented hypoxia‐induced damage to cardiomyocytes. The silencing of TRAP1 induced an increase in cell death and decreased both cell viability and mitochondrial membrane potential in cardiomyocytes under normoxic and hypoxic conditions. Furthermore, cell damage induced by the silencing of TRAP1 was prevented by the mitochondrial permeability transition pore inhibitor, cyclosporin A. These data demonstrate that hypoxia induces an increase in TRAP1 expression in cardiomyocytes, and that TRAP1 plays a protective role by regulating the opening of the mitochondrial permeability transition pore.
Combined Hysterectomy/Salpingo–Oophorectomy and Mastectomy is a Safe and Valuable Procedure for Female-to-Male Transsexuals
Authors: Ott Johannes , van Trotsenburg Michael , Kaufmann Ulrike , Schrögendorfer Klaus , Haslik Werner , Huber Johannes C. , Wenzl René
Published: March 2010

Introduction

Sex reassignment surgery is an important step for transsexuals, since it is known to help the patients to live more easily in their gender role and to significantly increase quality of life.

Aims

To critically evaluate our experience with the combined procedure of hysterectomy, bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy, and bilateral mastectomy for female-to-male (FtM) transsexual patients.

Methods

Thirty-two FtM transsexuals who underwent hysterectomy, bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy, and bilateral mastectomy in one single operative setting.

Main Outcome Measures

Operating time and complications, both intra-and postoperatively.

Results

Patients were 30.0 ± 5.8 years of age, with a body mass index of 24.8 ± 3.5 kg/m†. The majority of patients underwent hysterectomy and bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy by laparoscopy (31/32, 96.9%). The median operating time was 222.5 minutes (inter-quartile range [IQR] 190–270 minutes). The median postoperative stay was eight days (IQR, 7–9 days). Postoperative adverse events were found in five patients (15.6%), including breast hematomas as the most frequent complication (4/32, 12.5%). In one patient (1/32; 3.1%), conversion from laparoscopy to laparotomy was necessary, which was considered an adverse event. None of our patients required reoperation or readmission to the hospital.

Conclusion

Combined hysterectomy/salpingo-oophorectomy, and bilateral mastectomy in a single operating session seems a safe, feasible, and valuable procedure for FtM transsexuals.
ORIGINAL RESEARCH—OUTCOMES ASSESSMENT: Development and Validation of the Female Genital Self-Image Scale
Authors: Herbenick Debra , Reece Michael
Published: March 2010

Introduction

Women’s sexual function may be influenced by various factors including medical conditions, trauma or abuse, medications, relationship dynamics, relaxation, mood, and body image. However, few studies have explored the influence of a woman’s genital self-image on her sexual function or behaviors.

Aims

The purpose of this study was to establish a reliable and valid measure of female genital self-image, the Female Genital Self-Image Scale (FGSIS), and to assess the relationship between scores on the FGSIS and women’s sexual function.

Methods

The FGSIS was developed in two stages. Phase One involved an analysis of cross-sectional paper-based survey data and a review of the literature. Phase Two involved a cross-sectional internet-based administration of the scale items to a total of 1,937 women.

Main Outcome Measures

Psychometric properties of the scale were evaluated through the use of reliability analysis, factor analysis, and score differences based on women’s experience of orgasm from receiving cunnilingus or from self-masturbation with a vibrator. Correlation analysis was used to explore the relationship between female genital self-image and scores on the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI).

Results

The scale was found to have sufficient reliability (Cronbach’s alpha=0.88) and one factor that explained 59.23% of the variance. Women who had ever experienced orgasm as a result of cunnilingus or self-masturbation with a vibrator and women who reported having had a gynecological exam in the previous 12 months had significantly higher FGSIS scores than those who had not (P <0.001). Scores on the FGSIS were positively and significantly correlated with scores on all FSFI domains (P <0.001), including the Total score, with the exception of the Desire domain.

Conclusion

The FGSIS was initially found to be a reliable and valid measure though further research is needed to understand its properties in diverse populations. In addition, female genital self-image was found to be positively related to women’s sexual function.
Erectile Function Restoration After Repair of Excised Cavernous Nerves by Autologous Vein Graft in Rats
Authors: Hu Wanli , Cheng Bei , Liu Tongzu , Li Shiwen , Tian Yihao
Published: March 2010

Introduction

Cavernous nerves (CNs) injury is the main cause of erectile dysfunction (ED) following radical prostatectomy. Its restoration remains challenging.

Aim

To investigate the feasibility of erectile function recovery by autologous vein graft after bilateral CNs being excised in a rat model.

Methods

A total of 36 adult male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomized into three groups. A 5 mm segment of CN was excised bilaterally in group B and C. In group B, a 7-mm segment of autologous saphenous vein was interposed at the defect site bilaterally, with two nerve stumps inserted into the vein lumen. Group C underwent no repair. Group A was accepted a sham operation. 4 months later, apomorphine tests were performed on each rat, followed by injection of 4% fluorogold into bilateral corpus cavernous. 5 days later, after monitoring intracorporal pressure (ICP) changes induced by electrostimulation of CN, rats were sacrificed and their bilateral major pelvic ganglions were obtained for detection of fluorogold, and penile tissues of middle shaft were obtained for detecting nitric oxide synthase-containing nerve fibers in penile dorsal nerves.

Main Outcome Measures

Erectile function was assessed by apomorphine test and ICP monitoring. CN regeneration was judged by fluoroglod tracing and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH)-diaphorase staining.

Results

Apomorphine tests resulted in 58% rats with erectile responses in group B, whereas no erection was observed in group C. ICP monitoring also demonstrated a significant recovery in erectile function in group B compared with group C. Much more and brighter fluorogold coloring cells were examined in major pelvic ganglions of group B than those of group C. NADPH-diaphorase staining also showed much more positive fibers were detected in penile dorsal nerves in group B than in group C.

Conclusion

Autologous vein graft could provide a guide channel to induce CN regeneration and successfully restore autonomic erectile function after CNs being excised in rats.
The POTENT I Randomized Trial: Efficacy and Safety of an Orodispersible Vardenafil Formulation for the Treatment of Erectile Dysfunction
Authors: Sperling Herbert , Debruyne Frans , Boermans Antonius , Beneke Manfred , Ulbrich Ernst , Ewald Silke
Published: March 2010

Introduction

Orodispersible tablet (ODT) formulations offer improved convenience over film-coated formulations and are preferred by many patients.

Aim

To investigate the efficacy and safety of an ODT formulation of 10 mg vardenafil administered on demand vs. placebo in a general population of men with erectile dysfunction (ED).

Methods

This was a 16-week, double-blind, multicenter, randomized, parallel-group, placebo-controlled study conducted at 40 centers across Europe and South Africa. Eligible participants were men aged ≥18 years with ED for at least 6 months, in a stable heterosexual relationship for at least 6 months, highly motivated to obtain ED treatment, and making at least four attempts at sexual intercourse on four separate days, of which at least half were unsuccessful. Subjects were randomized to receive 12 weeks of treatment with either 10 mg vardenafil ODT on demand or placebo, and each treatment group was stratified such that approximately half of the subjects were aged ≥65 years.

Main Outcome Measures

Primary measures were the erectile function domain of the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-EF) and the Sexual Encounter Profile questions 2 and 3 (SEP2, SEP3). Secondary measures included SEP diary questions 1, 4, 5, and 6; the Treatment Satisfaction Scale; and the Global Assessment Question.

Results

Of the 409 men enrolled (54.8% aged ≥65 years), 355 were included in the intent-to-treat population (vardenafil ODT, N=183; placebo, N=172). Vardenafil ODT therapy was statistically significantly superior to placebo for all primary (IIEF-EF, SEP2, SEP3) and secondary efficacy measures (all P <0.0001). The incidence and type of treatment-related adverse events with vardenafil 10 mg ODT were comparable with those of the film-coated tablet formulation.

Conclusions

Treatment with 10 mg vardenafil ODT, taken on demand, significantly improved erectile function and was well tolerated in a broad population of men with ED.
Distance to the SNR CTB109/AXP 1E 2259+586 by Hiabsorption and self-absorption
Authors: Tian W. W. , Leahy D. A. , Li D.
Published: March 2010

We suggest a revised distance to the supernova remnant G109.1−1.0 (CTB109) and its associated anomalous X-ray pulsar (AXP)1E2259+586 by analysing 21-cm Hi-line and 12CO-line spectra of CTB109, Hii region Sh152 and the adjacent molecular cloud complex. CTB109 has been established to be interacting with a large molecular cloud (recession velocity at v=−55kms−1). The highest radial velocities of absorption features towards CTB109 (−56kms−1) and Sh152 (−65kms−1) are larger than the recombination line velocity (−50kms−1) of Sh152 demonstrating the velocity reversal within the Perseus Arm. The molecular cloud has cold Hi column density large enough to produce Hi self-absorption (HISA) and Hi narrow self-absorption (HINSA) if it was at the near side of the velocity reversal. Absence of both HISA and HINSA indicates that the cloud is at the far side of the velocity reversal within the Perseus Arm, so we obtain a distance for CTB109 of 4 ± 0.8kpc. The new distance still leads to a normal explosion energy for CTB 109/AXP 1E 2259+586.
An upper limit to the central density of dark matter haloes from consistency with the presence of massive central black holes
Authors: Hernandez X. , Lee William H.
Published: March 2010

We study the growth rates of massive black holes in the centres of galaxies from accretion of dark matter from their surrounding haloes. By considering only the accretion due to dark matter particles on orbits unbound to the central black hole, we obtain a firm lower limit to the resulting accretion rate. We find that a runaway accretion regime occurs on a time-scale which depends on the three characteristic parameters of the problem: the initial mass of the black hole, the volume density and velocity dispersion of the dark matter particles in its vicinity. An analytical treatment of the accretion rate yields results implying that, for the largest black hole masses inferred from quasi-stellar object (QSO) studies (>109M⊙), the runaway regime would be reached on time-scales which are shorter than the lifetimes of the haloes in question for central dark matter densities in excess of 250M⊙pc−3. Since reaching runaway accretion would strongly distort the host dark matter halo, the inferences of QSO black holes in this mass range lead to an upper limit on the central dark matter densities of their host haloes of ρ0 < 250M ⊙pc−3. This limit scales inversely with the assumed central black hole mass. However, thinking of dark matter profiles as universal across galactic populations, as cosmological studies imply, we obtain a firm upper limit for the central density of dark matter in such structures.
ESSENTIAL OILS AS CONTROL AGENTS OF POSTAHARVEST ALTERNARIA AND PENICILLIUM ROTS ON TOMATO FRUITS
Authors: ABDOLAHI ALI , HASSANI ABBAS , GHOSTA YOUBERT , JAVADI TAIMOOR , MESHKATALSADAT MOHAMMAD HADI
Published: March 2010

The antifungal activity of the essential oils of ajowan, fennel and caraway was evaluated in vitro and in vivo conditions against growth of Alternaria alternata (Fr.: Fr.) Keissler. and Penicillium digitatum Sacc., two postharvest pathogens of tomato fruits. In vitro tests showed that ajowan and fennel oils exhibited the highest antifungal activity against A. alternata and P. digitatum, respectively. But caraway exhibited poor antifungal activity against two fungal species tested. Ajowan oil possessed the highest antifungal activity among tested oils in in vivo condition. Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry analysis of essential oils revealed that thymol (63%), trans‐anethole (64%) and 2‐caren‐10‐al (34%) were the main components of essential oils of ajowan, fennel and caraway, respectively. Therefore, essential oils may be used as an alternative for the synthetic chemicals for control of postharvest phytopathogenic fungi and for increasing the shelf life of plant products.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Because the plant essential oils have low mammalian toxicity, are biodegradable, multifunctional, nonpersistent in the environment and are cheap to produce, the possibility of developing essential oils for use in crop protection may be an attractive venture. This study demonstrates the potential of essential oils as antifungal preservatives for tomato fruits that are susceptible to postharvest decay caused by fungi. Examination of various concentrations of essential oils from ajowan (Carum copticum L.), fennel (Foeniculum vulgare Mill.) and caraway (Carum carvi L.) on Penicillium digitatum and Alternaria alternata in this study showed promising prospects for the utilization of essential oils. In vivo experiments showed that essential oils used could reduce postharvest diseases on tomato fruits caused by P. digitatum and A. alternata. So, essential oils can be used as a potential source of sustainable eco‐friendly botanical fungicides, after successful completion of wide‐range trials.
EFFECT OF ORGANIC ACIDS ON GROWTH OF CHILLED CHICKEN SKIN MICROFLORA
Authors: DOLEŽALOVÁ M. , MOLATOVÁ Z. , BUŇKA F. , BŘEZINA P. , MAROUNEK M.
Published: March 2010

High attention is paid to the decontamination systems in an effort to prolong the shelf life of food products. The major factor determining shelf life is the rate of spoilage microorganism growth. This study was designed to evaluate the influence of organic substances (citric acid [CA], lactic acid [LA] and potassium sorbate [PS]) on chilled chicken skin microflora. Application of organic substances inhibited microbial growth and prolonged the shelf life of carcasses. Microbial reduction after application of organic acids was significant in case of 10% w/v CA and 2% v/v LA, and the most effective was combination of 2% v/v LA with 0.2% w/v PS. Sensory analysis found that application of 10% CA was not acceptable. However, chickens treated with the mixture showed better organoleptic properties than control. The use of food preservatives in combination may contribute to significant reductions of spoilage and pathogen microbes on poultry.

PRACTICAL APPLICATION

Lactic acid (LA), which is a naturally occurring compound in muscles, and potassium sorbate (PS), which is a well‐known antifungal agent, are food additives generally recognized as safe for their intended use (when used in accordance with good manufacturing practice [Generally Recognized As Safe]). Application of LA in combination with PS significantly reduced amounts of bacteria and yeasts (both pathogenic or spoilage), and moreover, treatment does not influence the sensory quality of poultry. Therefore, this mixture is suitable for decontamination of chilled chicken, increases food safety and prolongs the shelf life of poultry products.