bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Educational Intervention to Support Caregivers of Elders With Dementia
Authors: Devor Michelle , Renvall Marian
Published: March 2008

The majority of home-dwelling elders with dementia are cared for by family members or friends. Interventions to support community-based caregivers are needed. A community-based seminar series was provided to 300 self-referred family caregivers with dementia. Participants were surveyed for caregiver burden and overload and perceived competence before and 6 months after the seminars. In all, 88 (29%) of participants completed a 6-month survey. Self-perceived caregiver competence improved (3.9 ± 1.6 to 5.0 ± 0.32, P < .006); a trend toward improvement in caregiver overload, and there was no change in caregiver burden. Caregivers with baseline parameters indicative of higher burden, overload, or lower competence showed improved scores at 6 months. The educational program was effective in improving competence and may have slowed the expected increase in burden associated with caring for those with a progressive dementia. Caregivers with higher burden may be targeted for this type of intervention, as they seemed to benefit the most.
Effects of Euglycemic Hyperinsulinemia and Lipid Infusion on Circulating Cholecystokinin
Authors: Weickert M. O. , Möhlig M. , Spranger J. , Schöfl C. , Loeffelholz C. V. , Riepl R. L. , Otto B. , Pfeiffer A. F. H.
Published: March 2008

Aims: Functions of the gut hormone cholecystokinin (CCK) include an important role in the regulation of gastric emptying, postprandial glucose homeostasis, and postmeal satiety. Postprandial CCK responses are significantly blunted in type 2 diabetic patients by unknown mechanisms. We hypothesized that hyperinsulinemia and lipid infusion influence circulating levels of biologically active CCK.

Methods: Eleven healthy subjects were studied in a cross-over design after 10-h overnight fasts, using euglycemic-hyperinsulinemic clamps for 443 min, with an additional infusion of lipid-heparin (1.25 ml·min−1) or saline (1.25 ml·min−1) for the last 300 min after constant plasma glucose levels were achieved.

Results: Euglycemic-hyperinsulinemia resulted in a sustained, up to 5-fold increase of plasma CCK (P < 0.001). When adding lipid infusion instead of saline, CCK concentrations rapidly declined and returned to baseline levels (CCK300 min 1.1 ± 0.2 vs. 3.3 ± 0.3 pmol/liter, P < 0.001). Partial intraclass correlation showed an independent correlation of plasma CCK with free fatty acids (ric = −0.377, P < 0.001) but not with serum insulin (ric = 0.077, P = 0.32). Whole-body insulin sensitivity decreased in lipid-exposed subjects (M value 7.1 ± 0.7 vs. 5.6 ± 0.9 mg·kg·min−1, P = 0.017) but was not independently correlated with CCK (ric = 0.040, P = 0.61).

Conclusions: We report novel findings showing that circulating CCK markedly increased in the euglycemic-hyperinsulinemic state, possibly as a result of near-complete suppression of circulating free fatty acids. Moreover, raising blood lipids even moderately by lipid infusion rapidly and significantly interfered with this effect, suggesting that a negative feedback mechanism of blood lipids on circulating CCK might exist.
The −250G>A Promoter Variant in Hepatic Lipase Associates with Elevated Fasting Serum High-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol Modulated by Interaction with Physical Activity in a Study of 16,156 Danish Subjects
Authors: Grarup Niels , Andreasen Camilla H. , Andersen Mette K. , Albrechtsen Anders , Sandbæk Annelli , Lauritzen Torsten , Borch-Johnsen Knut , Jørgensen Torben , Schmitz Ole , Hansen Torben , Pedersen Oluf
Published: March 2008

Context: Hepatic lipase plays a pivotal role in the metabolism of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and low-density lipoprotein by involvement in reverse cholesterol transport and the formation of atherogenic small dense low-density lipoprotein.

Objectives: The objective was to investigate the impact of variants in LIPC on metabolic traits and type 2 diabetes in a large sample of Danes. Because behavioral factors influence hepatic lipase activity, we furthermore examined possible gene-environment interactions in the population-based Inter99 study.

Design: The LIPC −250G>A (rs2070895) variant was genotyped in the Inter99 study (n = 6070), the Anglo-Danish-Dutch Study of Intensive Treatment in People with Screen Detected Diabetes in Primary Care Denmark screening cohort of individuals with risk factors for undiagnosed type 2 diabetes (n = 8662), and in additional type 2 diabetic patients (n = 1,064) and glucose-tolerant control subjects (n = 360).

Results: In the Inter99 study, the A allele of rs2070895 associated with a 0.057 mmol/liter [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.039–0.075] increase in fasting serum HDL-cholesterol (HDL-c) (P = 8 × 10−10) supported by association in the Anglo-Danish-Dutch Study of Intensive Treatment in People with Screen Detected Diabetes in Primary Care study [0.038 mmol/liter per allele (95% CI 0.024–0.053); P = 2 × 10−7). The allelic effect on HDL-c was modulated by interaction with self-reported physical activity (Pinteraction = 0.002) because vigorous physically active homozygous A-allele carriers had a 0.30 mmol/liter (95% CI 0.22–0.37) increase in HDL-c compared with homozygous G-allele carriers.

Conclusions: We validate the association of LIPC promoter variation with fasting serum HDL-c and present data supporting an interaction with physical activity implying an increased effect on HDL-c in vigorous physically active subjects carrying the −250 A allele. This interaction may have potential implications for public health and disease prevention.
Free vibrations of circular plates with axisymmetric thickness variation
Authors: Nerantzaki M S
Published: March 2008

The integral equation method is developed for vibration analysis of solid circular plates with arbitrary thickness variation along the radius. General boundary conditions are considered. The problem is formulated in terms of displacements. The resulting fourth-order linear hyperbolic equation with variable coefficients is solved using the analogue equation method of Katsikadelis. According to this method the linear governing differential equation is replaced by a linear equation of a substitute beam with unit bending stiffness, under a fictitious load distribution. Numerical examples are presented for plates with various thickness variation laws, which illustrate the method and demonstrate its efficiency and accuracy.
Linear matrix inequality-based criteria for exponential robust stability of Cohen–Grossberg-type bidirectional associative memory neural networks with delays
Authors: Wang Y , Cao J , Huang G
Published: March 2008

The issue of global exponential robust stability is discussed for Cohen–Grossberg-type (CG-type) bidirectional associative memory (BAM) neural networks with delays. The activation functions that are adopted contain sigmoid functions and Lipschitz functions. For CG-type BAM neural networks with parameter uncertainties, which are assumed to be time invariant and bounded, by employing a Lyapunov–Krasovskii functional and linear matrix inequality (LMI) approach, the conditions ensuring global exponential robust stability are derived, which are expressed in terms of LMIs, and can be checked easily using the MATLAB LMI toolbox. In addition, when parameter uncertainties vanish, global exponential stability as a byproduct of global exponential robust stability, can also be guaranteed. Finally, two examples are provided to illustrate the effectiveness of the obtained results.
Investigation on phenyl-borated hydroxyalkyldithiocarbamate as multi-functional lubricating additive with high hydrolytic stability and anti-oxidation
Authors: Wang Y , Li J , He Z , Ren T
Published: March 2008

A new method of improving the hydrolytic stability of borate esters is proposed based on ‘stable benzylic cation’ theory. In accordance with this strategy, phenyl-borated hydroxyalkyldithiocarbamate as a multi-functional additive is designed and synthesized. Its tribological properties are evaluated using four-ball friction and wear tester. Results show the additive possesses outstanding load-carrying and friction-reducing properties, compared with MoDTC, and can improve anti-wear properties of rapeseed oil (RSO) dramatically. Moreover, it is surprisingly found that PBDTC has prominent effect in controlling the oxidation of RSO. The worn surface of the steel ball is investigated by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and the anti-wear mechanism of the additive is preliminarily discussed.
Domination Between Traffic Matrices
Authors: Oriolo Gianpaolo
Published: March 2008

A traffic matrix D1 dominates a traffic matrix D2 if any capacity reservation supporting D1 supports D2 as well. We prove that D1 dominates D2 if and only if D1, considered as a capacity reservation, supports D2. We show several generalizations of this result.
Norm-Induced Densities and Testing the Boundedness of a Convex Set
Authors: Belloni Alexandre
Published: March 2008

In this paper, we explore properties of a family of probability density functions, called norm-induced densities, defined as [Formula: see text]where K is a n-dimensional convex set that contains the origin, parameters t > 0 and p > 0, and ‖·‖ is any norm. We also develop connections between these densities and geometric properties of K such as diameter, width of the recession cone, and others. Since ft is log-concave only if p ≥ 1, this framework also covers nonlog-concave densities. Moreover, we establish a new set inclusion characterization for convex sets. This leads to a new concentration of measure phenomena for unbounded convex sets. Finally, these properties are used to develop an efficient probabilistic algorithm to test whether a convex set, represented only by membership oracles (a membership oracle for K and a membership oracle for its recession cone), is bounded or not, where the algorithm reports an associated certificate of boundedness or unboundedness.
Use of an Electrostatic Dust Cloth for Self-Administered Home Allergen Collection
Authors: Cozen Wendy , Avol Ed , Diaz-Sanchez David , McConnell Rob , Gauderman W. James , Cockburn Myles G. , Zadnick John , Jyrala Minna , Mack Thomas M.
Published: March 2008

Most epidemiologic studies employ a vacuum cleaner used by a trained technician to collect household allergens. This approach is labor intensive, equipment dependent, and impractical if study subjects reside over a wide geographic area. We examined the feasibility of a self-administered dust collection method, using an electrostatic cloth sent by conventional mail, to obtain allergen measurements. Thirty-two nonasthmatic twins from the California Twin Program wiped areas in the family room, kitchen, and bedroom, according to standardized instructions, and returned the cloths by mail. Allergen concentrations for Der-p-1, Der-f-1, Fel-d-1, and Bla-g-2 were determined using ELISA, and intrahouse and room-to-room concentrations were compared. Der-p-1 and Fel-d-1 were found in most homes, with highest concentrations in bedrooms and kitchens, respectively. Der-f-1 and Bla-g-2 were rarely found. Intrahouse Der-p-1 and Fel-d-1 concentrations were highly correlated and statistically significant (for Der-p-1, bedroom vs. kitchen,p= .0003, bedroom vs. family room,p= .0001, and family room vs. kitchen,p= .002; for Fel-d-1, bedroom vs. kitchen,p= .0004, bedroom vs. family room,p< .0001, and family room vs. kitchen,p= .0001). Reported cat ownership was strongly correlated with household Fel-d-1 concentrations (p< .005). In another comparison from different homes of children enrolled in the La Casa atopy prevention study, allergen concentrations measured from dust collected by a single operator from the left and right half of the same room in 21 homes were compared. Levels of Bla-g-2, Der-p-1, and Fel-d-1 concentrations collected from right and left halves of the same room were highly correlated, withr2ranging from .7 to .9, and were highly statistically significant (allpvalues < .01). We conclude that nonintrusive and self-administered dust collection, using commercially available electrostatic dust cloths, sent by conventional mail services, is a promising alternative to technician-collected vacuumed dust for measuring indoor allergens in population-based studies, although further validation of the method is necessary.
A Comparison of Early and Late Respondents in a Twin–Family Survey Study
Authors: Vink Jacqueline M. , Boomsma Dorret I.
Published: March 2008

Differences between early (within 30 days) and late (after 30 days) respondents in a survey study were analyzed in twins and siblings registered with the Netherlands Twin Register. We compared early and late respondents on personality traits, health, lifestyle, and demographic variables. The odds of being a late respondent were significantly higher for men (OR 1.14), alcohol use on a daily/weekly basis (OR 1.20), having a relationship (OR 1.40), higher score on experience seeking scale (OR 1.02), and criticizing the questionnaire as too long (OR 1.27). The odds of being a late respondent were significantly lower for nontwin subjects (OR 0.71), regular cycling (OR 0.83), and judging the questionnaire to be fun (OR 0.80). There were no significant interactions with sex. To examine to what extent early and late response is influenced by genetic factors, twin and sibling data of 5040 subjects were analyzed. The best model includes genetic factors (31%), shared environmental influences (36%), and unique environmental influences (43%) on variation in response time.
The Queensland Study of Melanoma: Environmental and Genetic Associations (Q-MEGA); Study Design, Baseline Characteristics, and Repeatability of Phenotype and Sun Exposure Measures
Authors: Baxter Amanda J. , Hughes Maria Celia , Kvaskoff Marina , Siskind Victor , Shekar Sri , Aitken Joanne F. , Green Adele C. , Duffy David L. , Hayward Nicholas K. , Martin Nicholas G. , Whiteman David C.
Published: March 2008

Cutaneous malignant melanoma (CMM) is a major health issue in Queensland, Australia, which has the world's highest incidence. Recent molecular and epidemiologic studies suggest that CMM arises through multiple etiological pathways involving gene–environment interactions. Understanding the potential mechanisms leading to CMM requires larger studies than those previously conducted. This article describes the design and baseline characteristics of Q-MEGA, the Queensland Study of Melanoma: Environmental and Genetic Associations, which followed up 4 population-based samples of CMM patients in Queensland, including children, adolescents, men aged over 50, and a large sample of adult cases and their families, including twins. Q-MEGA aims to investigate the roles of genetic and environmental factors, and their interaction, in the etiology of melanoma. Three thousand, four hundred and seventy-one participants took part in the follow-up study and were administered a computer-assisted telephone interview in 2002–2005. Updated data on environmental and phenotypic risk factors, and 2777 blood samples were collected from interviewed participants as well as a subset of relatives. This study provides a large and well-described population-based sample of CMM cases with follow-up data. Characteristics of the cases and repeatability of sun exposure and phenotype measures between the baseline and the follow-up surveys, from 6 to 17 years later, are also described.
Perinatal Outcome and Change in Body Mass Index in Mothers of Dichorionic Twins: A Longitudinal Cohort Study
Authors: Simões Teresinha , Cordeiro Alexandra , Júlio Catarina , Reis José , Dias Elsa , Blickstein Isaac
Published: March 2008

We used a prospective cohort to analyze the effect of change in BMI rather than change in weight, in mothers carrying dichorionic twins from a population that did not receive any dietary intervention. A total of 269 mothers (150 nulliparas and 119 multiparas) were evaluated. The average change (%) from the pre-gravid BMI was 7.2 ± 6.1, 17.4 ± 8.2, and 28.7 ± 10.8, at 12–14, 22–25, and 30–34 weeks, respectively, without difference between nulliparas and multiparas. The comparison between maternities below or above the average change from the pregravid BMI failed to demonstrate an advantage (in terms of total twin birthweight and gestational age) of an above average change from the pregravid BMI, even when the lower versus upper quartiles were compared. Our observations reached different conclusions regarding the recommended universal dietary intervention in twin gestations. A cautious approach is advocated towards seemingly harmless excess weight gain, as normal weight women may turn overweight, or even obese, by the end of pregnancy, and be exposed to the untoward effects of obesity on future health and body image.
Twin-Specific Intrauterine ‘Growth’ Charts Based on Cross-Sectional Birthweight Data
Authors: Gielen Marij , Lindsey Patrick J. , Derom Catherine , Loos Ruth J. F. , Souren Nicole Y. , Paulussen Aimee D. C. , Zeegers Maurice P. , Derom Robert , Vlietinck Robert , Nijhuis Jan G.
Published: March 2008

The assessment of fetal growth is an essential component of good antenatal care, especially for twins. The aims of this study are to develop twin-specific intrauterine 'growth' charts, based on cross-sectional birthweight data, for monochorionic and dichorionic twins according to sex and parity, and to detect twins at risk for neonatal death by comparing the use of twin-specific and singleton charts. The study sample consisted of 76,471 singletons and 8454 twins (4227 pairs) born in East Flanders (Belgium). Birthweights were analyzed using a nonlinear Gaussian regression. After 33 weeks of gestation, the birthweights of twins started to deviate from singletons (difference of 900 grams at 42 weeks). Birthweights of dichorionic twins continued to increase, whereas those of monochorionic twins decreased after week 40 (difference of more than 300 g at 42 weeks). After 31 weeks of gestation, neonatal mortality increased as centile decreased, and was especially high if birthweight was below the twin-specific third centile: .032 (below) versus .007 (above). Using singleton centiles, this was less obvious. In conclusion, twin-specific growth charts, taking chorionicity into account, are more accurate to detect twins at risk for neonatal death. Therefore the presented charts, based on cross-sectional birthweight data, enable an improved assessment of twin growth.
The Opposite of Gay: Nature, Creation, and Queerish Ex-Gay Experiments
Authors: Gerber Lynne
Published: March 2008

Ex-gay ministries train people who are attracted to members of the same sex in gender and religious conventions that such ministries hope will effect changes in erotic desire. However, they reject efforts at denial and repression in favor of frank acknowledgment of homosexual desire, and advocate for the full inclusion of those who struggle with that desire in the church community. In carving out this space between rejection and acceptance of homosexuality, they utilize discursive and cultural strategies that resemble the gender indeterminacy and gender play celebrated by queer theorists—who have very different socio-political aims. Using the work of queer theorist Judith Butler, this paper looks at the practice of ex-gay ministries, arguing that by grounding gender essentialism in creation rather than nature, these ministries are able to engage in and profit from strategies I call "queerish"—ones that are similar to queer strategies in certain conceptual moves, yet quite distinct in normative ends.
Morbidity and GH deficiency: a nationwide study.
Authors: Stochholm Kirstine , Laursen Torben , Green Anders , Laurberg Peter , Andersen Marianne , Kristensen Lars Østergaard , Feldt-Rasmussen Ulla , Christiansen Jens Sandahl , Frydenberg Morten , Gravholt Claus Højbjerg
Published: March 2008

Objective

To estimate morbidity in Denmark in all patients with GH deficiency (GHD).

Design

Morbidity was analyzed in 1794 GHD patients and 8014 controls matched on age and gender. All records in the GHD patients were studied and additional morbidity noted. Diagnoses and dates of admissions were identified in the National Patient Registry. Lag time until first admission was used as a measure of morbidity. Patients were divided into childhood onset (CO) and adult onset (AO), discriminated by an age cut-off of 18 years at onset of GHD.

Method

Sex- and cause-specific hazard ratios (HRs) in CO and AO GHD compared with controls.

Results

Total morbidity was significantly increased in the GHD patients. HR for CO males: 3.1 (95% confidence interval (CI): 2.7–3.7), CO females: 3.2 (95% CI: 2.6–3.9), AO males: 2.9 (95% CI: 2.6–3.2), and AO females: 3.2 (95% CI: 2.8–3.6). In 18 out of 20 chapters from the International Classification of Diseases-10, a significantly increased morbidity was identified for at least one of the four subgroups of patients. Morbidity was significantly increased in all the four subgroups due to infectious, endocrine, pulmonary, urogenital, and neurological diseases; cancer; diseases of the eye, ear, and circulatory diseases; and traumas. Fractures were significantly increased in AO females, not in males.

Conclusions

Morbidity was significantly increased in the GHD patients. The increased morbidity was due to a variety of disorders, some of which can readily be explained by GHD and other pituitary deficiencies, while others cannot be easily explained.
Macroscopic lymph-node involvement and neck dissection predict lymph-node recurrence in papillary thyroid carcinoma.
Authors: Bardet Stéphane , Malville Elodie , Rame Jean-Pierre , Babin Emmanuel , Samama Guy , De Raucourt Dominique , Michels Jean-Jacques , Reznik Yves , Henry-Amar Michel
Published: March 2008

Objective

Whether lymph-node dissection (LND) influences the lymph-node recurrence (LNR) risk in patients with papillary thyroid cancer remains controversial. The prognostic impact of macroscopic and microscopic lymph-node involvement at diagnosis is also an unresolved issue. A retrospective study was conducted to assess the influence of various LND procedures and to search for LNR risk factors.

Methods

Overall 545 patients without distant metastases prior to surgery and main tumour ≥10 mm were included. A total thyroidectomy was performed in all patients with either no LND (Group 1,n=161), bilateral LND of the central and lateral compartments (Group 2,n=181) or all other dissection modalities (Group 3,n=203). Post-operative radioiodine was given to 496 (91%) patients. The 10-year cumulative probability of LNR was assessed and a prognostic study using multivariate analysis was performed.

Results

Macroscopic lymph-node metastases were present in 118 patients, 57 diagnosed before surgery and 61 only at surgery (including 81% in the central compartment). Overall, the 10-year cumulative probability of LNR was 7%. Macroscopic lymph-node metastases (P=0.001), extra-thyroidal invasion (P=0.017) and male gender (P=0.05) were independent risk factors, while bilateral LND of the central and lateral compartments was protective (P=0.028). In patients with macroscopic lymph-node metastases, the 10-year probability was lower in Group 2 than in Group 3 (10% vs 30%,P<0.01). In patients without macroscopic lymph-node metastases (n=427), no significant differences were observed between the three LND groups.

Conclusions

Patients with macroscopic, but not microscopic, lymph-node involvement have a major LNR risk and need an optimal LND at primary surgery.
Prevalence of sleep apnea and metabolic abnormalities in patients with acromegaly and analysis of cephalometric parameters by magnetic resonance imaging.
Authors: van Haute Flávia R B , Taboada Giselle F , Corrêa Lívia L , Lima Giovanna A B , Fontes Rosita , Riello Anna Patricia , Dominici Michele , Gadelha Mônica R
Published: March 2008

Objectives

To determine the prevalence of sleep apnea (SA) and SA syndrome (SAS) in patients with acromegaly and correlate SA with clinical, laboratory, and cephalometric parameters.

Design and methods

Prospective and cross-sectional study of 24 patients with active acromegaly evaluated by clinical and laboratory (GH, IGF-I) parameters, polysomnography and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the pharynx.

Results

Out of 24 patients, 21 had SA (87.5%), of which 20 (95.3%) had the predominant obstructive type. Median age of these 21 patients was 54 years (range 23–75) and median estimated disease duration was 60 months (range 24–300). The frequency in SA patients of impaired glucose tolerance, diabetes mellitus (DM), and hypertension was 19, 33.3, and 71.4% respectively. Goiter was found in 10 patients (47.6%) and obesity in 18 (90%). Median GH level was 14 μg/l (1.4–198) and median %IGF-I (percentage above the upper limit of normal range of IGF-I) was 181% (−31.6 to 571.2). The prevalence of SAS was 52.4%. Apnea–hypopnea index (AHI) correlated significantly with age, waist circumference, body mass index, and hypopharynx area. The AHI was significantly higher in patients with hypertension and DM.

Conclusions

The prevalence of SA and SAS in acromegaly was similar to the one previously described in other series. Age was a significant risk factor, and hypertension and DM were significantly associated complications of SA. Obesity was also significantly related to SA, as a risk factor, a complication or both. Overall, cephalometric parameters by MRI did not correlate with SA.
Auto-avaliação na fundação Universidade Federal do Rio Grande: metodologia de avaliação
Authors: Almeida Tabajara Lucas de , Pinto Suzi Samá , Piccoli Humberto Camargo
Published: March 2008

O presente artigo propõe a utilização da Análise de Componentes Principais como metodologia quantitativa para auxiliar o processo de auto-avaliação das instituições de ensino superior. Esta metodologia foi aplicada na auto-avaliação da Fundação Universidade Federal do Rio Grande (FURG), em 2005, utilizando como instrumento de coleta de dados dois questionários de 39 questões, aplicados a estudantes e professores de graduação, contendo uma escala contínua de zero a dez. Os resultados para os estudantes mostraram a existência de sete componentes principais, onde a principal componente é o aspecto humano dos professores. Os resultados dos professores mostraram a existência de quatro componentes, sendo a principal aquela relacionada aos estudantes. A metodologia utilizada mostrou-se eficiente para alcançar os objetivos traçados pelos gestores da Instituição.
Non‐polar‐oriented InGaN light‐emitting diodes for liquid‐crystal‐display backlighting
Authors: Masui Hisashi , Yamada Hisashi , Iso Kenji , Speck James S. , Nakamura Shuji , DenBaars Steven P.
Published: March 2008

Abstract— This article addresses spontaneously polarized light emission from GaN‐based light‐emitting diodes (LEDs) fabricated on electrically non‐polar crystallographic orientations and application of spontaneously polarized emission for backlighting of liquid‐crystal displays (LCDs). The first half of the article describes polarized light emission from GaN‐based LEDs and its role in solid‐state lighting technology. The second half reports on our experimental work to explore the potential of non‐polar LEDs for LCD backlighting applications. Optical transmission of non‐polar LED emission was characterized through a liquid‐crystal layer. Extinction ratios of 0.21 were measured between zero and an applied bias voltage to the liquid‐crystal cells. These extinction ratios are not particularly high yet; nevertheless, the experiment has demonstrated the potential of such non‐polar LEDs for LCD backlighting.
Modeling mixed culture fermentations; the role of different electron carriers
Authors: Kleerebezem R. , Temudo M. F. , van Loosdrecht M. C. M. , Rodríguez J.
Published: March 2008

A recently established mixed culture fermentation (MCF) model has been modified to account for the role of different electron carriers in the process. The MCF-model predicts the product spectrum as a function of the actual environmental conditions using a thermodynamic optimization criterion while satisfying a number of constraints. Other improvements made to the original model are the inclusion of formate as fermentation end-product, and gas-liquid mass transfer. The model is adequately capable of reproducing experimental results in terms of butyrate and formate versus hydrogen/carbon dioxide production. The model is not capable of predicting the production of an ethanol/acetate mixture as measured at higher pH-values, suggesting specific biochemical control. Catabolic acetate production can potentially be explained by anabolic requirements for a specific electron donor like NADH.
Development of Indicators to Assess Quality of Life within a Community: The 2006 Healthy Community Council Assessment
Authors: Lewis Kristi L.
Published: March 2008

The Healthy Community Council (HCC) is a group of numerous stakeholders that include both private and non-profit organizations that provide services to residents of the City of Harrisonburg and Rockingham County, located in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia. The HCC was formed “to enhance the quality of life for the community through collaborative efforts of individuals, agencies, and institutions.” One goal has been to assess the quality of life among residents in the City of Harrisonburg and Rockingham County. This article provides a framework and step-by-step process for developing quality of life indicators for a community assessment. The process of developing indicators to assess quality of life included: 1) establishing an assessment team; 2) reviewing assessments conducted in similar communities; 3) developing assessment categories (i.e., health, environment); 4) listing all possible indicators that would assess quality of life in a community; 5) prioritizing indicators; 6) finalizing the list of indicators for each assessment category; and 7) determining indicator type. The step-by-step process outlined resulted in the development of eight assessment categories and a total of 40 indicators to measure quality of life within the community. The method for developing the specific indicators to measure quality of life was essential in making the 2006 HCC Assessment a community-based participatory process.
Transport behaviour of a Bose Einstein condensate in a bichromatic optical lattice
Authors: Bhattacherjee Aranya , Pietrzyk Monika
Published: March 2008

We investigate the Bloch and dipole oscillations of a Bose Einstein condensate (BEC) in an optical superlattice. We show that, as the effective mass increases in an optical superlattice, the BEC is localized in accordance with recent experimental observations [J.E. Lye et. al. Phys. Rev. A 75, 061603 (2007)]. In addition, we find that the secondary optical lattice is a useful additional tool to manipulate the dynamics of the atoms.
Maintenance versus growth: Investigating the costs of immune activation among children in lowland Bolivia
Authors: McDade T.W. , Reyes‐García V. , Tanner S. , Huanca T. , Leonard W.R.
Published: March 2008

Immune function is a central component of maintenance effort, and it provides critical protection against the potentially life threatening effects of pathogens. However, immune defenses are energetically expensive, and the resources they consume are not available to support other activities related to growth and/or reproduction. In our study we use a life history theory framework to investigate tradeoffs between maintenance effort and growth among children in a remote area of Amazonian Bolivia. Baseline concentrations of C‐reactive protein (CRP) were measured in 309 2‐ to 10‐year olds as an indicator of immune activation, and height was measured at baseline and three months later. Elevated CRP at baseline predicts smaller gains in height over the subsequent three months, with the costs to growth particularly high for 2‐ to 4‐year olds and for those with low energy reserves (in the form of body fat) at the time of immunostimulation. These results provide evidence for a significant tradeoff between investment in immunity and growth in humans, and highlight an important physiological mechanism through which maintenance effort may have lasting effects on child growth and development. Am J Phys Anthropol, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Rituximab in relapsing‐remitting multiple sclerosis: A 72‐week, open‐label, phase I trial
Authors: Bar‐Or Amit , Calabresi Peter A. J. , Arnold Douglas , Markowitz Clyde , Shafer Stuart , Kasper Lloyd H. , Waubant Emmanuelle , Gazda Suzanne , Fox Robert J. , Panzara Michael , Sarkar Neena , Agarwal Sunil , Smith Craig H.
Published: March 2008

We evaluated the safety, tolerability, pharmacodynamics, and activity of B‐cell depletion with rituximab in patients with relapsing‐remitting multiple sclerosis, receiving two courses of rituximab 6 months apart, and followed for a total of 72 weeks. No serious adverse events were noted; events were limited to mild‐to‐moderate infusion‐associated events, which tended to decrease with subsequent infusions. Infections were also mild or moderate, and none led to withdrawal. Fewer new gadolinium‐enhancing or T2 lesions were seen starting from week 4 and through week 72. An apparent reduction in relapses was also observed over the 72 weeks compared with the year before therapy. Ann Neurol 2008
Comments on “Mirror Symmetry Breaking” of the Centrosymmetric CaCO3 Crystals with Amino Acids
Authors: Lahav Meir , Leiserowitz Leslie
Published: March 2008

Verletzte Regeln: Ergebnisse von Tremel et al. zur Selektion von Calciumcarbonatphasen durch adsorbierte Aminosäuren scheinen einen deterministischen Weg für den Bruch der Spiegelbildsymmetrie aufzuzeigen, der Konsequenzen bezüglich der Entstehung der Homochiralität auf der Erde haben könnte. Unserer Meinung nach verletzen die Kristallisationsexperimente grundlegende Symmetrieregeln, und wir vermuten als Ursache chemische, biologische oder andere homochirale oder achirale Verunreinigungen in der Probe.
Hexagonal‐Shaped Tin Glycolate Particles: A Preliminary Study of Their Suitability as Li‐Ion Insertion Electrodes
Authors: Ng See‐How , Chew Sau‐Yen , dos Santos Dayse I. , Chen Jun , Wang Jia‐Zhao , Dou Shi‐Xue , Liu Hua‐Kun
Published: March 2008

Tin glycolate particles were prepared by a simple, one‐step, polyol‐mediated synthesis in air in which tin oxalate precursor was added to ethylene glycol and heated at reflux. Hexagonal‐shaped, micron‐sized tin glycolate particles were formed when the solution had cooled. A series of tin oxides was produced by calcination of the synthesized tin glycolate at 600–800 °C. It was revealed that the micron‐sized, hexagonal‐shaped tin glycolate now consisted of nanosized tin‐based particles (80–120 nm), encapsulated within a tin glycolate shell. XRD, TGA, and FT‐IR measurements were conducted to account for the three‐dimensional growth of the tin glycolate particles. When applied as an anode material for Li‐ion batteries, the synthesized tin glycolate particles showed good electrochemical reactivity in Li‐ion insertion/deinsertion, retaining a specific capacity of 416 mAh g−1 beyond 50 cycles. This performance was significantly better than those of all the other tin oxides nanoparticles (<160 mAh g−1) obtained after heat treatment in air. We strongly believe that the buffering of the volume expansion by the glycolate upon Li–Sn alloying is the main factor for the improved cycling of the electrode.
Tragverhalten von risstauglichen Verbundspreizdübeln in Beton
Authors: Pregartner Thilo , Asmus Jörg , Eligehausen Rolf
Published: March 2008

Um leistungsfähige und geeignete Verbundsysteme für den Befestigungsmarkt auch für gerissenen Beton bereitzustellen, wurden in den letzten Jahren von verschiedenen Herstellern Verbundspreizdübelsysteme entwickelt. Sie bestehen aus einer speziell geformten Ankerstange und einem Verbundmörtel. Die Ankerstange weist je nach System einen oder mehrere Konen auf. Der vorliegende Beitrag beschreibt Verbundspreizdübelsysteme verschiedener Hersteller, deren Funktionsprinzip sowie deren Tragverhalten unter Zugbeanspruchung in ungerissenem und gerissenem Beton. Weiterhin werden Umwelteinflüsse (Temperatur, Frost‐Tauwechsel, Dauerhaftigkeit) auf das Tragverhalten diskutiert. Die Auswertungen der Bruchlasten von zentrischen Ausziehversuchen mit Verbundspreizdübeln im ungerissenen und gerissenen Beton zeigen, dass Verbundspreizdübel Versagenslasten erreichen können, die deutlich oberhalb der berechneten Versagenslasten nach dem Bemessungsverfahren für Metallspreizdübel (CC‐Verfahren) liegen.
Digitale Erfassung und Bewertung von Rissen
Authors: Stratmann Rafael , Birtel Veit , Mark Peter , Neuß Helmut , Niemeier Wolfgang , Riedel Björn , Ziem Eberhard
Published: March 2008

Es wird ein praxisfertiges, digitales System zur Erfassung und Auswertung von Rissen an Massivbauwerken vorgestellt. Es nutzt eine konventionelle Digitalkamera mit spezifischem Aufsatztubus für die eigentliche fotografische Aufnahme am Bauwerk. Auf Basis einer Graustufenanalyse mit mehreren Dutzend Auswertestellen je Zentimeter Risslänge werden die Risse am Computer ausgewertet und in ihren Kenndaten wie mittlere Rissbreite, Streubreiten oder Rauigkeitsprofil analysiert. Praktische Anwendungen bei der Zustandsüberprüfung von Bauwerken – beispielsweise der Brückenprüfung nach DIN 1076 – und bei Schubversuchen im Labor zeigen nicht nur die Genauigkeit, sondern auch die einfache praktische Handhabung des Systems.
Brandresistenter Beton für den Tunnelbau
Authors: Dehn Frank , Nause Peter , Fischkandl Hendrik
Published: March 2008

In den letzten Jahren hat der vorbeugende Brandschutz für Tunnelbauwerke stetig an Bedeutung gewonnen. Aufgrund von Brandkatastrophen wurden neue Konzepte angedacht, die insbesondere unter Beachtung der spezifischen Randbedingungen des Tunnelbaus, eine alleinige Schutzwirkung dem Tunnelbeton zuweisen, indem dem Beton Kunststofffasern hinzu gegeben werden. Aus mehreren Forschungsvorhaben und Praxisanwendungen ist mittlerweile bekannt, dass die Zugabe von Kunststofffasern einen positiven Einfluß auf das Brand‐ und Abplatzverhalten von Betonen hat und zur deutlichen oder gar vollständigen Reduzierung von explosionsartigen Abplatzungen führen kann. Nachfolgender Bericht fasst hierzu den aktuellen Stand der Technik und die Vorschriften zusammen.
Magnetic cell separation using nano‐sized bacterial magnetic particles with reconstructed magnetosome membrane
Authors: Yoshino Tomoko , Hirabe Hisashi , Takahashi Masayuki , Kuhara Motoki , Takeyama Haruko , Matsunaga Tadashi
Published: March 2008

Magnetic nanoparticles produced by magnetotactic bacterium, bacterial magnetic particles (BacMPs), covered with a lipid bilayer membrane (magnetosome membrane) can be used to separate specific target cells from heterogeneous mixtures because they are easily manipulated by magnets and it is easy to display functional proteins on their surface via genetic engineering. Despite possessing unique and valuable characteristics, the potential toxicity of BacMPs to the separated cells has not been characterized in detail. Here, a novel technique was developed for the reconstruction of magnetosome membrane of BacMPs expressing protein A (protein A‐BacMPs) to reduce cytotoxicity and the newly developed nanomaterial was then used for magnetic cell separation. The development of the magnetosome membrane‐reconstructed protein A‐BacMP was based on the characteristics of the Mms13 anchor protein, which strongly binds to the magnetite surface of BacMPs. Treatment of protein A‐BacMPs with detergents removed contaminating proteins but did not affect retention of Mms13‐protein A fusion proteins. The particle surfaces were then reconstructed with phosphatidylcholine. The protein A‐BacMPs containing reconstructed magnetosome membranes remained dispersible and retained the ability to immobilize antibody. In addition, they contained few membrane surface proteins and endotoxins, which were observed on non‐treated protein A‐BacMPs. Magnetic separation of monocytes and B‐lymphocytes from the peripheral blood was achieved with high purity using magnetosome membrane‐reconstructed protein A‐BacMPs. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2008;101: 470–477. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Protamine usage following implantation of drug‐eluting stents: A word of caution
Authors: Cosgrave John , Qasim Asif , Latib Azeem , Aranzulla Tiziana C. , Colombo Antonio
Published: March 2008

The treatment of hemorrhagic complications of percutaneous interventions with protamine is an accepted practice. Concerns exist about the increased thrombo‐genicity of drugeluting stents. We report two cases of acute stent thrombosis following drug‐eluting stent implantation related to Protamine administration. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Difficult stent delivery: Use of an aspiration catheter as a “sheath”
Authors: Ashikaga Takashi , Nishizaki Mitsuhiro , Yamawake Noriyoshi
Published: March 2008

This is a report of a case in which stent delivery to the lesion location proved difficult because of severely calcified and tortuous proximal vasculature. Efforts to deliver a stent using a buddy wire, anchoring technique and five‐in‐seven guiding system were unsuccessful, whereas an aspiration catheter enabled stent delivery to the target lesion. This technique offers a potential alternative for cases in which some stent delivery methods are problematic. In addition, this technique may also prevent potential injury to drug‐eluting polymer during stent delivery. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Dorsalis pedis artery stenting for limb salvage
Authors: Kawarada Osami , Yokoi Yoshiaki
Published: March 2008

Stent‐supported angioplasty has emerged as an effective alternative to distal bypass for infrapopliteal artery disease. This treatment has been mainly employed in the tibial and peroneal arteries. However, the pedal artery below the ankle is the final frontier for catheter intervention. Here, we describe the utility of dorsalis pedis artery stenting for limb salvage. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Will Genetic Profiling Make a Difference in Clinical Trial Outcomes?
Authors: Conti C. Richard
Published: March 2008

What stimulated me to write this editorial was an article I read in USA Today written by Lois Hatton, who is a writer and columnist based in Brookings, South Dakota and author of “Inspiration for a Lifetime.” The article, “‘Black’ Cherokees fight for heritage,” told of a black Yankton Sioux who says he is seen as a black by other Sioux while on the reservation, but as an Indian by blacks who do not live on the reservation. Copyright © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Expression of avian prickle genes during early development and organogenesis
Authors: Cooper Oliver , Sweetman Dylan , Wagstaff Laura , Münsterberg Andrea
Published: March 2008

Chicken homologues of prickle‐1 (pk‐1) and prickle‐2 (pk‐2) were isolated to gain insight into the extent of planar cell polarity signaling during avian embryogenesis. Bioinformatics analyses demonstrated homology and showed that pk‐1 and pk‐2 exhibited conserved synteny with ADAMTS20 and ADAMTS9, GON‐related zinc metalloproteases. Expression of pk‐1 and pk‐2 was established during embryogenesis and early organogenesis, using in situ hybridization and sections of chicken embryos. At early stages, pk‐1 was expressed in Hensen's node, primitive streak, ventral neural tube, and foregut. In older embryos, pk‐1 transcripts were detected in dorsolateral epithelial somites, dorsomedial lip of dermomyotomes, and differentiating myotomes. Furthermore, pk‐1 expression was seen in lateral body folds, limb buds, and ventral metencephalon. pk‐2 was expressed in Hensen's node and neural ectoderm at early stages. In older embryos, pk‐2 expression was restricted to ventromedial epithelial somites, except in the most recently formed somite pair, and limb bud mesenchyme. Developmental Dynamics 237:1442‐1448, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Summary of ‘Bicycle helmet legislation for the uptake of helmet use and prevention of head injuries’
Authors: Milne Andrea
Published: March 2008

This is a summary of a Cochrane review, published in this issue of EBCH, first published as: Macpherson A, Spinks A. Bicycle helmet legislation for the uptake of helmet use and prevention of head injuries. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2007, Issue 2. Art. No.: CD005401. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD005401 .pub2.

Further information for this Cochrane review is available in this issue of EBCH in the accompanying EBCH Commentary article. Copyright © 2008 The Cochrane Collaboration. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. The Cochrane Collaboration
Summary of ‘Human recombinant activated protein C for severe sepsis’
Authors: Milne Andrea
Published: March 2008

This is a summary of a Cochrane review, published in this issue of EBCH, first published as: Martí‐Carvajal A, Salanti G, Cardona AF. Human recombinant activated protein C for severe sepsis. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2008, Issue 1. Art. No.: CD004388. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD004388.pub3.

Further information for this Cochrane review is available in this issue of EBCH in the accompanying EBCH Commentary and Characteristics and Key Findings Tables articles. Copyright © 2008 The Cochrane Collaboration. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. The Cochrane Collaboration
Commentary on ‘Antihistamines and/or decongestants for otitis media with effusion (OME) in children’, with a reply from the review author
Authors: Smith Michael B. H.
Published: March 2008

This is a commentary on a Cochrane review, published in this issue of EBCH, first published as: Griffin GH, Flynn C, Bailey RE, Schultz JK. Antihistamines and/or decongestants for otitis media with effusion (OME) in children. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2006, Issue 4. Art. No.: CD003423. DOI: 10.1002/14651 858.CD003423.pub2.

Further information for this Cochrane review is available in this issue of EBCH in the accompanying EBCH Summary and Characteristics and Key Findings Tables articles. Copyright © 2008 The Cochrane Collaboration. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. The Cochrane Collaboration
Characteristics and key findings for ‘Antihistamines and/or decongestants for otitis media with effusion (OME) in children’
Authors: van Dalen E. C. , Offringa M.
Published: March 2008

These are the characteristics and key findings for a Cochrane review published in this issue of EBCH, first published as: Griffin GH, Flynn C, Bailey RE, Schultz JK. Antihistamines and/or decongestants for otitis media with effusion (OME) in children. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2006, Issue 4. Art. No.: CD003423. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD003423.pub2.

Further information for this Cochrane review is available in this issue of EBCH in the accompanying EBCH Summary and Commentary articles. Copyright © 2008 The Cochrane Collaboration. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. The Cochrane Collaboration
Summary of ‘Interventions for primary vesicoureteric reflux’
Authors: Milne Andrea
Published: March 2008

This is a summary of a Cochrane review, published in this issue of EBCH, first published as: Hodson EM, Wheeler DM, Vimalchandra D, Smith GH, Craig JC. Interventions for primary vesicoureteric reflux. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2007, Issue 3. Art. No.: CD001532. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD001532. pub3.

Further information for this Cochrane review is available in this issue of EBCH in the accompanying EBCH Commentary and Characteristics and Key Findings Tables articles. Copyright © 2008 The Cochrane Collaboration. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. The Cochrane Collaboration
Direct injection of organic solvent extracts for capillary electrophoresis
Authors: Shihabi Zak K.
Published: March 2008

It is demonstrated here that organic solvents immiscible in water used in sample extraction, such as chloroform, can be injected directly and successfully on the capillary without the need for evaporation and reconstitution. Current continuity was maintained all the time during the run. In order to avoid the rapid evaporation of the organic solvent during the analysis, the aqueous layer was left over the chloroform. This simplified the extraction step, and enabled the injection from the same vial over several hours without dealing with problem of evaporation. The relative peak heights in the electropherograms can be modified by the inclusion in the chloroform of a more polar solvent, by adjusting the pH, or adjusting the salt content of the sample. Addition of a polar solvent to the chloroform improved greatly the precision of the analysis for both the peak height and migration time.