bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Physical Training and Well‐being in Older Adults with Mild Intellectual Disability: A Residential Care Study
Authors: Carmeli Eli , Orbach Iris , Zinger‐Vaknin Tzvia , Morad Mohammed , Merrick Joav
Published: August 2008

Background  Exercise is important for health and well‐being. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of physical training on general well‐being and self‐image in older people with intellectual disability.

Methods  This study evaluated older adults with intellectual disability in residential care in Israel. The concept of well‐being perceived by the participants was measured by direct interview with a questionnaire consisting of 37 structural statements. The physical training programme was conducted three times a week for 10 consecutive months.

Results  Statistical analyses suggested a positive relationship between perceived well‐being and physical training between the experimental and control group.

Conclusions  This positive relation supports the important role of physical training to improve perceived well‐being among older adults with intellectual disability.
To cut a long tail short: a review of lizard caudal autotomy studies carried out over the last 20 years
Authors: Bateman P. W. , Fleming P. A.
Published: August 2008

Caudal autotomy, the ability to shed the tail, is common in lizards as a response to attempted predation. Since Arnold's substantial review of caudal autotomy as a defence in reptiles 20 years ago, our understanding of the costs associated with tail loss has increased dramatically. In this paper, we review the incidence of caudal autotomy among lizards (Reptilia Sauria) with particular reference to questions posed by Arnold. We examine tail break frequencies and factors that determine occurrence of autotomy in natural populations (including anatomical mechanisms, predation efficiency and intensity, microhabitat preference, sex and ontogenetic differences, as well as intraspecific aggression). We also summarize the costs associated with tail loss in terms of survivorship and reproduction, focusing on potential mechanisms that influence fitness (i.e. locomotion costs, behavioural responses and metabolic costs). Finally, we examine the factors that may influence the facility with which autotomy takes place, including regeneration rate, body form and adaptive behaviour. Taking Arnold's example, we conclude with proposals for future research.
Three‐dimensional computer analysis of white shark jaw mechanics: how hard can a great white bite?
Authors: Wroe S. , Huber D. R. , Lowry M. , McHenry C. , Moreno K. , Clausen P. , Ferrara T. L. , Cunningham E. , Dean M. N. , Summers A. P.
Published: August 2008

The notorious jaws of the white shark Carcharodon carcharias are widely feared, yet poorly understood. Neither its bite force, nor how such force might be delivered using relatively elastic cartilaginous jaws, have been quantified or described. We have digitally reconstructed the jaws of a white shark to estimate maximum bite force and examine relationships among their three‐dimensional geometry, material properties and function. We predict that bite force in large white sharks may exceed c. 1.8 tonnes, the highest known for any living species, and suggest that forces may have been an order of magnitude greater still in the gigantic fossil species Carcharodon megalodon. However, jaw adductor‐generated force in Carcharodon appears unremarkable when the predator's body mass is considered. Although the shark's cartilaginous jaws undergo considerably greater deformation than would jaws constructed of bone, effective bite force is not greatly diminished.
Postexercise reduction in lung diffusion capacity is not attenuated by skin cooling
Authors: Storebø Michael L. , Hope Arvid , Vaagbø Guro , Thorsen Einar
Published: August 2008

Pulmonary diffusion capacity for carbon monoxide (DLCO) is reduced by approximately 10% 1–6 h after maximal exercise. The mechanisms may be interstitial alveolar oedema and reduced pulmonary capillary blood volume. It was hypothesized that thermal stress following exercise contributes to the reduction in DLCO, and that skin cooling would attenuate the postexercise reduction in DLCO. Cutaneous vascular conductance (CVC), mean surface temperature (MST), rectal temperature and DLCO were measured before and 90 min after maximal incremental cycle exercise. Thereafter, the subjects were exposed to cold air without eliciting shivering one day and another day served as control. The measurements were repeated 120 min after exercise. Twelve healthy subjects (six male) aged 20–27 years were studied. DLCO was reduced by 7·1% (SD = 6·3%, P = 0·003) and 7·6% (SD = 5·3%, P<0·001) 90 and 120 min after exercise in the control experiment. It was reduced by 5·6% (SD = 5·5%, P = 0·014) 90 min after exercise and remained reduced by 6·1% (SD = 6·1%, P = 0·012) after cooling despite a significant reduction in CVC and in MST from 31·9 (SD = 0·6)°C to 27·4 (SD = 1·9)°C. We conclude that the postexercise reduction in DLCO is present when thermal status is restored after exercise, and that it is not influenced by further skin surface cooling.
Positive Effects of Talking About the Negative: Family Narratives of Negative Experiences and Preadolescents' Perceived Competence
Authors: Marin Kelly A. , Bohanek Jennifer G. , Fivush Robyn
Published: August 2008

Family narratives about the past are an important context for the socialization of emotion, but relations between expression of negative emotion and children's emerging competence are conflicting. In this study, 24 middle‐class two‐parent families narrated a shared negative experience together and we examined the process (initiations and collaborations) and function (the expression and explanation of emotions) of co‐constructed narratives in relation to preadolescents' perceived competencies and self‐esteem. Family narratives in which specific emotions were expressed and explained in a collaborative fashion, especially negative emotion, were positively related to preadolescents' reported competencies and self‐esteem, whereas family narratives that expressed general positive emotion were negatively related to preadolescents' perceived competencies. Implications of family narratives about emotional events, specifically the ways in which families discuss emotion, in relation to preadolescents' self‐development are discussed.
Tomography‐Based Multiscale Analyses of the 3D Geometrical Morphology of Reticulated Porous Ceramics
Authors: Petrasch Jörg , Wyss Peter , Stämpfli Rolf , Steinfeld Aldo
Published: August 2008

X‐ray microtomography with a digital resolution of 30 μm and synchrotron submicrometer tomography with a digital resolution of 350/700 nm are performed on catalyst‐coated reticulate porous ceramic foa, 22[2] 121–45ms. Porosity, specific surface, pore‐size distribution, two‐point correlation function, and minimum size of a representative elementary volume are computed by image processing of the tomographic reconstructions on the mm‐scale‐ and μm‐scale‐sized pores. Numerically determined porosities are experimentally validated by weighing, helium pycnometry, and mercury intrusion porosimetry.
Superhydrophobic Mats of Polymer‐Derived Ceramic Fibers
Authors: Sarkar Sourangsu , Chunder Anindarupa , Fei Weifeng , An Linan , Zhai Lei
Published: August 2008

Solid preceramic polyaluminasilazane was synthesized through the reaction between liquid cyclosilazane and aluminum tri‐sec‐butoxide at 160°C. Electrospinning of polyaluminasilazane/polyethyleneoxide (1/0.0001 mass ratio) in chloroform solutions generated smooth fibers while the electrospun fibers from the chloroform/N,N‐dimethylformamide solutions had submicrometer structures on the fiber surfaces. Smooth and rough SiCNO ceramic fibers were obtained by the pyrolysis of the green fibers with an 80% yield. Superhydrophobic mats of ceramic fibers were fabricated via a chemical vapor deposition of perfluorosilane onto the rough fibers. These superhydrophobic mats possess good chemical and thermal stability.
Performance Enhancement of ZnO‐Based Multilayer Varistor by Constrained Sintering
Authors: Lee Wen‐His , Chen Wei‐Ting , Lee Ying‐Chieh
Published: August 2008

The performance of a ZnO‐based multilayer varistor is affected strongly by the homogeneity of its microstructure. In this study, a homogeneous microstructure of a ZnO‐based multilayer varistor is attained by using constrained sintering, when nonreactive borosilicate glass +90 wt% alumina (Al2O3) was used as the constraining layer laminated on both sides of the multilayer ZnO‐based multilayer varistor (MLV). The mean grain size and the distribution of grain size of a ZnO‐based MLV fired by constrained sintering are both reduced, because an in‐plane tensile stress results from constrained sintering in the x–y plane of the multilayer device, which could modify the densification rate of the ZnO‐based MLV materials. The leakage current and nonlinear coefficient (α) of ZnO‐based MLVs can be greatly improved due to the inhibition of ZnO grain growth when constrained sintering was used instead of free sintering. Note that the energy absorption capabilities in terms of peak current (PC) measurements of ZnO‐based MLVs fired by constrained sintering are remarkably improved due to a homogeneous microstructure.
Cell Dimensions and Composition of Nanocrystalline Calcium Silicate Hydrate Solid Solutions. Part 2: X‐Ray and Thermogravimetry Study
Authors: Garbev Krassimir , Bornefeld Marc , Beuchle Günter , Stemmermann Peter
Published: August 2008

X‐ray diffraction and thermogravimetry have been used to analyze the limits of incorporation of Ca in a series of mechanochemically synthesized, nanocrystalline calcium silicate hydrate (C–S–H) phases. Results based on bulk weight loss and Rietveld refinements show higher C/S ratios than those corrected additionally for X‐ray‐silent CaCO3 and Ca(OH)2. A pure C–S–H phase exists over the C/S range 2/3–5/4, with two ordered end members. The structure of C–S–H phases within the interval 2/3–5/4 may well be described by the so‐called defect‐tobermorite model. At C/S=2/3, the C–S–H consists of 14 Å tobermorite slabs linked via H‐bonds without interlayer Ca, resulting in the formula Ca4[H2Si3O9]2·xH2O, where x=4. After heating up to 1000°C, X‐ray diffraction has shown that even samples with a low Ca content (Ca/Si <2/3) contain solely the calcium silicate wollastonite. This supports the idea of a slightly defective, unbranched single chain silicate anion. Increasing the C/S ratio leads to increased disorder due to the competitive omission of bridging tetrahedra and the incorporation of Ca into the interlayer in samples with 2/3 < C/S <5/4. The Ca‐rich end member with C/S=5/4 exhibits structural features of a tobermorite‐based dimer: {Ca4[HSi2O7]2} . Ca . xH2O, where x=4. The observed change in the d‐value of the basal reflection upon X‐ray irradiation further supports the proposed model, relating the observed shrinkage with the loss of H2O molecules from the interlayer, where they coordinate calcium.
Low‐Loss Microwave Dielectrics in the (Mg1−xZnx)2TiO4 Ceramics
Authors: Huang Cheng‐Liang , Liu Shih‐Sheng
Published: August 2008

The microwave dielectric properties and the microstructures of (Mg1−xZnx)2TiO4 ceramics prepared by the conventional solid‐state route were investigated. Lattice parameters were also measured for samples with different x. As x increased from 0 to 0.05, the Q×f of the specimen can be promoted from 150 000 GHz to a maximum 275 300 GHz. It also showed a remarkable lowering in the sintering temperature (∼100°C). Ilmenite‐structured (Mg0.95Zn0.05)TiO3 was detected as a second phase. The coexistence of the second phase, however, is not harmful to the dielectric properties of the specimen because it possesses compatible ones. A fine combination of microwave dielectric properties (ɛr∼15.48, Q×f∼275 300 GHz, τf∼−34 ppm/°C) was obtained for (Mg0.95Zn0.05)2TiO4 specimen sintered at 1330°C for 4 h. It is proposed as a very promising dielectric material for low‐loss microwave and millimeter wave applications.
Linking migratory patterns and diet to reproductive traits in female brown trout (Salmo trutta L.) by means of stable isotope analysis on ova
Authors: Acolas M.‐L. , Roussel J.‐M. , Baglinière J.‐L.
Published: August 2008

Abstract –  Many populations of vertebrates display alternative reproductive strategies involving delays in maturation processes and migrations to more productive habitats. Notably for females, migratory patterns and diet could influence reproductive traits such as ova size and number. To test this hypothesis, we targeted anadromous and freshwater‐resident female brown trout of various sizes during their return to spawn in tributaries, and carried out stable isotope analyses (δ15N and δ13C) on ova to identify their feeding areas and diet. The study was performed in the Oir River (France), a small coastal system where trout migrations to sea and within the river basin have been monitored for the last 20 years. General trends were observed in reproductive traits, such as the positive correlation between female fork length, fecundity and ova size. Fecundity was size‐dependent whatever the migratory origin of females, but major divergences were seen for ova size and isotopic ratios. Freshwater residents displayed a constant increase in ova size and a 15N‐enrichment in ova, suggesting an investment in larger ova and a shift to piscivory as the fish become larger and older. Conversely, anadromous females had smaller ova compared with freshwater‐resident females of similar body size and achieved higher fecundity as they grew bigger. Our results suggest the existence of a continuum of reproductive traits for freshwater‐resident females whereas anadromous females clearly show a break with this continuum. This major dissimilarity could be explained by the difference in growing environments in terms of food availability and quality.
Magnetic resonance imaging of live freshwater mussels (Unionidae)
Authors: Michael Holliman F. , Davis Denise , Bogan Arthur E. , Kwak Thomas J. , Gregory Cope W. , Levine Jay F.
Published: August 2008

Abstract. We examined the soft tissues of live freshwater mussels, Eastern elliptio Elliptio complanata, via magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), acquiring data with a widely available human whole‐body MRI system. Anatomical features depicted in the profile images included the foot, stomach, intestine, anterior and posterior adductor muscles, and pericardial cavity. Noteworthy observations on soft tissue morphology included a concentration of lipids at the most posterior aspect of the foot, the presence of hemolymph‐filled fissures in the posterior adductor muscle, the presence of a relatively large hemolymph‐filled sinus adjacent to the posterior adductor muscle (at the ventral‐anterior aspect), and segmentation of the intestine (a diagnostic description not reported previously in Unionidae). Relatively little is known about the basic biology and ecological physiology of freshwater mussels. Traditional approaches for studying anatomy and tissue processes, and for measuring sub‐lethal physiological stress, are destructive or invasive. Our study, the first to evaluate freshwater mussel soft tissues by MRI, clarifies the body plan of unionid mussels and demonstrates the efficacy of this technology for in vivo evaluation of the structure, function, and integrity of mussel soft tissues.
Factors supporting self‐management in Parkinson’s disease: implications for nursing practice
Authors: Chenoweth Lynn , Gallagher Robyn , Sheriff June N. , Donoghue Judith , Stein‐Parbury Jane
Published: August 2008

Aim.  To identify the factors associated with better self‐management in people with moderate to high levels of Parkinson’s disease following an acute illness event.

Design and methods.  A prospective, descriptive study conducted with 75 persons with Parkinson’s disease over the age of 55, collected twice: within a week of an acute event and 1 month later, after resuming usual life at home. Participants completed a questionnaire on self‐rated health status, self‐efficacy, sense of coherence, symptom monitoring and medication and general self‐management.

Background.  Parkinson’s disease is a chronic neurological condition that affects many dimensions of life, including threats to self‐identity and confidence in self‐management. Self‐management has the potential to reduce costs through decreased hospital admissions, disease progression and avoidance of complications. While evidence for the relationships between self‐management and self‐efficacy and sense of coherence has been demonstrated in some chronic illness groups, this has not previously been demonstrated in Parkinson’s disease.

Results.  The independent predictors of better self‐management were not being hospitalized in the last 6 months, more frequent symptom checking and better self‐efficacy for self‐management. The influence of other factors on self‐management, such as sense of coherence, was mediated through self‐efficacy. Support of family and others was associated with better self‐efficacy both directly and through an improved sense of coherence.

Conclusions and relevance to nursing practice.  The presence of informal support plays an important role in sustaining self‐efficacy and sense of coherence and hence self‐management in persons with Parkinson’s disease. Since these attributes are amenable to change, nurses are in a good position to encourage participation in Parkinson’s support groups, teach self‐management skills through regular symptom monitoring and to assess and promote self‐efficacy and sense of coherence.
Discovery Interviews with older people: reflections from a practitioner
Authors: Way Rob
Published: August 2008

This paper reports on a nurse consultant’s experiences of using Discovery Interview technique with older patients and their relatives about their urgent care experiences.
Service improvement using patient narratives: engaging with the issues
Authors: Bridges Jackie , Nicholson Caroline
Published: August 2008

In this paper, the authors reflect on data quality issues arising from a UK project that trained senior practitioners to undertake Discovery Interviews with older people and their relatives about their urgent care experiences. These reflections are used to explore the potential for qualitative research methods to inform the development of the Discovery Interview technique.
Metacognition, Theory of Mind, and Self‐Control: The Relevance of High‐Level Cognitive Processes in Development, Neuroscience, and Education
Authors: Sodian Beate , Frith Uta
Published: August 2008

ABSTRACT— The cognitive control of behavior is critical for success in school. The emergence of self‐control in development has been linked to the ability to represent one’s own and others’ mental states (theory of mind and metacognition). Despite rapid progress in exploring the neural correlates of both mind reading and executive function in recent years, to date, the implications of these high‐level cognitive processes for issues relevant to education have hardly been addressed. The present special issue brings together developmental perspectives on the relation of self‐control, theory of mind, and metacognition; theoretical and empirical contributions on the implications of theory of mind and self‐control for teaching and learning; and brief reviews of the state of the art in cognitive neuroscience on these high‐level cognitive processes in adolescents and adults.
Children’s Teaching Skills: The Role of Theory of Mind and Executive Function
Authors: Davis‐Unger Angela C. , Carlson Stephanie M.
Published: August 2008

ABSTRACT— Teaching others effectively may rely on knowledge about the mind as well as self‐control processes. The goal of this investigation was to explore the role of theory of mind (ToM) and executive function (EF) in children’s developing teaching skills. Children 3.5–5.5 years of age (N = 82) were asked to teach a confederate learner how to play a board game and were administered multitask batteries of ToM and EF with mental age, sex, and memory capacity as controls. There was a developmental increase in children’s teaching skills (e.g., older children taught longer, explained more rules, and used more strategies when teaching). Examined separately, both ToM and EF explained unique variance in teaching skills over and above controls. Taken together, EF was a significant predictor of teaching efficacy over and above ToM and controls, whereas the same did not hold true for ToM. These results suggest that ToM may be a necessary prerequisite for teaching to occur; however, EF skills appear to play a vital role in children’s teaching efficacy.
Social and Nonsocial Functions of Rostral Prefrontal Cortex: Implications for Education
Authors: Gilbert Sam J. , Burgess Paul W.
Published: August 2008

ABSTRACT— In this article, we discuss the role of rostral prefrontal cortex (approximating Brodmann Area 10) in two domains relevant to education: executive function (particularly prospective memory, our ability to realize delayed intentions) and social cognition (particularly our ability to reflect on our own mental states and the mental states of others). We review evidence from neuropsychology and neuroimaging suggesting the involvement of rostral prefrontal cortex in these domains and discuss an overarching framework that seeks to characterize these functions in terms of attentional selection between perceptual and self‐generated information. In addition, we present neuroimaging evidence in adults suggesting considerable functional specialization within this region. We conclude by discussing implications of these results for education and suggest directions for further research.
Association between serum lipoprotein (a) level and progression of non‐proliferative diabetic retinopathy in Type 2 diabetes
Authors: Funatsu Hideharu , Shimizu Erika , Noma Hidetaka , Mimura Tatsuya , Hori Sadao
Published: August 2008

Purpose:  To investigate independent risk factors related to the progression of non‐proliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR) for Japanese Type 2 diabetic patients.

Methods:  One hundred and six patients with NPDR were followed up for 2 years. Diabetic retinopathy (DR) was determined by colour fundus photography. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to assess variables independently associated with the progression of NPDR. Serum concentrations of novel risk factors for atherosclerotic vascular disease, including lipoprotein (a) [Lp(a)] and fibrinogen, were measured.

Results:  Thirty‐three patients (31%) had progressed by two scale steps or more in 2 years. The progression of NPDR was significantly associated with HbA1c [odds ratio (OR) 2.12; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.14–4.87], systolic blood pressure (OR 1.72; 95% CI 1.14–2.91), Lp(a) (OR 2.70; 95% CI 1.09–5.12) and fibrinogen (OR 1.68; 95% CI 1.03–3.08). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that HbA1c (OR 1.74; 95% CI 1.12–3.21) and Lp(a) level (OR 1.90; 95% CI 1.06–4.33) were significant and independent predictors of the progression of NPDR.

Conclusion:  These data suggest that serum Lp(a) level is an independent risk factor for the progression of NPDR in Type 2 diabetes patients. We recommend that further prospective validation of our findings be undertaken to confirm these observations.
Tubulointerstitial nephritis and uveitis (TINU) syndrome: a case report and review of the literature
Authors: Thomassen Veronica Holm , Ring Troels , Thaarup Jesper , Baggesen Kirsten
Published: August 2008

Purpose:  We aim to describe the first case of tubulointerstitial nephritis and uveitis (TINU) syndrome reported in Scandinavia and to underline the importance of the syndrome, which should be better known among ophthalmologists.

Methods:  We report an 11‐year‐old boy who was admitted to hospital because of general fatigue and weight loss. Blood tests showed renal insufficiency and a renal biopsy revealed acute tubulointerstitial nephritis. One week after admission the patient developed transitory blurred vision and flickering shadows in the left eye. Slit‐lamp examination revealed bilateral anterior non‐granulomatous uveitis and TINU syndrome was diagnosed.

Results:  Because of renal insufficiency the patient was treated with systemic prednisone 50 mg/day for 3 weeks. Evolution was favourable, and prednisone was tapered over 10 weeks. Uveitis was treated with topical steroid with good effect. The only complication after 18 months of follow‐up was transitory cushingoid aspect.

Conclusions:  Tubulointerstitial nephritis and uveitis syndrome is a rare syndrome that is probably underdiagnosed in clinical practice. Co‐operation between ophthalmologists and nephrologists/paediatricians is crucial for early diagnosis and instigation of treatment. Uveitis may occur before tubulointerstitial nephritis or the renal symptoms may be so mild that the patient is unaware of them. Therefore, ophthalmologists play an important role in the initial discovery of patients with TINU syndrome. Tubulointerstitial nephritis tends to be self‐limiting, whereas uveitis tends to relapse and recurrences tend to be more severe than the initial uveitis. Therefore, the patient must be ophthalmologically monitored very carefully.
A Nonsense Mutation in the
ERG6
Gene Leads to Reduced Susceptibility to Polyenes in a Clinical Isolate of
Candida glabrata
Authors: Vandeputte Patrick , Tronchin Guy , Larcher Gérald , Ernoult Emilie , Bergès Thierry , Chabasse Dominique , Bouchara Jean-Philippe
Published: August 2008

Unlike the molecular mechanisms that lead to azole drug resistance, the molecular mechanisms that lead to polyene resistance are poorly documented, especially in pathogenic yeasts. We investigated the molecular mechanisms responsible for the reduced susceptibility to polyenes of a clinical isolate of
Candida glabrata
. Sterol content was analyzed by gas-phase chromatography, and we determined the sequences and levels of expression of several genes involved in ergosterol biosynthesis. We also investigated the effects of the mutation harbored by this isolate on the morphology and ultrastructure of the cell, cell viability, and vitality and susceptibility to cell wall-perturbing agents. The isolate had a lower ergosterol content in its membranes than the wild type, and the lower ergosterol content was found to be associated with a nonsense mutation in the
ERG6
gene and induction of the ergosterol biosynthesis pathway. Modifications of the cell wall were also seen, accompanied by increased susceptibility to cell wall-perturbing agents. Finally, this mutation, which resulted in a marked fitness cost, was associated with a higher rate of cell mortality. Wild-type properties were restored by complementation of the isolate with a centromeric plasmid containing a wild-type copy of the
ERG6
gene. In conclusion, we have identified the molecular event responsible for decreased susceptibility to polyenes in a clinical isolate of
C. glabrata
. The nonsense mutation detected in the
ERG6
gene of this isolate led to a decrease in ergosterol content. This isolate may constitute a useful tool for analysis of the relevance of protein trafficking in the phenomena of azole resistance and pseudohyphal growth.
Population Structure Analysis of the
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Beijing Family Indicates an Association between Certain Sublineages and Multidrug Resistance
Authors: Iwamoto Tomotada , Yoshida Shiomi , Suzuki Katsuhiro , Wada Takayuki
Published: August 2008

Our population-based study of the
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Beijing family examined the frequency of occurrence of each sublineage of this family, classified by using 10 synonymous single-nucleotide polymorphisms. The results revealed the overabundance of two evolutionary sublineages in a population of multidrug-resistant and extensively drug-resistant tuberculosis bacteria.
Activities of Antifungal Agents against Yeasts and Filamentous Fungi: Assessment according to the Methodology of the European Committee on Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing
Authors: Lass-Flörl Cornelia , Mayr Astrid , Perkhofer Susanne , Hinterberger Guido , Hausdorfer Johann , Speth Cornelia , Fille Manfred
Published: August 2008

We compared the activities of antifungal agents against a wide range of yeasts and filamentous fungi. The methodology of the European Committee on Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing (EUCAST) for yeasts and spore-forming molds was applied; and a total of 349 clinical isolates of
Candida
spp., other yeast species,
Aspergillus
spp., and nondermatophyte non-
Aspergillus
spp. were investigated. The average geometric mean (GM) of the MICs of the various drugs for
Candida
spp. were as follows: amphotericin B (AMB), 0.55 μg/ml; liposomal amphotericin B (l-AMB); 0.35 μg/ml; itraconazole (ITC), 0.56 μg/ml; voriconazole (VRC), 0.45 μg/ml; posaconazole (POS), 0.44 μg/ml; and caspofungin (CPF), 0.45 μg/ml. The data indicated that the majority of
Candida
spp. were susceptible to the traditional and new antifungal drugs. For
Aspergillus
spp., the average GM MICs of AMB, l-AMB, ITC, VRC, POS, and CPF were 1.49 μg/ml, 1.44 μg/ml, 0.65 μg/ml, 0.34 μg/ml, 0.25 μg/ml, and 0.32 μg/ml, respectively. For the various zygomycetes, the average GM MICs of AMB, l-AMB, ITC, and POS were 1.36 μg/ml, 1.42 μg/ml, 4.37 μg/ml, and 1.65 μg/ml, respectively. Other yeastlike fungi and molds displayed various patterns of susceptibility. In general, the minimal fungicidal concentrations were 1 to 3 dilutions higher than the corresponding MICs. POS, AMB, and l-AMB showed activities against a broader range of fungi than ITC, VRC, and CPF did. Emerging pathogens such as
Saccharomyces cerevisiae
and
Fusarium solani
were not killed by any drug. In summary, the EUCAST data showed that the in vitro susceptibilities of yeasts and filamentous fungi are variable, that susceptibility occurs among and within various genera and species, and that susceptibility depends on the antifungal drug tested. AMB, l-AMB, and POS were active against the majority of pathogens, including species that cause rare and difficult-to-treat infections.
Enhanced Bactericidal Activity of Rifampin and/or Pyrazinamide When Combined with PA-824 in a Murine Model of Tuberculosis
Authors: Tasneen Rokeya , Tyagi Sandeep , Williams Kathy , Grosset Jacques , Nuermberger Eric
Published: August 2008

PA-824 is in phase II clinical testing to treat tuberculosis. At a dose of 100 mg/kg of body weight, it has demonstrated bactericidal activity during the initial and continuation phases of treatment in a murine model of tuberculosis. In a prior study, substitution of PA-824 for isoniazid in the first-line regimen of rifampin, isoniazid, and pyrazinamide resulted in significantly lower CFU counts at 2 months and shorter time to culture-negative conversion. However, the study design prevented a rigorous assessment of the relapse rate after completion of therapy. The current experiment was designed to assess (i) the extent of the beneficial effect of substituting PA-824 for isoniazid in the first-line regimen, (ii) the influence of the PA-824 dose on the same effect, and (iii) the activity of each one-, two-, and three-drug combination of rifampin, PA-824, and pyrazinamide. Mice were infected by the aerosol route and initiated on treatment 14 days later with more than 7 log
10
CFU per lung. Treatment with rifampin and pyrazinamide was more effective than treatment with rifampin, isoniazid, and pyrazinamide at reducing the lung CFU count, consistent with past evidence of isoniazid's antagonism in this model. The addition of PA-824 at 12.5 and 25 mg/kg/day did not increase the activity of rifampin plus pyrazinamide, but the addition of PA-824 at 50 and 100 mg/kg/day did increase the activity in a dose-dependent manner. The combination of rifampin, PA-824 (100 mg/kg), and pyrazinamide rendered all mice culture negative after 2 months of treatment and free of relapse after 4 months of treatment, while some mice receiving rifampin, isoniazid, and pyrazinamide remained culture positive and 15% relapsed after completing 4 months of treatment. The two-drug combination of PA-824 and pyrazinamide displayed synergistic activity that was equivalent to that of the standard first-line regimen. Together, these results support the evaluation of regimens based on the combination of rifampin, PA-824, and pyrazinamide in phase II clinical trials while demonstrating several potential pitfalls in the evaluation of new drug combinations in a murine model of tuberculosis.
Toll-Like Receptors: Insights into Their Possible Role in the Pathogenesis of Lyme Neuroborreliosis
Authors: Bernardino Andrea L. F. , Myers Tereance A. , Alvarez Xavier , Hasegawa Atsuhiko , Philipp Mario T.
Published: August 2008

Lyme neuroborreliosis is likely caused by inflammatory effects of the tick-borne spirocheteBorrelia burgdorferion the nervous system. Microglia, the resident macrophage cells within the central nervous system (CNS), are important in initiating an immune response to microbial products. In addition, astrocytes, the major CNS glial cell type, also can contribute to brain inflammation. TLRs (Toll-like receptors) are used by glial cells to recognize pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs), mediate innate responses, and initiate an acquired immune response. Here we hypothesize that because of their PAMP specificities, TLR1, -2, -5, and -9 may be involved in the pathogenesis of Lyme neuroborreliosis. Previous reports have shown that the rhesus monkey is the only animal model to exhibit signs of Lyme neuroborreliosis. Therefore, we used primary cultures of rhesus astrocytes and microglia to determine the role of TLRs in mediating proinflammatory responses toB. burgdorferi. The results indicate that microglia and astrocytes respond toB. burgdorferithrough TLR1/2 and TLR5. In addition, we observed that phagocytosis ofB. burgdorferiby microglia enhances not only the expression of TLR1, -2, and -5, but also that of TLR4. Taken together, our data provide proof of the concept that astrocyte and microglial TLR1, -2, and -5 are involved in the in vivo response of primate glial cells toB. burgdorferi. The proinflammatory molecules elicited by these TLR-mediated responses could be a significant factor in the pathogenesis of Lyme neuroborreliosis.
A Nasal Interleukin-12 DNA Vaccine CoexpressingYersinia pestisF1-V Fusion Protein Confers Protection against Pneumonic Plague
Authors: Yamanaka Hitoki , Hoyt Teri , Yang Xinghong , Golden Sarah , Bosio Catharine M. , Crist Kathryn , Becker Todd , Maddaloni Massimo , Pascual David W.
Published: August 2008

Previous studies have shown that mucosal application of interleukin-12 (IL-12) can stimulate elevated secretory immunoglobulin A (IgA) responses. Since possible exposure to plague is viaYersinia pestis-laden aerosols that results in pneumonic plague, arming both the mucosal and systemic immune systems may offer an added benefit for protective immunity. Two bicistronic plasmids were constructed that encoded the protective plague epitopes, capsular antigen (F1-Ag) and virulence antigen (V-Ag) as a F1-V fusion protein but differed in the amounts of IL-12 produced. When applied nasally, serum IgG and mucosal IgA anti-F1-Ag and anti-V-Ag titers were detectable beginning at week 6 after three weekly doses, and recombinant F1-Ag boosts were required to elevate the F1-Ag-specific antibody (Ab) titers. Following pneumonic challenge, the best efficacy was obtained in mice primed with IL-12(Low)/F1-V vaccine with 80% survival compared to mice immunized with IL-12(Low)/F1, IL-12(Low)/V, or IL-12(Low) vector DNA vaccines. Improved expression of IL-12 resulted in lost efficacy when using the IL-12(High)/F1-V DNA vaccine. Despite differences in the amount of IL-12 produced by the two F1-V DNA vaccines, Ab responses and Th cell responses to F1- and V-Ags were similar. These results show that IL-12 can be used as a molecular adjuvant to enhance protective immunity against pneumonic plague, but in a dose-dependent fashion.
ON THE EFFECT OF COUNTERFACE MATERIALS ON TRIBO-BEHAVIOR OF STEEL WIRE SLIDING UNDER DRY CONTACT CONDITION
Authors: CHEE SU BE , AL SHALABI AMMAR , YOUSIF B. F.
Published: August 2008

Steel wires are implemented in numerous systems and undergo frequent faults due to tribological loading conditions. Therefore, this paper presents a study on the tribological performance of steel wire sliding against different counterfaces, namely, aluminum alloy, stainless steel, and mild steel using a block-on-ring tribo-tester. According to common mechanisms, the tests were performed under 5 N applied load and 0.15 m/s sliding velocity under dry contact condition. Additionally, scanning electron microscopy was used to examine the damaged features on the worn surfaces of the steel wire. Weight loss and friction coefficient results were presented versus sliding distances (0–1.6 km). In general, the results showed that friction coefficient did not reach the steady state due to the transformation of the wear mechanism from adhesive to abrasive mode. Nevertheless, the average of friction coefficient was found to be about 0.7 ± 0.1 for stainless steel and 0.2 ± 0.1 for mild steel. Weight loss gradually increased with the increase of sliding distance. The micrographs of worn surfaces revealed that the contact mechanism was transformed from adhesive to abrasive wear mode as implied by the scars and grooves on the wire surface.
DEVELOPMENT OF A NOVEL DUAL TIME-OF-FLIGHT IMAGING MASS SPECTROMETER: PRINCIPAL, REALIZATION, AND OPTIMAL PERFORMANCE
Authors: SHUTTLEWORTH I. G.
Published: August 2008

A novel dual time-of-flight imaging analyzer has been developed for studies of gas phase reactions and the scattering or desorption of ions and molecules from surfaces. The analyzer is capable of experimentally selecting a two-dimensional slice of particles from a three-dimensional flux without the necessity for deconvolution of the resulting velocity images by the Abel transform. The analyzer operates through ionization of the scattered species and their subsequent flight through a field-free region. This initial flight allows a dispersion according to the species natural velocity distribution. The second time of flight deflects the ions through a right angle and through a flight tube allowing dispersion according to mass or charge before detection. The analyzer offers two modes of operation — the first of these produces a mass spectrum of the desorbing species, the second produces a two-dimensional velocity map of the desorbing species. Trial results using an effusive beam source and acetone as a test gas have demonstrated the operation of the analyzer. The operation of the analyzer has been simulated and optimized to reduce ion flight aberrations. A set of orthogonal two-dimensional polynomial functions have been derived to reduce residual aberrations across a broad range of operating conditions. An upper limit to the temporal resolution of the analyzer has been established and a set of working parameters for low distortion electron beam ionization have been presented.
ELECTRONIC AND STRUCTURAL PARAMETERS OF PHOSPHORUS–OXYGEN BONDS IN INORGANIC PHOSPHATE CRYSTALS
Authors: ATUCHIN V. V. , KESLER V. G. , PERVUKHINA N. V.
Published: August 2008

Wide set of experimental results on binding energy of photoelectrons emitted from P 2 p , P 2 s , and O 1 s core levels has been observed for inorganic phosphate crystals and the parameters were compared using energy differences Δ( O 1 s - P 2 p ) and Δ ( O 1 s - P 2 s ) as most robust characteristics. Linear dependence of the binding energy difference on mean chemical bond length L( P – O ) between phosphorus and oxygen atoms has been found. The functions are of the forms: Δ ( O 1 s - P 2 p ) ( eV ) = 375.54 + 0.146 · L( P – O ) ( pm ) and Δ ( O 1 s - P 2 s ) ( eV ) = 320.77 + 0.129 · L( P – O ) ( pm ). The dependencies are general for inorganic phosphates and may be used in quantitative component analysis of X-ray photoemission spectra of complex oxide compounds including functional groups with different coordination of P and O atoms.
EVALUATION OF THE PERFORMANCE OF ELECTROLESS Ni–B COATED BRASS CONTACTS UNDER FRETTING CONDITIONS
Authors: SANKARA NARAYANAN T. S. N. , PARK YOUNG WOO , LEE KANG YONG
Published: August 2008

The performance of electroless (EL) Ni – B coated brass contacts under fretting conditions was evaluated. The contact resistance of EL Ni – B coated brass contact was measured as a function of fretting cycles. The surface profile and wear depth of the fretted zone were measured using laser scanning microscope. The study reveals that EL Ni – B coated contacts exhibit better performance under fretting conditions. However, at conditions which are prone for severe oxidation such as, low frequency (3 Hz) or high temperature (155°C), EL Ni – B coated contacts fail to exhibit a better stability. The quick removal of the oxide film by fretting motion, rapid oxidation of the fresh metallic particles and trapping of the oxidation products in the remaining coating, cause the contact resistance to increase to unacceptable levels at such conditions. The study concludes that EL Ni – B coating is not a suitable choice for connector contacts that could experience fretting under highly oxidizing conditions.
CRACKING AND EXFOLIATION OF TiO2 FILM IRRADIATED WITH EXCIMER LASER
Authors: QIAN H. X. , ZHOU W. , ZHENG H. Y.
Published: August 2008

TiO 2 film deposited on glass was irradiated in air with single-shot KrF excimer laser pulse. The surface roughened as the result of the laser ablation. It is further noted that single-pulse irradiation with fluence ranging from 400 to 1200 mJ/cm2 gave rise to protrusion of the irradiated surface above the original surface, which is in contrast to usual expectation that irradiated surface is below the unirradiated surface. The surface protrusion is mainly attributed to the effect of surface tension. At the laser fluence of 1000 mJ/cm2, cracks were formed in the irradiated area and severe film exfoliation was observed at the periphery of the irradiated area due to the release of internal stress. With higher laser fluence above 1000 mJ/cm2, patches of film were observed to peel off within the irradiated areas. Hydrodynamic ablation is proposed to account for film exfoliation. The observed phenomenon is useful for further understanding how TiO 2 film reacts to strong UV laser irradiation.
EFFECTS OF THERMAL EXPANSION COEFFICIENT MISMATCH ON STRUCTURE AND ELECTRICAL PROPERTIES OF TiO2 FILM DEPOSITED ON Si SUBSTRATE
Authors: YANG CHEN , FAN HUIQING , QIU SHAOJUN , XI YINGXUE , CHEN JIN
Published: August 2008

Effects of thermal expansion coefficient (CTE) mismatch on structure and electrical properties of TiO 2 film deposited on Si substrate by ion beam assistant electron beam evaporation have been investigated. Because of a high CTE mismatch between TiO 2 film and Si substrate, microcracks appeared in the TiO 2 film deposited directly on Si substrate after the as-deposited film was annealed at 600°C. In order to decrease the CTE mismatch, TiO 2 film was deposited on Si substrate which was covered by a ZrO 2 thin layer. As a result, crack–free TiO 2 film after annealed at the same temperature was obtained. Meanwhile, corresponding to the crack–free structure, the TiO 2 thin film has more stable dielectric properties and excellent I–V characteristics.
FROM PLASTICS TO ADVANCED POLYMER IMPLANTS: THE ESSENTIALS OF POLYMER CHEMISTRY
Authors: LOO JOACHIM SAY CHYE
Published: August 2008

Man has been using plastics for thousands of years, and some of the earlier uses of plastics include spoons, buttons and combs. Today, plastics are used for a myriad of applications, such as for aerospace, microelectronics and water purification. With polymer chemistry, man has been able to alter the properties of plastics or polymers to suit almost any application. Their properties can also be tailored for use as advanced biomedical implants in the human body. An example of such a polymer is the biocompatible lactide/glycolide polyesters. These biodegradable polymers are currently used as sutures, drug delivery systems, temporary implants and even as scaffolds for tissue engineering.
SOLID-PHASE SYNTHESIS: FROM REVOLUTION TO EVOLUTION
Authors: BURKETT BRENDAN A.
Published: August 2008

Solid-phase synthesis is a technique of synthesizing compounds that was first reported by R. Bruce Merrifield in 1963. This revolutionary way of performing chemical synthesis has changed the face of synthesis — yet few people outside the halls of chemical research will ever hear about it. So, what is this technique and why is it useful? How has the technique of solid-phase synthesis changed the world? How has the solid-phase synthesis changed over time? This article aims to give a background of the area of solid-phase synthesis and answer these questions.
CHEMISTRY: HOW DOES IT SHAPE UP?
Authors: COX BRIAN
Published: August 2008

There is more to organic chemistry than the covalent bond. The design and synthesis of molecules, because of their particular architecture, are able to bind strongly target ions or molecules by utilizing lots of individually relatively weak non-covalent interactions has led to many novel and important applications. Examples include the transport of ions across biological membranes, the generation of unusual ionic species, such as sodium anions, the recovery of pure metals from mineral ores, and contrasting agents for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
TOWARDS THE SIEGEL RING IN GENUS FOUR
Authors: OURA MANABU , POOR CRIS , YUEN DAVID S.
Published: August 2008

Runge gave the ring of genus three Siegel modular forms as a quotient ring, R3/〈J(3)〉 where R3 is the genus three ring of code polynomials and J(3) is the difference of the weight enumerators for the e8 ⊕ e8 and [Formula: see text] codes. Freitag and Oura gave a degree 24 relation, [Formula: see text], of the corresponding ideal in genus four; where [Formula: see text] is also a linear combination of weight enumerators. We take another step towards the ring of Siegel modular forms in genus four. We explain new techniques for computing with Siegel modular forms and actually compute six new relations, classifying all relations through degree 32. We show that the local codimension of any irreducible component defined by these known relations is at least 3 and that the true ideal of relations in genus four is not a complete intersection. Also, we explain how to generate an infinite set of relations by symmetrizing first order theta identities and give one example in degree 32. We give the generating function of R5 and use it to reprove results of Nebe [25] and Salvati Manni [37].
BERNDT'S CURIOUS FORMULA
Authors: ALACA AYŞE , ALACA ŞABAN , WILLIAMS KENNETH S.
Published: August 2008

A curious arithmetic formula deduced by Berndt from an analytic formula of Ramanujan is proved arithmetically and used to prove the formulae given by Liouville for the number of representations of a positive integer by the forms x2 + y2 + z2 + t2 + 2u2 + 2v2 and x2 + y2 + 2z2 + 2t2 + 2u2 + 2v2.
ViSAGE
Authors: Baumes Jeffrey , Chen Hung-Ching (Justin) , Francisco Matthew , Goldberg Mark , Magdon-Ismail Malik , Wallace William
Published: August 2008

We present a modeling laboratory, Virtual Laboratory for the Simulation and Analysis of Social Group Evolution (ViSAGE), that views the organization of human communities and the experience of individuals in a community as contingent upon on the dynamic properties, or
micro-laws
, of social groups. The laboratory facilitates the theorization and validation of these properties through an iterative research processes that involves (1) forward simulation experiments, which are used to formalize dynamic group properties, (2) reverse engineering from real data on how the parameters are distributed among individual actors in the community, and (3) grounded research, such as participant observation, that follows specific activities of real actors in a community and determines if, or how well, the micro-laws describe the way choices are made in real world, local settings. In this article we report on the design of ViSAGE. We first give some background to the model. Next we detail each component. We then describe a set of simulation experiments that we used to further design and clarify ViSAGE as a tool for studying emergent properties/phenomena in social networks.