bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Golgi-associated GSK3β regulates the sorting process of post-Golgi membrane trafficking
Authors: Adachi Atsuhiro , Kano Fumi , Tsuboi Takashi , Fujita Morihisa , Maeda Yusuke , Murata Masayuki
Published: September 2010

Glycogen synthase kinase β (GSK3β) phosphorylates many substrates in mammalian cells, and functions in many physiological processes. We observed that GSK3β knockdown by siRNA perturbed both Golgi morphology in HeLa cells and the anterograde transport of cation-independent mannose 6-phosphate receptor (CI-M6PR) from the trans-Golgi network (TGN) to prelysosomal compartments (PLC), diverting it to the exocytic pathway. Moreover, we demonstrate that a portion of GSK3β was localized to the TGN through the Golgi peripheral protein p230 and that this localization regulated CLASP2 phosphorylation. Our results also show that GSK3β knockdown resulted in accumulation of CLASP2 at microtubule plus ends at the cell periphery. Our findings support the hypothesis that GSK3β at the TGN acts as a guide, activates exocytic transport, and redirects CI-M6PR from transport to the PLC into the exocytic pathway by regulating the affinity of CLASPs for microtubules.
Chemotaxis: insights from the extending pseudopod
Authors: Van Haastert Peter J. M.
Published: September 2010

Chemotaxis is one of the most fascinating processes in cell biology. Shallow gradients of chemoattractant direct the movement of cells, and an intricate network of signalling pathways somehow instructs the movement apparatus to induce pseudopods in the direction of these gradients. Exciting new experiments have approached chemotaxis from the perspective of the extending pseudopod. These recent studies have revealed that, in the absence of external cues, cells use endogenous signals for the highly ordered extension of pseudopods, which appear mainly as alternating right and left splits. In addition, chemoattractants activate other signalling molecules that induce a positional bias of this basal system, such that the extending pseudopods are oriented towards the gradient. In this Commentary, I review the findings of these recent experiments, which together provide a new view of cell movement and chemotaxis.
Behavioural observations of singly-housed grey short-tailed opossums (Monodelphis domestica) in standard and enriched environments
Authors: Wilkinson M , Stirton C , McConnachie A
Published: September 2010

The grey short-tailed opossum ( Monodelphis domestica) has been used in biomedical research for over three decades. It is normally housed in standard rat cages and appears to have adapted well to captivity. Owing to their aggressive behaviour towards each other, adult males are normally housed singly and may spend considerable periods of time in social isolation. We wanted to carry out a preliminary study on the behaviour of singly-housed male short-tailed opossums in two different settings: a standard rat cage and an enriched floor pen. Five male opossums aged between 10 and 12 weeks were housed for seven days at a time in the two settings and their behaviour was filmed during the dark phase. Recordings were carried out on the first and the last night of housing, from 19:00 to 07:00 h, and all behaviours quantified according to an ethogram. All five males in this study showed stereotypic behaviours while housed in standard rat cages, but no such behaviours were seen when the animals were in the floor pen. In both cases, but very especially in the pen, animals spent less time active as the week came to an end. Some activities such as sniffing the air, manipulating the nest and, especially, interacting with the floor tube occupied the animals' time in the cage considerably more than in the pen. Conversely, the opossums spent considerably more time walking when inside the floor pen than when they were in the cage. The general trend with other activities such as eating, drinking or grooming was one of more time being devoted to them inside the cage than inside the floor pen, but the differences did not approach statistical significance. These findings suggest that single housing of short-tailed opossums in standard rat caging is detrimental to their welfare.
Hallmarks of opium poisoning in infants and toddlers
Authors: Zamani Nasim , Sanaei-Zadeh Hossein , Mostafazadeh Babak
Published: September 2010

Accidental opium intoxication in children is an extremely dangerous poisoning if it remains undiagnosed and untreated. The classic triad of miosis, decreased level of consciousness and bradypnea, which are the hallmarks of opiate intoxication, are used for the diagnosis of opium poisoning in adults and children. Little attention has been paid to the signs of opium intoxication in children and no published study has explored the frequency of hallmarks of this type of poisoning in the paediatric population. We conducted a study in order to evaluate the prevalence of major signs of opium poisoning in infants and toddlers. In this study, a total of 228 infants and 82 toddlers who had been admitted to Loghman Hakim Hospital as a result of opium poisoning between 2001 and 2009 were evaluated, retrospectively.

The most usual sign of opium poisoning was miosis (90%) followed by a decreased level of consciousness (88.4%), bradypnea (28.4%) and seizure (10.3%). The prevalence of the triad of miosis, bradypnea and a decreased level of consciousness was 25.2%. Miosis in association with decreased level of consciousness was detected in 82.6% of our patients. Bradypnea was present in 74 infants and 14 toddlers, which shows a statistically significant difference ( P = 0.01). The mean age and weight of the patients with bradypnea were significantly less than those without bradypnea ( P = 0.008 and P = 0.0001, respectively). Bradypnea and seizure were significantly more common in females (36.7% versus 26%; P = 0.05 and 15.2% versus 6.5%; P = 0.01, respectively). Miosis in association with a decreased level of consciousness is the most useful indicator of opium poisoning in infants and toddlers. Furthermore, seizure is a more common feature of this type of poisoning in infants, especially in those who are less than 1 month old.
Inter‐Observer Agreement Among Medical Professionals in Critical Care of Neonates and Children
Authors: Tourgeman-Bashkin Osnat , Shinar David , Parmet Yisrael , Zmora Ehud
Published: September 2010

Inter‐observer agreement is essential to medical staff members and has a major effect on communication. The goal of the study was to examine the way medical professionals evaluate the potential severity of Almost Adverse Events (AAEs) that were observed in two intensive care units (ICUs). One hundred and fourteen AAEs were observed and recorded in both units by engineering students. Each AAE was rated independently by five senior medical staff members from each ICU, chosen by the unit manager, on a three‐ point severity level scale. Statistical analysis (K statistic and Cohen′s Kappa) yielded relatively low levels of agreement among raters in both ICUs (< 0.3), but significantly greater agreement was found among nurses than among physicians in both ICUs. Low levels of agreement are attributed to the nature of work and characteristics of each ICU. Recommendations for improving agreements including forming shared mental models are specified.
Predicting the Solution Time of Branch-and-Bound Algorithms for Mixed-Integer Programs
Authors: Özaltın Osman Y. , Hunsaker Brady , Schaefer Andrew J.
Published: September 2010

The most widely used progress measure for branch-and-bound (B&B) algorithms when solving mixed-integer programs (MIPs) is the MIP gap. We introduce a new progress measure that is often much smoother than the MIP gap. We propose a double exponential smoothing technique to predict the solution time of B&B algorithms and evaluate the prediction method using three MIP solvers. Our computational experiments show that accurate predictions of the solution time are possible, even in the early stages of B&B algorithms.
Leucovorin, Fluorouracil, and Oxaliplatin (FOLFOX) Regimens plus Bevacizumab for Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Waddell J. Aubrey , Solimando Dominic A.
Published: September 2010

The complexity of cancer chemotherapy requires pharmacists be familiar with the complicated regimens and highly toxic agents used. This column reviews various issues related to preparation, dispensing, and administration of antineoplastic therapy, and the agents, both commercially available and investigational, used to treat malignant diseases.
Advocacy for Pharmacy Directors: How to Promote Adherence to Advocacy Efforts
Authors: Little Jeffrey D. , Sesack Brian J. , Mark Scott M.
Published: September 2010

The Director's Forum series is edited by Robert Weber and Scott Mark and is designed to guide pharmacy leaders in establishing patient-centered services in hospitals and health systems. This month's article focuses on pharmacy advocacy, emphasizing how pharmacy directors can support and speak on behalf of the profession. Continuing to advocate for the role of pharmacists in hospitals and health systems will help provide valuable information for stakeholders in supporting resources for expanded patient-centered pharmacy services.
Development of Cephradine-Induced Acquired Factor V Inhibitors: A Case Report
Authors: Wu Men-Tai , Pei Sung-Nan
Published: September 2010

Objective:

To report a case of cephalosporin-induced factor V inhibitor development, an uncommon but potentially fatal condition characterized by severe hemorrhage.

Case Summary:

A 71-year-old Chinese man presented with factor V inhibitors after a 7-day cephradine course for a urinary tract infection, characterized by abnormal prothrombin time (PT) and activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), gross hematuria, upper gastrointestinal bleeding, and left groin hematoma. Systemic corticosteroid administration restored his factor V activity levels, PT, and aPTT to within normal limits, and hemorrhagic symptoms resolved. Three weeks after successful treatment of bleeding diathesis, he received another 8-day cephradine course for cellulitis. After another 4 weeks, he suffered from recurrent factor V inhibitors presented with abnormal PT, aPTT, and upper gastrointestinal bleeding. The patient eventually died due to hemorrhagic shock despite a second course of corticosteroids.

Discussion:

Cephalosporins are known to cause coagulopathy via hypoprothrombinemia. Another pathway seldom mentioned in the literature is factor V inhibitor induction, which may result in factor V deficiency. In our patient, factor V deficiency due to inhibitors developed each time that the patient received repeated cephradine treatment. According to the Naranjo probability scale, the relation between the formation of factor V inhibitors and cephradine treatment was probable.

Conclusions:

Because cephalosporins are commonly used for their wide therapeutic index and few adverse effects, iatrogenic complications associated with these drugs may be neglected or underdiagnosed. On the basis of our patient's report, careful review of medical records to avoid reexposure to the offending drug cannot be overemphasized.
Determination of Total Homocysteine, Methylmalonic Acid, and 2-Methylcitric Acid in Dried Blood Spots by Tandem Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Turgeon Coleman T , Magera Mark J , Cuthbert Carla D , Loken Perry R , Gavrilov Dimitar K , Tortorelli Silvia , Raymond Kimiyo M , Oglesbee Devin , Rinaldo Piero , Matern Dietrich
Published: September 2010

BACKGROUND

Newborn screening (NBS) for inborn errors of propionate, methionine, and cobalamin metabolism relies on finding abnormal concentrations of methionine and propionylcarnitine. These analytes are not specific for these conditions and lead to frequent false-positive results. More specific markers are total homocysteine (tHCY), methylmalonic acid (MMA), and methylcitric acid (MCA), but these markers are not detected by current NBS methods. To improve this situation, we developed a method for the detection of tHCY, MMA, and MCA in dried blood spots (DBSs) by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS).

METHODS

The analytes were extracted from a single 4.8-mm DBS punch with acetonitrile:water:formic acid (59:41:0.42) containing dithiothreitol and isotopically labeled standards (d3-MMA, d3-MCA, d8-homocystine). The extract was dried and treated with 3 N HCl in n-butanol to form butylesters. After evaporation of the butanol, the residue was reconstituted and centrifuged and the supernatant was subjected to LC-MS/MS analysis. Algorithms were developed to apply this method as an efficient and effective second-tier assay on samples with abnormal results by primary screening.

RESULTS

The 99th percentiles determined from the analysis of 200 control DBSs for MMA, MCA, and HCY were 1.5, 0.5, and 9.8 μmol/L, respectively. Since 2005, prospective application of this second-tier analysis to 2.3% of all NBS samples led to the identification of 13 affected infants.

CONCLUSIONS

Application of this assay reduced the false-positive rate and improved the positive predictive value of NBS for conditions associated with abnormal propionylcarnitine and methionine concentrations.
Measurement of internal stress in Radiata pine sapwood during drying using an improved online sensor
Authors: Ferrari Silvia , Pearson Hamish , Allegretti Ottaviano , Gabbitas Brian
Published: September 2010

Internal stress in wood as a result of kiln drying is an important factor that affects the quality of the final product. Internal stress is inherently difficult to measure and it is usually either assessed through destructive sample evaluation after drying, or is predictively modelled using extensive material property relations which require much effort to obtain. This study describes improvements of the design, accuracy, and precision of a previously constructed stress sensor for the direct measurement of internal stress in wood during drying. The sensor is designed to be placed directly into a wood block and it records online internal uniaxial stress. Lurethane® was found to be the best material for transmitting internal stress to the sensor because reduced creep was observed, compared with Teflon® which was originally used. Stress modelling showed that a linear relation could be theoretically obtained between the stress from the sensor and the actual primary axis stress that is likely to occur in an intact wood block. Accordingly, the response of a sensor placed in a certain area could be successfully calibrated. However, rotation of the sensor away from the primary stress axis caused a decrease in recorded stress but did not affect stress trends during drying, provided the angle remained constant. Finally, stress results from drying Pinus radiata D. Don at 70°C are also described and discussed.
Improvement of glued-in-rod joint system using compressed wooden dowel
Authors: Jung Kiho , Murakami Satoru , Kitamori Akihisa , Chang Wen-Shao , Komatsu Kohei
Published: September 2010

The purpose of this study was to develop eco-friendly and high-performance glued-in-rod (GIR) joints using compressed wood (CW), which has higher tensile strength than normal hardwood, instead of conventional wooden dowels. To explore the bonding performance of the dowel and base material, punching shear tests were performed and relationships were established between the density of CW dowel and punching characteristics. Pull-out tests of GIR joints were performed and results were compared with those derived from a mechanical model to evaluate the influence of insertion length of dowel and to define its optimized length. The results indicate that CW dowel has almost the same bonding performance in the density range 330–1000 kg m-3. Hence, CW as a dowel material in GIR joints has a high application potential. Pull-out tests of GIR joints showed that the insertion length of dowel in GIR joints with the CW-67 dowel is the best if the length is 10 times larger than its diameter. In addition to its satisfactory bonding performance, CW dowels have excellent tensile characteristics.
Distinct Presynaptic and Postsynaptic Dismantling Processes ofDrosophilaNeuromuscular Junctions during Metamorphosis
Authors: Liu Zhiwei , Chen Yan , Wang Dan , Wang Songyan , Zhang Yong Q.
Published: September 2010

Synapse remodeling is a widespread and fundamental process that underlies the formation of neuronal circuitry during development and in adaptation to physiological and/or environmental changes. However, the mechanisms of synapse remodeling are poorly understood. Synapses at the neuromuscular junction (NMJ) inDrosophilalarvae undergo dramatic and extensive remodeling during metamorphosis to generate adult-specific synapses. To explore the molecular and cellular processes of synapse elimination, we performed confocal microscopy, live imaging, and electron microscopy (EM) of NMJ synapses during the early stages of metamorphosis inDrosophilain which the expressions of selected genes were genetically altered. We report that the localization of the postsynaptic scaffold protein Disc large (Dlg) becomes diffuse first and then undetectable, as larval muscles undergo histolysis, whereas presynaptic vesicles aggregate and are retrogradely transported along axons in synchrony with the formation of filopodia-like structures along NMJ elaborations and retraction of the presynaptic plasma membrane. EM revealed that the postsynaptic subsynaptic reticulum vacuolizes in the early stages of synapse dismantling concomitant with diffuse localization of Dlg. Ecdysone is the major hormone that drives metamorphosis. Blockade of the ecdysone signaling specifically in presynaptic neurons by expression of a dominant-negative form of ecdysone receptors delayed presynaptic but not postsynaptic dismantling. However, inhibition of ecdysone signaling, as well as ubiquitination pathway or apoptosis specifically in postsynaptic muscles, arrested both presynaptic and postsynaptic dismantling. These results demonstrate that presynaptic and postsynaptic dismantling takes place through different mechanisms and that the postsynaptic side plays an instructive role in synapse dismantling.
Population Coding of Interaural Time Differences in Gerbils and Barn Owls
Authors: Lesica Nicholas A. , Lingner Andrea , Grothe Benedikt
Published: September 2010

Interaural time differences (ITDs) are the primary cue for the localization of low-frequency sound sources in the azimuthal plane. For decades, it was assumed that the coding of ITDs in the mammalian brain was similar to that in the avian brain, where information is sparsely distributed across individual neurons, but recent studies have suggested otherwise. In this study, we characterized the representation of ITDs in adult male and female gerbils. First, we performed behavioral experiments to determine the acuity with which gerbils can use ITDs to localize sounds. Next, we used different decoders to infer ITDs from the activity of a population of neurons in central nucleus of the inferior colliculus. These results show that ITDs are not represented in a distributed manner, but rather in the summed activity of the entire population. To contrast these results with those from a population where the representation of ITDs is known to be sparsely distributed, we performed the same analysis on activity from the external nucleus of the inferior colliculus of adult male and female barn owls. Together, our results support the idea that, unlike the avian brain, the mammalian brain represents ITDs in the overall activity of a homogenous population of neurons within each hemisphere.
Experience-Dependent Development of Coordinated Hippocampal Spatial Activity Representing the Similarity of Related Locations
Authors: Singer Annabelle C. , Karlsson Mattias P. , Nathe Ana R. , Carr Margaret F. , Frank Loren M.
Published: September 2010

To learn we must identify and remember experiences uniquely but also generalize across experiences to extract common features. Hippocampal place cells can show similar firing patterns across locations, but the functional significance of this repetitive activity and the role of experience and learning in generating it are not understood. We therefore examined rat hippocampal place cell activity in the context of spatial tasks with multiple similar spatial trajectories. We found that, in environments with repeating elements, about half of the recorded place cells showed path-equivalent firing, where individual neurons are active in multiple similar locations. In contrast, place cells from animals performing a similar task in an environment with fewer similar elements were less likely to fire in a path-equivalent manner. Moreover, in the environment with multiple repeating elements, path equivalence developed with experience in the task, and increased path equivalence was associated with increased moment-by-moment correlations between pairs of path-equivalent neurons. As a result, correlated firing among path-equivalent neurons increased with experience. These findings suggest that coordinated hippocampal ensembles can encode generalizations across locations. Thus, path-equivalent ensembles are well suited to encode similarities among repeating elements, providing a framework for associating specific behaviors with multiple locations, while neurons without this repetitive structure maintain a distinct population code.
Long-Term Potentiation-Dependent Spine Enlargement Requires Synaptic Ca2+-Permeable AMPA Receptors Recruited by CaM-Kinase I
Authors: Fortin Dale A. , Davare Monika A. , Srivastava Taasin , Brady James D. , Nygaard Sean , Derkach Victor A. , Soderling Thomas R.
Published: September 2010

It is well established that long-term potentiation (LTP), a paradigm for learning and memory, results in a stable enlargement of potentiated spines associated with recruitment of additional GluA1-containing AMPA receptors (AMPARs). Although regulation of the actin cytoskeleton is involved, the detailed signaling mechanisms responsible for this spine expansion are unclear. Here, we used cultured mature hippocampal neurons stimulated with a glycine-induced, synapse-specific form of chemical LTP (GI-LTP). We report that the stable structural plasticity (i.e., spine head enlargement and spine length shortening) that accompanies GI-LTP was blocked by inhibitors of NMDA receptors (NMDARs; APV) or CaM-kinase kinase (STO-609), the upstream activator of CaM-kinase I (CaMKI), as well as by transfection with dominant-negative (dn) CaMKI but not dnCaMKIV. Recruitment of GluA1 to the spine surface occurred after GI-LTP and was mimicked by transfection with constitutively active CaMKI. Spine enlargement induced by transfection of GluA1 was associated with synaptic recruitment of Ca2+-permeable AMPARs (CP-AMPARs) as assessed by an increase in the rectification index of miniature EPSCs (mEPSCs) and their sensitivity to IEM-1460, a selective antagonist of CP-AMPARs. Furthermore, the increase in spine size and mEPSC amplitude resulting from GI-LTP itself was blocked by IEM-1460, demonstrating involvement of CP-AMPARs. Downstream signaling effectors of CP-AMPARs, identified by suppression of their activation by IEM-1460, included the Rac/PAK/LIM-kinase pathway that regulates spine actin dynamics. Together, our results suggest that synaptic recruitment of CP-AMPARs via CaMKI may provide a mechanistic link between NMDAR activation in LTP and regulation of a signaling pathway that drives spine enlargement via actin polymerization.
Associative Plasticity at Excitatory Synapses Facilitates Recruitment of Fast-Spiking Interneurons in the Dentate Gyrus
Authors: Sambandan Sivakumar , Sauer Jonas-Frederic , Vida Imre , Bartos Marlene
Published: September 2010

Fast-spiking perisomatic-inhibitory interneurons (PIIs) receive convergent excitation and mediate both feedforward and feedback inhibition in cortical microcircuits. However, it remains poorly understood how convergent excitatory inputs recruit PIIs to produce precisely timed inhibition. Here, we analyzed the interaction of inputs from the entorhinal cortex [perforant path (PP)] and from local granule cells [mossy fibers (MFs)] onto PIIs in the rat dentate gyrus (DG). PP stimulation alone activates PIIs with low temporal precision. Interestingly, when PP and MFs are coactivated with a 10 ms delay, PIIs discharge with precise timing. Moreover, repeated coactivation of the two inputs induces associative long-term potentiation (LTP) at MF synapses. Under these conditions, a single potentiated MF input is sufficient to recruit PIIs in a reliable and highly precise manner to provide feedback inhibition. MF-LTP depends on the discharge of PIIs, indicating Hebbian plasticity. However, MF-LTP is preserved when NMDA receptors are blocked but depends on transmission through Ca2+-permeable AMPA receptors (AMPARs). PP–PII synapses, in contrast, lack Ca2+-permeable AMPARs and do not show plasticity on associative activation. Thus, precise recruitment of PIIs requires excitation through MF–PII synapses during feedforward activation. We propose that associative plasticity at these synapses is a central mechanism that adjusts inhibition levels to maintain sparse activity and to improve signal-to-noise ratio in the DG network.
A Deliberative Approach to the Tibet Autonomy Issue: Promoting Mutual Trust through Dialogue
Authors: He Baogang
Published: September 2010

This paper reviews and compares three deliberative approaches to conflict, and applies the deliberative approach to the Tibet issue. It examines the case of a deliberative workshop, its achievements and limits. Deliberative dialogue appears to have improved knowledge and mutual understanding, enhanced mutual trust and deliberative capacities, and produced moderating effects.
China's Rise in Antarctica?
Authors: Brady Anne-Marie
Published: September 2010

China has begun a new phase in its Antarctic engagement. Beijing has dramatically increased Chinese scientific activities on the frozen continent and is looking to take on more of a leadership role there. This paper draws connections between China's expanded Antarctic program and debates on its foreign and domestic policies.
Skeletal sexual dimorphism: relative contribution of sex steroids, GH–IGF1, and mechanical loading
Authors: Callewaert Filip , Sinnesael Mieke , Gielen Evelien , Boonen Steven , Vanderschueren Dirk
Published: September 2010

Structural gender differences in bone mass – characterized by wider but not thicker bones – are generally attributed to opposing sex steroid actions in men and women. Recent findings have redefined the traditional concept of sex hormones as the main regulators of skeletal sexual dimorphism. GH–IGF1 action is likely to be the most important determinant of sex differences in bone mass. Estrogens limit periosteal bone expansion but stimulate endosteal bone apposition in females, whereas androgens stimulate radial bone expansion in males. Androgens not only act directly on bone through the androgen receptor (AR) but also activate estrogen receptor-α or -β (ERα or ERβ) following aromatization into estrogens. Both the AR and ERα pathways are needed to optimize radial cortical bone expansion, whereas AR signaling alone is the dominant pathway for normal male trabecular bone development. Estrogen/ERα-mediated effects in males may – at least partly – depend on interaction with IGF1. In addition, sex hormones and their receptors have an impact on the mechanical sensitivity of the growing skeleton. AR and ERβ signaling may limit the osteogenic response to loading in males and females respectively, while ERα may stimulate the response of bone to mechanical stimulation in the female skeleton. Overall, current evidence suggests that skeletal sexual dimorphism is not just the end result of differences in sex steroid secretion between the sexes, but depends on gender differences in GH–IGF1 and mechanical sensitivity to loading as well.
ACQUISITION OF INTRAVERBAL BEHAVIOR: TEACHING CHILDREN WITH AUTISM TO MAND FOR ANSWERS TO QUESTIONS
Authors: Ingvarsson Einar T. , Hollobaugh Tatia
Published: September 2010

Four boys with autism were taught via echoic prompting and constant prompt delay to mand for answers to questions by saying “I don't know please tell me” (IDKPTM). This intervention resulted in acquisition of the IDKPTM response for all 4 participants and in acquisition of correct answers to most of the previously unknown questions for 2 participants. For 1 participant, tangible reinforcement resulted in increased frequency of correct answers, and direct prompting of correct answers was eventually conducted for the final participant. The IDKPTM response generalized to untargeted unknown questions with 3 participants. Results of person and setting generalization probes varied, but some generalization eventually occurred for all participants following additional training or interspersal of probe trials with training trials.
ABOLISHING AND ESTABLISHING OPERATION ANALYSES OF SOCIAL ATTENTION AS POSITIVE REINFORCEMENT FOR PROBLEM BEHAVIOR
Authors: McGinnis Molly A. , Houchins‐Juárez Nealetta , McDaniel Jill L. , Kennedy Craig H.
Published: September 2010

Three participants whose problem behavior was maintained by contingent attention were exposed to 45‐min presessions in which attention was withheld, provided on a fixed‐time (FT) 15‐s schedule, or provided on an FT 120‐s schedule. Following each presession, participants were then tested in a 15‐min session similar to the social attention condition of an analogue functional analysis. The results showed establishing operation conditions increased problem behavior during tests and that abolishing operation conditions decreased problem behavior during tests.
RECENT STUDIES ON FEEDING PROBLEMS IN CHILDREN WITH AUTISM
Authors: Volkert Valerie M. , Vaz Petula C. M.
Published: September 2010

This paper reviews recent studies on behavioral interventions for children with autism and feeding problems. The applicability of interventions that have been tested with other populations of children with feeding problems is discussed, as well as directions for future research.
COOPER, HERON, AND HEWARD'S APPLIED BEHAVIOR ANALYSIS (2ND ED.): CHECKERED FLAG FOR STUDENTS AND PROFESSORS, YELLOW FLAG FOR THE FIELD
Authors: Friman Patrick C.
Published: September 2010

At last, the field of applied behavior analysis has a beautifully crafted, true textbook that can proudly stand cover to cover and spine to spine beside any of the expensive, imposing, and ornately designed textbooks used by college instructors who teach courses in conventional areas of education or psychology. In this review, I fully laud this development, credit Cooper, Heron, and Heward for making it happen, argue that it signifies a checkered flag for students and professors, and recommend the book for classes in applied behavior analysis everywhere. Subsequently, I review its chapters, each of which could easily stand alone as publications in their own right. Finally, I supply a cautionary note, a yellow flag to accompany the well‐earned checkered flag, by pointing out that, as is true with all general textbooks on applied behavior analysis, a major portion of the references involves research on persons who occupy only a tail of the normal distribution. To attain the mainstream role Skinner envisioned and most (if not all) behavior analysts desire, the field will have to increase its focus on persons who reside under the dome of that distribution.
DESCRIPTIVE ANALYSES OF PEDIATRIC FOOD REFUSAL AND ACCEPTANCE
Authors: Borrero Carrie S. W. , Woods Julia N. , Borrero John C. , Masler Elizabeth A. , Lesser Aaron D.
Published: September 2010

Functional analyses of inappropriate mealtime behavior typically include conditions to determine if the contingent delivery of attention, tangible items, or escape reinforce food refusal. In the current investigation, descriptive analyses were conducted for 25 children who had been admitted to a program for the assessment and treatment of food refusal to determine if the consequences commonly delivered during functional analyses were observed during parent‐conducted meals. The conditional probabilities for the delivery of attention, tangible items, and escape following food refusal and acceptance were compared to the unconditional probabilities of each event. Results showed that attention and escape most frequently followed refusal and differed depending on the topography of refusal. Implications for further evaluations of food refusal using similar methods are discussed.
Biomechanical Evaluation of Subcrestal Placement of Dental Implants: In Vitro and Numerical Analyses
Authors: Chu Chun‐Ming , Hsu Jui‐Ting , Fuh Lih‐Jyh , Huang Heng‐Li
Published: September 2010

Background: This study investigates the effect of depth of insertion in subcrestal cortical bone (SB) and thickness of connected cortical bone (CB) for a subcrestal implant placement on bone stress and strain using statistical analyses combined with experimental strain‐gauge tests and numerical finite element (FE) simulations.

Methods: Three experimental, artificial jawbone models and 72 FE models were prepared for evaluation of bone strain and stress around various equicrestal and subcrestal implants. For in vitro tests, rosette strain gauges were used with a data acquisition system to measure bone strain on the bucco‐lingual side. The maximum von Mises stresses in the bone were statistically analyzed by analysis of variance for FE models.

Results: The experimental bone strains reduced significantly (22% to 49%) as the thickness of CB increased. FE analyses indicated that the suggested CB thickness for efficiently minimizing bone stress was 0.5 to 2.5 mm. The results for the depth of SB were not absolute because obvious stress reductions only presented at a certain range of depth (0.6 to 1.2 mm).

Conclusion: Within the limitations of this study, increasing the thickness of CB and maintaining the depth of SB within a limited range can provide the benefit of decreasing the stress and strain in surrounding bone for subcrestally placed implants.
One‐Year Effects of Vitamin D and Calcium Supplementation on Chronic Periodontitis
Authors: Garcia M. Nathalia , Hildebolt Charles F. , Miley D. Douglas , Dixon Debra A. , Couture Rex A. , Anderson Spearie Catherine L. , Langenwalter Eric M. , Shannon William D. , Deych Elena , Mueller Cheryl , Civitelli Roberto
Published: September 2010

Background:A previous study reported by this group found that patients in periodontal maintenance programs taking vitamin D and calcium supplementation had a trend for better periodontal health compared to patients not taking supplementation. The objective of the present study is to determine, for the same cohort of subjects, whether such differences persist over a 1‐year period.

Methods:Fifty‐one patients enrolled in maintenance programs from two dental clinics were recruited. Of these, 23 were taking vitamin D (≥400 IU/day) and calcium (≥1,000 mg/day) supplementation, and 28 were not. All subjects had at least two interproximal sites with ≥3 mm clinical attachment loss. For mandibular‐posterior teeth, gingival index, plaque index, probing depth, attachment loss, bleeding on probing, calculus index, and furcation involvement were evaluated. Photostimulable‐phosphor, posterior bitewing radiographs were taken to assess alveolar bone. Daily vitamin D and calcium intakes were estimated by nutritional analysis. Data were collected at baseline, 6 months, and 12 months.

Results:Total daily calcium and vitamin D intakes were 1,769 mg (95% confidence interval, 1,606 to 1,933) and 1,049 IU (781 to 1,317) in the taker group, and 642 mg (505 to 779) and 156 IU (117 to 195) in the non‐taker group, respectively (P<0.001 for both). Clinical parameters of periodontal health improved with time in both groups (P<0.001). When clinical measures were considered collectively, the differences between supplement takers and non‐takers had the followingPvalues: baseline (P= 0.061); 6 months (P= 0.049); and 12 months (P= 0.114). After adjusting for covariates, thePvalues for the effect of supplementation were as follows: baseline (P= 0.028); 6 months (P= 0.034); and 12 months (P= 0.058).

Conclusions:Calcium and vitamin D supplementation (≤1,000 IU/day) had a modest positive effect on periodontal health, and consistent dental care improved clinical parameters of periodontal disease regardless of such supplements. Our findings support the possibility that vitamin D may positively impact periodontal health and confirm the need for randomized clinical trials on the effects of vitamin D on periodontitis.
Influence of nanofiltration pretreatment on scale deposition in multi-stage flash thermal desalination plants
Authors: Al-Rawajfeh Aiman
Published: September 2010

Scale formation represents a major operational problem encountered in thermal
desalination plants. In current installed plants, and to allow for a
reasonable safety margin, sulfate scale deposition limits the top brine
temperature (TBT) in multi-stage flash (MSF) distillers up to 110-112?C. This
has significant effect on the unit capital, operational and water production
cost. In this work, the influence of nanofiltration (NF) pretreatment on the
scale deposition potential and increasing TBT in MSF thermal desalination
plants is modeled on the basis of mass transfer with chemical reaction of
solutes in the brine. Full and partial NF-pretreatment of the feed water were
investigated. TBT can be increased in MSF by increasing the percentage of
NF-treated feed. Full NF pretreatment of the make-up allows TBT in the MSF
plant to be raised up to 175?C in the case of di hybrid NF-MSF and up to
165?C in the case of tri hybrid NF-RO-MSF. The significant scale reduction is
associated with increasing flashing range, unit recovery, unit performance,
and will lead to reduction in heat transfer surface area, pumping power and
therefore, water production cost.
Determining the optimum orientation of a greenhouse on the basis of the total solar radiation availability
Authors: Dragicevic Snezana
Published: September 2010

This paper presents an approach to determining the optimum orientation of a
greenhouse for year round applications for different climatic conditions. The
most commonly used uneven-span single shape of greenhouse in east-west and
north-south orientation have been selected for comparison. Total solar
radiation input to each wall, included surfaces and roofs, is computed for
both solar greenhouse orientation and compared for each month of the year at
different latitudes at the northern hemisphere. Experimental validation is
carried out for the measured global solar radiation data for horizontal
surface and south wall at (44?N and 20?E), Belgrade, Serbia. The predicted
and measured values are in close agreement. Results shows that east-west
orientation of uneven-span solar greenhouse is the best suited during each
months for all analyzed latitudes.
Experimental analysis of Scheffler reflector water heater
Authors: Patil Rupesh , Awari Gajanan , Singh Mahendra
Published: September 2010

The performance of Scheffler reflector has been studied. In this system
storage reservoir was installed at Focus point. It has a single large
diameter drum which serves the dual purpose of absorber tube and storage
tank. The drum is sized to have a storage capacity of 20 liter for
experiment. The tests were carried out with this set up and were repeated for
several days. Performance analysis of the collector has revealed that the
average power and efficiency in terms of water boiling test to be 1.30
kilowatts and 21.61 % respectively against an average value of beam
radiations of 742[Wm-2]. The maximum water temperature in the storage tank of
98?C has been achieved on a clear day operation and ambient temperature
between 28?C to 31?C.
Fewer Major Amputations Among Individuals With Diabetes in Finland in 1997–2007
Authors: Ikonen Tuija S. , Sund Reijo , Venermo Maarit , Winell Klas
Published: September 2010

OBJECTIVE

Complications occur in diabetes despite rigorous efforts to control risk factors. Since 2000, the National Development Programme for the Prevention and Care of Diabetes has worked to halve the incidence of amputations in 10 years. Here we evaluate the impact of the efforts undertaken by analyzing the major amputations done in 1997–2007.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

All individuals with diabetes (n = 396,317) were identified from comprehensive national databases. Data on the first major amputations (n = 9,481) performed for diabetic and nondiabetic individuals were obtained from the National Hospital Discharge Register.

RESULTS

The relative risk for the first major amputation was 7.4 (95% CI 7.2–7.7) among the diabetic versus the nondiabetic population. The standardized incidence of the first major amputation decreased among the diabetic and nondiabetic populations (48.8 and 25.2% relative risk reduction, respectively) over 11 years, and the time from the registration of diabetes to the first major amputation was significantly longer, on average 1.2 years more. The cumulative five-year postamputation mortality among diabetic individuals was 78.7%.

CONCLUSIONS

In our nationwide diabetes database, the duration from the registration of diabetes to the first major amputation increased, and the incidence of major amputations decreased almost 50% in 11 years. Approximately half of this change was due to the increasing size of the diabetic population. The risk for major amputation is more than sevenfold that among the nondiabetic population. These results pose a continuous challenge to improve diabetes care.
Three-dimensional biomechanics of simulated laryngeal abduction in horses
Authors: Perkins Justin D. , Raffetto Jennifer , Thompson Carl , Weller Renate , Piercy Richard J. , Pfau Thilo
Published: September 2010

Objective—To investigate the influence of simulated contraction of the cricoarytenoideus dorsalis (CAD) muscle on the 3-D motion of the arytenoid cartilage.

Sample Population—5 larynges from equine cadavers.

Procedures—Serial computed tomographic scans of each larynx were conducted at 7 incremental forces simulating contraction of medial, lateral, and combined bellies of the left CAD muscle. Three-dimensional reconstruction of radiopaque markers placed at anatomic landmarks on the left arytenoid and cricoid cartilages enabled quantification of marker displacement according to a Cartesian coordinate system. Rotation (roll, pitch, and yaw) of dorsal and ventral arytenoid planes was calculated relative to a plane formed by the coordinates of 3 markers on the cricoid cartilage by use of Euler angles.

Results—Displacement and rotational data showed that rocking motion occurs throughout arytenoid abduction and most of the rotational component is attributable to pitch; greater pitch was associated with action of the lateral belly. Roll of the ventral arytenoid plane was principally associated with action of the medial belly, which counteracted the tendency of the arytenoid cartilage to rotate medially into the rima glottidis lumen. The distance between markers on the arytenoid cartilage was not constant during contraction because of slight deformation of the corniculate process of the arytenoid cartilage, therefore indicating that the arytenoid cartilage is not a rigid body during abduction.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Arytenoid cartilage abduction was dependent on the rocking motion elicited by the lateral belly of the CAD muscle; therefore, laryngoplasty suture placement should mimic the action of the lateral, rather than the medial, muscle belly. (Am J Vet Res 2010;71:1003–1010)
Comparison of the effects of tramadol, codeine, and ketoprofen alone or in combination on postoperative pain and on concentrations of blood glucose, serum cortisol, and serum interleukin-6 in dogs undergoing maxillectomy or mandibulectomy
Authors: Martins Teresinha L. , Kahvegian Márcia A. P. , Noel-Morgan Jessica , Leon-Román Marco A. , Otsuki Denise A. , Fantoni Denise T.
Published: September 2010

Objective—To compare analgesic effects of tramadol, codeine, and ketoprofen administered alone and in combination and their effects on concentrations of blood glucose, serum cortisol, and serum interleukin (IL)-6 in dogs undergoing maxillectomy or mandibulectomy.

Animals—42 dogs with oral neoplasms.

Procedures—30 minutes before the end of surgery, dogs received SC injections of tramadol (2 mg/kg), codeine (2 mg/kg), ketoprofen (2 mg/kg), tramadol + ketoprofen, or codeine + ketoprofen (at the aforementioned dosages). Physiologic variables, analgesia, and sedation were measured before (baseline) and 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 24 hours after surgery. Blood glucose, serum cortisol, and serum IL-6 concentrations were measured 1, 3, 5, and 24 hours after administration of analgesics.

Results—All treatments provided adequate postoperative analgesia. Significant increases in mean ± SD blood glucose concentrations were detected in dogs receiving tramadol (96 ± 14 mg/dL), codeine (120 ± 66 mg/dL and 96 ± 21 mg/dL), ketoprofen (105 ± 22 mg/dL), and codeine + ketoprofen (104 ± 16 mg/dL) at 5, 1 and 3, 5, and 3 hours after analgesic administration, respectively, compared with preoperative (baseline) values. There were no significant changes in physiologic variables, serum IL-6 concentrations, or serum cortisol concentrations. Dogs administered codeine + ketoprofen had light but significant sedation at 4, 5, and 24 hours.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Opioids alone or in combination with an NSAID promoted analgesia without adverse effects during the 24-hour postoperative period in dogs undergoing maxillectomy or mandibulectomy for removal of oral neoplasms. (Am J Vet Res 2010;71:1019–1026)
Erythrocyte survival time in Greyhounds as assessed by use of in vivo biotinylation
Authors: Garon Catherine L. , Cohn Leah A. , Scott Michael A.
Published: September 2010

Objective—To determine erythrocyte survival time in Greyhounds.

Animals—6 Greyhounds used as blood donors and 3 privately owned non-Greyhound dogs.

Procedures—In vivo biotinylation of erythrocytes was performed by infusion of biotin—Nhydroxysuccinimide into each dog via a jugular vein catheter. Blood samples were collected 12 hours later and then at weekly intervals and were used to determine the percentage of biotin-labeled erythrocytes at each time point. Erythrocytes were washed, incubated with avidin—fluorescein isothiocyanate, and washed again before the percentage of biotinylated erythrocytes was measured by use of flow cytometry. Survival curves for the percentage of biotinylated erythrocytes were generated, and erythrocyte survival time was defined as the x-intercept of a least squares best-fit line for the linear portion of each curve.

Results—The R2 for survival curves ranged from 0.93 to 0.99 during the first 10 weeks after infusion of erythrocytes. Erythrocyte survival time for the 3 non-Greyhound dogs was 94, 98, and 116 days, respectively, which was consistent with previously reported values. Erythrocyte survival time for the 6 Greyhounds ranged from 83 to 110 days (mean, 93 days; median, 88 days). As determined by use of in vivo biotinylation, erythrocyte survival times in Greyhounds were similar to those determined for non-Greyhound dogs and did not differ significantly from erythrocyte survival times reported previously for non-Greyhound dogs.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Erythrocyte survival time was similar in Greyhounds and non-Greyhound dogs. Greyhounds can be used as erythrocyte donors without concerns about inherently shorter erythrocyte survival time. (Am J Vet Res 2010;71:1033–1038)