bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structured overlay for heterogeneous environments
Authors: Girdzijauskas Šarūnas , Datta Anwitaman , Aberer Karl
Published: February 2010

Recent years have seen advances in building large Internet-scale index structures, generally known as
structured overlays
. Early structured overlays realized distributed hash tables (DHTs) which are ill suited for anything but exact queries. The need to support range queries necessitates systems that can handle uneven load distributions. However such systems suffer from practical problems—including poor latency, disproportionate bandwidth usage at participating peers, or unrealistic assumptions on peers' homogeneity, in terms of available storage or bandwidth resources. In this article we consider a system that is not only able to support uneven load distributions but also to operate in heterogeneous environments, where each peer can autonomously decide how much of its resources to contribute to the system. We provide the theoretical foundations of realizing such a network and present a newly proposed system Oscar based on these principles. Oscar can construct efficient overlays given arbitrary load distributions by employing a novel scalable network sampling technique. The simulations of our system validate the theory and evaluate Oscar's performance under typical challenges, encountered in real-life large-scale networked systems, including participant heterogeneity, faults, and skewed and dynamic load-distributions. Thus the Oscar distributed index fills in an important gap in the family of structured overlays, bringing into life a practical Internet-scale index, which can play a crucial role in enabling data-oriented applications distributed over wide-area networks.
Telmisartan Prevents Weight Gain and Obesity Through Activation of Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor-δ–Dependent Pathways
Authors: He Hongbo , Yang Dachun , Ma Liqun , Luo Zhidan , Ma Shuangtao , Feng Xiaoli , Cao Tingbing , Yan Zhencheng , Liu Daoyan , Tepel Martin , Zhu Zhiming
Published: February 2010

Telmisartan shows antihypertensive and several pleiotropic effects that interact with metabolic pathways. In the present study we tested the hypothesis that telmisartan prevents adipogenesis in vitro and weight gain in vivo through activation of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)-δ–dependent pathways in several tissues. In vitro, telmisartan significantly upregulated PPAR-δ expression in 3T3-L1 preadipocytes in a time- and dose-dependent manner. Other than enhancing PPAR-δ expression by 68.2±17.3% and PPAR-δ activity by 102.0±9.0%, telmisartan also upregulated PPAR-γ expression, whereas neither candesartan nor losartan affected PPAR-δ expression. In vivo, long-term administration of telmisartan significantly reduced visceral fat and prevented high-fat diet-induced obesity in wild-type mice and hypertensive rats but not in PPAR-δ knockout mice. Administration of telmisartan did not influence food intake in mice. Telmisartan influenced several lipolytic and energy uncoupling related proteins (UCPs) and enhanced phosphorylated protein kinase A and hormone sensitive lipase but reduced perilipin expression and finally inhibited adipogenesis in 3T3-L1 preadipocytes. Telmisartan-associated reduction of adipogenesis in preadipocytes was significantly blocked after PPAR-δ gene knockout. Chronic telmisartan treatment upregulated the expressions of protein kinase A, hormone-sensitive lipase, and uncoupling protein 1 but reduced perilipin expression in adipose tissue and increased uncoupling protein 2 and 3 expression in skeletal muscle in wild-type mice but not in PPAR-δ knockout mice. We conclude that telmisartan prevents adipogenesis and weight gain through activation of PPAR-δ–dependent lipolytic pathways and energy uncoupling in several tissues.
Nebivolol Improves Diastolic Dysfunction and Myocardial Remodeling Through Reductions in Oxidative Stress in the Zucker Obese Rat
Authors: Zhou Xinli , Ma Lixin , Habibi Javad , Whaley-Connell Adam , Hayden Melvin R. , Tilmon Roger D. , Brown Ashley N. , Kim Jeong-a , DeMarco Vincent G. , Sowers James R.
Published: February 2010

Insulin resistance is associated with obesity and may be accompanied by left ventricular diastolic dysfunction and myocardial remodeling. Decreased insulin metabolic signaling and increased oxidative stress may promote these maladaptive changes. In this context, the β-blocker nebivolol has been reported to improve insulin sensitivity, increase endothelial NO synthase activity, and reduce NADPH oxidase–induced superoxide generation. We hypothesized that nebivolol would attenuate diastolic dysfunction and myocardial remodeling by blunting myocardial oxidant stress and promoting insulin metabolic signaling in a rodent model of obesity, insulin resistance, and hypertension. Six-week–old male Zucker obese and age-matched Zucker lean rats were treated with nebivolol (10 mg · kg
−
· day
−1
) for 21 days, and myocardial function was assessed by cine MRI. Compared with untreated Zucker lean rats, untreated Zucker obese rats exhibited prolonged diastolic relaxation time (27.7±2.5 versus 40.9±2.0 ms;
P
<0.05) and reduced initial diastolic filling rate (6.2±0.5 versus 2.8±0.6 μL/ms;
P
<0.05) in conjunction with increased homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (7±2 versus 95±21;
P
<0.05), interstitial and pericapillary fibrosis, abnormal cardiomyocyte histoarchitecture, 3-nitrotyrosine, and NADPH oxidase–dependent superoxide. Nebivolol improved diastolic relaxation (32.8±0.7 ms;
P
<0.05 versus untreated Zucker obese), reduced fibrosis, and remodeling in Zucker obese rats, in concert with reductions in nitrotyrosine, NADPH oxidase–dependent superoxide, and improvements in the insulin metabolic signaling, endothelial NO synthase activation, and weight gain (381±7 versus 338±14 g;
P
<0.05). Results support the hypothesis that nebivolol reduces myocardial structural maladaptive changes and improves diastolic relaxation in concert with improvements in insulin sensitivity and endothelial NO synthase activation, concomitantly with reductions in oxidative stress.
Spatial discontinuity of Optomotor-blind expression in the Drosophila wing imaginal disc disrupts epithelial architecture and promotes cell sorting
Authors: Shen Jie , Dahmann Christian , Pflugfelder Gert O
Published: February 2010

Background

Decapentaplegic (Dpp) is one of the best characterized morphogens, required for dorso-ventral patterning of the Drosophila embryo and for anterior-posterior (A/P) patterning of the wing imaginal disc. In the larval wing pouch, the Dpp target gene optomotor-blind (omb) is generally assumed to be expressed in a step function above a certain threshold of Dpp signaling activity.

Results

We show that the transcription factor Omb forms, in fact, a symmetrical gradient on both sides of the A/P compartment boundary. Disruptions of the Omb gradient lead to a re-organization of the epithelial cytoskeleton and to a retraction of cells toward the basal membrane suggesting that the Omb gradient is required for correct epithelial morphology. Moreover, by analysing the shape of omb gain- and loss-of-function clones, we find that Omb promotes cell sorting along the A/P axis in a concentration-dependent manner.

Conclusions

Our findings show that Omb distribution in the wing imaginal disc is described by a gradient rather than a step function. Graded Omb expression is necessary for normal cell morphogenesis and cell affinity and sharp spatial discontinuities must be avoided to allow normal wing development.
Defining species specific genome differences in malaria parasites
Authors: Liew Kingsley JL , Hu Guangan , Bozdech Zbynek , Peter Preiser R
Published: February 2010

Background

In recent years a number of genome sequences for different plasmodium species have become available. This has allowed the identification of numerous conserved genes across the different species and has significantly enhanced our understanding of parasite biology. In contrast little is known about species specific differences between the different genomes partly due to the lower sequence coverage and therefore relatively poor annotation of some of the draft genomes particularly the rodent malarias parasite species.

Results

To improve the current annotation and gene identification status of the draft genomes of P. berghei, P. chabaudi and P. yoelii, we performed genome-wide comparisons between these three species. Through analyses via comparative genome hybridizations using a newly designed pan-rodent array as well as in depth bioinformatics analysis, we were able to improve on the coverage of the draft rodent parasite genomes by detecting orthologous genes between these related rodent parasite species. More than 1,000 orthologs for P. yoelii were now newly associated with a P. falciparum gene. In addition to extending the current core gene set for all plasmodium species this analysis also for the first time identifies a relatively small number of genes that are unique to the primate malaria parasites while a larger gene set is uniquely conserved amongst the rodent malaria parasites.

Conclusions

These findings allow a more thorough investigation of the genes that are important for host specificity in malaria.
Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth in irritable bowel syndrome: are there any predictors?
Authors: Reddymasu Savio C , Sostarich Sandra , McCallum Richard W
Published: February 2010

Background

Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) is a condition in which excessive levels of bacteria, mainly the colonic-type species are present in the small intestine. Recent data suggest that SIBO may contribute to the pathophysiology of Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). The purpose of this study was to identify potential predictors of SIBO in patients with IBS.

Methods

Adults with IBS based on Rome II criteria who had predominance of bloating and flatulence underwent a glucose breath test (GBT) to determine the presence of SIBO. Breath samples were obtained at baseline and at 30, 45, 60, 75 and 90 minutes after ingestion of 50 g of glucose dissolved in 150 mL of water. Results of the glucose breath test, which measures hydrogen and methane levels in the breath, were considered positive for SIBO if 1) the hydrogen or methane peak was >20 ppm when the baseline was <10 ppm, or 2) the hydrogen or methane peak increased by 12 ppm when baseline was ≥10 ppm.

Results

Ninety-eight patients were identified who underwent a GBT (mean age, 49 y; 78% female). Thirty-five patients (36%) had a positive GBT result suggestive of SIBO. A positive GBT result was more likely in patients >55 years of age (odds ratio [OR], 3.6; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.4-9.0) and in females (OR, 4.0; 95% CI, 1.1-14.5). Hydrogen was detected more frequently in patients with diarrhea-predominant IBS (OR, 8; 95% CI, 1.4-45), and methane was the main gas detected in patients with constipation-predominant IBS (OR, 8; 95% CI, 1.3-44). There was no significant correlation between the presence of SIBO and the predominant bowel pattern or concurrent use of tegaserod, proton pump inhibitors, or opiate analgesics.

Conclusions

Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth was present in a sizeable percentage of patients with IBS with predominance of bloating and flatulence. Older age and female sex were predictors of SIBO in patients with IBS. Identification of possible predictors of SIBO in patients with IBS could aid in the development of successful treatment plans.
Knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) relating to avian influenza in urban and rural areas of China
Authors: Xiang Nijuan , Shi Ying , Wu Jiabing , Zhang Shunxiang , Ye Min , Peng Zhibin , Zhou Lei , Zhou Hang , Liao Qiaohong , Huai Yang , Li Leilei , Yu Zhangda , Cheng Xiaowen , Su Weike , Wu Xiaomin , Ma Hanwu , Lu Jianhua , McFarland Jeffrey , Yu Hongjie
Published: February 2010

Background

Studies have revealed that visiting poultry markets and direct contact with sick or dead poultry are significant risk factors for H5N1 infection, the practices of which could possibly be influenced by people's knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAPs) associated with avian influenza (AI). To determine the KAPs associated with AI among the Chinese general population, a cross-sectional survey was conducted in China.

Methods

We used standardized, structured questionnaires distributed in both an urban area (Shenzhen, Guangdong Province; n = 1,826) and a rural area (Xiuning, Anhui Province; n = 2,572) using the probability proportional to size (PPS) sampling technique.

Results

Approximately three-quarters of participants in both groups requested more information about AI. The preferred source of information for both groups was television. Almost three-quarters of all participants were aware of AI as an infectious disease; the urban group was more aware that it could be transmitted through poultry, that it could be prevented, and was more familiar with the relationship between AI and human infection. The villagers in Xiuning were more concerned than Shenzhen residents about human AI viral infection. Regarding preventative measures, a higher percentage of the urban group used soap for hand washing whereas the rural group preferred water only. Almost half of the participants in both groups had continued to eat poultry after being informed about the disease.

Conclusions

Our study shows a high degree of awareness of human AI in both urban and rural populations, and could provide scientific support to assist the Chinese government in developing strategies and health-education campaigns to prevent AI infection among the general population.
Effect of troglitazone on tumor growth and pulmonary metastasis development of the mouse osteosarcoma cell line LM8
Authors: Aizawa Junichi , Sakayama Kenshi , Kamei Setsuya , Kidani Teruki , Yamamoto Haruyasu , Norimatsu Yoshiaki , Masuno Hiroshi
Published: February 2010

Background

Osteosarcoma often develops micrometastases in the lung prior to diagnosis, causing a fatal outcome. Therefore, the prevention of pulmonary metastases is critical for the improvement of the prognosis of patients with osteosarcoma. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether troglitazone (TGZ) is considered as possible therapeutics in the treatment of growth and metastasis of osteosarcoma.

Methods

LM8 cells were treated for 3 days with various concentrations of TGZ. The effect of TGZ on cell proliferation was determined by DNA measurement in the cultures and 5-bromo-2'-deoxyuridine incorporation study. The assay of cell invasion and motility was performed using either the Matrigel-coated cell culture inserts or the uncoated cell culture inserts in the invasion chambers. The effect of TGZ on Akt signaling was assessed by Western blot analysis of Akt and p-Akt. The effects of oral administration of either TGZ (TGZ group) or ethanol (control group) on the growth of primary tumor and the development of pulmonary metastasis were examined in nude mice implanted with LM8 cells on their backs. The expression and activity of matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP-2) within the tumor were determined by immunohistochemistry and zymography. The microvessel density (MVD) within the tumor was determined by immunohistochemistry for CD34.

Results

TGZ dose-dependently inhibits cell proliferation. TGZ-treated cells were less invasive and less motile than untreated cells. The activity of MMP-2 secreted by TGZ-treated cells was lower than that secreted by untreated cells. TGZ decreased the level of p-Akt. The primary tumor mass was smaller in the TGZ group than in the control group. The TGZ group had less metastatic tumors in the lung compared with the control group. The expression and activity of MMP-2 within the tumor of the TGZ group were lower than those of the control group. The MVD within the tumor of the TGZ group was lower than that of the control group.

Conclusions

Inhibition of Akt signaling by TGZ may decrease the secretion of MMP-2, resulting in the decrease of invasiveness and motility in LM8 cells. Treatment of tumor-bearing mice with TGZ decreases the expression and activity of MMP-2 within the tumor, and inhibits primary tumor growth and pulmonary metastasis development. TGZ may offer a new approach in chemotherapy for osteosarcoma.
Health-related physical fitness and weight status in Hong Kong adolescents
Authors: Mak Kwok-Kei , Ho Sai-Yin , Lo Wing-Sze , Thomas G Neil , McManus Alison M , Day Jeffrey R , Lam Tai-Hing
Published: February 2010

Background

This study was designed to investigate the relation between health-related physical fitness and weight status in Hong Kong adolescents.

Methods

3,204 students aged 12-18 years participated in the Hong Kong Student Obesity Surveillance (HKSOS) project in 2006-2007. Anthropometric measures (height, weight) and health-related fitness (push-up, sit-up, sit-and-reach, 9-minute run) were assessed. Body mass index (BMI) was computed to classify participants into normal weight, underweight (Grade I, II/III), overweight, and obese groups. The associations of health-related physical fitness with BMI and weight status were examined by partial correlation coefficients and analysis of covariance, respectively.

Results

More boys than girls were overweight or obese (18.0% vs 8.7%), but more girls than boys were underweight (22.3% vs 16.7%). Boys performed significantly (P < 0.001) better in sit-up (38.8 vs 31.6 times/min) and 9-minute run (1632.1 vs 1353.2 m), but poorer in sit-and-reach (27.4 vs 32.2 cm) than girls. All four physical fitness tests were significantly positively correlated with each other in both sexes, and BMI was only weakly correlated with sit up and sit-and-reach tests in boys. Decreasing performance (P for trend < 0.05) was observed from normal weight to overweight and obese for push-up, sit-up, and 9-minute run in both sexes. From normal weight to Grade I and Grade II/III underweight, decreasing performance (P for trend < 0.05) for sit-up and sit-and-reach in both sexes and for push-up in boys was observed.

Conclusions

The relations between BMI and health-related physical fitness in adolescents were non-linear. Overweight/obese and underweight adolescents had poorer performance in push-up and sit-up tests than normal weight adolescents. Different aspects of health-related physical fitness may serve as immediate indicators of potential health risks for underweight and overweight adolescents.
Using a realist approach to evaluate smoking cessation interventions targeting pregnant women and young people
Authors: Douglas Flora CG , Gray Denise A , van Teijlingen Edwin R
Published: February 2010

Background

This paper describes a study protocol designed to evaluate a programme of smoking cessation interventions targeting pregnant women and young people living in urban and rural locations in Northeast Scotland. The study design was developed on so-called 'realist' evaluation principles, which are concerned with the implementation of interventions as well as their outcomes.

Methods/design

A two-phased study was designed based on the Theory of Change (TOC) using mixed methods to assess both process and outcome factors. The study was designed with input from the relevant stakeholders. The mixed-methods approach consists of semi-structured interviews with planners, service providers, service users and non-users. These qualitative interviews will be analysed using a thematic framework approach. The quantitative element of the study will include the analysis of routinely collected data and specific project monitoring data, such as data on service engagement, service use, quit rates and changes in smoking status.

Discussion

The process of involving key stakeholders was conducted using logic modelling and TOC tools. Engaging stakeholders, including those responsible for funding, developing and delivering, and those intended to benefit from interventions aimed at them, in their evaluation design, are considered by many to increase the validity and rigour of the subsequent evidence generated. This study is intended to determine not only the components and processes, but also the possible effectiveness of this set of health interventions, and contribute to the evidence base about smoking cessation interventions aimed at priority groups in Scotland. It is also anticipated that this study will contribute to the ongoing debate about the role and challenges of 'realist' evaluation approaches in general, and the utility of logic modelling and TOC approaches in particular, for evaluation of complex health interventions.
Rapid and effective malaria control in Cambodia through mass administration of artemisinin-piperaquine
Authors: Song Jianping , Socheat Duong , Tan Bo , Dara Prak , Deng Changsheng , Sokunthea Sreng , Seila Suon , Ou Fengzhen , Jian Huaxiang , Li Guoqiao
Published: February 2010

Background

Previous efforts to eradicate malaria parasites, particularly Plasmodium falciparum, have failed in part due to the emergence of drug resistant parasites and mosquitoes resistant to insecticides. Using an artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT) that kills parasites quickly, a strategy was designed to eliminate the source of transmission by mass treatment of human populations in malaria-endemic areas Cambodia.

Methods

A combination drug of artemisinin and piperaquine given with low doses of primaquine was used to eliminate all stages of parasites from human carriers.

Results

In a pilot study, mass administration of artemisinin-piperaquine (two tablets of 62.5 mg artemisinin and 375 mg piperaquine for adults aged ≥16 years at 0 and 24 hrs; 1.5 tablet for children aged 11-15 years; and one tablet for children aged 6-10 years) and primaquine (9 mg for adults, at 10 day intervals for 6 months) was carried out in 17 villages (3,653 individuals). Parasite rates were dramatically reduced from 52.3% to 2.6% after three years. The P. falciparum rate in children decreased from 37.0% to 1.4%, reaching 0% in eight of 17 villages. In a second field study, that included one additional mass treatment of artemisinin-piperaquine, the P. falciparum rate in children was reduced from 20.8% to 0% within six months. No major adverse effects were observed.

Conclusions

Mass administration of artemisinin-piperaquine and low doses of primaquine can be an effective, safe, and affordable strategy for efficiently eliminating malaria parasites in human carriers and interrupting parasite transmission. This study provides important information for future strategies for the eradication of malaria.
Evaluation of the leptin receptor in human spermatozoa
Authors: Hatami-Baroogh Leila , Razavi Shahnaz , Zarkesh-Esfahani Hamid , Tavalaee Marziyeh , Tanhaei Somayeh , Ghaedi Kamran , Deemeh Mohamad Reza , Rabiee Farzaneh , Nasr-Esfahani Mohammad Hossein
Published: February 2010

Background

Leptin, a 167 amino acid peptide hormone, profoundly effects reproduction exerting its biological effects via interaction with the leptin receptor (ObR) which is widely expressed on peripheral tissues. In this study, we have attempted to assess leptin receptor expression in the spermatozoa of fertile males and those diagnosed with male factor infertility; both at the mRNA or protein levels.

Methods

Semen samples were collected from fertile males and individuals with male factor infertility. In order to evaluate leptin receptor expression several techniques were utilized, including: reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), immunostaining, flow cytometry, and western blotting. Mononuclear cells isolated from volunteers' peripheral blood were used as positive controls for leptin receptor expression.

Results

leptin receptor was noted on mononuclear cells but we were unable to detect this receptor on spermatozoa at the protein level. Leptin receptor expression was detected on peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) as positive controls; however it was not detectable on the spermatozoa of both groups by immunofluorescence microscopy or flow cytometry. Furthermore, positive expression of the ObR long isoform as assessed by RT-PCR was observed in the sperm of only four cases, whereas expression of beta-Actin, a house keeping gene, and HspA2, a testis specific gene, was present in all cases.

Conclusion

The long isoform of leptin receptor may not be present on human sperm. Species difference may be accounted for diverse reproductive physiology which depends on metabolic requirement. Leptin receptor expression at the mRNA level in some individuals may be related to contamination by other cells in semen.
Genome-wide linkage analyses of two repetitive behavior phenotypes in Utah pedigrees with autism spectrum disorders
Authors: Cannon Dale S , Miller Judith S , Robison Reid J , Villalobos Michele E , Wahmhoff Natalie K , Allen-Brady Kristina , McMahon William M , Coon Hilary
Published: February 2010

Background

It has been suggested that efforts to identify genetic risk markers of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) would benefit from the analysis of more narrowly defined ASD phenotypes. Previous research indicates that 'insistence on sameness' (IS) and 'repetitive sensory-motor actions' (RSMA) are two factors within the ASD 'repetitive and stereotyped behavior' domain. The primary aim of this study was to identify genetic risk markers of both factors to allow comparison of those markers with one another and with markers found in the same set of pedigrees using ASD diagnosis as the phenotype. Thus, we empirically addresses the possibilities that more narrowly defined phenotypes improve linkage analysis signals and that different narrowly defined phenotypes are associated with different loci. Secondary aims were to examine the correlates of IS and RSMA and to assess the heritability of both scales.

Methods

A genome-wide linkage analysis was conducted with a sample of 70 multiplex ASD pedigrees using IS and RSMA as phenotypes. Genotyping services were provided by the Center for Inherited Disease Research using the 6 K single nucleotide polymorphism linkage panel. Analysis was done using the multipoint linkage software program MCLINK, a Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) method that allows for multilocus linkage analysis on large extended pedigrees.

Results

Genome-wide significance was observed for IS at 2q37.1-q37.3 (dominant model heterogeneity lod score (hlod) 3.42) and for RSMA at 15q13.1-q14 (recessive model hlod 3.93). We found some linkage signals that overlapped and others that were not observed in our previous linkage analysis of the ASD phenotype in the same pedigrees, and regions varied in the range of phenotypes with which they were linked. A new finding with respect to IS was that it is positively associated with IQ if the IS-RSMA correlation is statistically controlled.

Conclusions

The finding that IS and RSMA are linked to different regions that only partially overlap regions previously identified with ASD as the phenotype supports the value of including multiple, narrowly defined phenotypes in ASD genetic research. Further, we replicated previous reports indicating that RSMA is more strongly associated than IS with measures of ASD severity.
Meeting Expectations of Patients With Cancer: Relationship Between Patient Satisfaction, Depression, and Coping
Authors: Goldzweig Gil , Meirowitz Amichai , Hubert Ayala , Brenner Baruch , Walach Natalio , Perry Shlomit , Hasson-Ohayon Ilanit , Baider Lea
Published: February 2010

Purpose

This study assessed satisfaction of patients with cancer and the correlation between patient levels of satisfaction and the sociodemographic, medical, and psychological variables. Satisfaction measures were based on patient expectations for emotional and cognitive support by the oncologists.

Patients and Methods

A total of 1,027 patients with cancer were recruited from the outpatient departments and daycare treatment centers of four oncology institutes in Israel. Patient levels of expectations and satisfaction were assessed by using measures developed for this study. Patient psychological variables were assessed by using the Brief Symptoms Inventory, Impact of Events Scale, and Mental Adjustment to Cancer. χ2 and Student t tests were used to assess differences between the highly satisfied group and the less satisfied group.

Results

Lower values of satisfaction were reported on the dimensions that included the patient in the treatment plan and that included explanations to the family. Higher percentages of women, single patients, younger patients, and patients in stages II to III were found in the less satisfied group. This group reported significantly higher levels of psychological distress, anxious preoccupation, and helplessness and lower levels of fighting spirit.

Conclusion

Given the importance of patient satisfaction to treatment compliance, oncologists should consider evaluating patient expectations for support, especially in issues concerning planning the treatment and involving the family in medical decisions. Oncologists should take into account the possible interdependence between psychological variables and medical-care satisfaction.
Increased Food Intake Leads to Obesity and Insulin Resistance in the Tg2576 Alzheimer’s Disease Mouse Model
Authors: Kohjima Motoyuki , Sun Yuxiang , Chan Lawrence
Published: February 2010

Recent studies suggest that hyperinsulinemia and insulin resistance are linked to Alzheimer’s disease (AD). In this study, we used Tg2576 transgenic (Tg) mice, a widely used transgenic mouse model for AD, to explore the relationship between increased amyloid β-peptide (Aβ) and insulin resistance. When fed a high-fat diet (HFD), Tg mice developed obesity and insulin resistance at 16 wk of age. Furthermore, HFD-fed Tg mice displayed abnormal feeding behavior and increased caloric intake with time. Although caloric intake of HFD-fed Tg mice was similar to that of normal diet-fed Tg or wild-type mice during 4 to 8 wk of age, it increased sharply at 12 wk, and went up further at 16 wk, which paralleled changes in the level of Aβ40 and Aβ42 in the brain of these mice. Limiting food intake in HFD-fed Tg mice by pair-feeding a caloric intake identical with that of normal diet-fed mice completely prevented the obesity and insulin intolerance of HFD-fed Tg mice. The hypothalamus of HFD-fed Tg mice had a significant decrease in the expression of the anorexigenic neuropeptide, brain-derived neurotrophic factor, at both the mRNA and protein levels. These findings suggest that the increased Aβ in the brain of HFD-fed Tg2576 mice is associated with reduced brain-derived neurotrophic factor expression, which led to abnormal feeding behavior and increased food intake, resulting in obesity and insulin resistance in these animals.
Escalating Indecision: Between Reification and Strategic Ambiguity
Authors: Denis Jean-Louis , Dompierre Geneviève , Langley Ann , Rouleau Linda
Published: February 2010

This paper examines an organizational pathology that we label “escalating indecision”—where people find themselves driven to invest time and energy in activities and decision processes aimed at resolving an issue of common concern, but where closure appears elusive. The phenomenon is illustrated through a case history in which a strategic orientation decision involving the configuration of a group of large teaching hospitals was continually made, unmade, and remade, producing little concrete strategic action over many years before achieving more tangible moves toward implementation. The paper introduces the notion of a “network of indecision” in which participants have become sufficiently attached to a common project to continue working together to move it forward, but their divergent conceptions of what this involves prevent them from materializing it in a tangible form. The paper suggests that networks of indecision are dialectically constituted through a set of practices of reification and practices of strategic ambiguity. The phenomenon is strongly associated with pluralistic settings characterized by diffuse power and divergent interests, and its prevalence is likely to be greater in situations of reactive leadership, uncertain resource availabilities, and long time horizons.
Interpreters: Telephonic, In-Person Interpretation and Bilingual Providers
Authors: Crossman Kristen L. , Wiener Ethan , Roosevelt Genie , Bajaj Lalit , Hampers Louis C.
Published: February 2010

CONTEXT:

Language barriers affect health care interactions. Large, randomized studies of the relative efficacy of interpreter modalities have not been conducted.

OBJECTIVE:

To compare the efficacy of telephonic and in-person medical interpretation to visits with verified bilingual physicians.

METHODS:

This was a prospective, randomized trial. The setting was an urban pediatric emergency department at which ∼20% of visits are by families with limited English proficiency. The participants were families who responded affirmatively when asked at triage if they would prefer to communicate in Spanish. Randomization of each visit was to (1) remote telephonic interpretation via a double handset in the examination room, (2) an in-person emergency department–dedicated medical interpreter, or (3) a verified bilingual physician. Interviews were conducted after each visit. The primary outcome was a blinded determination of concordance between the caregivers' description of their child's diagnosis with the physician's stated discharge diagnosis. Secondary outcomes were qualitative measures of effectiveness of communication and satisfaction. Verified bilingual providers were the gold standard for noninferiority comparisons.

RESULTS:

A total of 1201 families were enrolled: 407 were randomly assigned to telephonic interpretation and 377 to in-person interpretation, and 417 were interviewed by a bilingual physician. Concordance between the diagnosis in the medical record and diagnosis reported by the family was not different between the 3 groups (telephonic: 95.1%; in-person: 95.5%; bilingual: 95.4%). The in-person–interpreter cohort scored the quality and satisfaction with their visit worse than both the bilingual and telephonic cohorts (P < .001). Those in the bilingual-provider cohort were less satisfied with their language service than those in the in-person and telephonic cohorts (P < .001). Using the bilingual provider as a gold standard, noninferiority was demonstrated for both interpreter modalities (telephonic and in-person) for quality and satisfaction of the visit.

CONCLUSIONS:

Both telephonic and in-person interpretation resulted in similar concordance in understanding of discharge diagnosis compared with bilingual providers. In general, noninferiority was also seen on qualitative measures, although there was a trend favoring telephonic over in-person interpretation.
Prevalência e fatores associados à percepção de ocorrência de corrimento vaginal patológico entre gestantes
Authors: Cesar Juraci A. , Mendoza-Sassi Raúl A. , González-Chica David A. , Menezes Eduardo H. M. , Brink Günther , Pohlmann Marcela , Fonseca Tania M. V.
Published: February 2010

Este estudo teve por objetivo medir a prevalência e identificar fatores associados à percepção de corrimento vaginal patológico por gestantes residentes em Rio Grande, Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil. Aplicou-se questionário padronizado a todas as parturientes nas maternidades do município em 2007. Utilizou-se teste do qui-quadrado para comparar proporções e análise multivariável por regressão de Poisson. A prevalência de corrimento vaginal foi de 40%. Análise ajustada mostrou as seguintes razões de prevalência: 1,6 (1,4-1,8) para adolescentes; 1,3 (1,1-1,6) para aquelas com até oito anos de escolaridade; 1,3 (1,1-1,5) para aquelas que ingeriram álcool; 2,0 (1,8-2,2) para aquelas que referiram corrimento vaginal em gestação anterior; 1,4 (1,3-1,6) para infecção urinária na gestação atual; prematuridade em gestação anterior mostrou-se protetor com RP = 0,8 (0,7-0,9). Os serviços de saúde deveriam priorizar diagnóstico e tratamento de corrimento vaginal entre gestantes adolescentes, de baixa renda familiar e escolaridade, com história prévia de corrimento em gravidez anterior e infecção urinária na gravidez atual.
Active contours: Generalization of the snake mode
Authors: Meron Avishay , Paz Zivan , Barnhart‐Magen Guy , Golan Gady
Published: February 2010

Abstract— Segmentation is one of the fundamental issues in the field of image processing and computer vision. Various approaches include differentiating an object in the image as a final goal or for further processing (medical diagnosis, surveillance, 3‐D reconstruction and more). Snakes, a model proposed by Kass, Witkin, and Terzopoulos in 1987, provides an efficient method for segmenting an object through the minimization of its energy. The advantage of snakes is in its ability to use high‐level data given by the algorithm operator, as opposed to other methods such as the Laplace technique. The snakes model inherently imposes strong constraints on a given image in order to successfully segment an object. In this paper, the use of adjustment methods is described, which allow us to generalize the snake model to a wider range of applications. Through the use of pre‐processing techniques, the model's constraints were softened. The main theoretical model and its use in facing a real life image is presented.
Long‐term recovery patterns of arctic tundra after winter seismic exploration
Authors: Jorgenson Janet C. , Hoef Jay M. Ver , Jorgenson M. T.
Published: February 2010

In response to the increasing global demand for energy, oil exploration and development are expanding into frontier areas of the Arctic, where slow‐growing tundra vegetation and the underlying permafrost soils are very sensitive to disturbance. The creation of vehicle trails on the tundra from seismic exploration for oil has accelerated in the past decade, and the cumulative impact represents a geographic footprint that covers a greater extent of Alaska's North Slope tundra than all other direct human impacts combined. Seismic exploration for oil and gas was conducted on the coastal plain of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, Alaska, USA, in the winters of 1984 and 1985. This study documents recovery of vegetation and permafrost soils over a two‐decade period after vehicle traffic on snow‐covered tundra. Paired permanent vegetation plots (disturbed vs. reference) were monitored six times from 1984 to 2002. Data were collected on percent vegetative cover by plant species and on soil and ground ice characteristics. We developed Bayesian hierarchical models, with temporally and spatially autocorrelated errors, to analyze the effects of vegetation type and initial disturbance levels on recovery patterns of the different plant growth forms as well as soil thaw depth. Plant community composition was altered on the trails by species‐specific responses to initial disturbance and subsequent changes in substrate. Long‐term changes included increased cover of graminoids and decreased cover of evergreen shrubs and mosses. Trails with low levels of initial disturbance usually improved well over time, whereas those with medium to high levels of initial disturbance recovered slowly. Trails on ice‐poor, gravel substrates of riparian areas recovered better than those on ice‐rich loamy soils of the uplands, even after severe initial damage. Recovery to pre‐disturbance communities was not possible where trail subsidence occurred due to thawing of ground ice. Previous studies of disturbance from winter seismic vehicles in the Arctic predicted short‐term and mostly aesthetic impacts, but we found that severe impacts to tundra vegetation persisted for two decades after disturbance under some conditions. We recommend management approaches that should be used to prevent persistent tundra damage.
Shifting dominance of riparian Populus and Tamarix along gradients of flow alteration in western North American rivers
Authors: Merritt David M. , Poff N. Le Roy
Published: February 2010

Tamarix ramosissima is a naturalized, nonnative plant species which has become widespread along riparian corridors throughout the western United States. We test the hypothesis that the distribution and success of Tamarix result from human modification of river‐flow regimes. We conducted a natural experiment in eight ecoregions in arid and semiarid portions of the western United States, measuring Tamarix and native Populus recruitment and abundance at 64 sites along 13 perennial rivers spanning a range of altered flow regimes. We quantified biologically relevant attributes of flow alteration as an integrated measure (the index of flow modification, IFM), which was then used to explain between‐site variation in abundance and recruitment of native and nonnative riparian plant species.

We found the likelihood of successful recruitment of Tamarix to be highest along unregulated river reaches and to remain high across a gradient of regulated flows. Recruitment probability for Populus, in contrast, was highest under free‐flowing conditions and declined abruptly under even slight flow modification (IFM > 0.1). Adult Tamarix was most abundant at intermediate levels of IFM. Populus abundance declined sharply with modest flow regulation (IFM > 0.2) and was not present at the most flow‐regulated sites. Dominance of Tamarix was highest along rivers with the most altered flow regimes. At the 16 least regulated sites, Tamarix and Populus were equally abundant.

Given observed patterns of Tamarix recruitment and abundance, we infer that Tamarix would likely have naturalized, spread, and established widely in riparian communities in the absence of dam construction, diversions, and flow regulation in western North America. However, Tamarix dominance over native species would likely be less extensive in the absence of human alteration of river‐flow regimes. Restoration that combines active mechanical removal of established stands of Tamarix with a program of flow releases conducive to native species establishment and persistence is hypothesized to facilitate the codominance of Populus in reaches where it has become rare. Our findings have implications for planning flow‐related stream restoration, for developing realistic expectations for yield on investment in prescribed flow releases, and for planning flow‐related interventions that might be possible if control and management of invasive plant species along rivers is a goal.
Understanding long‐term primate community dynamics: implications of forest change
Authors: Chapman Colin A. , Struhsaker Thomas T. , Skorupa Joseph P. , Snaith Tamaini V. , Rothman Jessica M.
Published: February 2010

Understanding the causes of population declines often involves comprehending a complex set of interactions linking environmental and biotic changes, which in combination overwhelm a population's ability to persist. To understand these relationships, especially for long‐lived large mammals, long‐term data are required, but rarely available. Here we use 26–36 years of population and habitat data to determine the potential causes of group density changes for five species of primates in Kibale National Park, Uganda, in areas that were disturbed to varying intensities in the late 1960s. We calculated group density from line transect data and quantified changes in habitat structure (cumulative diameter at breast height [dbh] and food availability [cumulative dbh of food trees]) for each primate species, and for one species, we evaluated change in food nutritional quality. We found that mangabeys and black‐and‐white colobus group density increased, blue monkeys declined, and redtails and red colobus were stable in all areas. For blue monkeys and mangabeys, there were no significant changes in food availability over time, yet their group density changed. For redtails, neither group density measures nor food availability changed over time. For black‐and‐white colobus, a decrease in food availability over time in the unlogged forest surprisingly coincided with an increase in group density. Finally, while red colobus food availability and quality increased over time in the heavily logged area, their group density was stable in all areas. We suggest that these populations are in nonequilibrium states. If such states occur frequently, it suggests that large protected areas will be required to protect species so that declines in some areas can be compensated for by increases in adjacent areas with different histories.
Long‐Term Sorption and Desorption of Sulfadiazine in Soil: Experiments and Modeling
Authors: Wehrhan Anne , Streck Thilo , Groeneweg Joost , Vereecken Harry , Kasteel Roy
Published: February 2010

Antibiotics, such as sulfadiazine (SDZ), may enter arable soil by spreading of manure of medicated husbandry or directly by the excrement of grazing animals. Knowledge of the fate of antibiotics in soils is crucial for assessing the environmental risk of these compounds, including possible transport to ground water. Kinetic sorption of 14C‐labeled SDZ (4‐amino‐N‐pyrimidin‐2‐yl‐benzenesulfonamide) was investigated using the batch technique. The batch sorption–desorption experiments were conducted at various concentration levels (0.044–13 mg L−1 initial solute concentration) and time scales (0.75–272 d). Sorption of 14C‐SDZ in the investigated silty loam was time dependent and strongly nonlinear in the solution phase concentration. The time to reach an apparent sorption equilibrium was about 20 d. However, desorption was very slow, and 41 d were insufficient to reach the desorption equilibrium. An inverse modeling technique was used to identify relevant sorption processes of 14C‐SDZ during the batch experiments. Among the investigated two‐ and three‐domain sorption models, adsorption and desorption of 14C‐SDZ were best described with a new model defining two sorption domains and four parameters. Whereas sorption in the first sorption domain was nonlinear and instantaneous, solute uptake in the second sorption domain was rate limited following first‐order kinetics. Desorption followed the same rate law until an equilibrium distribution was reached. After that, desorption was assumed to be impossible due to partly irreversible sorption. Although the proposed model needs further validation, it contributes to the discussion on complex sorption processes of organic chemicals in soils.
Adsorption of Estrogens on Laboratory Materials and Filters during Sample Preparation
Authors: Walker Charles W. , Watson John E.
Published: February 2010

Despite improvements in analytical techniques for detecting hormones, such as estrogen in environmental samples, there is conflicting information regarding sample filtration before analyses. In addition, there is little information about estrogen adsorption onto other common laboratory materials, including glass, plastic, or stainless steel. Therefore, we have quantified the adsorption of three different types of estrogen (estrone [E1], 17α‐ethynylestradiol [EE2], and 17β‐estradiol [E2]) onto 11 different types of filters and six other types of materials used for sample storage and laboratory experiments. We observed significant (p < 0.05) differences in the amount of estrogen adsorbed to the different filters. Glass fiber filters adsorbed the lowest amount, whereas nylon filters adsorbed nearly all of the estrogen that contacted them during filtration. Stainless steel and polycarbonate also adsorbed significant amounts of E1, E2, and EE2. The materials with which estrogen comes into contact should be chosen carefully to avoid potential losses due to sorption.