bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Selectively High Levels of Serum Interleukin 17 in a Newborn Infant With Progressive Severe Cholestasis
Authors: Ichikawa Maho , Takahashi Naoto , Yada Yukari , Koike Yasunori , Kawamata Ryou , Kono Yumi , Honma Yoko , Yotsumoto Shigeru , Momoi Mariko Y.
Published: June 2010

We present here the unusual case of a male newborn infant who showed progressive severe cholestasis. The infant's gestational age was 37 weeks, and his birth weight was 2134 g. His serum level of direct bilirubin gradually increased from the 6th day of life and reached 257.5 μmol/L on the 22nd day of life. We could not find any cause for his cholestasis, but his serum level of ferritin was extremely elevated at 9211.0 ng/mL. Because we felt that his clinical condition might be related to hypercytokinemia caused by an immunologic reaction, steroid pulse therapy and cyclosporine were administered. His condition improved, and his direct bilirubin and ferritin levels declined. From the investigation of his cytokine profile, we found a preferentially elevated level of serum interleukin 17 (IL-17) (96.1 pg/mL) and high level of chemokines IL-8 and macrophage inflammatory protein 1β. The IL-17 level gradually decreased to 7.5 pg/mL by the 124th day of life. The infant was successfully discharged from the children's hospital but later developed epilepsy at 11 months and asthma at 1 year, 2 months of age. Although we have not yet reached a definitive diagnosis, this case may be the first to show a relationship between cholestasis and an elevated serum IL-17 level in the neonatal period.
Use of Respiratory Syncytial Virus Surveillance Data to Optimize the Timing of Immunoprophylaxis
Authors: Panozzo Catherine A. , Stockman Lauren J. , Curns Aaron T. , Anderson Larry J.
Published: June 2010

OBJECTIVE:

For children in the United States who are at high risk for severe respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends administering immunoprophylaxis during the RSV season. We present an approach to using surveillance data to help guide application of AAP recommendations for immunoprophylaxis to local patterns of RSV outbreaks.

METHODS:

We analyzed data from laboratories that report consistently to the National Respiratory and Enteric Virus Surveillance System from 1992 to 2007. Local RSV seasons were defined and an immunoprophylaxis schedule was determined by using the median onset dates from each laboratory during 2002–2007. We applied these dates to 10 preceding years of RSV detection data. We compared how well the 5-year median-based method and a fixed date method were able to match the timing of immunoprophylaxis to the RSV season.

RESULTS:

Nineteen laboratories met our inclusion criteria and generally experienced only 1 RSV outbreak per season. Five years of data gave similar median onset/offset dates and season duration, as did 10 years and 15 years of data. The 5-year median schedule increased the number of seasons that children were protected at the season onset by 15% compared with a fixed start date of November 1 and identified communities that experienced RSV seasons with extended durations.

CONCLUSIONS:

The 5-year median method can be used to characterize timing of RSV seasons and optimally apply the current AAP recommendations for timing of palivizumab prophylaxis to the local community.
Influence of Limit-Setting and Participation in Physical Activity on Youth Screen Time
Authors: Carlson Susan A. , Fulton Janet E. , Lee Sarah M. , Foley John T. , Heitzler Carrie , Huhman Marian
Published: June 2010

OBJECTIVES:

To examine the associations of demographics, rules associated with television-viewing, and physical activity with daily screen time (including television, non–school-related computer use, and video games) in children and adolescents.

METHODS:

We analyzed data from a telephone survey of 7415 youth aged 9 to 15 years from the Youth Media Campaign Longitudinal Survey. We used logistic regression models to calculate odds of exceeding recommended screen-time limits (>120 minutes/day) according to demographics, rules, and physical activity.

RESULTS:

Odds that children would exceed recommended screen-time limits were positively associated with age and black race/ethnicity and negatively associated with income level. Children and adolescents who reported that they really agreed that their parents had rules about time spent watching television and playing video games were less likely to exceed recommended limits than those who strongly disagreed that their parents had rules. Similarly, when parents reported always or very often having limits on television watching (versus rarely or never) and when parents correctly identified the recommended limits, children were less likely to exceed recommended limits. Children whose parents reported consistent limits and who themselves reported consistent rules about time spent watching television had the lowest prevalence of exceeding recommended limits. Odds that children would exceed recommended limits decreased as physical activity in the previous week increased.

CONCLUSIONS:

Parental rules regarding screen time and participation in physical activity play a role in the amount of screen time among children and adolescents. Programs that encourage limit-setting by parents and promote physical activity may reduce screen time among youth.
Ascribing monstrosity: judicial categorization of a juvenile sex offender
Authors: Titus Jordan J
Published: June 2010

Employing a conversation analytic approach to the study of discourse, this article examines the relationship between categorization work and the practical accomplishment of legal objectives. Using transcription of a sentencing hearing for a juvenile sex offender tried in adult criminal court, attention is focused on how the judgment is socially constructed, in and through courtroom discourse, as an accountable one. The analysis traces contested identities ascribed to the defendant and the moral judgments they embed. During the hearing, sex offender membership categories of sexual predator and paedophile are imported from commonsense understandings into the courtroom proceedings where they are given legal significance superseding any authority of the clinical expert who testifies. These identity-categories are reconstructed with monster status, and deployed by the judge as grounds for a sentence that will advance law’s purposes to manage ‘dangerousness’ and control the ‘monstrous’.
Implicações da doença de Alzheimer na qualidade de vida do cuidador: um estudo comparativo
Authors: Inouye Keika , Pedrazzani Elisete Silva , Pavarini Sofia Cristina Iost
Published: June 2010

Este estudo teve como objetivo comparar a percepção geral e de cada dimensão de qualidade de vida de um grupo de cuidadores de idosos com doença de Alzheimer com um grupo de não-cuidadores emparelhado quanto às variáveis sociodemográficas. As medidas de qualidade de vida foram obtidas por meio da Escala de Avaliação da Qualidade de Vida na Doença de Alzheimer - Versão Cuidador. Foram realizadas análises estatísticas (descritivas e regressão logística ordinal). O grupo de cuidadores apresentou chance maior e significativa de avaliar negativamente as dimensões saúde física, disposição, humor, memória, você em geral e capacidade para fazer atividades de lazer quando comparado ao grupo de não-cuidadores. Quanto aos escores totais de qualidade de vida, a média obtida foi de 38,83 pontos para cuidadores e de 41,81 para não-cuidadores. Esses dados sugerem que o convívio com a doença de Alzheimer influencia negativamente o escore total e algumas dimensões de qualidade de vida do cuidador familiar.
Fatores de risco cardiovascular em crianças de 7 a 10 anos de área urbana, Vitória, Espírito Santo, Brasil
Authors: Molina Maria del Carmen Bisi , Faria Carolina Perim de , Montero Maria Pilar , Cade Nágela Valadão , Mill José Geraldo
Published: June 2010

O objetivo do estudo foi identificar a ocorrência simultânea de fatores de risco cardiovascular em crianças de 7 a 10 anos de Vitória, Espírito Santo, Brasil, e investigar variáveis socioeconômicas associadas. Foram pesquisadas 1.282 crianças e obtidos dados antropométricos e medidas da pressão arterial com aparelho automático. Dados socioeconômicos, de alimentação e de atividade física foram obtidos com base em questionário. Para avaliação da ocorrência simultânea de fatores de risco cardiovascular foi desenvolvido um índice a partir da presença de excesso de peso, pressão arterial elevada, alimentação de baixa qualidade e lazer sedentário > 4h/dia. Presença simultânea de quatro fatores de risco cardiovascular foi identificada como risco alto. Classe socioeconômica e escolaridade materna foram incluídas no modelo de regressão logística. Cerca de 34% das crianças apresentaram dois fatores de risco cardiovascular, 20% três fatores e 6,4 quatro fatores de risco cardiovascular. A escolaridade materna se manteve associada ao risco cardiovascular alto (OR: 7,36, IC95%: 2,09-25,97) e médio (OR: 2,57, IC95%: 1,58-4,20). Baixa escolaridade materna foi o fator mais importante associado ao risco cardiovascular.
Avaliação participativa do Programa Nacional de Suplementação de Vitamina A em um município da Região Nordeste do Brasil
Authors: Almeida Erika Rodrigues de , Carvalho Alice Teles de , Nilson Eduardo Augusto Fernando , Coutinho Janine Giuberti , Ubarana Juliana Amorim
Published: June 2010

Esta pesquisa teve o propósito de avaliar o Programa Nacional de Suplementação de Vitamina A em um município da Região Nordeste do Brasil, com a participação de responsáveis por crianças menores de cinco anos de idade. Trata-se de um estudo transversal, de base populacional, com abordagens qualitativa e quantitativa. Foram realizadas 657 entrevistas estruturadas e análise do registro das doses de vitamina A nos cartões de vacinação das crianças. Observou-se que a população tem acesso às megadoses de vitamina A. No entanto, percebeu-se uma fragilidade no conhecimento acerca do programa e da vitamina A, especialmente entre a população de menor escolaridade. Observou-se ainda que a cobertura do programa está aquém da meta recomendada pelo Ministério da Saúde, sobretudo a partir dos 18 meses de idade. Diante do exposto, é necessário intensificar as ações educativas relacionadas ao programa, no intuito de orientar e sensibilizar os responsáveis quanto à importância da vitamina A, de sua suplementação e da ingestão de alimentos-fonte deste nutriente para a saúde da criança.
Self-rated health and working conditions among workers from primary health care centers in Brazil
Authors: Garcia Leila Posenato , Höfelmann Doroteia Aparecida , Facchini Luiz Augusto
Published: June 2010

This cross-sectional study with 1,249 workers from all 49 municipal primary health care centers was conducted in Florianópolis, Santa Catarina State, Brazil, with the objective of investigating the prevalence of poor self-rated health and its association with working conditions and other factors. Multivariate statistical analyses were conducted using Poisson regression. The prevalence of poor self-rated health was 21.86% (95%CI: 19.56%-24.15%). The largest prevalence was found among dental assistants (35.71%), and the lowest among physicians (10.66%). In the adjusted analysis, the outcome was associated with female gender (PR = 1.48; 95%CI: 1.03-2.14), older age (PR = 1.29; 95%CI: 1.05-1.59), higher education (PR = 0.69; 95%CI: 0.55-0.87), more time working at the primary care center (PR = 1.57; 95%CI: 1.29-1.98), higher workload score (PR = 1.67; 95%CI: 1.35-2.05), obesity (PR = 1.74; 95%CI: 1.37-2.21), and often or always experiencing musculoskeletal symptoms (PR = 2.69; 95%CI: 1.90-3.83). A higher workload score remained associated with the outcome, suggesting an association between working conditions and self-rated health.
Human albumin use at hospitals in the Metropolitan Region of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Authors: Matos Guacira Corrêa de , Rozenfeld Suely , Martins Monica
Published: June 2010

The study analyzes the use of human albumin in hospitals in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, using inpatient data from the information system of Brazil's health system between 1999 and 2001. Death was the main outcome as patients died in 32% of admissions in which human albumin was used as compared with 4% of all admissions in the same period and region. The Charlson Comorbidity Index was included for risk adjustment. Human albumin was used in 10,111 in-patients more than 1 year old. 87,774 50-ml bottles of 20% human albumin were consumed at a cost of US$ 1,755. The main diagnoses were neoplasms (29.1%), diseases of the digestive system (17.5%) and circulatory system (16%). Death rate increased with age, public ownership of the hospital, clinical services (as opposed to surgical services), length of stay and use of intensive care. Death was associated with use of more than four bottles of human albumin (PR: 1.30; 99%CI: 1.23-1.37), adjusted for severity and speciality. The results are cause for concern as they may be related to poor compliance with guidelines, excess of risk to patients and unnecessary expenses for the public health system.
How Import Competition Affects Displaced Workers in the U.S.
Authors: Kandilov Ivan T
Published: June 2010

I use the Displaced Worker Survey and bilateral trade data to assess the impact of import competition from low-wage countries on displaced workers' unemployment duration and re-employment wages. While low-wage imports have almost no effect on unemployment duration for workers displaced from an industry with the average length of the quality ladder, I find that a ten percentage point increase in low-wage imports leads to a 5.6 week longer jobless spell duration for workers displaced from an industry with a short quality ladder. Similarly, a ten percentage point increase in low-wage imports leads to a 7.2 percent decline in re-employment wages for workers displaced from an average ladder industry, but it leads to an 11.3 percent decline in re-employment wages for workers displaced from a short ladder industry. I show evidence that greater low-wage imports raise the likelihood of sectoral relocation upon re-employment, leading to loss of sector specific human capital.
Restoring justice in Serbia: Reconciliation and restorative justice in a post-war context
Authors: Parmentier Stephan , Valiñas Marta , Weitekamp Elmar
Published: June 2010

The debate on how to deal with the past in Serbia is an ongoing one. Both the International Criminal Tribunal for ex-Yugoslavia and national criminal justice mechanisms have played an important role in prosecuting offenders. Other transitional justice approaches continue to be discussed. All in all, the Yugoslav and the Serbian cases are similar to other debates about 'dealing with the past' or 'transitional justice', as they are taking place between elites, political, economic, and within civil society, both in the country concerned and at the international level. Likewise the views and expectations of the local populations in any given country are very rarely taken into account. In this paper findings of a population-based research carried out by our research team in Serbia in 2007 are presented. The research was done by means of a quantitative survey across the country on several issues of post-conflict justice, including truth seeking, accountability, reparation for victims and reconciliation.
Notes from Kuceviste
Authors: Gabelic Smiljka
Published: June 2010

The most complete study of the Church of the Virgin in the village of Kuceviste near Skopje, the naos of which was built and painted by ca. 1330 and the narthex, between 1332/1334 and in 1337, was published by Ivan M. Djordjevic (?. 1-2). Later, other researchers examined it in their articles (n. 3). Our observations concern the distribution of some individual figures in the programme of the naos and, especially, the symbolic meaning of the iconographic presentations of the two chief archangels and their positions in the programme.
Epitaphios of Jovan, the Metropolitan of Skopje, in the treasury of the Hilandar monastery
Authors: Radovanovic Janko
Published: June 2010

The epitaphios of Jovan, the Metropolitan of Skopje, was created between 1346 and 1348. It is unique for its beauty and iconographic program and, at the same time, it is the oldest of the epitaphia preserved in our country. The epitaphios was worn in the course of Holy Liturgy, during the Great Entrance in the cathedral churches and the major monasteries. Metropolitan Jovan presented the epitaphios as a gift to Christ 'my life-giver.' Depicted on its central field is the Epitaphios Threnos (Lamentation at the Tomb). Added around it, at a later time it seems, are bands representing the fourteen scenes of Great Feasts and the officiating Church Fathers, in embroidery. Holy Liturgy is served by the greatest fathers and teachers of the Church and Metropolitan Jovan.
The history about the miraculous icons of the Hilandar Monastery
Authors: Miljkovic Bojan
Published: June 2010

The History was written in Moscow in 1558/1559, as a compilation of the accounts of Hilandar monks who visited the Russian court, seeking charity and aid for the monastery, and describes the miracles that took place through the icons of Hilandar. The majority of miracles occurred during processions in the monastery and its vicinity, but there were some that happened before certain icons arrived in the Serbian monastery on Mount Athos. The latter deserve special attention, since they provide great help in shedding light on the place of origin, appearance and on the time when those icons arrived in the monastery, as is the case with the once deeply revered processional icon of the Theotokos Avramiotissa with the Prophet Elijah on the reverse side and, especially, the Theotokos Tricheirousa. The History confirms information from other sources, about this icon having been made in Skopje, and proves that the icon arrived in the monastery on the eve of the fall of Skopje to the Turks in 1392. It also describes its appearance - the Theotokos Hodegetria with the third arm painted below the one with which the Mother of God held the infant. As the earliest testimony about the existence of the cult of the Theotokos Tricheirousa in Hilandar, the text written in Moscow clearly singles out the initial story from the multitude of subsequent legends that have been told about it. The icon no longer exists and was replaced in the third quarter of the 18th century with the icon that is nowadays honoured as the Tricheirousa. Two more processional icons from the Hilandar katholikon can reliably be recognised in the text of the History the Theotokos Popska and Saint George, whereas for the others, some of which certainly no longer exist, this text does not provide sufficient data to identify them. Besides icons, the History also describes the most precious relics connected with the passion of Christ and other valuable works of art which are kept in the monastery in the present day, such as the crystal cross with the blood of Christ, a cross made of the Holy Wood on which Christ was crucified, a well-known Venetian diptych or the lavishly decorated Greek evangeliarion No. 105. In the mid-16th century, these objects were believed to have been brought by the founder of the monastery, Saint Sava, from his travels, as gifts to the monastery. Listed at the end of this interesting text are the gifts which Tsar Ivan IV the Terrible and the members of his family presented to the monks of Hilandar during their earlier visits to the Russian court.
β-Cell Failure in Diet-Induced Obese Mice Stratified According to Body Weight Gain: Secretory Dysfunction and Altered Islet Lipid Metabolism Without Steatosis or Reduced β-Cell Mass
Authors: Peyot Marie-Line , Pepin Emilie , Lamontagne Julien , Latour Martin G. , Zarrouki Bader , Lussier Roxane , Pineda Marco , Jetton Thomas L. , Madiraju S.R. Murthy , Joly Erik , Prentki Marc
Published: June 2010

OBJECTIVE

C57Bl/6 mice develop obesity and mild hyperglycemia when fed a high-fat diet (HFD). Although diet-induced obesity (DIO) is a widely studied model of type 2 diabetes, little is known about β-cell failure in these mice.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

DIO mice were separated in two groups according to body weight gain: low- and high-HFD responders (LDR and HDR). We examined whether mild hyperglycemia in HDR mice is due to reduced β-cell mass or function and studied islet metabolism and signaling.

RESULTS

HDR mice were more obese, hyperinsulinemic, insulin resistant, and hyperglycemic and showed a more altered plasma lipid profile than LDR. LDR mice largely compensated insulin resistance, whereas HDR showed perturbed glucose homeostasis. Neither LDR nor HDR mice showed reduced β-cell mass, altered islet glucose metabolism, and triglyceride deposition. Insulin secretion in response to glucose, KCl, and arginine was impaired in LDR and almost abolished in HDR islets. Palmitate partially restored glucose- and KCl-stimulated secretion. The glucose-induced rise in ATP was reduced in both DIO groups, and the glucose-induced rise in Ca2+ was reduced in HDR islets relatively to LDR. Glucose-stimulated lipolysis was decreased in LDR and HDR islets, whereas fat oxidation was increased in HDR islets only. Fatty acid esterification processes were markedly diminished, and free cholesterol accumulated in HDR islets.

CONCLUSIONS

β-Cell failure in HDR mice is not due to reduced β-cell mass and glucose metabolism or steatosis but to a secretory dysfunction that is possibly due to altered ATP/Ca2+ and lipid signaling, as well as free cholesterol deposition.
Membrane Potential-Dependent Inactivation of Voltage-Gated Ion Channels in α-Cells Inhibits Glucagon Secretion From Human Islets
Authors: Ramracheya Reshma , Ward Caroline , Shigeto Makoto , Walker Jonathan N. , Amisten Stefan , Zhang Quan , Johnson Paul R. , Rorsman Patrik , Braun Matthias
Published: June 2010

OBJECTIVE

To document the properties of the voltage-gated ion channels in human pancreatic α-cells and their role in glucagon release.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Glucagon release was measured from intact islets. [Ca2+]i was recorded in cells showing spontaneous activity at 1 mmol/l glucose. Membrane currents and potential were measured by whole-cell patch-clamping in isolated α-cells identified by immunocytochemistry.

RESULTS

Glucose inhibited glucagon secretion from human islets; maximal inhibition was observed at 6 mmol/l glucose. Glucagon secretion at 1 mmol/l glucose was inhibited by insulin but not by ZnCl2. Glucose remained inhibitory in the presence of ZnCl2 and after blockade of type-2 somatostatin receptors. Human α-cells are electrically active at 1 mmol/l glucose. Inhibition of KATP-channels with tolbutamide depolarized α-cells by 10 mV and reduced the action potential amplitude. Human α-cells contain heteropodatoxin-sensitive A-type K+-channels, stromatoxin-sensitive delayed rectifying K+-channels, tetrodotoxin-sensitive Na+-currents, and low-threshold T-type, isradipine-sensitive L-type, and ω-agatoxin-sensitive P/Q-type Ca2+-channels. Glucagon secretion at 1 mmol/l glucose was inhibited by 40–70% by tetrodotoxin, heteropodatoxin-2, stromatoxin, ω-agatoxin, and isradipine. The [Ca2+]i oscillations depend principally on Ca2+-influx via L-type Ca2+-channels. Capacitance measurements revealed a rapid (<50 ms) component of exocytosis. Exocytosis was negligible at voltages below −20 mV and peaked at 0 mV. Blocking P/Q-type Ca2+-currents abolished depolarization-evoked exocytosis.

CONCLUSIONS

Human α-cells are electrically excitable, and blockade of any ion channel involved in action potential depolarization or repolarization results in inhibition of glucagon secretion. We propose that voltage-dependent inactivation of these channels underlies the inhibition of glucagon secretion by tolbutamide and glucose.
Ablation of 4E-BP1/2 Prevents Hyperglycemia-Mediated Induction of VEGF Expression in the Rodent Retina and in Müller Cells in Culture
Authors: Schrufer Tabitha L. , Antonetti David A. , Sonenberg Nahum , Kimball Scot R. , Gardner Thomas W. , Jefferson Leonard S.
Published: June 2010

OBJECTIVE

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) contributes to diabetic retinopathy, but control of its expression is not well understood. Here, we tested the hypothesis that hyperglycemia mediates induction of VEGF expression in a eukaryotic initiation factor 4E (eIF4E) binding protein (4E-BP) 1 and 2 dependent manner.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

The retina was harvested from control and type 1 diabetic rats and mice and analyzed for VEGF mRNA and protein expression as well as biomarkers of translational control mechanisms. Similar analyses were performed in Müller cell cultures exposed to hyperglycemic conditions. The effect of 4E-BP1 and 4E-BP2 gene deletion on VEGF expression was examined in mice and in mouse embryo fibroblasts (MEFs).

RESULTS

Whereas VEGF mRNA in the retina remained constant, VEGF expression was increased as early as 2 weeks after the onset of diabetes. Increases in expression of 4E-BP1 protein mirrored those of VEGF and expression of 4E-BP1 mRNA was unchanged. Similar results were observed after 10 h of exposure of cells in culture to hyperglycemic conditions. Importantly, the diabetes-induced increase in VEGF expression was not observed in mice deficient in 4E-BP1 and 4E-BP2, nor in MEFs lacking the two proteins.

CONCLUSIONS

Hyperglycemia induces VEGF expression through cap-independent mRNA translation mediated by increased expression of 4E-BP1. Because the VEGF mRNA contains two internal ribosome entry sites, the increased expression is likely a consequence of ribosome loading at these sites. These findings provide new insights into potential targets for treatment of diabetic retinopathy.
Synthesis and optical properties of self-assembled flower-like CdS architectures by mixed solvothermal process
Authors: Zhang Junhao , Wu Yuhui , Zhu Jia , Huang Shaoxing , Zhang Dongjing , Yin Qinghuan
Published: June 2010

Self-assembled CdS architectures with flower-like structures have been synthesized by a mixed solvothermal method using ethylene glycol and oleic acid as the mixed solvent at 160°C for 12 h. The results of X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns, field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images indicate that the product exists as the hexagonal wurtzite phase and conatins of larger numbers of flower-like CdS architectures with diameters of 1.8–3 μm. The selected-area electron diffraction (SAED) pattern and the high resolution transmission electron microscope (HRTEM) image reveal that the grain has better crystallinity. The optical properties of flower-like CdS architectures were also investigated by ultraviolet-visable (UV-vis) and photoluminescence spectroscopy at room temperature. A strong peak at 490 nm is shown in the UV-vis absorption, while an emission at 486 nm and another strong emission at 712 nm are shown in the PL spectrum.
On the cosmological constant problem and brane-world geometry
Authors: Capistrano Abraão , Odon Pedro
Published: June 2010

The cosmological constant problem is examined within the context of the covariant brane-world gravity, based on Nash’s embedding theorem for Riemannian geometries. We show that the vacuum structure of the brane-world is more complex than General Relativity’s because it involves extrinsic elements, in specific, the extrinsic curvature. In other words, the shape (or local curvature) of an object becomes a relative concept, instead of the “absolute shape” of General Relativity. We point out that the immediate consequence is that the cosmological constant and the energy density of the vacuum quantum fluctuations have different physical meanings: while the vacuum energy density remains confined to the four-dimensional brane-world, the cosmological constant is a property of the bulk’s gravitational field that leads to the conclusion that these quantities cannot be compared, as it is usually done in General Relativity. Instead, the vacuum energy density contributes to the extrinsic curvature, which in turn generates Nash’s perturbation of the gravitational field. On the other hand, the cosmological constant problem ceases to be in the brane-world geometry, reappearing only in the limit where the extrinsic curvature vanishes.
The low temperature magnetic properties of potassium holmium double tungstate
Authors: Borowiec Mieczysław , Khatsko Eugene , Dyakonov Vladimir , Rykova Anna , Majchrowski Andrzej , Zayarnyuk Tetyana , Barański Marek , Żmija Józef , Szymczak Henryk
Published: June 2010

The magnetic investigations of potassium holmium double tungstate KHo(WO4)2 have been performed. The results of measurements of magnetic susceptibility and magnetization as a function of both temperature (T = 0.5–100 K) and magnetic field (up to 2 T) are presented.
Monitoring of heavy metals in vegetables and soil of agricultural fields of Kathmandu Valley
Authors: Sharma B. , Chhetri M. K.
Published: June 2010

Evaluation of heavy metals in vegetables and soil of agricultural fie1ds of Kathmandu valley was conducted. Highest accumulations of copper (65.5 mg kg-1;, lead 146.75m g kg-1) and cadmium( 2 mg kg-1) from Shankhamul; nickel (29.25mg kg-1) from Nakhu; cobalt (15.25mg kg-1) and manganese (675 mg kg-1; from Balkhu; chromium (73.75 mg kg-1; from Banasthali, zinc (162 mg kg-1) and iron (75636 mg kg-1; from Khusibun were recorded in soil of agricultural fields. Highest accumulations of Cu, Co and Zn were recorded in spinach and Pb in red radish; Ni, Cr and Fe was recorded in broad leaf mustard and Mn in cress leaf while considering the mean of each vegetables studied. Concentration of non-essential but toxic metal like Pb was higher than the normal plant value (0.1-10mg kg-1) in all the vegetables (except potato) collected from different sampling sites.Key words: Heavy metals; Soil; Vegetablesdoi: 10.3126/eco.v12i0.3189 Ecoprint: An International Journal of Ecology 12: 1-9, 2005
Morphotaxonomy of fresh water Chlorophycean algae (Desmids) from Siddharth Nagar, U.P., India
Authors: Prakash J. , Kishore S. , Asthana D. K. , Mishra P. K. , Singh S. K.
Published: June 2010

The taxonomic study of green algae (Desmids) of district Siddharth Nagar, Uttar Pradesh India reveals the presence of ten taxa belonging to family Desmidiaceae the Class Chlorophyceae. The Tal Kunda pond of Siddharth Nagar district showing rich algal diversity. The present paper deals only desmidiacean taxa. These desmids taxa (Euastrum ceylanicum E. spinulosum, Cosmarium quadrum, C. awadhense, Staurastrum gracile, S. sexangulare, Micrasterias zeylanica, M. foliacea, Pleurotaenium ehrenbergii and Desmidium swartzii) though known from other localities of lndia are recorded from district Siddharth Nagar Eastern Uttar  Pradesh for the first time.  Key words: Chlorophyceae; Fresh; water; Desmids doi: 10.3126/eco.v12i0.3193 Ecoprint: An International Journal of Ecology 12: 21-25, 2005
Phenology of macropytes of Sagar Lake (M.P.)
Authors: Gupta Arti
Published: June 2010

The paper deals with phonological data of ten macrophyte species growing in Sagar Lake. Phenograms of Eichhornia crassipes, Hydrilla verticillata, Ipomiea aquatica, Jussiaea repens, Pistia stratiotes, Trapa bispinosa and Vallisneria spiralis have been presented. Key words: Phenology; Sagar Lake   doi: 10.3126/eco.v12i0.3205 Ecoprint: An International Journal of Ecology 12: 89-90, 2005
Investigation of tensile–compressive yield asymmetry and the role of deformation twin in extruded pure magnesium
Authors: Sukedai E. , Yokoyama T.
Published: June 2010

An asymmetry in tensile–compressive yield behaviour of extruded 99.95 % pure magnesium at two different strain rates was investigated. The yield asymmetry was observed at both strain rates, and the compressive yield strengths were over 50 % lower than the corresponding tensile yield strengths. Examinations with transmission electron microscopy revealed that twin bands were observed in compression specimens, and the twinning system was {0112}<0111>. Fibre structures (or textures) were examined using both X-ray pole-figures, which enabled one to identify that the extrusion axis was parallel to <1010> directions. The Schmid factors on slip systems and the twinning system were estimated, i. e., the Schmid factor for {1101}<1120> slip system was maximum in tension, and that for the twinning system was highest in compression. The origin of the yield asymmetry in extruded pure magnesium is associated with both the highest Schmid factor for the twinning system in compression and the critical resolved shear stress for twinning, which is lower than that for slip.
Adsorption of nucleotides on the rutile (110) surface
Authors: Gemming Sibylle , Enyashin Andrey N. , Frenzel Johannes , Seifert Gotthard
Published: June 2010

The present study aims at the computer-aided design of suitably functionalized oxide surfaces for the integration of nanotubes into multi-purpose nano-electronic devices. The adsorption of the nucleotide cytidine monophosphate on the rutile (110) surface is investigated by density-functional-based tight-binding calculations. The nucleotide favors anchoring with two oxygen atoms of its phosphate part. Adsorption occurs preferentially at two neighboring five-fold coordinated Ti atoms along the [001] direction, thus opening a pathway to an ordered adsorption of nanotubes along [001]. The electronic densities of state show that the aromatic part of the cytidine residue remains unchanged upon adsorption on rutile. This implies that no significant changes occur in the nanotube binding capacity by -stacking of the aromatic part, hence, nucleotide-functionalized oxide surfaces are ideal substrates for the ordered, stable and electronically and chemically inert immobilization of nanotubes.
High-alloy ferritic cast irons with different graphite microstructures for exhaust manifolds and turbocharger housings
Authors: Li Delin
Published: June 2010

It is well known that ferritic cast irons with 4 to 5 wt.% Si provide good service and low cost in many elevated-temperature applications. In terms of cast iron microstructures, both spheroidal graphite and compacted graphite cast irons are currently used to produce engine exhaust manifolds and turbocharger housings. Between the two graphite morphologies, the mixed graphite microstructure has been proposed and evaluated in the aspects of molten metal treatment, solidification characteristic, microstructural stability, standard tensile testing, long-term hot oxidation and thermal cycling testing. The effects of graphite morphologies on the material properties are presented. The samples with mixed graphite structure showed an improved ductility at medium temperatures and thermal fatigue resistance.
Size effects resulting from local strain hardening; microstructural evaluation of Fe-3% Si and Cu deformed in tension and deep drawing using orientation gradient mapping (OGM)
Authors: Henning Mark , Vehoff Horst
Published: June 2010

Mesoscale strain hardening phenomena and the effect on the macroscale behavior (yield under tension, earing in deep drawing) are investigated in Fe-3 % Si and Cu.

Fe-3 % Si shows a smooth upper and lower yield point depending on grain size and sheet thickness which can be attributed to a lack of mobile dislocations. A free surface effect (reduced strain hardening of near-surface regions) is found for sheets of 300 μm and 960 μm thickness, but limited to small and medium strains.

By means of the new orientation gradient mapping, which is correlated with local strain hardening, the local deformation microstructure is investigated in incremental tensile tests and incremental deep drawing for Fe-3 % Si and Cu. The orientation gradient distribution significantly depends on the material. Based on these results phenomenological descriptions of the microstructure at the mesoscale are proposed. From orientation gradient mapping, geometrically necessary and statistical orientation gradients are evaluated which agree well with results of transmission electron microscopy investigations of geometrically necessary boundaries and incidental dislocation boundaries. A constitutive equation correlating orientation gradient mapping and local dislocation density is proposed.
An analysis of the differences in the acute hospitalization charges following minimally invasive versus open posterior lumbar interbody fusion
Authors: Wang Michael Y. , Cummock Matthew D. , Yu Yong , Trivedi Rikin A.
Published: June 2010

Object

Minimally invasive spine (MIS) procedures are increasingly being recognized as equivalent to open procedures with regard to clinical and radiographic outcomes. These techniques are also believed to result in less pain and disability in the immediate postoperative period. There are, however, little data to assess whether these procedures produce their intended result and even fewer objective data to demonstrate that they are cost effective when compared with open surgery.

Methods

The authors performed a retrospective analysis of hospital charges for 1- and 2-level MIS and open posterior interbody fusion for lumbar spondylotic disease, disc degeneration, and spondylolisthesis treated at a single academic medical center. Patients presenting with bilateral neurological symptoms were treated with open surgery, and those with unilateral symptoms were treated with MIS. Overall hospital charges and surgical episode–related charges, length of stay (LOS), and discharge status were obtained from the hospital finance department and adjusted for multi-/single-level surgeries.

Results

During a 14-month period, 74 patients (mean age 55 years) were treated. The series included 59 single-level operations (75% MIS and 25% open), and 15 2-level surgeries (53% MIS and 47% open). The demographic profile, including age and Charlson Comorbidity Index, were similar between the 4 groups. The mean LOS for patients undergoing single-level surgery was 3.9 and 4.8 days in the MIS and open cases, respectively (p = 0.017). For those undergoing 2-level surgery, the mean LOS was 5.1 for MIS versus 7.1 for open surgery (p = 0.259). With respect to hospital charges, single-level MIS procedures were associated with an average of $70,159 compared with $78,444 for open surgery (p = 0.027). For 2-level surgery, mean charges totalled $87,454 for MIS versus $108,843 for open surgery (p = 0.071). For single-level surgeries, 5 and 20% of patients undergoing MIS and open surgery, respectively, were discharged to inpatient rehabilitation. For 2-level surgeries, the rates were 13 and 29%, respectively.

Conclusions

While hospital setting, treatment population, patient selection, and physician expectation play major roles in determining hospital charges and LOS, this pilot study at an academic teaching hospital shows trends for quicker discharge, reduced hospital charges, and lower transfer rates to inpatient rehabilitation with MIS. However, larger multicenter studies are necessary to validate these findings and their relevance across diverse US practice environments.
How to avoid wrong-level and wrong-side errors in lumbar microdiscectomy
Authors: Irace Claudio , Corona Claudio
Published: June 2010

Object

When performing a single-level lumbar decompressive procedure, the first of all errors to avoid is operating at the wrong level or on the wrong side. In this report the authors describe their method of trying to minimize this potential risk.

Methods

A 3-step procedure—the IRACE (intraoperative radiograph and confirming exclamation) method—was designed and adopted for single-level lumbar decompressive surgeries. Before skin incision, a wire is placed in the spinous process and lateral fluoroscopy is performed. Subsequently and also before skin incision, the assistant nurse provides oral confirmation of the level and side. Additional fluoroscopic control is provided before starting the laminotomy. The clinical records of 818 consecutive patients who had undergone lumbar microdiscectomy as an initial operation between 2001 and 2005 were retrospectively reviewed. Surgical charts as well as clinical and neuroimaging follow-up data were analyzed.

Results

No patient clinically and/or neuroradiologically demonstrated a level or side error. In 1 (0.12%) of 818 surgical procedures a wrong level was initially explored. The absence of frank disc herniation and the discrepancy with preoperative neuroimages led to fluoroscopic control in this case, and the correct level was then approached. No clinically apparent method-related complications were registered.

Conclusions

The problem of an incorrect level or side in lumbar surgery remains unresolved. The authors propose a useful and easily applied procedure to reduce such a risk. Larger studies comparing different methods of avoiding such errors will probably lead to the definition and wide adoption of a surgical behavior aiming to reach a near-zero error rate.
Ligament of Barkow of the craniocervical junction: its anatomy and potential clinical and functional significance
Authors: Tubbs R. Shane , Dixon Joshua , Loukas Marios , Shoja Mohammadali M. , Cohen-Gadol Aaron A.
Published: June 2010

Object

Knowledge of the anatomy of the ligaments that unite the head with the neck is important to the clinician who treats patients with lesions in this region. Although the anatomy and function of these ligaments have been well described, those of the Barkow ligament (BL) have yet to be studied.

Methods

Via an anterior approach, 13 unembalmed adult cadavers underwent dissection of the craniocervical junction with special attention to the presence, anatomy, and function of the BL.

Results

The BL was found in 92.3% of specimens. The attachment of each ligament onto the medial aspect of the occipital condyle was consistent and just anterior to the attachment of the alar ligaments. In 75% of specimens, there was some connection between the BL and the anterior atlantooccipital membrane. Connections between other adjacent ligamentous structures were not identified. The average width, length, and thickness of the BL were 4, 2.5, and 3.5 mm, respectively. With ranges of motion of the craniocervical junction, only extension of the atlantooccipital joint produced tension in the BL. The mean tension to failure of the ligament was 28 N. Statistical analysis revealed no significant difference in width, length, and thickness of the ligaments based on sex.

Conclusions

The BL was found in all but 1 of our specimens. This ligament appears to resist extension of the atlantooccipital joint and may be synergistic with the anterior atlantooccipital membrane. Interestingly, the function of this ligament as found in this study relies on the integrity of the transverse ligament. Knowledge of this ligament may aid in further understanding craniocervical stability and help in differentiating normal from pathological tissue using imaging modalities.
Primed for Discovery: Atomic-Resolution Cryo-EM Structure of a Reovirus Entry Intermediate
Authors: Trask Shane D. , Guglielmi Kristen M. , Patton John T.
Published: June 2010

A recently solved structure of the aquareovirus virion (Zhang, X; Jin, L.; Fang, Q; Hui, W.H.; Zhou Z.H. 3.3 Å Cryo-EM Structure of a Nonenveloped Virus Reveals a Priming Mechanism for Cell Entry. Cell 2010, 141, 472-482 [1]) provides new insights into the order of entry events, as well as confirming and refining several aspects of the entry mechanism, for aquareovirus and the related orthoreovirus. In particular, the structure provides evidence of a defined order for the progressive proteolytic cleavages of myristoylated penetration protein VP5 that prime the virion for membrane penetration. These observations reinforce the concept that, much like enveloped viruses, nonenveloped virions often undergo priming events that lead to a meta-stable state, preparing the virus for membrane penetration under the appropriate circumstances. In addition, this and other recent studies highlight the increasing power of electron cryomicroscopy to analyze large, geometrically regular structures, such as icosahedral viruses, at atomic resolution.
Nonarticular Tenderness and Functional Status in Patients with Diffuse Idiopathic Skeletal Hyperostosis
Authors: MADER REUVEN , NOVOFASTOVSKI IRINA , ROSNER EHUD , ADAWI MUHAMMAD , HERER PAULA , BUSKILA DAN
Published: June 2010

Objective.

To investigate the degree of nonarticular tenderness and functional status in patients with diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (DISH). We assessed these variables’ correlation with their clinical, radiographic, and constitutional measurements and with metabolic syndrome (MS).

Methods.

Eighty-seven patients with DISH were compared with 65 controls without DISH. Examination of nonarticular tenderness was performed by thumb palpation. Tenderness was scored for the 18 fibromyalgia tender points (TP), and 4 control points. Nonarticular tenderness was expressed by the number of TP and by the total tenderness score (TTS). The Short Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ II) was administered to all participants. Clinical and laboratory data were collected from all patients. Patients were classified as having MS by both the National Cholesterol Education Program and World Health Organization definitions.

Results.

There was a statistically significant difference in TTS between controls and patients with DISH. The mean tenderness of many individual TP was significantly higher in the DISH group compared with the control group. TP counts, TTS, and body mass index (BMI) positively correlated with the HAQ II. There was a linear trend in intensity of T-spine bony bridges (BB) and the total number of TP as well as many individual TP. Patients with DISH were more likely to be affected by MS. No correlation was found between TP count, TTS, and MS.

Conclusion.

Patients with DISH have a lower pain threshold than patients who do not have DISH. TP count and TTS correlate with the functional status, BMI, waist circumference, and high-grade BB. No correlation was observed between pain threshold and MS.
Evaluation of 21-Numbered Circle and 10-Centimeter Horizontal Line Visual Analog Scales for Physician and Parent Subjective Ratings in Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis
Authors: FILOCAMO GIOVANNI , DAVÌ SERGIO , PISTORIO ANGELA , BERTAMINO MARTA , RUPERTO NICOLINO , LATTANZI BIANCA , CONSOLARO ALESSANDRO , MAGNI-MANZONI SILVIA , GALASSO ROBERTA , VARNIER GIULIA CAMILLA , MARTINI ALBERTO , RAVELLI ANGELO
Published: June 2010

Objective.

To evaluate the measurement properties of 21-numbered circle visual analog scales (VAS) and traditional 10-cm horizontal line VAS for physician and parent subjective ratings in children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA).

Methods.

We studied 2 patient samples in whom physician global rating of overall disease activity, parent global rating of the child’s overall well-being, and parent rating of intensity of child’s pain were performed using traditional 10-cm horizontal line VAS (n = 397) or 21-numbered circle VAS (n = 471). The measurement performances of the 2 VAS formats were examined by assessing construct validity, score distribution, responsiveness to change over time, and minimal clinically important difference (MCID).

Results.

Most Spearman correlations with other JIA outcome measures yielded by 21-numbered circle VAS were greater than those obtained with 10-cm horizontal line VAS, revealing that the circle VAS format has better construct validity. Ceiling effects (i.e., score = 0) for physician and parent global ratings were 43.7% and 32.9%, respectively, on 21-numbered circle VAS, and 31.6% and 35.3%, respectively, on 10-cm horizontal line VAS. Responsiveness of 21-numbered circle VAS was good (standardized response mean > 0.8) or moderate (standardized response mean > 0.6) among patients classified as improved or worsened, respectively, by the physician or the parent. Overall, MCID values for 21-numbered circle VAS tended to be greater for worsening than for improvement.

Conclusion.

The 21-numbered circle VAS are a suitable alternative to the 10-cm horizontal line VAS and may facilitate incorporation of physician and parent subjective ratings in standard clinical practice.