bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification of a new HLA‐B*40 variant, B*400204, by sequence‐based typing in a Martinican individual
Authors: Paturel L. , Béra O. , Favre‐Victoire I. , Dubois V.
Published: July 2009

We report the identification of a novel B*40 allele, officially named B*400204, found in a Martinican prospective bone marrow donor by means of sequence‐based typing techniques. This novel allele differs from the B*400201 allele by a synonymous nucleotide exchange at codon 31 in exon 2 (ACG → ACC).
An HLA‐DR11/DQ3 haplotype with a DRB1*0301 sequence motif in the third hypervariable region of the HLA‐DR beta‐1 chain: molecular and serological analysis of its generation in a European Caucasian family
Authors: Kelsch R. , Binder T. M. C. , Elsner H. A. , Eiermann T. H. , Sibrowski W.
Published: July 2009

The formation of a new human leukocyte antigen (HLA)‐DRB1 allele (DRB1*0340) has been detected during the routine testing of a European Caucasian blood and potential stem cell donor and his family. HLA typing of the donor with two polymerase chain reaction ‐ sequence specific oligonucleotides (PCR‐SSO) systems yielded inconclusive results. HLA typing of the family members including sequence‐based typing of DRB1 in both directions after haplotype‐specific amplification showed that the allele had most likely formed by a double crossover event in exon 2 of the DRB1 gene. The HLA haplotype containing the new allele was most probably derived from the father, who was typed as HLA‐DRB1*0301,*1101 and DRB3*0101,*0202. The comparison of the sequences of the paternal DRB1 and DRB3 alleles with the exon 2 sequence of the DRB1*0340 showed that it had most likely formed through an uptake of at least the sequence part codons 58–77 of DRB1*0301 (donor) by DRB1*1101 (acceptor). We suppose that the recombination sites are located in the sequences from codons 38–57 and codons 78–88. At the protein level, more than 50% of the alpha‐helical structure of the DRB1*1101 chain is replaced by a DRB1*0301‐derived sequence with the exchange of several amino acids. Serological typing of the allele showed HLA‐DR3. However, one monoclonal anti‐DR11 of five DR11‐reactive antibodies reacted positive, which might indicate residual immunogenic epitopes of DRB1*1101. HLA alleles that are most similar to HLA‐DRB1*0340 are DRB1*030501, *0317, *0329 and *1107 with at least four amino acid differences in exon 2. In conclusion, HLA‐DRB1*0340 is a new allele with unique properties compared with other known HLA‐DRB alleles with regard to antigenicity, T‐cell receptor‐binding and peptide‐binding possibilities.
The CD226 gene in susceptibility of type 1 diabetes
Authors: Douroudis K. , Nemvalts V. , Rajasalu T. , Kisand K. , Uibo R.
Published: July 2009

The rs763361 single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) within the CD226 gene has recently been reported as a novel susceptible locus for type 1 diabetes. The CD226 gene is implicated in the regulation of a number of cells involved in immune mechanisms leading to β‐cell destruction in type 1 diabetes. The aim of the present study was to confirm the association of the CD226 gene with type 1 diabetes in Estonian population. The TT genotype [odds ratio (OR) = 2.29, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.25–4.18, P = 0.0071) and the T allele (OR = 1.48, 95% CI = 1.11–1.98, P = 0.0084) of the rs763361 SNP were associated with the risk of type 1 diabetes. The current study replicates the novel association of the rs763361 SNP in susceptibility of type 1 diabetes and supports the CD226 gene as a susceptible candidate locus for type 1 diabetes outside the major histocompatibility complex region.
Binding of the capsule‐like serotype‐specific polysaccharide antigen and the lipopolysaccharide from Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans to human complement‐derived opsonins
Authors: Yamaguchi N. , Tsuda H. , Yamashita Y. , Koga T.
Published: July 2009

We investigated the molecular mechanism of resistance of Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans to complement‐dependent chemiluminescence response by human polymorphonuclear leukocytes. Whole cells of serotype b‐specific polysaccharide antigen‐defective mutants ST2 and ST5 were constructed by inserting transposon Tn916 into A. actinomycetemcomitans strain Y4. These strains induced strong chemiluminescence response by human polymorphonuclear leukocytes and markedly bound to human complement‐derived opsonins. In contrast, strain Y4 induced weak chemiluminescence response and weakly bound to complement‐derived opsonins. The biosensor analysis revealed that lipopolysaccharide from strain Y4 strongly bound to human C3b, but serotype b—specific polysaccharide antigen did not. The serotype b‐specific polysaccharide antigen molecule might sterically hinder the interaction between complement‐derived opsonins and lipopolysaccharide to reduce complement‐dependent chemiluminescence response by human polymorphonuclear leukocytes.
A hemagglutinating variant of Prevotella melaninogenica isolated from the oral cavity
Authors: Haraldsson G. , Holbrook W. P.
Published: July 2009

Strains resembling Prevotella melaninogenica were isolated from healthy subjects and patients with periodontal disease and were identified using: a 5‐test phenotypic screen; commercial identification kits; and a 16S rRNA‐based polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method. Eleven clinical isolates closely resembling P. melaninogenica, and all from patients with periodontitis, were able to agglutinate erythrocytes. In the electron microscope, hemagglutinating isolates showed fimbrialike structures, that were not seen on non‐hemagglutinating isolates. Some strains were further classified with PCR‐restriction fragment‐length polymorphism (RFLP) of 16S rRNA genes. Amplified 16S rDNA was digested using five different endonucleases, separated with agarose gel electrophoresis, stained and photographed. Photographs were then scanned, digitized and a distance matrix calculated using Dice coefficient, where the presence or absence of a band was used as a character. The distance matrix was plotted as a phenogram. At 70% similarity six clusters were seen. Type strains of separate Prevotella species did not fall into any cluster. Hemagglutinating isolates fell into three clusters: four clustered with the type strains of P. melaninogenica and Prevotella veroralis; four with other P. melaninogenica isolates and two hemagglutinating isolates clustered together Prevotella loescheii. The PCR‐RFLP results showed that the hemagglutinating strains did not form a homogenous group inside the Prevotella genus.
Detection of dextranase‐producing gram‐negative oral bacteria
Authors: Igarashi T. , Yamamoto A. , Goto N.
Published: July 2009

Thirty‐one strains of 23 gram‐negative oral bacterial species were examined for dextran‐degrading activity on agar plates containing blue dextran. One strain each of Capnocytophaga ochracea, Capnocytophaga sputigena, Prevotella loescheii, Prevotella melaninogenica and Prevotella oralis had detectable dextranase activity. The culture supernatants of P. melaninogenica and P. oralis cells contained dextranases of multiple sizes, but those of the other three species had a single size of enzyme. A 56‐kDa dextranase was purified from the culture supernatant of P. oralis and the antiserum against the enzyme was prepared with a rabbit. The Ouchterlony test showed that the antibody reacted with the supernatants of both P. melaninogenica and P. oralis but not with the others. Dot‐blot hybridization using the dextranase gene of Streptococcus mutans as a probe revealed that there was no significantly homologous sequence in the chromosomal DNA of the five species.
Molecular characterization and association with carcass traits of the porcine SLC39A7 gene
Authors: Chen Z.G. , Ma Z.X. , Zuo B. , Lei M.G. , Xiong Y.Z.
Published: July 2009

In this study, the molecular characterization and potential association of SLC39A7 gene with carcass traits were investigated in pigs. The sequence of SLC39A7 cDNA was obtained by in silico cloning and RT‐polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Two transcripts, variant 1 (2398 bp) and variant 2 (2088 bp), of the SLC39A7 gene were identified. Expression analysis of SLC39A7 in 10 different tissues by RT‐PCR showed that variant 1 was ubiquitously expressed in all tissues analysed, but variant 2 was not found in fat tissue. The cDNA regions of variant 1 and 2 were organized in seven and eight exons respectively. A c.205G>A substitution in exon 3, which changes a codon for glycine into a codon for arginine, (p.Gly69Arg) and a c.1138‐216T>C substitution in intron 6 were detected by PCR‐HpaII‐restriction fragment length polymorphisms (RFLP) and PCR‐cofI‐RFLP respectively. Significant differences were found in the allele frequencies of c.205G>A among six Chinese indigenous pig breeds and two commercial pig breeds. Linkage analysis showed that the c.205G>A polymorphism within the SLC39A7 gene was closely linked to the marker Sw1856 on pig chromosome 7 in a Large White × Meishan F2 resource population. The QTL and association studies between polymorphisms of the SLC39A7 gene and carcass traits were carried out. Significant associations of the SLC39A7 polymorphisms with backfat thickness at thorax‐waist (p < 0.05), average backfat thickness (p < 0.05) and leaf fat weight (p < 0.01) were found. Additional F‐drop test or marker assisted association analyses also supported the association of the mutation in SLC39A7 with the above traits. Together, the present study provided the useful information for the characterization of SLC39A7 gene and potential association with carcass traits in pigs.
Direct and maternal (co)variance components and heritability estimates for body weights in Chokla sheep
Authors: Kushwaha B.P. , Mandal A. , Arora A.L. , Kumar R. , Kumar S. , Notter D.R.
Published: July 2009

Estimates of (co)variance components were obtained for weights at birth, weaning and 6, 9 and 12 months of age in Chokla sheep maintained at the Central Sheep and Wool Research Institute, Avikanagar, Rajasthan, India, over a period of 21 years (1980–2000). Records of 2030 lambs descended from 150 rams and 616 ewes were used in the study. Analyses were carried out by restricted maximum likelihood (REML) fitting an animal model and ignoring or including maternal genetic or permanent environmental effects. Six different animal models were fitted for all traits. The best model was chosen after testing the improvement of the log‐likelihood values. Direct heritability estimates were inflated substantially for all traits when maternal effects were ignored. Heritability estimates for weight at birth, weaning and 6, 9 and 12 months of age were 0.20, 0.18, 0.16, 0.22 and 0.23, respectively in the best models. Additive maternal and maternal permanent environmental effects were both significant at birth, accounting for 9% and 12% of phenotypic variance, respectively, but the source of maternal effects (additive versus permanent environmental) at later ages could not be clearly identified. The estimated repeatabilities across years of ewe effects on lamb body weights were 0.26, 0.14, 0.12, 0.13, and 0.15 at birth, weaning, 6, 9 and 12 months of age, respectively. These results indicate that modest rates of genetic progress are possible for all weights.
Non‐polio enteroviruses in acute flaccid paralysis children of India: Vital assessment before polio eradication
Authors: Dhole Tapan N , Ayyagari Archana , Chowdhary Rashmi , Shakya Akhalesh K , Shrivastav Nikky , Datta Tapas , Prakash Vijay
Published: July 2009

Aim:  This study is an overview of non‐polio enterovirus (NPEV) circulating in North India studied from the perspective of poliomyelitis eradication. Wild polio cases declined because of intensive oral polio vaccine immunization. As we approach global eradication of poliovirus (PV), NPEV causing acute flaccid paralysis (AFP) are equal cause of concern.

Methods:  A total of 46 653 AFP samples (World Health Organization) and apparently 1000 healthy contacts living in the same geographical area were studied (2004–2007). Serological identification of NPEV was done using RIVM‐specific pools (The Netherlands). Untyped (UT)‐NPEVs were sequenced directly from reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction using pan‐enterovirus (Pan‐EV) primer (CDC, Atlanta, GA) targeting highly conserved 5′un‐translated regions of the enterovirus.

Results:  In this study, 12 513 NPEVs were isolated from the collected stool samples. Seroneutralization had identified 67% of NPEV isolates, whereas 32.6% remained as UT‐ NPEV. Of the typed NPEVs, Coxsackie‐B accounted for 32.3%; followed by echoviruses‐11, 12, 13, 7 between 8 and 28%. In sequencing few UT‐NPEVs, some were identified also as echovirus‐30, 11 and 18 which were probably present in mixtures as they remained UT‐NPEV in ENT. Newly classified human enterovirus virus‐86 (HEV) (EU079026), HEV‐97(EU071767) and HEV‐B isolate (EU071768) were isolated in AFP samples.

Conclusions:  This study provided definitive information about circulation, prevalence and new emerging NPEV in the polio‐endemic region of India, hence they should be considered in AFP surveillance. This would help in adopting and planning new strategies in post‐PV eradication era in the country. This is the right time to prepare for the future tasks while we head towards a polio‐free region.
Prostatic metastasis of large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma of the lung
Authors: YOO Jeong Hwan , LEE Ji Hyun , KIM Eun Kyung , HONG Young Kwon , LEE Yonghee , JEONG Hye Cheol
Published: July 2009

Large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma (LCNEC) of the lung is a rare and aggressive tumour with a poor prognosis. Lung cancer metastases to the prostate are also uncommon, and are usually found incidentally during autopsy. Most reported primary lung cancers with prostatic metastases are small cell carcinomas, and prostatic metastases from LCNEC of the lung have not been reported previously. This case report describes a 70‐year‐old man with LCNEC of the lung and metastases in the prostate, brain, bone, liver and lymph nodes.
Serum hydrogen sulfide as a novel marker predicting bacterial involvement in patients with community‐acquired lower respiratory tract infections
Authors: CHEN Ya‐Hong , YAO Wan‐Zhen , GAO Jing‐Zhen , GENG Bin , WANG Pei‐Pei , TANG Chao‐Shu
Published: July 2009

Background and objective:  Endogenous hydrogen sulfide (H2S) may be involved in the pathogenesis of systemic inflammation. It was investigated whether serum H2S levels differed among patients with community‐acquired pneumonia, those with exacerbations of COPD or control subjects, and whether H2S may be used as a surrogate marker of the need for antibiotic treatment.

Methods:  Serum H2S levels were measured in 129 patients with pneumonia or COPD exacerbations and in 72 healthy control subjects.

Results:  The mean serum H2S concentration was 36% lower in patients with pneumonia (22.7 ± 14.6 µmol/L) than in control subjects (35.4 ± 5.3 µmol/L) (P < 0.01). Serum H2S concentration did not differ between patients with acute exacerbations of COPD (33.8 ± 18.6 µmol/L) and control subjects. Within the COPD group, patients with Anthonisen type 1 exacerbations had a lower serum H2S concentration (22.5 ± 11.6 µmol/L) than control subjects, and those with type 3 exacerbations had a higher serum H2S concentration (54.2 ± 21.3 µmol/L) than control subjects. There was no difference between patients with type 2 exacerbations (41.7 ± 8.4 µmol/L) and control subjects. In patients requiring antibiotics, serum H2S concentration was 41% lower than in those not requiring antibiotics. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve for H2S as a surrogate marker of the need for antibiotics was 0.862 (95% confidence interval: 0.805–0.919, P < 0.01). Serum H2S levels were inversely correlated with serum CRP levels (r = −0.337, P < 0.01).

Conclusions:  Serum H2S levels may be used as a marker in lower respiratory tract infections. Further studies are required to validate the role of serum H2S levels in guiding antibiotic selection.
Respiratory infections: A current and future threat
Authors: WATERER Grant , WUNDERINK Richard
Published: July 2009

Despite all the medical progress in the last 50 years pulmonary infections continue to exact and extremely high human and economic cost. This review will focus on the human, pathogen and environmental factors that contribute to the continued global burden or respiratory diseases with a particular focus on areas where we might hope to see some progress in the coming decades.
Patient noncompliance before surgery
Authors: Kaye Jonathan D. , Richstone Lee , Cho Jane S. , Tai Julia Y. , Arrand Jonathan , Kavoussi Louis R.
Published: July 2009

Study Type – Therapy (case series) Level of Evidence 4

OBJECTIVE

To assess patient compliance with preoperative instructions and to determine causes and factors of noncompliance, as noncompliance might affect surgical outcome and has potential medicolegal implications.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

One surgeon counselled 101 consecutive patients before undergoing laparoscopic renal surgery. Deliberate discussions instructed patients to bring their radiograph films on the day of surgery and complete a preoperative bowel preparation. Noncompliance was defined as failure to bring films and/or complete bowel preparation. Patient demographics, socio‐economic and clinical variables were analysed, and reasons for failure to comply with instructions were also recorded.

RESULTS

Twenty‐four of the 101 (24%) patients were not compliant, 13 with films only, seven with bowel preparation only, and four with both sets of instructions. Univariate analysis showed that language and race were factors for noncompliance. Multivariate analysis showed that non‐Caucasians had 17 times the risk of noncompliance (P < 0.001); long distance from home to the site of care had five times the risk of noncompliance (P = 0.041), and each day between the initial consultation and the date of surgery had 1.05 times the risk of noncompliance (P < 0.001). The most common reason given by patients for noncompliance was that they were never given the preoperative instructions.

CONCLUSIONS

Noncompliance with preoperative surgical instructions is a significant issue and is increased in non‐Caucasian patients, those travelling long distances, and those whose surgery date is long after their preoperative consultation. A systems‐based approach is needed to address this significant issue.
STRATEGY, STRUCTURE AND PROCESS IN THE PUBLIC SECTOR: A TEST OF THE MILES AND SNOW MODEL
Authors: ANDREWS RHYS , BOYNE GEORGE A. , LAW JENNIFER , WALKER RICHARD M.
Published: July 2009

We present a comprehensive empirical application of the Miles and Snow (1978) model of organizational strategy, structure and process to the public sector. We refine the model by distinguishing between strategy formulation and implementation, and applying it to 90 public service organizations. Although the empirical evidence shows that organizational strategies fit the Miles and Snow categories of prospector, defender and reactor, the relationship between these strategies and organizational structures (for example, centralization) and processes (for example, planning) is less consistent with their model. Conclusions are drawn for public management theory and practice.
THE ROLE OF EXTERNAL INSPECTION IN THE PUBLIC SERVICES: THE CASE OF THE UK TRAINING MARKET
Authors: LEWIS PAUL , RYAN PAUL
Published: July 2009

We consider two interpretations of the role of external inspection in the public services in the UK in the context of publicly funded, work‐based training programmes for young people. The first is that inspection provides substantive information to buyers concerning training quality, thereby improving efficiency in the ‘training market'. The second is that it provides procedurally oriented reassurance concerning service quality to government and the public, irrespective of substantive quality. Evidence is drawn from the inspection procedures and reports of the Adult Learning Inspectorate between 2001 and 2005. The inspectors rated training providers on various attributes, some clearly procedural, others potentially substantive. We find that while inspectors took both procedural and substantive dimensions of training into account in judging the quality of a provider's services, they attached considerably more weight to procedural than to substantive attributes. In particular, they undervalued the trainee completion rate, despite its potential association with the substantive quality of training and the priority the government attaches to raising it. These results are interpreted as evidence of limited validity in inspection findings, which do little to resolve information asymmetries in the UK training market.
Increased waking salivary cortisol and depression risk in preschoolers: the role of maternal history of melancholic depression and early child temperament
Authors: Dougherty Lea R. , Klein Daniel N. , Olino Thomas M. , Dyson Margaret , Rose Suzanne
Published: July 2009

Background:  Elevated morning cortisol is a prospective predictor of major depression and may serve as a vulnerability marker. We examined the relation between morning cortisol and two prominent risk factors for depression in preschool‐aged children: maternal depression and child temperament. We also explored whether maternal depression during the child’s life, parental hostility and life stress explained these associations.

Methods:  Ninety‐four children provided a morning salivary cortisol sample, and 92 children provided an evening sample. Child temperament and parenting were assessed using observational measures, and maternal depression and life stress were assessed with clinical interviews.

Results:  Maternal history of melancholic depression and child temperamental low positive emotionality were significantly associated with higher morning cortisol. These relations persisted after controlling for children’s negative emotionality and concurrent depressive symptoms, parental hostility, and life stress.

Conclusions:  Our findings support the hypothesis that elevated morning cortisol may serve as an early‐emerging vulnerability factor for depression, and highlight the importance of anhedonia in risk for depression.
Engel curves and the unitary theory of the household
Authors: Vitaliano Donald F.
Published: July 2009

Previously unutilized household budget data are used to fit Engel curves to test Gary Becker's unitary theory of the household. If resources are fungible and are allocated to maximize a household utility function, the pattern of outlay should be invariant to control over and sources of income. The earnings of wives and Engel curves for food, rent, clothing, light and fuel, insurance and sundries are estimated using the two‐step method of Murphy and Topel. Although working wives contributed an average of 20% of household income, the coefficient of their earnings is not significant in every Engel curve estimated. It appears that Becker's altruist head of the household is the housewife/financial manager, at least in New York City in the early twentieth century.
An evaluation of methods for inoculating Listeria monocytogenes into butter for microbiological experimentation
Authors: VOYSEY PHILIP A , ANSLOW PATRICIA A , BRIDGWATER KERRY J , LAVENDER BRIGITTE , WATSON LEONIE
Published: July 2009

The behaviour of Listeria monocytogenes Scott A was assessed when inoculated into butter using six different methods. The butter was made using a laboratory‐scale butter churn to give consistency in the butter ingredients. No increase in count was seen using the ‘stab’ or ‘contact’ methods of butter inoculation. No inoculation method was found to be ideal for every inoculation experiment that may be required. However, it was concluded that the ‘mix’ and ‘bead’ methods were most appropriate if the ‘cream’ inoculation method could not be used.
Seaweed attachment to bedrock: biophysical evidence for a new geophycology paradigm
Authors: MORRISON L. , FEELY M. , STENGEL D. B. , BLAMEY NIGEL , DOCKERY P. , SHERLOCK A. , TIMMINS É.
Published: July 2009

Seaweeds are amongst the most obvious and ecologically important components of rocky shore communities worldwide but until now little has been known about the processes involved in their attachment. This multidisciplinary study investigated for the first time the interactions between marine macroalgal holdfasts and their underlying substrata, requiring the development of specialized sample preparation techniques to maintain the structural integrity of the holdfast–bedrock interface. Transmitted plane polarized light microscopy, scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive spectroscopy and structured light illumination microscopy were used in the examination of the interface between Ascophyllum nodosum (Fucales, Heterokontophyta) and crustose red algae Lithothamnion sp. (Corallinales, Rhodophyta) on granite and limestone substrates. The new evidence presented here represents a paradigm shift in the way we view seaweed attachment because results show that the holdfasts exploit the physical characteristics of the rock‐forming minerals in order to penetrate the bedrock and thus facilitate the attachment process. Mineral cleavage planes together with intercrystalline and intracrystalline boundaries and fractures provide penetration pathways for the holdfast tissue. This process causes disaggregation of rock‐forming minerals to depths <10 mm and therefore assists in the bioerosion of coastal bedrock. It is concluded that seaweeds are able to cause weathering of natural rock and the term ‘geophycology’ is introduced to describe seaweed–bedrock interactions, including seaweed‐induced weathering.
Multiple Interactions and the Management of Local Commons*
Authors: ELDRIDGE DAMIEN S.
Published: July 2009

We provide a model in which relatively isolated communities can successfully manage local commons informally in circumstances where less isolated communities could not do so. The reason for this is the non‐anonymous nature of many interactions between the members of an isolated community. Such communities may be able to use these multiple interactions to enforce informal restrictions on the usage of local commons.
AN EOCENE FROGFISH FROM MONTE BOLCA, ITALY: THE EARLIEST KNOWN SKELETAL RECORD FOR THE FAMILY
Authors: CARNEVALE GIORGIO , PIETSCH THEODORE W.
Published: July 2009

Abstract:  Eophryne  barbutii gen. et sp. nov., a new frogfish from the Ypresian of Monte Bolca (Italy), is described. This taxon is the oldest member of the family Antennariidae known to date based on articulated skeletal remains. Eophryne  barbutii gen. et sp. nov. possesses a unique combination of features that supports its recognition as a new genus of the family Antennariidae. It is characterized by the presence of tiny bifurcated dermal spinules on the skin between and on the surface of the second and third dorsal‐fin spines, a naked illicium, outermost caudal‐fin rays simple, caudal peduncle present, 11 dorsal‐fin rays, and seven anal‐fin rays. Eophryne gen. nov. shows a certain degree of phenetic resemblance to the extant genera Antennarius, Histrio and Nudiantennarius. Palaeoecological and evolutionary implications are also discussed.
A NEW TRISTICHOPTERID (SARCOPTERYGII, TETRAPODOMORPHA) FROM THE UPPER FAMENNIAN EVIEUX FORMATION (UPPER DEVONIAN) OF BELGIUM
Authors: CLEMENT GAËL , SNITTING DANIEL , AHLBERG PER ERIK
Published: July 2009

Abstract: Additional material of a large specimen of tristichopterid fish from the Upper Famennian Evieux Formation of Belgium is described. This large fish was previously assigned to Tristichopteridae gen. et sp. indet. due to the lack of diagnostic anatomical data. New available material consists of the internal surface of the parietal shield, vomers and anterior part of the parasphenoid, subopercular and submandibulo‐branchiostegal bones, and an internal view of the anterior part of the mandible. A possible autapomorphy of the new form from Belgium,Langlieria socquetigen. nov. et sp. nov., is the absence of marginal teeth on the vomer except on its most lateral part. Apart from these features, it only differs from the genusMandageriafrom Australia in the absence of marginal teeth between the dentary fang and the mandibular symphysis, in the presence of a raised marginal crest lateral to the anterior coronoid fang, and in the presence of numerous small marginal teeth on the premaxilla. It differs from the cosmopolitan genusEusthenodonin a number of respects: the supratemporal, tabular, and postparietal bones are superficially fused, as are the intertemporal and parietal bones, the dermal ornament is proportionally very fine, and the denticulated field of the parasphenoid stands proud rather than being recessed into the body of the bone.
CLEPTOPARASITISM AND DETRITIVORY IN DUNG BEETLE FOSSIL BROOD BALLS FROM PATAGONIA, ARGENTINA
Authors: SÁNCHEZ M. VICTORIA , GENISE JORGE F.
Published: July 2009

Abstract: Traces within traces is a new ichnological field that is meant to shed light on significative palaeoecological aspects. Dung beetle fossil brood balls (Coprinisphaeraispp.), from the Middle Eocene – Lower Miocene Sarmiento Formation of Patagonia, Argentina, show two different trace fossils excavated in its infillings and/or wall that reveal the presence and relationships among different components of past dung communities.Tombownichnus pepein. isp. is represented by elongated pits, circular to elliptical in cross‐section, occurring in the centre or beside ovoid mounds in the internal surface of theCoprinisphaerawall. These traces record the activity of cleptoparasites, such as other dung beetles or flies, whose larvae were probably carried passively with the dung for provisions.Tombownichnus pepeiwould represent the pupation chambers excavated by full grown larvae in theCoprinisphaerawall after completing their development inside provisioned dung. The other trace fossil,Lazaichnus fistulosusis represented by circular to subcircular borings occurring inCoprinisphaerawalls, in connection with an internal gallery in their infillings. Its connection also with meniscate burrows and chambers in the surrounding palaeosol attributable to aestivation chambers of earthworms revealed that these organisms would have been active cleptoparasites or detritivores in dung beetle fossil brood balls.
TAXONOMY OF QUATERNARY DEEP‐SEA OSTRACODS FROM THE WESTERN NORTH ATLANTIC OCEAN
Authors: YASUHARA MORIAKI , OKAHASHI HISAYO , CRONIN THOMAS M.
Published: July 2009

Abstract:  Late Quaternary sediments from Ocean Drilling Program (ODP) Hole 1055B, Carolina Slope, western North Atlantic (32°47.041′ N, 76°17.179′ W; 1798 m water depth) were examined for deep‐sea ostracod taxonomy. A total of 13 933 specimens were picked from 207 samples and c. 120 species were identified. Among them, 87 species were included and illustrated in this paper. Twenty‐eight new species are described. The new species are: Ambocythere sturgio, Argilloecia abba, Argilloecia caju, Argilloecia keigwini, Argilloecia robinwhatleyi, Aversovalva carolinensis, Bythoceratina willemvandenboldi, Bythocythere eugeneschornikovi, Chejudocythere tenuis, Cytheropteron aielloi, Cytheropteron demenocali, Cytheropteron didieae, Cytheropteron richarddinglei, Cytheropteron fugu, Cytheropteron guerneti, Cytheropteron richardbensoni, Eucytherura hazeli, Eucytherura mayressi, Eucytherura namericana, Eucytherura spinicorona, Posacythere hunti, Paracytherois bondi, Pedicythere atroposopetasi, Pedicythere kennettopetasi, Pedicythere klothopetasi, Pedicythere lachesisopetasi, Ruggieriella mcmanusi and Xestoleberis oppoae. Taxonomic revisions of several common species were made to reduce taxonomic uncertainty in the literature. This study provides a robust taxonomic baseline for application to palaeoceanographical reconstruction and biodiversity analyses in the deep and intermediate‐depth environments of the North Atlantic Ocean.
A REVISION OF THE FOSSIL PIRATE SPIDERS (ARACHNIDA: ARANEAE: MIMETIDAE)
Authors: HARMS DANILO , DUNLOP JASON A.
Published: July 2009

Abstract: Fossil pirate spiders (Araneae: Mimetidae) are revised. The extinct generaSuccineroWunderlich, 2004aandPalaeoeroWunderlich, 2004aare interpreted as synonyms of the extant genusEroC. L. Koch, 1836. We recognize here the following fossil species as valid:E. carboneanaPetrunkevitch, 1942,E. longitarsus(Wunderlich, 2004a) comb. nov. andE. permundaPetrunkevitch, 1942, all from Baltic amber (Paleogene: Eocene), andE. rovnoensis(Wunderlich, 2004b) comb. nov. from Rovno (Ukranian) amber (Paleogene: Eocene).Mimetus bituberculatusWunderlich, 1988 from Dominican Republic amber (Neogene: Miocene) can be assigned to a specifically American clade ofMimetusHentz, 1932.Mimetus brevipesWunderlich, 2004afrom Baltic amber is synonymized withM. longipesWunderlich, 2004asyn. nov. Of the other species (all Baltic amber),Ero aberransPetrunkevitch, 1958 lacks taxonomically useful characters.Ero setulosaC. L. Koch and Berendt, 1854 is based on two non‐conspecific, and non‐mimetid, spiders.Mimetarchaea gintarasEskov, 1992 is a subadult male mimetid. The putative oarcine ‘missing link’Praeoarces exitusWunderlich, 2004ais a subadult female mimetine. All four are treated here asnomina dubia. Other fossil mimetid species in the literature arenomina nuda.
Effects of Reduced‐Impact Logging on Fish Assemblages in Central Amazonia
Authors: DIAS MURILO S. , MAGNUSSON WILLIAM E. , ZUANON JANSEN
Published: July 2009

Abstract:  In Amazonia reduced‐impact logging, which is meant to reduce environmental disturbance by controlling stem‐fall directions and minimizing construction of access roads, has been applied to large areas containing thousands of streams. We investigated the effects of reduced‐impact logging on environmental variables and the composition of fish in forest streams in a commercial logging concession in central Amazonia, Amazonas State, Brazil. To evaluate short‐term effects, we sampled 11 streams before and after logging in one harvest area. We evaluated medium‐term effects by comparing streams in 11 harvest areas logged 1–8 years before the study with control streams in adjacent areas. Each sampling unit was a 50‐m stream section. The tetras Pyrrhulina brevis and Hemigrammus cf. pretoensis had higher abundances in plots logged ≥3 years before compared with plots logged <3 years before. The South American darter (Microcharacidium eleotrioides) was less abundant in logged plots than in control plots. In the short term, the overall fish composition did not differ two months before and immediately after reduced‐impact logging. Temperature and pH varied before and after logging, but those differences were compatible with normal seasonal variation. In the medium term, temperature and cover of logs were lower in logged plots. Differences in ordination scores on the basis of relative fish abundance between streams in control and logged areas changed with time since logging, mainly because some common species increased in abundance after logging. There was no evidence of species loss from the logging concession, but differences in log cover and ordination scores derived from relative abundance of fish species persisted even after 8 years. For Amazonian streams, reduced‐impact logging appears to be a viable alternative to clear‐cut practices, which severely affect aquatic communities. Nevertheless, detailed studies are necessary to evaluated subtle long‐term effects.
How accurate is ICD coding for epilepsy?
Authors: Jetté Nathalie , Reid Aylin Y. , Quan Hude , Hill Michael D. , Wiebe Samuel
Published: July 2009

Purpose:  Assess the validity of ICD‐9‐CM and ICD‐10 epilepsy coding from an emergency visit (ER) and a hospital discharge abstract database (DAD).

Methods:  Two separate sources of patient records were reviewed and validated. (1) Charts of patients admitted to our seizure monitoring unit over 2 years (n = 127, ICD‐10 coded records) were reviewed. Sensitivity (Sn), specificity (Sp), and positive and negative predictive values (PPV and NPV) were calculated. (2) Random sample of charts for patients seen in the ER or admitted to hospital under any services, and whose charts were coded with epilepsy or an epilepsy‐like condition, were reviewed. Two time‐periods were selected to allow validation of both ICD‐9‐CM (n = 486) and ICD‐10 coded (n = 454) records. Only PPV and NPV were calculated for these records. All charts were reviewed by two physicians to confirm the presence/absence of epilepsy and compare to administrative coding.

Results:  Sample 1: Sn, Sp, PPV, and NPV of ICD‐10 epilepsy coding from the seizure monitoring unit (SMU) chart review were 99%, 70%, 85%, and 97% respectively. Sample 2: The PPV and NPV for ICD‐9‐CM coding from the ER database were, respectively, 99% and 97% and from the DAD were 98% and 99%. The PPV and NPV for ICD‐10 coding from the ER database were, respectively, 100% and 90% and from the DAD were 98% and 99%. The epilepsy subtypes grand mal status and partial epilepsy with complex partial seizures both had PPVs >75% (ICD‐9‐CM and ICD‐10 data).

Discussion:  Administrative emergency and hospital discharge data have high epilepsy coding validity overall in our health region.
Validation and Comparison of Two Frailty Indexes: The MOBILIZE Boston Study
Authors: Kiely Dan K. , Cupples L. Adrienne , Lipsitz Lewis A.
Published: July 2009

OBJECTIVES: To validate two established frailty indexes and compare their ability to predict adverse outcomes in a diverse, elderly, community‐dwelling sample of men and women.

DESIGN: Prospective observational study.

SETTING: A diverse defined geographic area of Boston.

PARTICIPANTS: Seven hundred sixty‐five community‐dwelling participants in the Maintenance of Balance, Independent Living, Intellect, and Zest in the Elderly Boston Study.

MEASUREMENTS: Two published frailty indexes, recurrent falls, disability, overnight hospitalization, emergency department (ED) visits, chronic medical conditions, self‐reported health, physical function, cognitive ability (including executive function), and depression. One index was developed from the Study of Osteoporotic Fractures (SOF) and the other from the Cardiovascular Health Study (CHS).

RESULTS: The SOF frailty index classified 77.1% as robust, 18.7% as prefrail, and 4.2% as frail. The CHS frailty index classified 51.2% as robust, 38.8% as prefrail, and 10.0% as frail. Both frailty indexes (SOF; CHS) were similar in their ability to predict key geriatric outcomes such as recurrent falls (hazard ratio (HR)frail=2.2, 95% confidence interval (CI)=1.2–4.0; HRfrail=1.9, 95% CI=1.2–3.1), overnight hospitalization (odds ratio (OR)frail=3.5, 95% CI=1.5–8.0; ORfrail=4.4, 95% CI=2.4–8.2), ED visits (ORfrail=3.5, 95% CI=1.4,8.8; ORfrail=3.1, 95% CI=1.6–5.9), and disability (ORfrail=5.4, 95% CI=2.3–12.3; ORfrail=7.7, 95% CI=4.0–14.7), as well as chronic medical conditions, physical function, cognitive ability, and depression.

CONCLUSION: Two established frailty indexes were validated using an independent elderly sample of diverse men and women; both indexes were good at distinguishing geriatric conditions and predicting recurrent falls, overnight hospitalization, and ED visits according to level of frailty. Although both indexes are good measures of frailty, the simpler SOF index may be easier and more practical in a clinical setting.
Effects of Animations in Learning—A Cognitive Fit Perspective1
Authors: Li Pengtao , Santhanam Radhika , Carswell Catherine M.
Published: July 2009

Information technology (IT) artifacts such as animations are increasingly used in educational institutions. Researchers caution that, if we are to derive benefits from animations and other such IT artifacts, we must understand how to use it optimally. In this study, we look at the effects of animations in supporting learning processes. IT‐enabled animations dynamically depict changes in events and are used in the classroom as external representations to elaborate on the knowledge content transferred in the classroom. Research in related disciplines has investigated the effects of using these animations on student learning outcomes and has reported conflicting results. We propose that the theory of cognitive fit in information systems could reconcile these conflicting findings and offer some insight into how these animations might be used most beneficially. We conduct laboratory‐based experiments to test our ideas. Our findings indicate that these representations are superior to text‐based representations and reduce students' cognitive load only in learning tasks where animations have a good cognitive fit. We discuss the implications of our findings for the use of animations and other external representations in the classroom and for future research on the role of Technology Mediated Learning.
Strontium‐Doped Lanthanum Manganite Films Prepared by Magnetic Deposition
Authors: Menon Mohan , Larsen Casper , Andersen Kjeld B.
Published: July 2009

Deposition of La0.85Sr0.15MnO3 (LSM) films from suspensions using a magnetic field was found to be a cheap and quick technique. Ninety weight percent of the particles present in the suspensions were deposited within the first minute of the deposition, and the thickness of the film varied linearly with the concentration of the suspension. Deposition phenomena were explained by modeling the magnetic flux in the deposition cell. Particles aligned with the flux lines, forming chains of LSM particles that, upon sintering, resulted in the formation of porous films with long chains of LSM grains.
Microcontact Printing of Organic Self‐Assembled Monolayers for Patterned Growth of Well‐Aligned ZnO Nanorod Arrays and their Field‐Emission Properties
Authors: Lee Jian‐Hong , Hon Min‐Hsiung , Chung Yi‐Wen , Leu Ing‐Chi
Published: July 2009

This paper describes a simple method for preparing well‐aligned ZnO nanorod arrays in a more tunable fashion, which enables the synthesis of nanorods directly in various patterns and the easy control of the array density. This method is based on a combination of the microcontact printing process for patterning and a solution approach for depositing ZnO nanorods. The growth behavior between the contact and noncontact areas is investigated. Different formation mechanisms are proposed, and it is found that the key difference between nanorod and microrod forms was the ZnO seed layer and the van der Waals force at specific conditions. The role of self‐assembled monolayers of octadecyl‐trichloro‐silane in the reaction solution is also discussed. Wettability of the surfaces is assessed by measuring the water contact angle, and the results show significant variation with surface morphology, from 17.6° to 123.6°. The lowest turn‐on applied field strength is 4.65 V/μm at the current density of 10 μA/cm2, which is achieved by the lowest array density of nanorods. The field‐emission characteristics of the nanorods are found to be highly reproducible. The results could be valuable for the application of field‐emission‐based devices using ZnO nanorod arrays as cathode materials.
Pressure Effect on the Homogeneity of Spark Plasma‐Sintered Tungsten Carbide Powder
Authors: Grasso Salvatore , Sakka Yoshio , Maizza Giovanni , Hu Chunfeng
Published: July 2009

A combined experimental/numerical methodology was developed to aid full densification of pure ultrafine tungsten carbide powder by means of Spark Plasma Sintering (SPS) operating in Current Control mode. Applied pressure ranged from 5 to 80 MPa while the current intensity was set and held constant at 1400 A. The developed SPS model used a moving‐mesh technique to account for the electrothermal contact resistance change during both shrinkage and punch sliding follow‐up. The pressure dependence on the electrothermal contact resistance was also taken into account by the model. The experimental and numerical results showed the effects of pressure on grain growth, residual porosity, and hardness observed along the sample radius. Upon increasing sintering pressure, complete densification was obtained by reducing the peak temperature measured at the die surface. By combining experimental and modeling results, a direct correlation between compact microstructure homogeneity and sintering parameters (i.e., temperature and applied pressure) was established.
(In)visible partners: people, algorithms, and business models in online dating
Authors: CHURCHILL ELIZABETH F. , GOODMAN ELIZABETH S.
Published: July 2009

A confluence of personal, technical and business factors renders priorities, practices, and desires visible — and invisible — when people use online dating sites to look for partners. Based on a review of websites, interviews with dating site designer/developers, and interviews with would‐be daters about their online experiences and their first dates, we offer some insights into the entanglement between daters, site implementers, and business models that is part and parcel of getting ‘matched’ via the Internet. We also examine the role of the website interface and match algorithms in the expression of the “real me” and the search for “the one”— and then how processes of self‐presentation and partner imagination play into the planning, expectation‐setting and experience of the first date. Finally, we reflect on issues raised for design and for strategic technology development. This study of online‐offline encounters is an example of using detailed qualitative analyses to deliver deeper understandings of people's experiences, offering a complement to large‐scale, aggregated data summaries based on website activity logs and surveys.
Oral health education in schools: promoting health agents
Authors: Garbin CAS , Garbin AJI , Dos Santos KT , Lima DP
Published: July 2009

Abstract:  Purpose:  The aim of this study was to verify the influence of preschool children participating in an oral health education programme on daily health practices of their families, through parent’s perception.

Methods:  A sample of 119 parents of 5‐ to 6‐year‐old preschool children were selected. Data were collected using a structured open–closed questionnaire, self‐administered. The questions focused on parents’ knowledge about activities of oral health education conducted in school, the importance given by them to these activities, learning from their offspring and the presence of habit change at home.

Results:  In total, 63 (52.9%) parents agreed to participate. Ninety‐eight per cent knew about educative and preventive activities developed at school and all of them affirmed that these activities were important, mainly because of knowledge, motivation and improvement in children’s health. Ninety and half per cent of parents reported that they learned something about oral health from their children and, among these, almost half (47.8%) cited toothbrushing as the indicator for better learning. Besides this, 87.3% of participants revealed the change in oral health habits of their family members.

Conclusion:  Preschool children were able to transmit knowledge acquired at school to their parents that included change in oral health routine of their family members.