bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Changes in Melanocortin Expression and Inflammatory Pathways in Fetal Offspring of Nonhuman Primates Fed a High-Fat Diet
Authors: Grayson B. E. , Levasseur P. R. , Williams S. M. , Smith M. S. , Marks D. L. , Grove K. L.
Published: February 2010

The hypothalamic melanocortin system, which controls appetite and energy expenditure, develops during the third trimester in primates. Thus, maternal nutrition and health may have a profound influence on the development of this system. To study the effects of chronic maternal high-fat diet (HFD) on the development of the melanocortin system in the fetal nonhuman primate, we placed adult female macaques on either a control (CTR) diet or a HFD for up to 4 yr. A subgroup of adult female HFD animals was also switched to CTR diet during the fifth year of the study (diet reversal). Third-trimester fetuses from mothers on HFD showed increases in proopiomelanocortin mRNA expression, whereas agouti-related protein mRNA and peptide levels were decreased in comparison with CTR fetuses. Proinflammatory cytokines, including IL-1β and IL-1 type 1 receptor, and markers of activated microglia were elevated in the hypothalamus, suggesting an activation of the local inflammatory response. Fetuses of diet-reversal mothers had normal melanocortin levels. These results raise the concern that chronic consumption of a HFD during pregnancy, independent of maternal obesity and diabetes, can lead to widespread activation of proinflammatory cytokines that may alter the development of the melanocortin system. The abnormalities in the fetal POMC system, if maintained into the postnatal period, could impact several systems, including body weight homeostasis, stress responses, and cardiovascular function. Indeed, the HFD offspring develop early-onset excess weight gain. These abnormalities may be prevented by healthful nutrient consumption during pregnancy even in obese and severely insulin-resistant individuals.
Retinoic acid orchestrates fibroblast growth factor signalling to drive embryonic stem cell differentiation
Authors: Stavridis Marios P. , Collins Barry J. , Storey Kate G.
Published: February 2010

Embryonic stem (ES) cells fluctuate between self-renewal and the threshold of differentiation. Signalling via the fibroblast growth factor (Fgf)/Erk pathway is required to progress from this dynamic state and promote mouse ES cell differentiation. Retinoic acid also induces differentiation in many cellular contexts, but its mechanism of action in relation to Fgf/Erk signalling in ES cells is poorly understood. Here, we show for the first time that endogenous retinoid signalling is required for the timely acquisition of somatic cell fate in mouse ES cells and that exposure to retinoic acid advances differentiation by a dual mechanism: first increasing, but in the long-term decreasing, Fgf signalling. Rapid retinoid induction of Fgf8 and downstream Erk activity on day 1 in differentiation conditions may serve to ensure loss of self-renewal. However, more gradual repression of Fgf4 by retinoic acid is accompanied by an overall reduction in Erk activity on day 2, and the acquisition of neural and non-neural fates is now advanced by inhibition of Fgf signalling. So, although blocking Fgf/Erk activity is known to promote ES cell self-renewal, once cells have experienced a period of such signals, subsequent inhibition of Fgf signalling has the opposite effect and drives differentiation. We further show in the embryo that retinoid repression of Fgf signalling promotes neural differentiation onset in an analogous step in the extending embryonic body axis and so identify attenuation of Fgf signalling by retinoic acid as a conserved fundamental mechanism driving differentiation towards somatic cell fates.
Neutrophilen Gelatinase-assoziiertes Lipocalin (NGAL) für akute Nierenschädigung: das renale Troponin? / Neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin for acute kidney injury – the renal troponin?
Authors: Haase Michael , Haase-Fielitz Anja
Published: February 2010

Die akute Nierenschädigung ist eine prognosebestimmende Erkrankung von epidemischem Ausmaß. Dennoch sind sämtliche Therapieansätze in der klinischen Praxis bislang fehlgeschlagen. Eine Ursache könnte die Verzögerung therapeutischer Maßnahmen sein, welche zu einem Zeitpunkt eingesetzt werden, an dem möglicherweise bereits irreversible Organschäden vorliegen. Neutrophilen Gelatinase-assoziiertes Lipocalin (NGAL) ist ein nach ischämischen, toxischen oder inflammatorischen Noxen aus dem distalen Nephron freigesetztes Protease-resistentes Polypeptid und ein früher, prädiktiver renaler Biomarker für eine akute Nierenschädigung. Neue Biomarker für strukturelle renale Schäden könnten zukünftig zu einer früheren Diagnosestellung und zu einem zeitnahen individualisierten Patientenmanagement einschließlich der Anwendung von potentiell nephroprotektiven Interventionen bzw. der konsequenten Vermeidung nierenschädlicher Substanzen beitragen und auf diese Weise zu einer verbesserten Prognose führen.
Application of Thermogravimetric Analysis for the Proximate Analysis of Livestock Wastes
Authors: Cantrell Keri B. , Martin Jerry H. , Ro Kyoung S.
Published: February 2010

There is worldwide interest in deriving increasing amounts of energy from bio-based agricultural materials including not only lignocellulosic residues but also a significant quantity of available livestock manure. This manure can be used as a feedstock for various thermochemical conversion processes such as pyrolysis and gasification. In order to apply these processes, the manure must be properly characterized for volatile matter (VM) and ash contents. The determination of these components is not mentioned specifically in current ASTM standards for livestock manure. In this study, we employed the use of thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) for the rapid assessment of VM and ash content in swine, dairy, rabbit, and poultry manures using references from the ASTM coal and coke standards. The TGA assessment of VM in the manures were the same as those values found by non-automated means (ASTM D3175-07) ranging from 47 to 78 wt%db. The TGA assessment of the ash was also the same when compared to ash results via non-instrumental means following ASTM D3174-04. Ash values ranged from 4 to 47 wt%db. There was one exception when testing a high ash containing swine lagoon sludge. Under the TGA method, this sludge underwent more complete devolatilization and oxidation. This was primarily attributed to the small sample size leading to uniform internal heating. The modification of the TGA ash method aimed at shortening the run time generated similar results as both the original TGA method and non-automated method. Thus, TGA ash determination in manure should occur above 600°C with preferences for the following method: Zero-grade air at 2–4 furnace volumes/min, heating rate of 11°C⋅min−1, temperature range of 110–950°C, and isothermal hold at 950°C for 10 min. VM determination via TGA should follow ASTM D3175-07.
Early Hyperglycemia Is a Risk Factor for Death and White Matter Reduction in Preterm Infants
Authors: Alexandrou Georgios , Skiöld Beatrice , Karlén Jonna , Tessma Mesfin K. , Norman Mikael , Ådén Ulrika , Vanpée Mireille
Published: February 2010

OBJECTIVE:

The objective of this study was to determine whether hyperglycemia during the first week of life in extremely preterm (EPT) infants was associated with increased mortality rates and with cerebral injury, as assessed with MRI of the brain, at term-equivalent age.

METHODS:

All 143 EPT infants (gestational ages of <27 weeks) who were born at Karolinska University Hospital between January 2004 and December 2006 and were alive at 24 hours were eligible. Of the 118 surviving infants, 24 were excluded for various reasons. MRI was performed for the 94 included survivors at term age, with a 1.5-T system, and scans were scored for gray matter/white matter (WM) abnormalities. Of the 25 infants who died before term age, 6 were excluded because of missing glucose documentation and the remaining 19 were included. Hyperglycemia was defined as plasma glucose levels of >8.3 mmol/L.

RESULTS:

Hyperglycemia occurring on the first day of life was identified as an independent risk factor for death (adjusted odds ratio: 3.7 [95% confidence interval: 1.3–10.6]; P = .01). Hyperglycemia occurring on the first day of life also was a risk factor for WM reduction, as determined through MRI, at term-equivalent age (adjusted odds ratio: 3.1 [95% confidence interval: 1.0–9.2]; P = .04).

CONCLUSION:

In this population-based cohort of EPT infants, hyperglycemia on the first day of life was associated with increased mortality rates and brain damage, as reflected by WM reduction at term age.
Cystic Fibrosis and Transition to Adult Medical Care
Authors: Tuchman Lisa K. , Schwartz Lisa A. , Sawicki Gregory S. , Britto Maria T.
Published: February 2010

Transition of young adults with cystic fibrosis (CF) from pediatric to adult medical care is an important priority, because many patients are living well into their fourth decade, and by 2010 more than half of all people living with CF will be older than 18 years. Transition to adulthood, a developmental process of skill-building in self-management supported by the health system, is important for the successful transfer to adult CF care. The US Cystic Fibrosis Foundation has been proactive in preparing for increasing numbers of young adults in need of specialized adult-oriented care by creating specialized clinical fellowships for physician providers and mandating establishment of adult CF programs. Despite these initiatives, how to best facilitate transition and to define and measure successful outcomes after transfer to adult care remains unclear. Many adults with CF continue to receive care in the pediatric setting, whereas others transfer before being developmentally prepared. In this state-of-the-art review we provide context for the scope of the challenges associated with designing and evaluating health care transition for adolescents and young adults with CF and implications for all youth with special health care needs.
Sensorineural hearing loss in high school teenagers in Mexico City and its relationship with recreational noise
Authors: Martínez-Wbaldo María del Consuelo , Soto-Vázquez Claudia , Ferre-Calacich Ivonne , Zambrano-Sánchez Elizabeth , Noguez-Trejo Lucía , Poblano Adrián
Published: February 2010

The aim of this study was to measure the frequency of hearing loss in a sample of typical public high-school students exposed to recreational noise, and determine associated risk factors. The sample was made up of 214 teenagers from a high-school in Mexico City; subjects were selected randomly per strata. We applied a questionnaire to identify risk factors for hearing loss and performed a battery of audiologic tests consisting of otoscopy, tympanometry, and pure-tone audiometry. The mean age of the sample was 16 ± 1.07 years; 73% were male and 27%, female. Hearing loss was found in 21% of students. The main hearing loss-related risk factor was exposure to recreational noise: frequent attendance at discotheques and pop-music concerts; use of personal stereos; and noise exposure in school workshops. The high frequency of hearing loss in high school students from one Mexico City school (nearly one fifth of the sample) was found to be related to noise exposure mainly during recreational activities.
Adaptação para o português do Cambridge Cognitive Examination-Revised aplicado em um ambulatório público de geriatria
Authors: Paradela Emylucy Martins Paiva , Lopes Claudia de Souza , Lourenço Roberto Alves
Published: February 2010

Este artigo apresenta os resultados das quatro primeiras etapas (equivalências de conceito, de item, semântica e operacional) do processo de adaptação para o português do Cambridge Cognitive Examination-Revised (CAMCOG-R). O processo teve como base o modelo teórico proposto por Herdman et al., que, além das quatro etapas supracitadas, inclui as equivalências de mensuração e funcional, não avaliadas no presente trabalho. Um grupo de especialistas avaliou se todas as dimensões abarcadas pelo CAMCOG-R estavam presentes na realidade brasileira; duas traduções e retro-traduções foram realizadas, assim como a técnica de "grupos focais". A versão brasileira do CAMCOG-R (Br-CAMCOG-R) foi elaborada mantendo os 69 itens do instrumento original, com níveis variados de dificuldade. Esta versão foi então aplicada em 196 idosos, nos quais a duração média foi de 43 ± 9,4 minutos, e a média do escore total foi de 67 ± 14,8 pontos. Os achados do estudo mostram que a Br-CAMCOG-R pode ser uma ferramenta útil na avaliação cognitiva de idosos que foram positivos em testes de rastreamento.
Helicobacter pylori and anemia: a community-based cross-sectional study among adults in Southern Brazil
Authors: Santos Iná S. , Minten Gicele Costa , Valle Neiva C. J. , Tuerlinckx Giovana Costa , Boccio José , Barrado Domingo Andrés , Silva Alessandra Banaszeski da , Pereira Guilherme Augusto Reissig
Published: February 2010

To investigate the association between Helicobacter pylori and anemia, a community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 18-45 year old users of the 31 primary health care units in Pelotas, Southern Brazil. Interviews using a structured questionnaire were carried out in waiting rooms during two work shifts. Anemia (hemoglobin < 11g/dL among pregnant women, < 12g/dL among women and < 13g/dL among men) was diagnosed from capillary blood (HemoCue) and H. pylori by means of a 13C-UBT. Information on socio-demographic, behavioral and biological characteristics was collected. Logistic and linear regression analyses were carried out, taking into account aggregated primary health care units. A total of 1,117 respondents fulfilled the inclusion criteria (losses/refusals: 8.1%). Prevalence of anemia was 20.6% (18.2-23.2%) and of H. pylori, 70.7% (68.0-73.6%). After allowing for age, sex and skin color the odds ratio for anemia among those who were diagnosed H. pylori positive was 0.94 (0.70-1.27). After allowing for sex, skin color, family monthly income, age, and smoking, the reduction in hemoglobin among H. pylori positive respondents was 0.07g/dL (-0.24-0.11; p = 0.4). There is no association between H. pylori and anemia among adults attending primary health care units in Southern Brazil.
Depression during pregnancy: prevalence and risk factors among women attending a public health clinic in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Authors: Pereira Priscila Krauss , Lovisi Giovanni Marcos , Pilowsky Daniel L. , Lima Lúcia Abelha , Legay Leticia Fortes
Published: February 2010

Depression is the most prevalent psychiatric disorder during pregnancy and is associated with psychosocial and clinical obstetric factors. Despite being an important public health issue, there are few studies about this issue in Brazil. A cross-sectional study was carried out, involving 331 pregnant women attending a public primary health service over a one-year period in Rio de Janeiro city, Brazil. Participants were interviewed about their socio-demographic status, obstetric/medical conditions, life events and violence during pregnancy. Depression was assessed using the Composite International Development Interview. The prevalence of depression during pregnancy was 14.2% (95%CI: 10.7-18.5) and associated factors included: previous history of depression and any psychiatric treatment, unplanned pregnancy, serious physical illness and casual jobs. These data emphasize the need for screening for depression and its risk factors during pregnancy in settings where care is available. Psychosocial interventions and social policies need to be devised for this population.
Características relatadas sobre animais agressores submetidos ao diagnóstico de raiva, São Paulo, Brasil, 1993-2007
Authors: Buso Daniel Sartore , Nunes Caris Maroni , Queiroz Luzia Helena
Published: February 2010

As pesquisas relativas a agressões por animais baseiam-se em dados de registros de pacientes atendidos nos serviços de vigilância epidemiológica da raiva. Analisaram-se as características de animais agressores, obtidas a partir de dados de 10.616 fichas de envio de amostras para diagnóstico da raiva na região noroeste do Estado de São Paulo, Brasil, entre 1993-2007. Desse total de fichas, 61,5% continham informações sobre agressão e, dentre os animais agressores (25%), a maioria foi de cães (67%), seguidos por gatos (21,8%) e quirópteros (8,1%). Em 92,1% dos relatos as vítimas eram pessoas e 82,3% dos animais eram domiciliados. A maioria dos cães agressores tinha até um ano de idade. Houve associação significante (p < 0,0001) entre agressividade e sexo, sendo os machos mais agressores do que as fêmeas. Dos animais positivos para raiva, 75,9% (183/241) eram agressores. Os dados obtidos são importantes para a instituição de programas de prevenção de mordeduras, baseados no perfil não só da vítima, mas também do animal agressor, além de permitirem estabelecer fatores de risco para ocorrência de agressões.
Cellular and molecular crosstalk between leptin receptor and estrogen receptor-α in breast cancer: molecular basis for a novel therapeutic setting
Authors: Fusco Roberta , Galgani Mario , Procaccini Claudio , Franco Renato , Pirozzi Giuseppe , Fucci Laura , Laccetti Paolo , Matarese Giuseppe
Published: February 2010

Obesity is associated with an increased risk of breast cancer. A number of adipocytokines are increased in obesity causing low-level chronic inflammation associated with an increased risk of tumors. The adipocytokine leptin shows profound anti-obesity and pro-inflammatory activities. We have hypothesized that in common obesity, high circulating leptin levels might contribute to an increased risk of breast cancer by affecting mammary cell proliferation and survival. Leptin exerts its activity not only through leptin receptor (LepR), but also through crosstalk with other signaling systems implicated in tumorigenesis. In this study, we focused our attention on the relationship between the leptin/LepR axis and the estrogen receptor-α (ERα). To this aim, we utilized two human breast cancer cell lines, one ERα-positive cell line (MCF 7) and the other ERα-negative cell line (MDA-MB 231). We observed that the two cell lines had a different sensitivity to recombinant leptin (rleptin): on MCF 7 cells, rleptin induced a strong phosphorylation of the signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) 3 and of the extracellular related kinase 1/2 pathways with an increased cell viability and proliferation associated with an increased expression of ERα receptor. This response was not present in the MDA-MB 231 cells. The effects induced by leptin were lost when LepR was neutralized using either a monoclonal inhibitory antibody to LepR or LepR gene-silencing siRNA. These data suggest that there is a bidirectional communication between LepR and ERα, and that neutralization and/or inactivation of LepR inhibits proliferation and viability of human breast cancer cell lines. This evidence was confirmed by ex vivo studies, in which we analyzed 33 patients with breast cancer at different stages of disease, and observed that there was a statistically significant correlation between the expression of LepR and ERα. In conclusion, this study suggests a crosstalk between LepR and ERα, and could envisage novel therapeutic settings aimed at targeting the LepR in breast cancers.
Comparison of organic and inorganic alignment layers for low‐power liquid‐crystal devices using low‐frequency applied‐voltage waveforms
Authors: Huang Yi , Bhowmik Achintya , Bos Philip
Published: February 2010

Abstract— Bistable displays are known to have low‐power consumption, but they usually lack the ability to display full‐color video‐rate images. Operating active‐matrix liquid‐crystal displays (AMLCDs) with an ultra‐wide refresh‐rate range, down to ∼1 Hz, can lower the power consumption to that of bistable devices and offer video rates as well. A SiOx‐layer‐based liquid‐crystal (LC) alignment technique is studied here to overcome the ion problems typically encountered with low‐refresh‐rate devices. The effect of ions on the voltage‐holding ratio (VHR) and residual DC voltage (RDC) with SiOx‐based LC alignment is compared with those for polyimide‐based LC alignment. It is found that only SiOx alignment provides high VHR and small RDC, with good stability over time. Therefore, it is shown that SiOx alignment is an excellent candidate for low‐power AMLCDs operated with an ultra‐wide refresh‐rate range.
Host emission from BaMgAl10O17 and SrMgAl10O17 phosphor: Effects of temperature and defect level
Authors: Onuma Hiroaki , Tanno Hiroaki , Suzuki Ai , Sahnoun Riadh , Koyama Michihisa , Tsuboi Hideyuki , Hatakeyama Nozomu , Endou Akira , Takaba Hiromitsu , Del Carpio Carlos A. , Kubo Momoji , Deka Ramesh Chandra , Kajiyama Hiroshi , Shinoda Tsutae , Miyamoto Akira
Published: February 2010

Abstract— Understanding the mechanism of blue‐light emission in Eu‐doped BAM phosphor as well as its sensitive degradation is required because this is a very important material in fluorescent lamps and plasma‐display panels. In this study, both theoretical and experimental investigations on the host emissions in BaMgAl10O17 and SrMgAl10O17 were performed. Host emissions from BaMgAl10O17 and SrMgAl10O17 by photoluminescence and thermoluminescence spectra were observed. Photoluminescence spectra suggested that the host emission from SrMgAl10O17 was easily quenched by thermal vibrations. The thermoluminescence spectra showed the existence of shallow and deep defect levels in BaMgAl10O17 and SrMgAl10O17 phosphors. It was shown that SrMgAl10O17 and its conduction plane could undergo degradation during irradiation of vacuum‐ultra‐violet (VUV) lights based on the calculated energy of formation of an oxygen vacancy. Moreover, the structural defects, such as oxygen vacancies, would cause localizing levels in the upper level in the valence band and in theconduction band. The results suggest the contribution of the host emission to the energy transfer to the Eu atoms would not be significant and the oxygen vacancies would act as the traps for excited carriers.
Direct excitation of xenon by ballistic electrons emitted from nanocrystalline‐silicon planar cathode and vacuum‐ultraviolet light emission
Authors: Ichihara Tsutomu , Hatai Takashi , Koshida Nobuyoshi
Published: February 2010

Abstract— To verify the possible use of energetic electrons for direct excitation of inert gas molecules, a nanocrystalline‐silicon (nc‐Si) planar ballistic emitter is operated in a high‐pressure xenon gas ambience. Under the pulse drive, vacuum‐ultraviolet (VUV) light emission is detected without any signs of discharge. The transient behavior of the VUV light emission properly corresponds to that of the nc‐Si emitter. In accordance with quantitative analyses of electron‐emission characteristics and the VUV output, the electron‐to‐photon conversion efficiency reaches 81% in the relatively efficient emitter case. The VUV output power is mainly determined from the number of electrons with energies compatible the with internal excitation of xenon. The emission spectrum observed at a pressure of 10 kPa shows peaks at 152 and 172 nm, which are thought to be originated from metastable Xe2* states. In contrast to the case of conventional impact ionization, no near‐infrared (NIR) peaks are seen in the spectrum. These results strongly suggest that the incidence of energetic electrons causes direct excitation of xenon molecules followed by radiative relaxation through intermediate states. The generated VUV light can be easily converted to visible light using a phosphor screen. As a discharge‐free VUV light emission, this phenomenon is potentially applicable to mercury‐free, high‐efficacy, and high‐stability flat‐panel light‐emitting device.
Predicting performance for ecological restoration: a case study using Spartina alterniflora
Authors: Travis Steven E. , Grace James B.
Published: February 2010

The success of population‐based ecological restoration relies on the growth and reproductive performance of selected donor materials, whether consisting of whole plants or seed. Accurately predicting performance requires an understanding of a variety of underlying processes, particularly gene flow and selection, which can be measured, at least in part, using surrogates such as neutral marker genetic distances and simple latitudinal effects. Here we apply a structural equation modeling approach to understanding and predicting performance in a widespread salt marsh grass,Spartina alterniflora, commonly used for ecological restoration throughout its native range in North America. We collected source materials from throughout this range, consisting of eight clones each from 23 populations, for transplantation to a common garden site in coastal Louisiana and monitored their performance. We modeled performance as a latent process described by multiple indicator variables (e.g., clone diameter, stem number) and estimated direct and indirect influences of geographic and genetic distances on performance. Genetic distances were determined by comparison of neutral molecular markers with those from a local population at the common garden site. Geographic distance metrics included dispersal distance (the minimum distance over water between donor and experimental sites) and latitude. Model results indicate direct effects of genetic distance and latitude on performance variation among the donor sites. Standardized effect strengths indicate that performance was roughly twice as sensitive to variation in genetic distance as to latitudinal variation. Dispersal distance had an indirect influence on performance through effects on genetic distance, indicating a typical pattern of genetic isolation by distance. Latitude also had an indirect effect on genetic distance through its linear relationship with dispersal distance. Three performance indicators had significant loadings on performance alone (mean clone diameter, mean number of stems, mean number of inflorescences), while the performance indicators mean stem height and mean stem width were also influenced by latitude. We suggest that dispersal distance and latitude should provide an adequate means of predicting performance in futureS. alterniflorarestorations and propose a maximum sampling distance of 300 km (holding latitude constant) to avoid the sampling of inappropriate ecotypes.
Linking snake behavior to nest predation in a Midwestern bird community
Authors: Weatherhead Patrick J. , Carfagno Gerardo L. F. , Sperry Jinelle H. , Brawn Jeffrey D. , Robinson Scott K.
Published: February 2010

Nest predators can adversely affect the viability of songbird populations, and their impact is exacerbated in fragmented habitats. Despite substantial research on this predator–prey interaction, however, almost all of the focus has been on the birds rather than their nest predators, thereby limiting our understanding of the factors that bring predators and nests into contact. We used radiotelemetry to document the activity of two snake species (rat snakes,Elaphe obsoleta; racers,Coluber constrictor) known to prey on nests in Midwestern bird communities and simultaneously monitored 300 songbird nests and tested the hypothesis that predation risk should increase for nests when snakes were more active and in edge habitat preferred by both snake species. Predation risk increased when rat snakes were more active, for all nests combined and for two of the six bird species for which we had sufficient nests to allow separate analyses. This result is consistent with rat snakes being more important nest predators than racers. We found no evidence, however, that nests closer to forest edges were at greater risk. These results are generally consistent with the one previous study that investigated rat snakes and nest predation simultaneously. The seemingly paradoxical failure to find higher predation risk in the snakes' preferred habitat (i.e., edge) might be explained by the snakes using edges at least in part for non‐foraging activities. We propose that higher nest predation in fragmented habitats (at least that attributable to snakes) results indirectly from edges promoting larger snake populations, rather than from edges directly increasing the risk of nest predation by snakes. If so, the notion of edges per se functioning as ecological “traps” merits further study.
Emissions Savings in the Corn‐Ethanol Life Cycle from Feeding Coproducts to Livestock
Authors: Bremer Virgil R. , Liska Adam J. , Klopfenstein Terry J. , Erickson Galen E. , Yang Haishun S. , Walters Daniel T. , Cassman Kenneth G.
Published: February 2010

Environmental regulations on greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from corn (Zea mays L.)‐ethanol production require accurate assessment methods to determine emissions savings from coproducts that are fed to livestock. We investigated current use of coproducts in livestock diets and estimated the magnitude and variability in the GHG emissions credit for coproducts in the corn‐ethanol life cycle. The coproduct GHG emissions credit varied by more than twofold, from 11.5 to 28.3 g CO2e per MJ of ethanol produced, depending on the fraction of coproducts used without drying, the proportion of coproduct used to feed beef cattle (Bos taurus) vs. dairy or swine (Sus scrofa), and the location of corn production. Regional variability in the GHG intensity of crop production and future livestock feeding trends will determine the magnitude of the coproduct GHG offset against GHG emissions elsewhere in the corn‐ethanol life cycle. Expansion of annual U.S. corn‐ethanol production to 57 billion liters by 2015, as mandated in current federal law, will require feeding of coproduct at inclusion levels near the biological limit to the entire U.S. feedlot cattle, dairy, and swine herds. Under this future scenario, the coproduct GHG offset will decrease by 8% from current levels due to expanded use by dairy and swine, which are less efficient in use of coproduct than beef feedlot cattle. Because the coproduct GHG credit represents 19 to 38% of total life cycle GHG emissions, accurate estimation of the coproduct credit is important for determining the net impact of corn‐ethanol production on atmospheric warming and whether corn‐ethanol producers meet state‐ and national‐level GHG emissions regulations.
Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Swine Effluent Applied to Soil by Different Methods
Authors: Sistani K. R. , Warren J. G. , Lovanh N. , Higgins S. , Shearer S.
Published: February 2010

Greenhouse gas (CO2, CH4, and N2O) emissions were measured in a field experiment evaluating preplant swine effluent application methods for no‐till corn (Zea mays L.) grain production. The treatments included a control, an inorganic fertilizer treatment receiving 179 kg N ha−1 as urea–NH4NO3 (UAN), and three effluent application methods that received a target rate of 200 kg N ha−1 The effluent treatments included surface application, direct injection, and application in combination with soil aeration. Gas emission measurements were initiated after application and collected throughout the 2007 and 2008 growing seasons using a vented chamber technique. There were no significant differences in CO2 losses, which averaged 738 and 718 g CO2 m−2 in 2007 and 2008, respectively. Placement of effluent below the soil surface by injection or aeration resulted in elevated CH4 emissions compared with the control. Injection emitted significantly more CH4 than surface applications, with emissions of 0.26 and 0.80 g CH4 m−2 from the injection treatments in 2007 and 2008, respectively. In 2007, N2O emissions were similar for the UAN, surface effluent, and aeration effluent treatments, emitting an average of 0.72 g N2O m−2 In contrast, the injection treatment emitted 0.47 g N2O m−2 In 2008, this trend was reversed, with the injection treatment emitting 0.82 g N2O m−2 and the remaining N source treatments emitting an average of 0.36 g N2O m−2 These differences between years probably resulted from differences in rainfall distribution. These results demonstrate that climatic conditions and application method need consideration when evaluating the impact of liquid manure management on greenhouse gas emissions.
Soil Response to Long‐Term Cropping Systems on an Argiustoll in the Central Great Plains
Authors: Blanco-Canqui Humberto , Stone L. R. , Stahlman P. W.
Published: February 2010

Development or identification of cropping systems that conserve soil and water, sequester soil organic C (SOC), and improve soil productivity is a high research priority, particularly in semiarid regions. We assessed the impacts of 33‐yr cropping systems on near‐surface soil structural, compaction, and hydraulic properties and their relationships with SOC concentration on a nearly level Crete silty clay loam (fine, smectitic, mesic Pachic Argiustoll) in the central Great Plains. Five cropping systems (sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench]–fallow [SF], continuous sorghum [SS], winter wheat [Triticum aestivum L.]–sorghum–fallow [WSF], wheat–fallow [WF], and continuous wheat [WW]) under reduced tillage (RT) and no‐till (NT) were studied. Cropping systems significantly impacted soil properties. Wet aggregate stability and aggregate water repellency in WW were two to five times greater than in other rotations for the 0‐ to 2.5‐cm soil depth. The WW and WSF retained 10 to 16% more water than SF between 0 and −3 kPa matric potentials under NT. The WW reduced bulk density (ρb) and increased cumulative water infiltration over other rotations under NT. The WW increased SOC concentration over all other rotations under NT and SF and SS under RT in the 0‐ to 2.5‐cm depth. The SF affected soil properties more adversely than WF. Wet aggregate stability, water repellency, total porosity, cumulative water infiltration, and soil water retention increased while ρb decreased with an increase in SOC concentration. Wet aggregate stability increased with an increase in aggregate water repellency (r > 0.80, P < 0.001). Overall, intensification of cropping systems such as WW coupled with NT improved soil physical properties and increased SOC concentration.
How Do I Look? Body Image Perceptions among University Students from England and Denmark
Authors: El Ansari Walid , Vodder Clausen Susanne , Mabhala Andi , Stock Christiane
Published: February 2010

This study examined differences in body image perception between university students in two European countries, United Kingdom and Denmark. A total of 816 British and 548 Danish university students participated in a cross-sectional survey. A self-administered questionnaire assessed socio-demographic information, body image perception (as “too thin”, “just right” or “too fat”), and the association of related factors with body image perception (nutrition behaviour, social support, perceived stressors and quality of life). The proportions of students who perceived themselves as “too thin”, “just right”, or “too fat” were 8.6%, 37.7%, and 53.7% respectively. Multi-factorial logistic regression analysis showed that students who perceived themselves as “too fat” were more likely to be from the British university, to be females, to be older than 30 years, to report stress due to their financial situation and were less likely to have a high quality of life.The findings highlight the need for interventions with focus on healthy food choices whilst acknowledging financial stressors and quality of life.
Synthesis and Biological activity of 4-(4,6-Disubstituted-pyrimidin-2-yloxy)phenoxy Acetates
Authors: Jiang Lin , Wang Hao , Wang Maorong , Teng Xinhuan
Published: February 2010

Ten novel 4-(4,6-dimethoxypyrimidin-2-yloxy)phenoxy acetates and 4-(4,6-dimethylpyrimidin-2-yloxy)phenoxy acetates were synthesized with hydroquinone, 2-methylsulfonyl-4,6-disubstituted-pyrimidine and chloroacetic ester as starting materials. The products were characterized by IR, 1H-NMR, MS spectra and elemental analyses. Preliminary bioassay indicates that the target compounds possess high herbicidal activity against monocotyledonous plants such as Digitaria sanguinalis L. at concentrations of 100 mg/L and 50 mg/L.
Value of Using Different Vegetative Indices to Quantify Agricultural Crop Characteristics at Different Growth Stages under Varying Management Practices
Authors: Hatfield Jerry L. , Prueger John H.
Published: February 2010

The paper investigates the value of using distinct vegetation indices to quantify and characterize agricultural crop characteristics at different growth stages. Research was conducted on four crops (corn, soybean, wheat, and canola) over eight years grown under different tillage practices and nitrogen management practices that varied rate and timing. Six different vegetation indices were found most useful, depending on crop phenology and management practices: (a) simple ratio for biomass, (b) NDVI for intercepted PAR, (c) SAVI for early stages of LAI, (d) EVI for later stages of LAI, (e) CIgreen for leaf chlorophyll, (f) NPCI for chlorophyll during later stages, and (g) PSRI to quantify plant senescence. There were differences among varieties of corn and soybean for the vegetation indices during the growing season and these differences were a function of growth stage and vegetative index. These results clearly imply the need to use multiple vegetation indices to best capture agricultural crop characteristics.
ORGANISM SPECIFIC BLAST WEB-BASED SEARCH ENGINE — A FRAMEWORK OF NUCLEOTIDE SIMILARITY ANALYSIS
Authors: Chen Po-Yuan , Jhuo Mien-De , Lai Mei-Chih , Lin Jaung-Geng , Kuo Yueh-Hsiung , Kao Cheng-Shang , Shih Tzu-Ching , Wu Chieh-Hsi
Published: February 2010

The gene sequences BLAST and its alignment is the common and important step in biological discovery. Basically speaking, BLAST technique is already a mature and well-known to biological scientists, but aiming at specific organisms is seldom seen in world-wide databases. In this study, we develop a web-based organism specific BLAST search engine to replenish researchers' use. This study constructed a web service, the Organism Specific Search Engine, for taxonomy scientists and all users concerned. This service provides most common specific organism BLAST, scoring system and GUI (Graphical User Interface) for users. On the other hand, researchers can clearly and concisely get the results from E-mail service in order to avoid waiting for a long time. The Organism Specific Search Engine evaluate the similarities between two or more nucleotide or protein sequences against a specific organism, which can help researchers realize the differences between one chosen organism rapidly. Users can apply this information more easily and directly than taking from NCBI or other famous database system. Furthermore, this system will update its database from NCBI website automatically, which can catch up its new and correct databases. Notably, the website is freely available at .
Validation of minimal disease activity criteria for psoriatic arthritis using interventional trial data
Authors: Coates Laura C. , Helliwell Philip S.
Published: February 2010

Objective

New criteria for minimal disease activity (MDA) in psoriatic arthritis (PsA) have been developed. The aim is to provide further validation of these criteria using data obtained in interventional trials with infliximab, a drug with proven efficacy in PsA.

Methods

The data were obtained from patients in phase II and III infliximab studies of PsA. In both studies, patients with active PsA were treated with infliximab (5 mg/kg) or placebo followed by a period of treatment with infliximab. Between‐group comparisons in terms of those achieving MDA and the relationship of MDA to American College of Rheumatology outcomes, C‐reactive protein levels, and radiologic progression were performed.

Results

In the Infliximab Multinational Psoriatic Arthritis Controlled Trial, 48% (15 of 31) of infliximab‐treated patients achieved MDA at week 16, compared with 3% (1 of 32) taking placebo (P < 0.0001). At week 50, 96% of those patients who achieved MDA showed no progression of radiologic disease (increase in the modified Sharp/van der Heijde score of ≤0), compared with 67% of those who did not achieve MDA (P = 0.012). In the Induction and Maintenance Psoriatic Arthritis Clinical Trial 2, 52% (40 of 77) of infliximab‐treated patients achieved MDA at week 24, compared with 21% (17 of 80) receiving placebo (P < 0.001). At week 54, 78% of those patients who achieved MDA had no radiologic progression, compared with 57% of those who did not achieve MDA (P = 0.009).

Conclusion

Patients with active PsA achieving MDA with effective therapy have a significant reduction in radiographic progression. Aiming for low levels of disease activity can improve the outcome of patients with PsA even in a disease‐modifying antirheumatic drug–resistant cohort. The new MDA criteria could provide an objective target for treatment in trials and clinical practice.
Expression of Calcium‐Sensing Receptor in Quail Granulosa Explants: A Key to Survival During Folliculogenesis
Authors: Diez‐Fraile Araceli , Mussche Sylvie , Berghe Tom Vanden , Espeel Marc , Vandenabeele Peter , D'Herde Katharina G.M.A.
Published: February 2010

This study investigated the potential role of the calcium‐sensing receptor (CaR) in mediating survival of granulosa cells (GCs) in follicles of the Japanese quail (Coturnix coturnix japonica). Immunoreactivity of CaR was shown in GCs of quail preovulatory follicles as well as in the remnants of the GC layer after ovulation. Conversely, the CaR could not be detected by immunocytochemistry in the granulosa of smaller undifferentiated follicles. The presence of CaR in follicles destined to ovulate was confirmed by immunoblot and the receptor was identified as a protein of 115–125 kDa. Addition of different CaR agonists to granulosa explants in culture for 24 hr caused inhibition of apoptosis elicited by gonadotropin withdrawal on its own or in combination with C8‐ceramide addition. Furthermore, R‐568, a specific, positive allosteric modulator of CaR, not only inhibited apoptosis but also increased GC number per viewing field in cultured granulosa explants. This observation could be attributed not to a rise in GC proliferation but to a more compact tissue structure, including a distinct distribution pattern of connexin‐43 gap junction proteins. Incubation in the presence of LY294002, a specific phosphatidylinositol‐3 kinase inhibitor, increased GC apoptosis, indicating that this pathway is involved in GC survival signaling. However, LY294002‐induced apoptosis was considerably attenuated by incubation with R‐568, indicating that other pathways might be major contributors to the survival mediated by CaR agonists. We provide direct evidence for the presence of CaR in preovulatory granulosa explants and suggest a pivotal role for CaR in follicle selection. Anat Rec, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Effect of Hypoxia/Reoxygenation on Cell Viability and Expression and Secretion of Neurotrophic Factors (NTFs) in Primary Cultured Schwann Cells
Authors: Zhu Hao , Li Feng , Yu Wen‐Juan , WANG Wen‐Jin , Li Liu , Wan Li‐Dan , Le Yan , Ding Wen‐Long
Published: February 2010

As the primary myelin‐forming cells of the peripheral nervous system, Schwann cells (SCs) play a key role in the regeneration of injured peripheral nerves. However, hypoxia causes injury of SCs, as observed in peripheral neuropathies, including those caused by diabetes. So we investigated the effect of hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R) on SCs in this study. To do so, SCs were cultured in hypoxic condition in vitro and then in normal condition for 24 hr; The effects H/R on SCs were evaluated by MTT (3(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)2,5‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide) assay, Hoechst staining, immunocytochemistry, western blotting, ELISA, and RT‐PCR. H/R resulted in a significant decrease in SCs survival and an increase in caspase‐3 activity. H/R also reduced the mRNA level of BDNF (brain derived neurotrophic factor) and its secretion, but NGF mRNA level was elevated in these cells. These observations showed that H/R induces death of primary cultured SCs, and different mechanisms responsible for regulating NGF and BDNF expression. Anat Rec, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Percutaneous valvuloplasty for mitral valve restenosis: Postballoon valvotomy patients fare better than postsurgical closed valvotomy patients
Authors: Nair Krishnakumar , Sivadasanpillai Harikrishnan , Sivasubramonium P. , Ramachandran Padmakumar , Tharakan Jaganmohan A. , Titus Thomas , Ajit Kumar V.K. , Sivasubramonian Sivasankaran , Krishnamoorthy K. Mahadevan , Dora Santosh
Published: February 2010

Aim: To compare the results of percutaneous mitral valvuloplasty (BMV) for mitral restenosis in post‐BMV versus postclosed mitral valvotomy (CMV) patients. Methods and Results: Ninety‐two patients who underwent BMV for mitral restenosis were followed up prospectively. Of these, 28 patients had undergone previous percutaneous mitral valvuloplasty (PRIOR BMV) and 64 patients had undergone previous closed mitral valvotomy (PRIOR CMV). BMV for mitral restenosis was a success in 59% patients (57.1% PRIOR BMV, 59.3% PRIOR CMV, P = 1.0). Incidence of severe mitral regurgitation was 3.25%, all in the PRIOR CMV group. In univariate analysis, the major predictor of successful BMV for mitral restenosis was Wilkins score (P = 0.004). At a follow up of 3.47 + 2.07 years, mitral valve area was similar between groups (1.45 ± 0.22, 1.46 ± 0.26, P = 0.35). The combined end points of mitral valve replacement (MVR), need for rerepeat BMV for mitral restenosis or death was higher in the PRIOR CMV group (31.2% PRIOR CMV, 7.1% PRIOR BMV, P = 0.027). Event‐free survival at follow up was lower in the PRIOR CMV group (69% PRIOR CMV, 92.8% PRIOR BMV) mainly due to the higher need for MVR (11 vs. 0 patients, P = 0.03). Conclusions: In conclusion, following BMV for mitral restenosis, patients with PRIOR BMV are found to have lesser event rates on follow‐up compared to patients with PRIOR CMV, though procedural success rates are similar. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Access to Quality Cardiovascular Care
Authors: Richard Conti C.
Published: February 2010

Practically all medical societies, whether general, specialty, or sub‐specialty are addressing the complex issue of access to care, quality of care, and cost of care. Copyright © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Introduction to climate, disasters and international development
Authors: Kelman Ilan
Published: February 2010

This Policy Arena provides four papers exploring development policy for climate‐related disaster risk reduction, including but not limited to climate change. The first two papers explore popular concepts, first ‘vulnerability’, ‘capacity’ and ‘resilience’ and second ‘climate refugees’ and ‘climate conflict’. The last two papers each cover a Small Island Developing State (SIDS), Papua New Guinea (PNG) and Samoa, respectively. The key development policy lesson from the papers is a framing that places climate change within wider climate, disaster risk reduction and development perspectives. That is further highlighted here through describing the Many Strong Voices programme that learns from the past to aim for a better future by tackling climate change. Learning from the history of international development assists in addressing root causes, such as vulnerability and poverty, to achieve effective development policy. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.