bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Soil invertebrate fauna affect N2O emissions from soil
Authors: Kuiper Imke , de Deyn Gerlinde B. , Thakur Madhav P. , van Groenigen Jan Willem
Published: April 2013

Nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions from soils contribute significantly to global warming. Mitigation of N2O emissions is severely hampered by a lack of understanding of its main controls. Fluxes can only partly be predicted from soil abiotic factors and microbial analyses – a possible role for soil fauna has until now largely been overlooked. We studied the effect of six groups of soil invertebrate fauna and tested the hypothesis that all of them increase N2O emissions, although to different extents. We conducted three microcosm experiments with sandy soil and hay residue. Faunal groups included in our experiments were as follows: fungal‐feeding nematodes, mites, springtails, potworms, earthworms and isopods. In experiment I, involving all six faunal groups, N2O emissions declined with earthworms and potworms from 78.4 (control) to 37.0 (earthworms) or 53.5 (potworms) mg N2O‐N m−2. In experiment II, with a higher soil‐to‐hay ratio and mites, springtails and potworms as faunal treatments, N2O emissions increased with potworms from 51.9 (control) to 123.5 mg N2O‐N m−2. Experiment III studied the effect of potworm density; we found that higher densities of potworms accelerated the peak of the N2O emissions by 5 days (P < 0.001), but the cumulative N2O emissions remained unaffected. We propose that increased soil aeration by the soil fauna reduced N2O emissions in experiment I, whereas in experiment II N2O emissions were driven by increased nitrogen and carbon availability. In experiment III, higher densities of potworms accelerated nitrogen and carbon availability and N2O emissions, but did not increase them. Overall, our data show that soil fauna can suppress, increase, delay or accelerate N2O emissions from soil and should therefore be an integral part of future N2O studies.
The wave of the future? Youth advocacy at the nexus of population and climate change
Authors: Sasser Jade S
Published: April 2013

In recent years, young activists under 25 have increasingly advocated slowing global population growth through family planning as a climate change strategy. While this approach is developed and disseminated by population and developmentNGOs, young advocates transform the debate by asserting their role as activist leaders on issues of climate change, population, and women's empowerment. This article explores the logics and discursive strategies employed by a group of transnational youth during a workshop at the sixth annualClimateChangeConference ofYouth (COY) as well as training workshops in theUSA. It tracks the practices through which young climate change activists engage demographic‐climate studies and broader development discourses as a basis for advocacy to influence international population and family planning policies. I argue that development paradigms, activist discourse, and new demographic‐climate studies represent both an expansion of the range of issues considered under the climate change umbrella, and simultaneously a narrowing of understandings of sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) issues for women through the technicalisation of women's rights.
Impact of ambulatory physiotherapy on motor abilities of elderly subjects with Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Manckoundia Patrick , Taroux Michaël , Kubicki Alexandre , Mourey France
Published: April 2013

Aim

We investigated the impact of ambulatory physiotherapy (AP) on motor abilities in elderly subjects with Alzheimer's disease (AD).

Methods

Subjects with mild to moderate AD were included and divided into “physiotherapy group” (PG) and “no physiotherapy group” (NPG) according to whether or not they received AP between inclusion (T0) and the second time of assessment, between 15 and 36 months after inclusion (T1). The follow‐up duration, Mini‐Mental State Examination, Tinetti and mini motor test (MMT) scores, Timed Up & Go test (TUG), gait speed (GS), one‐leg balance (OLB), history of falls within the last 6 months (HF), ability to rise from the floor (RFF) and the use of a walking aid (UWA) were recorded at T0, and after at least 15 months of follow up (T1).

Results

A total of 50 subjects were included in the NPG and 20 in the PG. At baseline, these groups were not significantly different for all the parameters recorded. The anova showed a progression of cognitive disorders in the two groups between T0 and T1 (P < 0.001), which was similar in the two groups (P = 0.83). For each postural and motor quantitative test (Tinetti, MMT, TUG, GS) the anova showed a main effect of time of assessment (All P < 0.05) associated with a group × time of assessment interaction (All P < 0.05). The comparison between the two groups with regard to the evolution of qualitative parameters showed a significant difference for the OLB test only. No significant difference was found for RFF, HF and UWA.

Conclusions

There was a significant improvement or stability of motor abilities in the PG; while these abilities decreased in the NPG. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2014; 14: 167–175.
Efficacy of high‐dose corticosteroid in the early stage of viral acute liver failure
Authors: Fujiwara Keiichi , Yasui Shin , Yonemitsu Yutaka , Mikata Rintaro , Arai Makoto , Kanda Tatsuo , Imazeki Fumio , Oda Shigeto , Yokosuka Osamu
Published: April 2013

Aim

Acute liver failure (ALF) is a worldwide problem despite its rare incidence because of its extremely high mortality. There are no beneficial therapies except for emergency liver transplantation for ALF. However, in Japan where the problem of a shortage of donor livers still remains, therapies other than transplantation must be further investigated for patients with ALF. Our aim was to elucidate the efficacy of high‐dose corticosteroid (CS) in decreasing liver enzyme levels in the early stage of ALF.

Methods

Thirty‐one consecutive Japanese patients with viral ALF in the early stage were prospectively examined for their clinical and biochemical features and treatment responses during 2 weeks after the start of treatment. Nineteen were treated with high‐dose methylprednisolone, and 12 having clinical and biochemical backgrounds with no significant difference were treated without CS.

Results

The aspartate aminotransferase : alanine aminotransferase ratio became lower in patients treated with CS than in controls (P < 0.05). Fifteen of 19 patients in the CS group and eight of 12 in the control group recovered (P = 0.36). Hepatitis B viral infection and advanced liver damage at the start of treatment were associated with poor prognosis (P < 0.05). Complications during the therapy were not greater in the CS group than control (P = 0.64).

Conclusion

The introduction of high‐dose CS in the early stage of ALF was effective in suppressing the destruction of hepatocytes. CS‐treated patients showed slightly higher survival rates and slightly more improved liver regeneration than controls, although the differences were not statistically significant.
Early Word Recognition in Sentence Context: French and English 24‐Month‐Olds' Sensitivity to Sentence‐Medial Mispronunciations and Assimilations
Authors: Skoruppa Katrin , Mani Nivedita , Plunkett Kim , Cabrol Dominique , Peperkamp Sharon
Published: April 2013

Recent work has shown that young children can use fine phonetic detail during the recognition of isolated and sentence‐final words from early in lexical development. The present study investigates 24‐month‐olds' word recognition in sentence‐medial position in two experiments using an Intermodal Preferential Looking paradigm. In Experiment 1, French toddlers detect word‐final voicing mispronunciations (e.g., buz [byz] for bus [bys] “bus”), and they compensate for native voicing assimilations (e.g., buz devant toi [buzdəvɑ̃twa] “bus in front of you”) in the middle of sentences. Similarly, English toddlers detect word‐final voicing mispronunciations (e.g., sheeb for sheep) in Experiment 2, but they do not compensate for illicit voicing assimilations (e.g., sheeb there). Thus, French and English 24‐month‐olds can take into account fine phonetic detail even if words are presented in the middle of sentences, and French toddlers show language‐specific compensation abilities for pronunciation variation caused by native voicing assimilation.
An update of the world survey of myrmecochorous dispersal distances
Authors: Gómez Crisanto , Espadaler Xavier
Published: April 2013

We update the global assessment of seed dispersal by ants and test the hypothesis that the body size of seed‐dispersing ant species varies with latitude in the same way as dispersal distance. We compiled all published data about seed dispersal distance by myrmecochory through March, 2011. We then broke the data down by vegetation type, geography and taxonomy. We also compiled data on body size (body length) of the seed‐dispersing ant species from the studies consulted. Based on 7889 observations, the mean dispersal distance was 1.99 m, although the curve has a long tail extending to 180 m. Considering the mean dispersal distance by ant species and study as independent data, the mean dispersal distance was 2.24 ± 7.19 m (n = 183). Shorter distances are associated with smaller ant species, while the tail of the dispersal curve is due to larger ant species. The mean dispersal distance of myrmecochorous seeds dispersed by ants decreased with increasing latitude, but there was no significant relationship between the body size of dispersing ant species and latitude (i.e. myrmecochorous seed‐dispersing ant species do not follow Bergmann's rule). In 1998 we made three predictions: 1) the dispersal distances of the Southern Hemisphere will decrease with as more data from mesophyllous vegetation are obtained; 2) assuming that ant nest density is higher at lower latitudes, the differences in distances between hemispheres would probably decrease with more data; and 3) numerical differences between dispersal distances in mesophyllous and sclerophyllous vegetation zones would increase with more data. The results obtained since 1998 support the only the third prediction. The dispersal distances in mesophyllous vegetation zones are shorter than in the sclerophyllous vegetation zones, and the difference between 1998 have increased. The differences in dispersal distances between hemispheres are consistent with the avoidance of parent–offspring competition (escape hypothesis).
Effect of Microstructure on the Thermal Expansion Coefficient of Sintered Cordierite Prepared from Sol Mixtures
Authors: Kobayashi Yuichi , Katayama Masaki , Kato Makiko , Kuramochi Shingo
Published: April 2013

Dense cordierite ceramics were prepared from a sol mixture of alumina, silica, and magnesia, and the relationship between microstructure and thermal expansion was clarified for sinters with relative density greater than 97%. In the dense cordierite ceramics, submicrometer‐sized primary cordierite crystals aligned in the same crystal orientation and constituted the domain structure. We discovered that these domain structures could be easily observed by optical polarizing microscopy and quantified by digital image analysis of the photographs. The occurrence of microcracks between domains larger than 40 μm was induced by the thermal expansion anisotropy of the cordierite crystal axes. As a result, the mean thermal expansion coefficient of the cordierite ceramics decreased to 0.4 × 10−6 K−1 from the average value of the crystal axes of 1.7 × 10−6 K−1. This lower thermal expansion coefficient could be theoretically explained by partial microcracking.
Accuracy of genomic prediction using different models and response variables in theNordicRed cattle population
Authors: Gao H. , Lund M.S. , Zhang Y. , Su G.
Published: April 2013

Breeding animals can be accurately evaluated using appropriate genomic prediction models, based on marker data and phenotype information. In this study, direct genomic values (DGV) were estimated for 16 traits of Nordic Total Merit (NTM) Index in Nordic Red cattle population using three models and two different response variables. The three models were as follows: a linear mixed model (GBLUP), a Bayesian variable selection model similar to BayesA (BayesA*) and a Bayesian least absolute shrinkage and selection operator model (Bayesian Lasso). The response variables were deregressed proofs (DRP) and conventional estimated breeding values (EBV). The reliability of genomic predictions was measured on bulls in the validation data set as the squared correlation between DGV and DRP divided by the reliability of DRP. Using DRP as response variable, the reliabilities of DGV among the 16 traits ranged from 0.151 to 0.569 (average 0.317) for GBLUP, from 0.152 to 0.576 (average 0.318) for BayesA* and from 0.150 to 0.570 (average 0.320) for Bayesian Lasso. Using EBV as response variable, the reliabilities ranged from 0.159 to 0.580 (average 0.322) for GBLUP, from 0.157 to 0.578 (average 0.319) for BayesA* and from 0.159 to 0.582 (average 0.325) for Bayesian Lasso. In summary, Bayesian Lasso performed slightly better than the other two models, and EBV performed slightly better than DRP as response variable, with regard to prediction reliability of DGV. However, these differences were not statistically significant. Moreover, using EBV as response variable would result in problems with the scale of the resulting DGV and potential problem due to double counting.
Cyclical stretch induces structural changes in atrial myocytes
Authors: De Jong Anne Margreet , Maass Alexander H. , Oberdorf‐Maass Silke U. , De Boer Rudolf A. , Van Gilst Wiek H. , Van Gelder Isabelle C.
Published: April 2013

Atrial fibrillation (AF) often occurs in the presence of an underlying disease. These underlying diseases cause atrial remodelling, which make the atria more susceptible to AF. Stretch is an important mediator in the remodelling process. The aim of this study was to develop an atrial cell culture model mimicking remodelling due to atrial pressure overload. Neonatal rat atrial cardiomyocytes (NRAM) were cultured and subjected to cyclical stretch on elastic membranes. Stretching with 1 Hz and 15% elongation for 30 min. resulted in increased expression of immediate early genes and phosphorylation of Erk and p38. A 24‐hr stretch period resulted in hypertrophy‐related changes including increased cell diameter, reinduction of the foetal gene program and cell death. No evidence of apoptosis was observed. Expression of atrial natriuretic peptide, brain natriuretic peptide and growth differentiation factor‐15 was increased, and calcineurin signalling was activated. Expression of several potassium channels was decreased, suggesting electrical remodelling. Atrial stretch‐induced change in skeletal α‐actin expression was inhibited by pravastatin, but not by eplerenone or losartan. Stretch of NRAM results in elevation of stress markers, changes related to hypertrophy and dedifferentiation, electrical remodelling and cell death. This model can contribute to investigating the mechanisms involved in the remodelling process caused by stretch and to the testing of pharmaceutical agents.
Obstacles and solutions to screening psoriasis patients for cardiovascular risk factors
Authors: Wang E.C.E. , Ker K.J. , Chuah S.Y. , Pan J.Y.
Published: April 2013

Background

Psoriasis has been linked with cardiovascular risk factors (CVRFs), including the metabolic syndrome, yet many patients with psoriasis remain unscreened.

Objective

To assess the reasons for lack of screening for CVRFs in psoriasis patients, and the impact of an education programme targeting these deficiencies.

Methods

All patients with psoriasis, regardless of severity, and all dermatologists working at the National Skin Centre (NSC) in Singapore were surveyed over a 2‐month period on their attitudes and knowledge regarding psoriasis and cardiovascular risk. This was followed by a targeted programme which was implemented over 2 months to address these identified deficiencies. Patients and doctors were surveyed a second time to assess the effects of the intervention.

Results

Obstacles to screening included lack of patient knowledge, patients not considering screening important, and lack of time during the clinic consultation. After the intervention, there was a significant increase in the proportion of patients who were aware of increased cardiovascular risk in psoriasis (33.0% to 62%), with more patients attending screening (39.1% to 63.2%). While the level of doctors' knowledge did not significantly increase, there was an increase in the proportion of patients who were screened post‐intervention (37.1% to 66.2%), and more doctors reported that they were more likely to screen psoriatic patients from an earlier age (30.2% to 58.1%).

Conclusions

The obstacles in implementing universal screening for CVRFs in psoriasis patients stem from patient, doctor and system factors. A comprehensive programme targeting all aspects of this ecosystem helps to achieve holistic care for patients with psoriasis.
A multi‐centre audit on genital Lichen sclerosus in the North West of England
Authors: Raj G. , Bell H. K.
Published: April 2013

Background

Guidelines for the management of genital Lichen sclerosus (LS) have recently been updated.

Objective

To look at the audit points suggested by the updated guidelines: performance of biopsies in active LS not responding to treatment; clear follow‐up arrangements for patients with active disease; patient awareness of need to report suspicious lesions; and use of an appropriate topical steroid regieme.

Method

Patients with a diagnosis of genital LS seen over the preceding 12 months were identified from eight hospital Trusts. In this study, 194 patients participated, 178 females and 16 males.

Results

The diagnosis was purely clinical in 62 patients – the remainder required biopsies. The commonest reason for performing a biopsy was to clarify the diagnosis (116), followed by to rule out malignancy (11). The majority (98%) were offered follow‐up after the initial consultation and only 19 patients were discharged to primary care. In this study, 37% patients had documented evidence that a patient information leaflet had been given. 112 were treated with the clobetasol propionate 0.05% regieme quoted in the guideline.

Conclusion

We conclude biopsies should be done as indicated in the guideline and the reason for biopsy documented. Discharge may be possible at 6 months for stable uncomplicated disease, although this may prove difficult if adequate follow‐up arrangements are not available in the community. We advocate that all patients should receive a patient information leaflet and must be made aware of the increased risk of SCC. Topical corticosteroid treatment should be simplied to the regieme documented in the guidelines unless contraindicated.
Circannual variation in blood parasitism in a sub‐Saharan migrant passerine bird, the garden warbler
Authors: Hellgren O. , Wood M. J. , Waldenström J. , Hasselquist D. , Ottosson U. , Stervander M. , Bensch S.
Published: April 2013

Knowing the natural dynamics of pathogens in migratory birds is important, for example, to understand the factors that influence the transport of pathogens to and their transmission in new geographical areas, whereas the transmission of other pathogens might be restricted to a specific area. We studied haemosporidian blood parasites of the generaPlasmodium, HaemoproteusandLeucocytozoonin a migratory bird, the garden warblerSylvia borin. Birds were sampled in spring, summer and early autumn at breeding grounds in Sweden, on migration at Capri, Italy and on arrival and departure from wintering staging areas in West Africa: mapping recoveries of garden warblers ringed in Fennoscandia and Capri showed that these sites are most probably on the migratory flyway of garden warblers breeding at Kvismaren. Overall, haemosporidian prevalence was 39%, involving 24 different parasite lineages. Prevalence varied significantly over the migratory cycle, with relatively high prevalence of blood parasites in the population on breeding grounds and at the onset of autumn migration, followed by marked declines in prevalence during migration both on spring and autumn passage. Importantly, we found that when examining circannual variation in the different lineages, significantly different prevalence profiles emerged both between and within genera. Our results suggest that differences in prevalence profiles are the result of either different parasite transmission strategies or coevolution between the host and the various parasite lineages. When separating parasites into common vs. rare lineages, we found that two peaks in the prevalence of rare parasites occur; on arrival at Swedish breeding grounds, and after the wintering period in Africa. Our results stress the importance of appropriate taxonomic resolution when examining host‐parasite interactions, as variation in prevalence both between and within parasite genera can show markedly different patterns.
Skin pathology in Hawaiian goldring surgeonfish, Ctenochaetus strigosus (Bennett)
Authors: Work T M , Aeby G S
Published: April 2013

Twenty‐eight goldring surgeonfish, Ctenochaetus strigosus (Bennett), manifesting skin lesions and originating from the north‐western and main Hawaiian Islands were examined. Skin lesions were amorphous and ranged from simple dark or light discolouration to multicoloured tan to white sessile masses with an undulant surface. Skin lesions covered 2–66% of the fish surface, and there was no predilection for lesions affecting a particular part of the fish. Males appeared over‐represented. Microscopy revealed the skin lesions to be hyperplasia, melanophoromas or iridophoromas. The presence of skin tumours in a relatively unspoiled area of Hawaii is intriguing. Explaining their distribution, cause and impact on survivorship of fish all merit further study because C. strigosus is an economically important fish in the region.
Necrotizing endometritis and isolation of an alpha‐toxin producing strain ofClostridium septicumin a wild sooty mangabey from Côte d'Ivoire
Authors: Kirchner S. , Mätz‐Rensing K. , Dorner M.B. , Leendertz F.H. , Dorner B.G. , Leendertz S.A.J.
Published: April 2013

Few lethal pathogens in wild‐living primates have been described, and little is known about infectious diseases of the reproductive tract and their possible impact on health and reproduction. This report describes the pathology and isolation of an alpha‐toxin producing strain ofClostridium septicumin a case of necrotizing endometritis in a wild sooty mangabey found dead in a tropical rainforest of West Africa.
Evaluation of New Packaging Formats for Dry‐Cured Meat Products Using Conjoint Analysis: An Application to Dry‐Cured Iberian Ham
Authors: Mesías Francisco J. , Pulido Francisco , Escribano Miguel , Gaspar Paula , Pulido Ángel F. , Escribano Alfredo , Rodríguez‐Ledesma Antonio
Published: April 2013

Dry‐cured Iberian pork products have long been a traditional and highly appreciated delicacy in Spain, and because of their excellent sensorial and nutritional qualities, their market is now growing rapidly worldwide. They are usually marketed in a whole‐piece format or sliced in vacuum‐packed trays, but both of these formats present problems for the consumer (difficulty of slicing the whole piece, loss of sensory properties once the vacuum‐packed tray is opened …). This paper uses conjoint analysis to examine a new packaging format (called “slice slab”) for dry‐cured meat products that aims to overcome these problems. The product selected for analysis was Iberian dry‐cured ham, as it is the most frequently consumed Iberian pork product. Data were collected by means of a survey conducted with 320 Spanish consumers from January to May 2010. Overall, the consumers preferred Iberian mast‐fed ham, conventionally sliced and at the lowest price (5 €/100 g). Three well‐defined preference‐based clusters were identified: traditional consumers (n = 114), price‐insensitive consumers (n = 113) and innovative consumers (n = 93). Analysis of the clusters indicated that sliced slab ham may be an interesting alternative for the most innovative consumers, who are willing to pay a premium for this packaging format.

Practical Applications

This study has presented a methodological guideline to analyze the importance of packaging in shaping consumers' preferences. In this context, the use of conjoint analysis may have a great potential for testing and evaluating both the acceptance and the economic feasibility of new packaging formats in the food market. Its results can also be used for a preference‐based segmentation, which would allow target markets to be identified in which consumers' willingness‐to‐pay can be evaluated beforehand.

The present work may therefore constitute a starting point in the search for new forms of presentation for both cured meat products and other foodstuffs that will be well accepted by the consumer. In particular, it opens the way for further research into sensory analysis in the context of testing and improving in the presentation of new foodstuff formats.
Does Viewing Explain Doing? Assessing the Association Between Sexually Explicit Materials Use and Sexual Behaviors in a Large Sample of Dutch Adolescents and Young Adults
Authors: Hald Gert Martin , Kuyper Lisette , Adam Philippe C.G. , de Wit John B.F.
Published: April 2013

Introduction

Concerns have been voiced that the use of sexually explicit materials (SEMs) may adversely affect sexual behaviors, particularly in young people. Previous studies have generally found significant associations between SEM consumption and the sexual behaviors investigated. However, most of these studies have focused on sexual behaviors related to sexually transmitted infections or sexual aggression and/or failed to adequately control for relevant covariates. Thus, research more thoroughly investigating the association between SEM consumption and a broader range of sexual behaviors is needed.

Aims

The study aims to investigate SEM consumption patterns of young people, and to assess the strength of the association between SEM consumption and a range of sexual behaviors, controlling for a comprehensive array of variables previously shown to affect these relationships.

Methods

Online cross-sectional survey study of 4,600 young people, 15–25 years of age, in The Netherlands was performed.

Main Outcomes Measures

The main outcome measures were self-reported SEM consumption and sexual practices.

Results

The study found that 88% of men and 45% of women had consumed SEM in the past 12 months. Using hierarchical multiple regression analyses to control for other factors, the association between SEM consumption and a variety of sexual behaviors was found to be significant, accounting for between 0.3% and 4% of the total explained variance in investigated sexual behaviors.

Conclusions

This study suggests that, when controlling for important other factors, SEM consumption influences sexual behaviors. The small to moderate associations that emerged between SEM consumption and sexual behavior after controlling for other variables suggest that SEM is just one factor among many that may influence youth sexual behaviors. These findings contribute novel information to the ongoing debates on the role of SEM consumption in sexual behaviors and risk, and provide appropriate guidance to policy makers and program developers concerned with sexual education and sexual health promotion for young people.
Gaussian inference in general AR(1) models based on difference
Authors: Chen Jhih‐Gang , Kuo Biing‐Shen
Published: April 2013

This article develops a simple difference transformation for estimation and inference in general AR(1) models. As in Paparoditis and Politis (2000, Test 9, 487–509) and Phillips and Han (2008, Econometric Theory 24, 631–650), a Gaussian limit theory with a convergence rate of is available, whether a unit root is present in the process. Yet the novelty of our limit results is that the same weak convergence applies to the models with or without a trend, unlike those established in the literature. The merits promise usefulness of the difference transformation in applications to dynamic panels.
Population pharmacokinetics of valnemulin in swine
Authors: Zhao D. H. , Zhang Z. , Zhang C. Y. , Liu Z. C. , Deng H. , Yu J. J. , Guo J. P. , Liu Y. H.
Published: April 2013

This study was carried out in 121 pigs to develop a population pharmacokinetic (PPK) model by oral (p.o.) administration of valnemulin at a single dose of 10 mg/kg. Serum biochemistry parameters of each pig were determined prior to drug administration. Three to five blood samples were collected at random time points, but uniformly distributed in the absorption, distribution, and elimination phases of drug disposition. Plasma concentrations of valnemulin were determined by high‐performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC‐MS/MS). The concentration–time data were fitted to PPK models using nonlinear mixed effect modeling (NONMEM) with G77 FORTRAN compiler. NONMEM runs were executed using Wings for NONMEM. Fixed effects of weight, age, sex as well as biochemistry parameters, which may influence the PK of valnemulin, were investigated. The drug concentration–time data were adequately described by a one‐compartmental model with first‐order absorption. A random effect model of valnemulin revealed a pattern of log‐normal distribution, and it satisfactorily characterized the observed interindividual variability. The distribution of random residual errors, however, suggested an additive model for the initial phase (<12 h) followed by a combined model that consists of both proportional and additive features (≥12 h), so that the intra‐individual variability could be sufficiently characterized. Covariate analysis indicated that body weight had a conspicuous effect on valnemulin clearance (CL/F). The featured population PK values of Ka, V/F and CL/F were 0.292/h, 63.0 L and 41.3 L/h, respectively.
Dust production of comet 21P/Giacobini‐Zinner using broadband photometry
Authors: Blaauw Rhiannon C. , Suggs Robert M. , Cooke William J.
Published: April 2013

Presented here are results from photometric analysis on broadband images taken of comet 21P/Giacobini‐Zinner from May 24, 2011 to October 24, 2011. As the parent body of the Draconids, a meteor shower known for outbursting, 21P was studied for its dust production activity, Afρ, focusing on how it changes with heliocentric distance. An expected increase in dust production with a decrease in heliocentric distance was observed. The comet went from heliocentric distance of 3.05 –1.77 AU during the observed time that corresponded to an apparent magnitude of 19.61 to 15.72 and Afρ of 16.48 cm to 284.17 cm. These values can be extrapolated to estimate a peak Afρ value at perihelion of 3824 cm. The images were obtained using a 0.5‐meter f/8.1 Ritchey‐Chrétien telescope located in Mayhill, New Mexico.
An ER‐directed transcriptional response to unfolded protein stress in the absence of conserved sensor‐transducer proteins in Giardia lamblia
Authors: Spycher Cornelia , Herman Emily K. , Morf Laura , Qi Weihong , Rehrauer Hubert , Aquino Fournier Catharine , Dacks Joel B. , Hehl Adrian B.
Published: April 2013

The protozoan Giardia lamblia has a minimized organelle repertoire, and most strikingly lacks a classical stacked Golgi apparatus. Nevertheless, Giardia trophozoites constitutively secrete variant surface proteins, and dramatically increase the volume of protein secretion during differentiation to cysts. Eukaryotic cells have evolved an elaborate system for quality control (QC) of protein folding and capacity in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). Upon ER‐overload, an unfolded protein response (UPR) is triggered on transcriptional/translational level aiming at alleviating ER stress. In Giardia, a minimized secretory machinery and absence of glycan‐dependent QC suggests that a genetically conserved UPR (or functional equivalent) to cope with insults to the secretory system has been eliminated. We tested this hypothesis of UPR elimination by profiling the transcriptional response during induced ER‐folding stress. We show that on the contrary, ER‐folding stress triggers a stressor‐specific, ER‐directed response with upregulation of only ∼ 30 genes, with different kinetics and scope compared with the UPR of other eukaryotes. Computational genomics revealed conserved cis‐acting motifs in upstream regions of responder genes capable of stressor‐specific gene regulation in transfected cells. Interestingly, the sensors/transducers of folding stress, well conserved in model eukaryotes, are absent in Giardia suggesting the presence of a novel version of this essential eukaryotic function.
The state of the science of family caregiver‐care receiver mutuality: a systematic review
Authors: Park Esther O , Schumacher Karen L
Published: April 2013

This review critically examines the current state of the science on the concept of family caregiver–care receiver mutuality, summarizes accomplishments and gaps and identifies directions for future theory development and research. Mutuality between family caregivers and care receivers is of increasing interest to researchers. However, no analysis of the current state of the science of this important concept has been published. Our literature search revealed 34 research articles that met inclusion criteria. The studies were assessed in terms of conceptualization of mutuality, instrument development, populations studied, research designs and methods and findings. Significant scientific progress during the past 30 years includes the development of clear definitions and new instruments, expansion of research beyond the clinical populations in which mutuality was first studied, the use of a variety of research designs, and increasingly sophisticated methods of data analysis. Growing evidence suggests that mutuality is associated with caregiver emotional health outcomes and may decrease over time in the context of chronic illness. Directions for future research include development of new theoretical frameworks grounded in relational theory, development of theory on the dynamics of mutuality over time, exploration of mutuality in diverse cultures and populations, and intervention studies aimed at enhancing mutuality.
‘I accept it [staff assistance]; no choice’: an ethnographic study of residents' attitudes towards mobility within nursing homes
Authors: Taylor Janice , Sims Jane , Haines Terry P.
Published: April 2013

Background

Mobility contributes to the quality of life and independence of residents in nursing homes. To perform resident‐centred mobility care, staff need to understand residents' physical capacity and perspectives of care.

Aims and objectives

The aim of the study was to explore residents' perspectives of intrinsic factors influencing their mobility and associations between these factors with a view to informing resident mobility care practice improvements.

Design

The study was part of a larger ethnographic project exploring safe resident mobility care in nursing homes.

Methods

Semi‐structured interviews with nursing home residents supplemented by non‐participant observations were conducted over a 20‐month period from July 2010. Fifteen residents consented to be interviewed in three nursing homes in Melbourne, Australia. Unobtrusive observations of 46 mobility events took place in three nursing homes over 5 months from September, 2011.

Results

Participants identified intrinsic factors that influence their mobility including mobility capacity, strategies to cope with mobility loss, motivation and efforts to remain mobile. Three themes related to resident attitudes and responses to mobility loss emerged: acceptance of mobility loss and staff assistance; motivation to remain mobile; and acquiescence and loss of control during mobility events. A conceptual model developed from the study outlined associations between resident attitudes and mobility and quality of life outcomes. Discussion was framed by theories of ageing and adaptation: selection, optimisation and compensation; learned dependency; and learned helplessness.

Conclusion

Resident acceptance of mobility loss, and required staff assistance and realistic determination to remain mobile contribute to residents' quality of life. Mobility care based on considerations of resident choice, autonomy and the value of mobility is important.

Implications for practice

The model developed from this study can guide staff manual handling training and practice towards improved resident‐centred approaches to mobility care.
Novel Sodium Hypochlorite Cleanser Shows Clinical Response and Excellent Acceptability in the Treatment of Atopic Dermatitis
Authors: Ryan Caitriona , Shaw Richard E. , Cockerell Clay J. , Hand Shari , Ghali Fred E.
Published: April 2013

The intermittent use of dilute sodium hypochlorite “bleach baths” has shown efficacy as adjunctive therapy for atopic dermatitis (AD). This feasibility study evaluated the clinical response and patient acceptability of treatment with a cleansing body wash containing sodium hypochlorite in children with AD. This was a 12‐week open‐label feasibility study of 18 children with AD conducted in a pediatric dermatology outpatient clinic between May 2011 and July 2012. Children with moderate to severe AD, defined as an Investigator Global Assessment (IGA) score of at least 3 on a 5‐point scale, who were age 6 months and older and had lesional cultures positive for Staphylococcus aureus at baseline were included. Patients were instructed to wash 3 days/week for 12 weeks with the sodium hypochlorite–containing cleansing body wash. During the study period, patient's individualized topical and systemic treatment regimens were continued. Clinical response to treatment was measured using an IGA score and the percentage of body surface area (BSA) affected. Parents were also administered a retrospective questionnaire evaluating acceptability of the product. There was a statistically significant reduction in IGA score at all time points, with an overall mean reduction from baseline to final measurement using the last observation carried forward in all patients of 1.0 (p = 0.001, n = 18). Similarly the mean reduction of BSA affected was 14.8% (p = 0.005, n = 18). Parents reported that the body wash was significantly easier to use than traditional bleach baths (p < 0.001). The significant reductions in clinical disease severity scores with use of this formulation are encouraging.
Geometric Analysis and Self‐Calibration of ADS40 Imagery
Authors: Gonzalez Sara , Gomez‐Lahoz Javier , Gonzalez‐Aguilera Diego , Arias Benjamin , Sanchez Nilda , Hernandez David , Felipe Beatriz
Published: April 2013

The increasing role of pushbroom cameras in large photogrammetric projects has fostered international interest in achieving a sound knowledge of this device. In addition, the classic software tools, implemented for frame cameras, need to be adapted to cope with modified aerial triangulation and self‐calibration procedures. This contribution presents the results obtained from the geometrical analysis and self‐calibration of the second‐generation pushbroom ADS40 camera, the SH52. For this purpose, a testfield was designed and built on the outskirts of Ávila, Spain and two blocks, flown at different heights, were imaged. A wide network of well‐defined control and check points was observed in order to provide a thorough assessment of the accuracy and reliability of the camera. Empirical analysis of a variety of models within aerial triangulation as well as the use of internal camera parameters has led to an evaluation of the camera's performance in a real‐life environment.
Reverse‐genetic approach to verify physiological roles of rice phytoalexins: characterization of a knockdown mutant of OsCPS4 phytoalexin biosynthetic gene in rice
Authors: Toyomasu Tomonobu , Usui Masami , Sugawara Chizu , Otomo Kazuko , Hirose Yuko , Miyao Akio , Hirochika Hirohiko , Okada Kazunori , Shimizu Takafumi , Koga Jinichiro , Hasegawa Morifumi , Chuba Masaru , Kawana Yoshiaki , Kuroda Masaharu , Minami Eiichi , Mitsuhashi Wataru , Yamane Hisakazu
Published: April 2013

A variety of labdane‐related diterpenoids, including phytocassanes, oryzalexins and momilactones, were identified as phytoalexins in rice (Oryza sativa L.). Momilactone B was also isolated as an allelochemical exuded from rice roots. The biosynthetic genes of these phytoalexins have been identified, including six labdane‐related diterpene cyclase genes such as OsCPS2, OsCPS4, OsKSL4, OsKSL7, OsKSL8 and OsKSL10. Here we identified an OsCPS4 knockdown mutant, cps4‐tos, by screening Tos17 mutant lines using polymerase chain reaction. OsCPS4 encodes a syn‐copalyl diphosphate synthase responsible for momilactones and oryzalexin S biosynthesis. Because Tos17 was inserted into the third intron of OsCPS4, the mature OsCPS4 mRNA was detected in the cps4‐tos mutant as well as the wild type. Nevertheless, mature OsCPS4 transcript levels in the cps4‐tos mutant were about one sixth those in the wild type. The cps4‐tos mutant was more susceptible to rice blast fungus than the wild type, possibly due to lower levels of momilactones and oryzalexin S in the mutant. Moreover, co‐cultivation experiments suggested that the allelopathic effect of cps4‐tos against some kinds of lowland weeds was significantly lower than that of the wild type, probably because of lower momilactone content exuded from cps4‐tos roots. A reverse‐genetic strategy using the cps4‐tos mutant showed the possible roles of momilactones not only as phytoalexins but also as allelopathic substances.
Laryngeal sensory dysfunction in laryngeal hypersensitivity syndrome
Authors: Vertigan Anne E. , Bone Sarah L. , Gibson Peter G.
Published: April 2013

Background and objective

Diseases associated with laryngeal dysfunction include chronic refractory cough (CRC), paradoxical vocal fold movement (PVFM), muscle tension dysphonia (MTD) and globus pharyngeus. We hypothesized the presence of a common sensory laryngeal dysfunction, the ‘laryngeal hypersensitivity’ syndrome, in these conditions. The aim of the study was to compare symptoms and sensory function in patients with CRC, PVFM, MTD and globus.

Methods

The 103 participants included healthy controls (n = 13) and four case groups: CRC (n = 33), PVFM (n = 28), globus pharyngeus (n = 11) and MTD (n = 18). Participants completed self‐report questionnaires: Symptom Frequency and Severity Scale, Voice Handicap Index and the Laryngeal Paraesthesia Questionnaire; and quantitative sensory testing: capsaicin cough reflex sensitivity, hypertonic saline challenge, the timed swallow test, acoustic voice testing, cough frequency monitor and a voice stress test.

Results

All case groups reported a high‐symptom burden in comparison to controls. The case groups showed a similar pattern of symptoms, with impairment in each of the cough, respiration, vocal and upper airway symptom domains. Objective testing revealed significant sensory impairment in the case groups compared to controls and also showed an overlap in sensory dysfunction between the four case groups. Furthermore, there was cross‐sensory stimulation of symptoms whereby stimulation of a particular response resulted in symptoms in another domain.

Conclusions

These discrete clinical laryngeal syndromes display considerable overlap in their clinical features and a common sensory dysfunction, supporting the ‘laryngeal hypersensitivity’ hypothesis. Reconceptualizing functional laryngeal disorders as a form of laryngeal hypersensitivity syndrome provides an alternative approach to management of these perplexing conditions.
Fast beneficial systemic anti‐inflammatory effects of inhaled budesonide and formoterol on circulating lymphocytes in asthma
Authors: Rüdiger Jochen J. , Gencay Mikael , Yang Jin Q. , Bihl Michel , Tamm Michael , Roth Michael
Published: April 2013

Background and objective

Inhaled glucocorticoids and long acting β2‐agonists reduce airway inflammation. It is unclear if this effect is based on the local action of the drugs or is due to a systemic effect on circulating peripheral blood lymphocytes. We assessed whether inhaled budesonide and/or formoterol modify the activity of circulating peripheral blood lymphocytes.

Methods

Placebo controlled crossover design, including healthy (n = 10) or mild asthmatic males (n = 8). Blood was collected in the morning at 08:00 before drug inhalation, and drugs (placebo, budesonide 400 μg, formoterol 12 μg) were inhaled alone or in combination at 08:30. Four more blood samples were collected after inhalation at 09:00, 09:30, 12:30 and at 09:30 am on the following day. The activity of the glucocorticoid receptor, NFκB and IκB was determined in isolated lymphocytes. Lymphocytes were stimulated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS 10 μg/mL) for 24 h and interleukin (IL)‐1β, IL‐6, IL‐8, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α, eotaxin level were determined. Lymphocyte proliferation was induced by phytohaemagglutinin (PHA 10 μg/mL) over 24 h.

Results

When combined, the drugs synergistically activated the glucocorticoid receptor within 30 min but did not modify NFκB or IκB activity. Inhaled budesonide significantly reduced LPS‐induced IL‐1β, IL‐6, IL‐8 and TNF‐α secretion, while inhaled formoterol had no such effect; however when combined, the inhibitory effect of budesonide was significantly increased by formoterol. PHA‐induced proliferation was reduced by both drugs alone and in combination.

Conclusions

Combined budesonide and formoterol may reduce airway inflammation and immune reactivity of circulating lymphocytes through its local and systemic effects.
The caregivers’ possibilities of providing ethically good care for older people – a study on caregivers’ ethical approach
Authors: Frilund Marianne , Eriksson Katie , Fagerström Lisbeth
Published: April 2013

In the care of older people, unexpected and unpredictable situations often occur, which sometimes involve challenging ethical decision‐making. This study starts off from an ethical perspective with caritative caring as the theoretical framework. The aim of this descriptive study is to describe what possibilities care givers regard themselves to have to providegood carebased on ethical values in the daily care of older persons. A total of 105 (95%) care givers answered the questionnaire. The study was conducted in a municipality in the Western part of Finland during the spring of 2007. The result shows that good care based on ethical values cannot always be guaranteed in the care of older person. There are possibilities to provide the older person with individual, dignified and safe care, and to establish a caring communion and closeness in care, but without positioning these results in relation to an ethical discussion, we cannot state that the care is good enough.