bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Female plumage coloration is sensitive to the cost of reproduction. An experiment in blue tits
Authors: Doutrelant Claire , Grégoire Arnaud , Midamegbe Afiwa , Lambrechts Marcel , Perret Philippe
Published: August 2011

1.A growing number of studies suggest that female ornaments are linked to maternal quality and influence male mate choice. These findings challenge the traditional male‐biased view of sexual selection and the hypothesis that female ornaments are the outcome of a genetic correlation with male ornaments. To further test the hypothesis that female traits have a function, it is now essential to investigate their honesty and to determine how signalling and reproduction interact in females. If female traits are honest indicators of quality, then they are likely to have a specific signalling function.

2.We investigated whether carry‐over effects of reproduction might ensure the honesty of plumage colour signalling of a bird species with conspicuous UV‐blue and yellow coloration, the blue titCyanistes caeruleus. Reproductive effort was manipulated by removing clutches, thereby forcing both sexes to reproduce twice and to raise chicks later in the breeding season when food is less abundant. In the year following this manipulation, we investigated the change in plumage in experimental and control males and females. The change was measured in the two putative feather ornaments, the UV‐blue cap and the yellow breast, and another feather trait probably less likely to be sexually selected: the wing length. We also tested whether higher‐quality females had their coloration less affected by the experiment.

3.We found that control but not manipulated males and females increased their signal towards UV. In addition, in the manipulated group, females that were able to lay more eggs had their UV‐blue coloration less affected by the treatment. For yellow coloration, we found that manipulated yearlings but not manipulated adults decreased their yellow chroma in comparison with control. Lastly, our results show that the condition of the manipulated females tended to be positively correlated with yellow chroma.

4.These results show that the trade‐offs between reproduction and signalling can ensure the honesty of conspicuous plumage traits in female and male blue tits. In addition, they suggest that female traits have the potential to evolve under sexual selection in this and other bird species.
The more stems the merrier: advantages of multi‐stemmed architecture for the demography of understorey trees in a temperate broadleaf woodland
Authors: Tanentzap Andrew J. , Mountford Edward P. , Cooke Arnold S. , Coomes David A.
Published: August 2011

1. Multi‐stemmed trees are an understudied but common component of temperate broadleaf forests that can provide insight into how plants persist and regenerate within communities. In particular, multi‐stemmed architecture may be an important trait for the growth and survival of trees in forest understoreys that have to cope with low light levels, but this idea has been rarely tested using long‐term individual‐level data.

2. We use measurements of 8527 individual woody stems from 1985, 1996 and 2008 to model the growth, survival and recruitment of hazel (Corylus avellana) and hawthorn (Crataegus laevigata and C. monogyna) trees as a function of neighbourhood competition in the understorey of a minimum‐intervention, mixed‐ash woodland in England. We test the effects of browsing by deer (Muntiacus reevesi) on woodland dynamics by comparing demographic rates during a period of high deer densities (1985–1996) with rates recorded from 1996 to 2008, when sustained culling substantially reduced deer densities.

3. Growth and survival of hazel and hawthorn trees increased with the number of stems they possessed, demonstrating clear benefits to multi‐stemmed architecture. Surviving trees continued to accumulate basal area and stems without any clear upper limit after 23 years. However, increasing numbers of stems generally reduced the growth and recruitment of stems within multi‐stemmed trees.

4. Temporal differences in deer browsing appeared to influence the strength of intra‐specific (i.e. inter‐stem) competition and, consequently, the growth, survival and recruitment of multi‐stemmed trees. Most notably, stem survival declined with the number of stems in a tree only after deer culling, but not during a period of high deer densities, suggesting that intense deer browsing reduced resource competition among stems. Inter‐specific neighbourhood competition had no detectable effect on hazel or hawthorn demography.

5.
Synthesis. Multi‐stemmed architecture is an advantageous trait for understorey trees in temperate woodlands relative to the allocation of resources towards the growth of a single stem. We suggest that the low light levels of forest understoreys favour ‘persistence’, through multi‐stemmed growth, rather than ‘regeneration’ niches (i.e. periodic recruitment through seed), with the advantage of this life‐history strategy influenced by herbivory and intra‐specific competition.
Can observers link dream content to behaviours in rapid eye movement sleep behaviour disorder? A cross‐sectional experimental pilot study
Authors: VALLI KATJA , FRAUSCHER BIRGIT , GSCHLIESSER VIOLA , WOLF ELISABETH , FALKENSTETTER TINA , SCHÖNWALD SUZANA V. , EHRMANN LAURA , ZANGERL ANJA , MARTI ISABELLE , BOESCH SYLVIA M. , REVONSUO ANTTI , POEWE WERNER , HÖGL BIRGIT
Published: August 2011

Motor activity in rapid eye movement (REM) sleep behaviour disorder (RBD) has been linked to dream content. Systematic and controlled sleep laboratory studies directly assessing the relation between RBD behaviours and experienced dream content are, however, largely lacking. We aimed to investigate whether a link can be established between RBD behaviours and dream content when both are systematically sampled in a controlled setting. We investigated six patients with Parkinson syndrome and RBD who underwent 2–3 nights of video–polysomnographic recording during which they were awakened from REM sleep (10 min after the onset of the second and successive REM periods). Spontaneous free‐worded dream reports and a structured dream questionnaire were obtained. Video recordings of motor manifestations were each combined with four dream reports, and seven judges had to match the video clip with the correctly reported dream content from a choice of four possibilities. Of the 35 REM sleep awakenings performed, a total of 17 (48.6%) motor‐behavioural episodes with recalled dream content were obtained. The mean of correctly identified video‐dream pairs was 39.5% (range 0–100%). Our data showed that reported dream content can be linked to motor behaviours above chance level. Matching accuracy was affected mainly by the clarity of dream reports and the specific nature of movements manifest in video recordings.
Tumor‐to‐tumor metastasis: Hepatocellular carcinoma metastatic to parathyroid adenoma
Authors: Lee Hee Eun , Kim Dong Hoon , Cho Young Hye , Kim Kyungeun , Chae Seoung Wan , Sohn Jin Hee
Published: August 2011

Tumor‐to‐tumor metastasis is a rare, but well‐recognized phenomenon. Here, we report a unique case of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) metastatic to parathyroid adenoma. A 53‐year‐old‐man with a history of HCC presented with hypercalcemia. It was found that he also had hyperparathyroidism with a hypoechoic mass in the lower portion of the right thyroid gland area. The patient underwent parathyroidectomy, and a mass measuring 1.5 × 1.0 cm was detected. Microscopic and immunohistochemical examination disclosed parathyroid adenoma with a focus of metastatic HCC. For the patient, it was the only distant metastasis revealed until the last follow‐up. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first reported case of tumor‐to‐tumor metastasis in which HCC is the donor.
Effects of the Global Financial Crisis on Children's School and Employment Outcomes in El Salvador
Authors: Duryea Suzanne , Morales Melisa
Published: August 2011

Central America has been one of the regions hardest hit by the global financial crisis. This article analyses the short‐run effects of the crisis on children's schooling and employment outcomes in El Salvador, exploiting repeated cross‐sectional samples of the annual household survey for the period 2000–8. It reveals that this early phase of the financial crisis has decreased school attendance for girls and boys aged 10–16 and increased child employment for boys of the same age range, and also shifted attendance towards public schools. A falsification test demonstrates that a placebo, or ‘false crisis’ defined as second semester 2007, does not have the same adverse impacts on children's outcomes as the manifested crisis.
Cash Transfers, Children and the Crisis: Protecting Current and Future Investments
Authors: Fiszbein Ariel , Ringold Dena , Srinivasan Santhosh
Published: August 2011

In a mix of responses to the food, fuel and financial crises of 2008–9, some developing countries have introduced new safety‐net programmes, while others have modified and/or expanded existing ones. Many have introduced conditional cash transfers (CCTs) in recent years, and these have been used as an important starting point for a response. This article aims to describe these various experiences with CCTs, to distil lessons about their effectiveness as crisis‐response programmes for households with children, to identify design features that can facilitate their ability to respond to transient poverty shocks, and to assess how they can complement other safety‐net programmes.
Glucose‐dependent insulinotropic polypeptide: from pathophysiology to therapeutic opportunities in obesity‐associated disorders
Authors: Paschetta E. , Hvalryg M. , Musso G.
Published: August 2011

Glucose‐dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) is a hormone secreted from the intestinal K‐cells with established insulin‐releasing actions. However, the GIP receptor is widely distributed in peripheral organs, including the adipose tissue, gut, bone and brain, where GIP modulates energy intake, cell metabolism and proliferation, and lipid and glucose metabolism, eventually promoting lipid and glucose storage. In diabetes and obesity, the incretin effect of GIP is blunted, while the extrapancreatic tissues keep a normal sensitivity to this hormone. As GIP levels are normal or elevated in obesity and diabetes, mounting evidence from chemical or genetic GIP deletion in animal models of obesity‐related diabetes suggests that GIP may have a pro‐obesogenic action and that a strategy antagonizing GIP action may be beneficial in these conditions, clearing triglyceride deposits from adipose tissue, liver and muscle, and restoring normal insulin sensitivity. Emerging evidence also suggests that the metabolic benefits of bypass surgery are mediated, at least in part, by surgical removal of GIP‐secreting K‐cells in the upper small intestine.
Government and Community Development in Ireland: The Contested Subjects of Professionalism and Expertise
Authors: Meade Rosie R.
Published: August 2011

Abstract:  This paper historicises the recent and ongoing professionalisation of community development in the Republic of Ireland. The term professionalisation refers both to the designation and accreditation of a distinctive community work occupation and a wider set of processes that effect more strategic approaches to the planning, delivery and evaluation of community organisations. The paper reviews some tensions associated with professionalisation; tensions that closely relate to community work's reputation as a “bottom‐up” or “participatory” strategy. It also interrogates community development's place as a strategy of government in contemporary Ireland. In so doing it reconsiders the assumed separateness and distinctiveness of the state and community sectors, arguing that the state has been centrally implicated in calling the community sector into being. In their turn community development organisations have shaped and mediated policy delivery on the ground. It is these processes of hybridisation, co‐operation, antagonism and struggle that have given professionalisation its momentum.
Toward an Anthropological Perspective of Fairy Tales
Authors: Shokeid Moshe
Published: August 2011

Prevalent theories premise that the popular Western fairy tale whose predominant motif is one of cruelty toward children by their closest kin or guardian is an expression of repressed parent-child hostility and sexual complexes. This paper presents an alternative approach: fairy tales may also serve to introduce the child to the world of strangers and the noncommitted modes of behavior which often typify social encounters in Western society. In this respect they have an educational role in the growing-up process similar to that of folklore in nonliterate societies.
Kynurenine metabolism predicts cognitive function in patients following cardiac bypass and thoracic surgery
Authors: Forrest Caroline M. , Mackay Gillian M. , Oxford Lynn , Millar Keith , Darlington L. Gail , Higgins Michael J. , Stone Trevor W.
Published: August 2011

J. Neurochem. (2011) 119, 136–152.

Cardiac surgery involving extra‐corporeal circulation can lead to cognitive dysfunction. As such surgery is associated with signs of inflammation and pro‐inflammatory mediators activate tryptophan oxidation to neuroactive kynurenines which modulate NMDA receptor function and oxidative stress, we have measured blood concentrations of kynurenines and inflammatory markers in 28 patients undergoing coronary arterial graft surgery and, for comparison, 28 patients undergoing non‐bypass thoracic surgery. A battery of cognitive tests was completed before and after the operations. The results show increased levels of tryptophan with decreased levels of kynurenine, anthranilic acid and 3‐hydroxyanthranilic acid associated with bypass, and a later increase in kynurenic acid. Levels of neopterin and lipid peroxidation products rose after surgery in non‐bypass patients whereas tumour necrosis factor‐α and S100B levels increased after bypass. Changes of neopterin levels were greater after non‐bypass surgery. Cognitive testing showed that the levels of tryptophan, kynurenine, kynurenic acid and the kynurenine/tryptophan ratio, correlated with aspects of post‐surgery cognitive function, and were significant predictors of cognitive performance in tasks sensitive to frontal executive function and memory. Thus, anaesthesia and major surgery are associated with inflammatory changes and alterations in tryptophan oxidative metabolism which predict, and may play a role in, post‐surgical cognitive function.
The Semaines' Dissemination in England and Scotland until 1641
Authors: AUGER PETER
Published: August 2011

This article tracks the reputation of Guillaume de Saluste Du Bartas's Semaines (1578, 1584 et seq.) among readers in sixteenth‐ and seventeenth‐century England and Scotland. The Semaines were initially mentioned in print by London‐based readers of contemporary poetry, but different communities of readers later emerged who read and cited the poems in a variety of ways. James VI and I played an important part in the Semaines’ early reception history, as did the publication of Josuah Sylvester's translation, Devine Weekes. This article builds on Anne Lake Prescott's earlier research by focusing on how individual readers responded to particular Du Bartas texts. This approach makes us more sensitive to how the Semaines were being read and perceived in different ways during this period. The first section looks in detail at how Gabriel Harvey and those around him read the Semaines. The second section gives early examples of writers consulting the Semaines for their factual content, and shows how James encouraged readers to be ‘well‐versed’ in Du Bartas's works. The third focuses on clerical readers of the Semaines. The conclusion suggests that these contemporary responses can inform historically grounded readings of the Semaines as literary works, and promote understanding of their influence on seventeenth‐century British literature.
Elastic–Plastic Indentation Response of Two Transparent Fine‐Grained Polycrystalline Spinels
Authors: Muller Andrea M. , Green David J.
Published: August 2011

A systematic study, focusing on the characterization of inelastic deformation and the transition from elastic to inelastic deformation in two transparent fine‐grained polycrystalline spinels (MgAl2O4) with different grain sizes, has been conducted using depth‐sensing indentation techniques at high loads. Congruent experiments included observations on the evolution of indentation damage, examinations of the sub‐surface damage zone and inspection of the remnant surface profiles of the impressions. Indentation stress–strain behavior obtained from analysis of load–displacement curves revealed a small difference in yielding and strain‐hardening behavior even though there was a significant grain size difference. Directly below the indentation sites, regions of grain boundary cracking, associated with the inelastic zone, were identified in both spinels. Comparison of the Meyer hardness and in‐situ hardness showed a discrepancy at low loads, which is a result of elastic recovery. It is proposed that spherical indentation could serve as a useful method of evaluating armor materials, particularly when the behavior is described using indentation stress and strain for the onset and development of inelastic deformation under high contact pressures and self‐confining stresses.
A Critical Assessment of Nanometer‐Scale Zirconia Green Body Formation by Pressure Filtration and Uniaxial Compaction
Authors: Szepesi Christopher J. , Cantonnet Jerome , Kimel R. Allen , Adair James H.
Published: August 2011

Green body formation with nanoscale powders poses unique challenges. This report discusses two specific green‐forming procedures: pressure filtration and dry‐powder compaction. Green compacts were formed from suspensions of hydrothermally derived YTZP prepared in the presence of bicine, which acts as a protective colloid and dispersant. However, due to capillary forces encountered when drying filter‐pressed, nanoporous compacts, green bodies could not be recovered intact. Dry‐powder compaction is explored as an alternative green‐forming technique. The effect of powder recovery procedure on compaction behavior and microstructural homogeneity are discussed. Strong capillary forces also act on nanoparticles during pan‐drying, yielding high‐strength aggregates which are difficult to deform during compaction. Drying particles from a lower surface tension liquid, such as ethanol, is found to have little effect on aggregate strength. Freeze‐drying is demonstrated as the preferred powder recovery technique since particles are kept in a dispersed state during drying, and compression of agglomerates by capillary forces is avoided. Compaction behavior of recovered powders is examined with a model that describes powder consolidation as an activated process. From this analysis, it is demonstrated that granule deformation and rearrangement contribute equally to the compaction process in pan‐dried nanopowders. It is also shown that primary particle rearrangement accounts for the majority of compaction in freeze‐dried nanopowders.
Microstructure Characterization and Electrical Conductivity Measurement of La1−xCaxCrO3 (x = 0.25, 0.4, 0.5) Prepared by Aspartic Acid‐Assisted Solution Combustion
Authors: Mukherjee S. , Gonal M. R. , Patel M. K. , Roy M. , Patra A. , Tyagi A. K.
Published: August 2011

Nanocrystalline La1−xCaxCrO3 (x = 0.25, 0.40, 0.50) powders were synthesized by gel‐combustion process using aspartic acid as a fuel. Phase identification of the samples was carried out by powder X‐ray diffraction. Pore distribution and microstructure of sintered pellets were investigated by small angle neutron scattering (SANS) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). SANS and relative density measurement results indicate better sinterability for products with lower Ca2+ concentration. Four‐probe direct current electrical conductivity of LaCrO3 with different Ca2+ concentrations was measured in the temperature range 350°C–1000°C in air as well as in hydrogen atmosphere. Linear behavior of Arrhenius plots of electrical conductivities in both air and hydrogen atmosphere indicates charge carrier transport is due to thermally activated hopping conduction of small hole‐polarons. It was observed that the electrical conductivity decreased with increasing substitution of Ca2+ concentration instead of increasing small polaron concentration as expected. This trend in electrical conductivity is attributed to the neutralization of some small polarons due to formation of oxygen vacancies with increase in Ca2+ concentration.
Fluoride content of Ready‐to‐Feed (RTF) infant food and drinks in the UK
Authors: Maguire Anne , Omid Narges , Abuhaloob Lamis , Moynihan Paula J. , Zohoori Fatemeh V.
Published: August 2011

Maguire A, Omid N, Abuhaloob L, Moynihan PJ, Zohoori FV. Fluoride content of Ready‐to‐Feed (RTF) infant food and drinks in the UK. Community Dent Oral Epidemiol 2012; 40: 26–36. © 2011 John Wiley & Sons A/S

Abstract –  Background:  The level of Fluoride exposure needed to cause dental fluorosis is not known precisely. An awareness of total F intake from all sources, especially during the critical stages of dental development during infancy and early childhood, is important in preventing the development of dental fluorosis.

Objectives:  The aim of the study was to measure F content of ready‐to‐feed (RTF) infant drinks and foods in the UK.

Methods:  In total, 122 infant foods were analysed for F concentrations, in triplicate, indirectly by an acid diffusion method and 25 infant drinks analysed directly using an F‐ion‐selective electrode after addition of TISABIII.

Results:  The median (range) F concentration was 0.110 (0.030–0.221) μg/g for breakfast cereals, 0.112 (0.040–1.200) μg/g for savoury meals, 0.056 (0.030–0.379) μg/g for desserts, 0.044 (0.020–0.191) μg/g for fruits, 0.196 (0.040–0.397) μg/g for baked goods, 0.069 (0.050–0.148) μg/ml for juices, 0.016 (0.009–0.030) μg/ml for milks and 0.041 (0.022–0.069) μg/ml for waters. The median (range) F concentration of all RTF infant foods and drinks by recommended age of consumption was 0.029 (0.010–0.245), 0.088 (0.020–0.500), 0.108 (0.100–0.510) and 0.108 (0.060–1.200) μg/g for infants from birth, 4+ month, 6+ month and 10+ month, respectively.

Conclusion:  The results suggest that the F concentrations of UK‐marketed RTF infant foods, drinks and formula milk are not sufficiently high to be a risk factor for dental fluorosis, if consumption is within the limits recommended for infants and young children.
Childhood socioeconomic position, adult sense of coherence and tooth retention
Authors: Bernabé Eduardo , Watt Richard G. , Sheiham Aubrey , Suominen Anna L. , Vehkalahti Miira M. , Nordblad Anne , Uutela Antti , Kivimäki Mika , Tsakos Georgios
Published: August 2011

Bernabé E, Watt RG, Sheiham A, Suominen AL, Vehkalahti MM, Nordblad A, Uutela A, Kivimäki M, Tsakos G. Childhood socioeconomic position, adult sense of coherence and tooth retention. Community Dent Oral Epidemiol 2012; 40: 46–52. © 2011 John Wiley & Sons A/S

Abstract –  Objective:  To explore the role of sense of coherence (SOC) as a mediator in the relationship between childhood socioeconomic position (SEP) and tooth retention in adulthood.

Methods:  Data from 5401 dentate adults aged 30 and over who participated in the nationally representative Finnish Health 2000 Survey were analysed. Participants provided information on demographic characteristics (sex and age), childhood SEP (parental education), adulthood SEP (years of education and household income), the SOC scale and oral health‐related behaviours (dental attendance, toothbrushing frequency, sugar intake frequency and daily smoking). They also had a clinical oral health examination. Structural equation modelling was used to test a model including adulthood SEP, SOC and oral health‐related behaviours as mediators of the relationship between childhood SEP and tooth retention. Multigroup comparison was also conducted to test the hypothesized model within each sex and age group (<45 years, 45–59 years and 60+ years).

Results:  The relationship between childhood SEP and tooth retention in adulthood was to a large extent mediated by adulthood SEP and to a much lesser extent by SOC. There was only a weak association between childhood SEP and adult SOC, but favourable oral health‐related behaviours appeared to link a strong SOC with greater tooth retention. The model was invariant across sexes and age groups.

Conclusions:  SOC is associated with tooth retention through oral health‐related behaviours, but contributes little to the relationship between childhood SEP and tooth retention.
STAYING IN CONTROL; OR, WHAT DO WE REALLY WANT PUBLIC EDUCATION TO ACHIEVE?
Authors: Tamir Yuli (Yael)
Published: August 2011

In this essay, Yuli Tamir argues that the growing interest in public education in the developed world in general and in the United States in particular is grounded in a fear of losing global hegemony. The most rational approach to slowing down these hegemonic shifts is to empower public education and allow the neglected human capital vested in presently excluded communities to flourish. However, moves to improve public education are met by the unspoken though persistent resentment of those who fear the transformative power of education and would like to preserve the present social order. Here Tamir reviews some of the moves commonly taken to preserve these “social gaps” and concludes by suggesting that alongside vocal public support for school reforms promoting equal opportunities, silent yet very effective social strategies have developed that undo the benefits of such reforms and maintain the present social gaps.
Human Acellular Matrix Graft of Tunica Albuginea for Penile Reconstruction
Authors: da Silva Fernando Gomes , Filho Aloísio Moreira , Damião Ronaldo , da Silva Eloísio Alexsandro
Published: August 2011

Introduction

Penile curvature is one of the most common male conditions, affecting nearly 10% of men, and can impair sexual intercourse. Tunica albuginea (hTA) plays a key role in penile curvature, and reconstructive procedures may be necessary for its substitution. Although several grafts have been proposed for hTA repair, the ideal graft is not yet available.

Aim

The aim of this article is to evaluate a new human tunica albuginea acellular matrix (hTAAM) as potential graft for penile reconstructive procedures.

Methods

Twelve penises were obtained during sex reassignment surgeries from male-to-female transsexual patients. After dissection, hTAs were assigned into two groups according to the decellularization methods: polyethylene glycol (PEG) 1000 method following ultraviolet-C radiation, and Triton X-100 modified method.

Main Outcome Measures

Structural analyses were assessed by hematoxilin and eosin, Masson's trichrome, Weigert's, and picrosirius-polarization staining methods. Total protein, total glycosaminoglycan (GAG), and nucleic acid (DNA and RNA) concentrations were assessed by specific biochemical analyses. Uniaxial strength tests were performed to evaluate biomechanical properties.

Results

All hTAAMs presented no nuclear or cellular remnants. Total protein concentration was significantly higher in PEG 1000 hTAAM. Despite GAG concentration decreased significantly in hTAAM, Triton X-100 hTAAM retained the highest GAG concentration (1.0 ± 0.42 µg HexUr/mg dry tissue, P > 0.05). All decellularization methods were efficacious to remove nucleic acids. The maximal break point presented no difference between hTA and hTAAM groups (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

PEG 1000 and Triton X-100 decellularization methods provide equally successful hTAAMs, preserving original structural and biochemical properties.
Comparing Effects of a Low-energy Diet and a High-protein Low-fat Diet on Sexual and Endothelial Function, Urinary Tract Symptoms, and Inflammation in Obese Diabetic Men
Authors: Khoo Joan , Piantadosi Cynthia , Duncan Rae , Worthley Stephen G. , Jenkins Alicia , Noakes Manny , Worthley Matthew I. , Lange Kylie , Wittert Gary A.
Published: August 2011

Introduction

Abdominal obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus are associated with sexual and endothelial dysfunction, lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), and chronic systemic inflammation.

Aim

To determine the effects of diet-induced weight loss and maintenance on sexual and endothelial function, LUTS, and inflammatory markers in obese diabetic men.

Main Outcome Measures

Weight, waist circumference (WC), International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5) score, Sexual Desire Inventory (SDI) score, International Prostate Symptom Scale (IPSS) score, plasma fasting glucose and lipids, testosterone, sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG), inflammatory markers (high-sensitivity C-reactive protein [CRP] and interleukin-6 [IL-6]) and soluble E-selectin, and brachial artery flow-mediated dilatation (FMD) were measured at baseline, 8 weeks, and 52 weeks.

Methods

Over 8 weeks, 31 abdominally obese (body mass index ≥ 30 kg/m2, WC ≥ 102 cm), type 2 diabetic men (mean age 59.7 years) received either a meal replacement-based low-calorie diet (LCD) ∼1,000 kcal/day (N = 19) or low-fat, high-protein, reduced-carbohydrate (HP) diet (N = 12) prescribed to decrease intake by ∼600 kcal/day. Subjects continued on, or were switched to, the HP diet for another 44 weeks.

Results

At 8 weeks, weight and WC decreased by ∼10% and ∼5% with the LCD and HP diet, respectively. Both diets significantly improved plasma glucose, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), SHBG, IIEF-5, SDI and IPSS scores, and endothelial function (increased FMD, reduced soluble E-selectin). Erectile function, sexual desire, and urinary symptoms improved by a similar degree with both diets. CRP and IL-6 decreased with the HP diet. At 52 weeks, reductions in weight, WC, and CRP were maintained. IIEF-5, SDI, and IPSS scores improved further.

Conclusions

Diet-induced weight loss induces rapid improvement of sexual, urinary, and endothelial function in obese diabetic men. A high-protein, carbohydrate-reduced, low-fat diet also reduces systemic inflammation and sustains these beneficial effects to 1 year.
Empowering the primary care provider to optimally manage mild traumatic brain injury
Authors: Torrence Carl Bradley , DeCristofaro Claire , Elliott Lydia
Published: August 2011

Purpose: This article provides current, evidence‐based information regarding the management of mild traumatic brain injuries for the primary‐care provider.

Data sources: Literature review of the evidence‐based literature, including peer‐reviewed articles and reviews of publishedrandomized controlled trials and clinical practice guidelines.

Conclusions: There are lessons to learn from the civilian and military care of mild traumatic brain injuries. As acute injury management improves and more patients survive their trauma to live in the chronic‐care community setting, primary care clinicians will be responsible for providing and coordinating total care. A team approach is required to meet the unique clinical and personal challenges these patients face.

Implications for practice: These patients are at risk of receiving suboptimal care once released to the community, in part due to an incomplete understanding of the condition by primary care providers. Other difficulties in recommending care for these patients include nonuniform clinical terminology, the lack of a uniform set of diagnostic criteria, and the lack of endorsed professional society guidelines. A clinical practice toolkit is provided to assist the primary care provider to optimize delivery of comprehensive care for this population in the community.
Volatile Trans‐2‐Hexenal, a Soybean Aldehyde, Inhibits Aspergillus flavus Growth and Aflatoxin Production in Corn
Authors: De Lucca A.J. , Carter‐Wientjes C.H. , Boué S. , Bhatnagar D.
Published: August 2011

Abstract:  Trans‐2‐hexenal, a volatile aldehyde, is produced by soybean (Glycine max [L.] Merr) and other plants via the lipoxygenase pathway. In vitro tests showed it significantly (P < 0.001) reduced Aspergillus flavus germinating conidial viability at 10 μM, with approximately 95% viability reduction observed at 20 μM. The viability of nongerminated conidia was not reduced. To test the effectiveness of this volatile to prevent fungal growth in stored corn, trans‐2‐hexenal was pumped intermittently into glass jars containing corn. Experiments were performed to determine the ability of 2 different pump cycle time‐courses to prevent A. flavus growth on sterile corn (23% moisture). Intermittently (30‐min pumping period) over 7 d, this volatile was pumped through 350 g of corn kernels inoculated with 1 mL of 3 × 104 conidia of A. flavus. Controls consisted of (1) sterile corn, (2) corn inoculated with A. flavus with no pumped air, and (3) corn inoculated with A. flavus with intermittently pumped air. Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1), viability counts, and aldehyde concentration in the headspace were performed in each experiment. To determine whether an increased time period between volatile pumping would prevent A. flavus growth, a 2nd series of experiments were performed that were similar to the 1st series except that trans‐2‐hexenal (only) was pumped for a 30‐min period every 12 h. Experiments were performed 3 times for each time course. Both experiments showed that intermittent pumping of volatile trans‐2‐hexenal significantly (P < 0.001) prevented A. flavus growth and aflatoxin B1 production over a 7‐d period.

Practical Application:  Results from this study indicate that intermittent pumping of volatile trans‐2‐hexenal could be used to protect stored corn from A. flavus growth and aflatoxin contamination.
Phenolic Acid Composition and Antioxidant Properties of Malaysian Honeys
Authors: Khalil M.I. , Alam N. , Moniruzzaman M. , Sulaiman S.A. , Gan S.H.
Published: August 2011

Abstract:  The phenolic acid and flavonoid contents of Malaysian Tualang, Gelam, and Borneo tropical honeys were compared to those of Manuka honey. Ferric reducing/antioxidant power assay (FRAP) and the 1,1‐diphenyl‐2‐picryl‐hydrazyl (DPPH) radical‐scavenging activities were also quantified. All honey extracts exhibited high phenolic contents (15.21 ± 0.51– 42.23 ± 0.64 mg/kg), flavonoid contents (11.52 ± 0.27– 25.31 ± 0.37 mg/kg), FRAP values (892.15 ± 4.97– 363.38 ± 10.57 μM Fe[II]/kg), and high IC50 of DPPH radical‐scavenging activities (5.24 ± 0.40– 17.51 ± 0.51 mg/mL). Total of 6 phenolic acids (gallic, syringic, benzoic, trans‐cinnamic, p‐coumaric, and caffeic acids) and 5 flavonoids (catechin, kaempferol, naringenin, luteolin, and apigenin) were identified. Among the Malaysian honey samples, Tualang honey had the highest contents of phenolics, and flavonoids, and DPPH radical‐scavenging activities. We conclude that among Malaysian honey samples, Tualang honey is the richest in phenolic acids, and flavonoid compounds, which have strong free radical‐scavenging activities.
Prion diseases: risks, characteristics, and infection control considerations in dentistry
Authors: Bali Zarina , Bali Rishi K. , Nagrath Saurabh
Published: August 2011

Prion diseases are a group of fatal neurodegenerative diseases that are rapidly progressive and fatal, with no definite cure. There are no reported cases of prion disease transmission arising from dental procedures. Nevertheless, there is a theoretical but real risk of transmission of prion disease from dental instruments. A review was made of studies up to 2008 to provide an update of the characteristics, risk of transmission, and the infection‐control implications of prions in the field of dentistry. As the prions are resistant to conventional sterilization methods, highly‐specific, cross‐infection control measures are required when managing patients infected with these.
Impact Experiments Into Borosilicate Glass at Three Scale Sizes
Authors: Anderson Charles E. , Weiss Carl E. , Chocron Sidney
Published: August 2011

Glass impact experiments were designed at three different scales—0.22-cal, 0.375-cal, and 0.50-cal—named after the diameter of the bullets. Four experimental series were conducted at the three scale sizes: (1) Lexan®-only experiments; (2) monoblock glass experiments; (3) single impact bonded glass experiments, and (4) multi-hit experiments. The experiments were conducted to obtain residual velocity Vr as a function of impact (striking) velocity Vs, including sufficient partial penetrations to calculate a ballistic limit velocity V50. The Vs – Vr data were fit to the Lambert equation to obtain another estimate of V50. The objective of the experiments was to investigate whether a time dependency exists in glass damage/failure for ballistic experiments, and if so, quantify this dependence. No scale effect was observed in experimental results for the Lexan®-only experiments. But a variety of scale effects were observed in the glass impact experiments, suggesting that failure is time dependent within the timeframe of ballistic events.
Two Proteins with Different Functions Are Derived from the
KlHEM13
Gene
Authors: Vizoso Vázquez Ángel , Blanco Moisés , Zaborowska Justyna , Soengas Pilar , González-Siso M. Isabel , Becerra Manuel , Rodríguez-Belmonte Esther , Cerdán M. Esperanza
Published: August 2011

Two proteins that differ at the N terminus (l-
Kl
Cpo and s-
Kl
Cpo) are derived from
KlHEM13
, a single-copy-number gene in the haploid genome of
Kluyveromyces lactis
. Two transcriptional start site (tss) pools are detectable using primer extension, and their selection is heme dependent. One of these tss pools is located 5′ of the first translation initiation codon (TIC) in the open reading frame of
KlHEM13
, while the other is located between the first and second TICs. In terms of functional significance, only s-
Kl
Cpo complements the heme deficiency caused by the
Δhem13
deletion in
K. lactis
. Data obtained from immune detection in subcellular fractions, directed mutagenesis, chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assays, and the functional relevance of
ΔKlhem13
deletion for
KlHEM13
promoter activity suggest that l-
Kl
Cpo regulates
KlHEM13
transcription. A hypothetical model of the evolutionary origins and coexistence of these two proteins in
K. lactis
is discussed.
Implementing surgical services in a rural, resource-limited setting: a study protocol
Authors: Maru Duncan Smith-Rohrberg , Schwarz Ryan , Schwarz Dan , Andrews Jason , Panizales Maria Theresa , Karelas Gregory , Brady Jesse Stark , Rogers Selwyn
Published: August 2011

Introduction

There are well-established protocols and procedures for the majority of common surgical diseases, yet surgical services remain largely inaccessible for much of the world's rural poor. Data on the process and outcome of surgical care expansion, however, are very limited, and the roll-out process of rural surgical implementation in particular has never been studied. Here, we propose the first implementation research study to assess the surgical scale-up process in the rural district of Achham, Nepal.

Methods and analysis

Based primarily on the protocols of the WHO's Integrated Management for Emergency and Essential Surgical Care (IMEESC), this study's threefold implementation strategy will include: (1) the core IMEESC surgical care program, (2) community-based follow-up via health workers, and (3) hospital-based quality improvement programs. The implementation program will employ additional emergency and surgical care protocols developed collaboratively by physicians, nurses and the authors. This strategy will be referred to as IMEESC-Plus. This study will employ both qualitative and quantitative research methodologies to collect clinical data and information on the reception and utilisation of services. The first 18 months of the implementation process will be studied and divided into an initial phase (first 6 months) and a consolidation phase (subsequent 12 months).

Discussion

This study aims to describe the logistics of the implementation process of IMEESC-Plus, and assess the quality of the resulting IMEESC-Plus services during the course of the implementation process. Using data generated from this study, larger, multi-site implementation studies can be planned that assess the scale-up of surgical services worldwide in resource-limited areas.
Role of organisational structure in implementation of sedation protocols: a comparison of Canadian and French ICUs
Authors: Dodek Peter , Chanques Gerald , Brown Glen , Norena Monica , Grubisic Maja , Wong Hubert , Jaber Samir
Published: August 2011

Purpose

Use of sedation protocols is associated with fewer mechanical ventilation days in critically ill patients. Canadian intensive care units (ICUs) often have a higher nurse–patient ratio and more specialised training of ICU nurses than French ICUs. Considering these differences, the purpose of this study was to compare implementation of sedation protocols as indicated by frequency of sedation assessment and response to levels of sedation between a Canadian and a French ICU.

Methods

This was a retrospective observational study of 30 patients who were mechanically ventilated for at least 24 h in each of two tertiary care ICUs in Vancouver, Canada and Montpellier, France. The authors tabulated all Richmond Agitation–Sedation Scale scores, frequency of score measurement, target scores, frequency and magnitude of scores that were out of target range, and the response to these scores within 1 h of measurement. Practices between the two hospitals were compared using regression modelling, adjusting for patient age, sex, and Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE) II score.

Results

Although sedation scores were measured more frequently in the Canadian ICU, there were fewer appropriate adjustments in medications in response to scores that were outside the target range in this ICU than in the French ICU, which had a lower nurse–patient ratio and no specialised training of nurses (OR 0.26 (95% CI 0.13 to 0.50) for scores that were higher than target, and OR 0.14 (95% CI 0.07 to 0.28) for scores that were lower than target).

Conclusion

Differences in sedation management between these ICUs are likely related to factors other than nurse–patient ratio or specialised training of ICU nurses.
Motor racing, tobacco company sponsorship, barcodes and alibi marketing
Authors: Grant-Braham Bruce , Britton John
Published: August 2011

Background

Sponsorship of Formula One (F1) motor racing, which has been used as an indirect medium of tobacco advertising for several decades, was prohibited by the 2005 European Union Tobacco Advertising Directive. Most F1 tobacco sponsorship of motor racing in the EU has since ceased, with the exception of the Scuderia Ferrari team, which continues to be funded by Philip Morris. In 2007, the Marlboro logo on Ferrari cars and other race regalia was replaced by an evolving ‘barcode’ design, which Ferrari later claimed was part of the livery of the car, and not a Marlboro advertisement.

Objective

To determine whether the ‘barcode’ graphics used by Ferrari represent ‘alibi’ Marlboro advertising.

Methods

Academic and grey literature, and online tobacco industry document archives, were searched using terms relevant to tobacco marketing and motorsport.

Results

Tobacco sponsorship of F1 motor racing began in 1968, and Philip Morris has sponsored F1 teams since 1972. Phillip Morris first used a ‘barcode’ design, comprising red vertical parallel lines below the wordMarlboroon the British Racing Motors F1 car in 1972. Vertical or horizontal ‘barcode’ designs have been used in this way, latterly without the wordMarlboro, ever since. The modern ‘barcode’ logos occupied the same position on cars and drivers' clothing as conventional Marlboro logos in the past. The shared use of red colour by Marlboro and Ferrari is also recognised by Philip Morris as a means of promoting brand association between Marlboro and Ferrari.

Conclusion

The Ferrari ‘barcode’ designs are alibi Marlboro logos and hence constitute advertising prohibited by the 2005 EU Tobacco Advertising Directive.
TUNING THE SYNCHRONOUS STATE OF TWO DIFFERENT CHAOTIC SYSTEMS
Authors: WU JIANSHE , JIAO LICHENG , WANG XIAOHUA , LI YANGYANG , HAN HONG
Published: August 2011

Unidirectional coupled synchronization of two identical or different chaotic systems has been carefully studied based on the master–slave synchronization scheme, where the synchronous state is that of the master system and cannot be changed after they realized synchronization. In this paper, a general bidirectional synchronization scheme is presented which made the master–slave scheme a special case. It is straightforward to tune the synchronous state by just changing the value of a parameter. Based on the general bidirectional synchronization scheme, active control method is used to tune the synchronous state of two pairs of different chaotic systems: the Lorenz and Chen systems; and then the Lü and Rössler systems.
ENERGY LEAKAGE PROBABILITY EFFECT ON IGNITION CONDITION IN AN INERTIAL CONFINEMENT FUSION PLASMA
Authors: MAHDAVI M. , KOOHROKHI T.
Published: August 2011

For a weak to moderately coupled plasma, the charged particle stopping power dE/dx was recently calculated from first principles in Ref. 1 using the method of dimensional continuation.2 While the calculational techniques were imported from quantum field theory, the calculation itself lies squarely within the standard framework of convergent kinetic equations. By using these calculations, ignition condition regime in (D/Tx/3Hey) fusion fuel pellet is investigated, including energy deposition fraction of charged particles and neutrons in fuel pellet, bremsstrahlung and inverse bremsstrahlung radiation, inverse Compton scattering and thermal conduction losses.
THEORETICAL INVESTIGATION OF GATE VOLTAGE CONTROLLABLE TRANSPORT PROPERTIES IN SINGLE C60 MOLECULAR DEVICE
Authors: FAN ZHI-QIANG , CHEN KE-QIU
Published: August 2011

The effect of gate voltage on electronic transport properties in single C60 molecular device is investigated by a first-principles method based on density functional theory and nonequilibrium Green's function formalism. The calculated results show that the variation of the equilibrium conductance with gate voltage strongly corresponds with the variation of transmission eigenvalues and depends on the shift of molecular orbitals. The positive gate voltage can enhance the device's electronic transport, while negative gate voltage weaken it, which shows a gate-controlled molecular current switch. More importantly, the negative differential resistance behavior is observed and can be modulated by the gate potential. A detailed explanations for these phenomena are given.
THERMAL PROPERTIES OF INTERACTING ELECTRON GAS IN A HARMONIC POTENTIAL
Authors: GÜLVEREN BERNA
Published: August 2011

In this work, the thermal properties, such as total energy, pressure and free energy of an interacting electron gas system have been investigated. The Thomas–Fermi equation was numerically solved for a harmonically confined, two-dimensional gas system at finite temperatures. Numerical results were compared with analytical ones provided by the literature for a non-interacting case at finite temperatures and for a interacting case at T = 0 K . Excellent agreement was achieved for both cases. The results indicate that interactions affect the density of particles and hence, the density-dependent thermal functions significantly.
MAGNETIC AVALANCHES IN MOLECULAR NANOMAGNETS
Authors: McHUGH S. , SARACHIK M. P.
Published: August 2011

The magnetization of the prototypical molecular magnet Mn 12-acetate exhibits a series of sharp steps at low temperatures due to quantum tunneling at specific resonant values of magnetic field applied along the easy c-axis. An abrupt reversal of the magnetic moment of such a crystal can also occur as an avalanche, where the spin reversal proceeds along a "deflagration" front that travels through the sample at subsonic speed. In this article, we review experimental results that have been obtained for the ignition temperature and the speed of propagation of magnetic avalanches in molecular nanomagnets. Fits of the data with the theory of magnetic deflagration yield overall qualitative agreement. However, numerical discrepancies indicate that our understanding of these avalanches is incomplete.