bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Variation in the contents of crude protein fractions of different forage legumes during the spring growth
Authors: Kirchhof S. , Eisner I. , Gierus M. , Südekum K.‐H.
Published: September 2010

The pattern of crude protein (CP) fractions with advancing maturity during a primary spring growth of forage legumes was investigated on freeze‐dried samples of fresh forage using the method of chemical CP fractionation according to the ‘Cornell Net Carbohydrate and Protein System’ (CNCPS). The CP of white clover (WC), red clover (RC), lucerne (LU), birdsfoot trefoil (BT) and Kura clover (KC) was separated into five fractions (A, B1, B2, B3 and C), which are assumed to have different rates and extents of ruminal degradation. Ruminally undegraded dietary CP (RUP) was predicted on the basis of the CP fractions using regression equations that were developed for fresh forage assuming ruminal passage rates of 2, 5 and 8% h−1 (RUP2,5,8). Maturity stage did not affect the soluble CP fractions of the legumes but increased fraction B3 in RC and WC and fraction C of all forages except WC. The estimated RUP values of the legumes increased with advancing maturity. The mean values for RUP5 across all harvest dates for WC, RC, LU, BT and KU were 154, 271, 226, 287 and 212 g kg−1 CP respectively. BT and RC had the highest amount of RUP across all harvest dates and passage rates (159–372 and 134–324 g kg−1 CP respectively). This observation may be related to the advanced stage of vegetation of both species at the harvest dates compared with the other legumes and to condensed tannins in BT and to products of polyphenol oxidase activity in RC.
Morphological Characteristics of the Canine and Feline Stomach Mucosa
Authors: Zahariev P. , Sapundzhiev E. , Pupaki D. , Rashev P. , Palov A. , Todorov T.
Published: September 2010

With 2 figures and 1 table

The stomach mucosa structure in animals belonging to Order Carnivora indicates some specific characteristics in comparison with the other mammals. Between the bases of the mucosal glands and the lamina muscularis mucosae there is an additional plate which most of the morphologists have defined as lamina subglandularis. In currently used Nomina histologica this layer is indicated as stratum compactum in carnivorous stomach mucosa. The investigation aims were to study and compare canine and feline stomach tunica mucosa characteristics as well as to measure the thickness of stratum compactum and to specify some of the certain collagen types and fibronectin compounds. Conventional and differential histological and ultrastructural methods and immuno‐histochemical approaches for investigation of the canine and feline stomach samples were used. The specific organization of the carnivorous stomach wall arrangement was established. In the structure of the canine stomach mucosa, no evidence of stratum compactum was observed. The presence of stratum compactum in feline stomach mucosa was ascertained and measured. Using an immunohistochemical method very high expression of collagen type IV and fibronectin, moderate positive reaction of collagen type III, and a comparatively weakest expression of collagen types I and V in the structure of stratum compactum from cat stomach mucosa was shown. The obtained results clarify the characteristics of the stomach mucosa morphology and could be used as a basis for distinguishing the stomach wall structure of the animal species belonging to Canidae and Felidae families although they are both carnivores.
Pet ownership and adolescent health: Cross‐sectional population study
Authors: Mathers Megan , Canterford Louise , Olds Tim , Waters Elizabeth , Wake Melissa
Published: September 2010

Objective: To determine whether adolescent health and well‐being are associated with having a pet in the household (any pet, or specifically dogs, cats or horses/ponies) or average daily time spent caring for/playing with pet(s).

Methods: Design, setting and participants– Cross‐sectional data from the third wave of the Health of Young Victorians Study (HOYVS), a school‐based population study in Victoria, Australia.Predictors– Adolescent‐reported pet ownership and average daily time spent caring for/playing with pet(s).Outcomes –Self‐reported quality of life (KIDSCREEN); average 4‐day daily physical activity level from a computerised diary; parent‐proxy and self‐reported physical and psychosocial health status (PedsQL); measured BMI status (not overweight, overweight, obese) and blood pressure.Statistical Analysis– Regression methods, adjusted for socio‐demographic factors, and non‐parametric methods.

Results: Household pet data were available for 928 adolescents (466 boys; mean age of 15.9 (SD 1.2) years). Most adolescents (88.7%) reported having a pet in their household. Of these, 75.1% reported no activity involving pets over the surveyed days. It appeared that neither owning a pet nor time spent caring for/playing with a pet was related, positively or negatively, to adolescent health or well‐being.

Conclusions: Despite high rates of pet ownership, adolescents had little interaction with pets. It appears that owning a pet and time spent caring for/playing with a pet was not clearly associated with adolescents' health or well‐being.
Systematic review of systemic antibiotic treatment for children with chronic and sub‐acute pyogenic osteomyelitis
Authors: Howard‐Jones Annaleise R , Isaacs David
Published: September 2010

Background:  There is a lack of consensus on the most appropriate antibiotics to treat children with chronic or sub‐acute pyogenic bacterial osteomyelitis and on the optimal duration of antibiotic therapy.

Aim:  To review the published evidence on the duration of antibiotic therapy and outcomes in children with chronic and sub‐acute pyogenic bacterial osteomyelitis.

Methods:  Systematic review of the literature.

Results:  We found no randomised controlled trials comparing different antibiotic regimens or comparing duration of antibiotic treatment for chronic or sub‐acute osteomyelitis in children. We found 14 observational case series published between 1973 and 2008. Most children with chronic osteomyelitis received 4–6 weeks of parenteral antibiotics followed by oral antibiotics to a total duration of 3–6 months. Small observational studies suggest that a shorter duration of parenteral and oral antibiotics may be equally effective.

Conclusion:  There is no high level evidence on the optimal duration of parenteral and oral antibiotics for children with chronic or sub‐acute osteomyelitis. A large randomised controlled trial is needed comparing short course parenteral and oral antibiotics with longer antibiotic duration.
Driveway runover, the influence of the built environment: A case control study
Authors: Shepherd Michael , Austin Patricia , Chambers Julie
Published: September 2010

Aim:  Driveway runover injuries are a frequent cause of paediatric mortality and morbidity throughout the world. Driveway runovers occur as a result of an interaction between human factors (child and driver), vehicle factors (visibility) and environmental factors (driveway design and surroundings). This study investigates the environmental factors involved in these injuries.

Methods:  Case control study, Auckland, New Zealand. Cases were the properties where paediatric driveway injuries (age < 7 years) requiring hospital admission had occurred. Control properties were selected from the addresses of children presenting to the emergency department with a non‐driveway injury. Blinded assessment of properties was completed using satellite images, site visits and searches of council records.

Results:  Analysis was completed on 88 case properties and 181 controls. The risk of injury was increased by a driveway length greater than 12m (OR = 1.8, 95%CI = 1.1–3.0), exiting the driveway onto a local road (OR = 5.5, 95%CI = 2.7–11.2) and the driveway exiting onto a cul‐de‐sac (OR = 2.3, 95%CI = 1.4–3.9). The risk of driveway injury was increased when more parking areas were on the property (accessed from the driveway) (OR = 3.0, 95%CI = 1.6–5.4) and when the driveway runs along the property boundary (OR = 2.9, 95%CI = 1.6–5.2). A separate pedestrian pathway on the property was associated with a lower risk of injury (OR = 0.4, 95%CI = 0.2–0.9).

Conclusions:  A number of built environment features contribute to driveway runover injuries. This information should be used by those within the design and building community to reduce the risk of further driveway runover injury.
Gamma‐protocadherins are enriched and transported in specialized vesicles associated with the secretory pathway in neurons
Authors: Fernández‐Monreal Mónica , Oung Twethida , Hanson Hugo H. , O’Leary Robert , Janssen William G. , Dolios Georgia , Wang Rong , Phillips Greg R.
Published: September 2010

Gamma protocadherins (Pcdh‐γs) resemble classical cadherins and have the potential to engage in cell–cell interactions with homophilic properties. Emerging evidence suggests non‐conventional roles for some protocadherins in neural development. We sought to determine whether Pcdh‐γ trafficking in neurons is consistent with an intracellular role for these molecules. Here we show that, in contrast to the largely surface localization of classical cadherins, endogenous Pcdh‐γs are primarily intracellular in rat neurons in vivo and are equally distributed within organelles of subsynaptic dendritic and axonal compartments. A strikingly higher proportion of Pcdh‐γ‐containing organelles in synaptic compartments was observed at postnatal day 16. To determine the origin of Pcdh‐γ‐trafficking organelles, we isolated organelles with Pcdh‐γ antibody‐coupled magnetic beads from brain organelle suspensions. Vesicles with high levels of COPII and endoplasmic reticulum–Golgi intermediate compartment (ERGIC) components were isolated with the Pcdh‐γ antibody but not with the classical cadherin antibody. In cultured hippocampal neurons, Pcdh‐γ immunolabeling partially overlapped with calnexin‐ and COPII‐positive puncta in dendrites. Mobile Pcdh‐γ‐GFP profiles dynamically codistributed with a DsRed construct coupled to ER retention signals by live imaging. Pcdh‐γ expression correlated with accumulations of tubulovesicular and ER‐like organelles in dendrites. Our results are consistent with the possibility that Pcdh‐γs could have a unique function within the secretory pathway in addition to their documented surface roles.
Reconstruction of late‐onset transplant ureteral stricture disease
Authors: Helfand Brian T. , Newman Jessica P. , Mongiu Anne K. , Modi Parth , Meeks Joshua J. , Gonzalez Christopher M.
Published: September 2010

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

What’s known on the subject? and What does the study add?

Most of the published literature reporting on ureteral obstruction after renal transplantation details the outcomes of management when performed within a few months post‐transplantation. The present study attempts to document the management and outcomes of patients who develop delayed ureteral strictures after renal transplant.

OBJECTIVE

• To describe our experience with surgical management of transplant ureteral strictures over a 6‐year period.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

• The present study identified patients who underwent open reconstruction for transplant ureteral strictures between March 2002 and May 2008 after kidney or kidney–pancreas transplantation.

• Baseline clinical characteristics were documented, including age at transplantation and reconstruction, serum creatinine levels, immunosuppressive drug regimen, and comorbidities.

• Postoperative complications were noted, including urinary tract infections, stricture recurrence and graft failure.

• Successful reconstructions were defined as stable allograft function with unobstructed outflow not requiring repeat dilation, ureterotomy or stent placement.

RESULTS

• Median age at the time of reconstruction was 51 years and the mean time from transplantation was 62 months.

• Seven of the 13 patients had failed previous balloon dilation.

• The patients were followed for a median of 41 months and a successful repair was achieved in 10 of 13 patients.

• Ureteral strictures recurred in two patients who received ureteroneocystostomies, which were subsequently managed with chronic stent exchanges.

• Another recurrence involved a 1.5‐cm anastomotic stricture 6 months postoperatively, which was balloon‐dilated and has remained recurrence‐free for 16 months.

CONCLUSIONS

• Patients who present >6 months after renal transplantation with ureteral strictures that are recalcitrant to endoscopic management can safely undergo open surgical ureteral reconstruction without subsequent renal or graft failure.

• Further investigation involving a larger patient cohort is required to confirm these initial results.
Comparison of lymph node yield in robot‐assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy with that in open radical retropubic prostatectomy
Authors: Lallas Costas D. , Pe Mark L. , Thumar Adeep B. , Chandrasekar Thenappan , Lee Franklin C. , McCue Peter , Gomella Leonard G. , Trabulsi Edouard J.
Published: September 2010

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

OBJECTIVE

• To investigate both the feasibility and the adequacy of pelvic lymph node dissection (PLND) during robot‐assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy (RALP) by comparing lymph node yields obtained during RALP with those obtained during traditional open retropubic radical prostatectomy (RRP).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

• We retrospectively reviewed 1047 patients who underwent radical prostatectomy between 2001 and 2009.

• In all, 626 patients underwent RALP while 421 patients had traditional open RRP. All patients undergoing bilateral PLND were included in our analysis.

• Lymph node yields and lymph node involvement for each surgical approach were calculated and examined.

• PLND‐related complications were analysed.

RESULTS

• Of the 1047 patients, 816 patients underwent bilateral PLND of whom 473 underwent RALP, while 343 underwent RRP. The mean lymph node yields for the RALP cohort (7.1, interquartile range 4–10) was significantly higher (P < 0.001) than for the RRP cohort (6.0, interquartile range 3–8).

• The percentage of patients with nodal involvement was 1.1 for RALP and 2.3 for RRP (P= 0.167).

• Mean age, preoperative PSA values, and pre‐ and postoperative Gleason scores were similar between the two cohorts.

• PLND‐related complications were similar between both cohorts.

CONCLUSIONS

• In patients undergoing RALP, PLND is feasible and provides lymph node yields comparable with those of the standard open approach.

• PLND should be strongly considered in all radical prostatectomy patients when clinically indicated, regardless of surgical technique.
Comparison of oncological outcomes of transperitoneal and retroperitoneal laparoscopic radical nephrectomy for the management of clear‐cell renal cell carcinoma: a multi‐institutional study
Authors: Ha U‐Syn , Hwang Tae‐Kon , Kim Yong June , Oh Tae Hee , Jeon Youn Soo , Lee Wan , Lim Jae Sung , Lee Tchun Yong , Choi Yunhee , Park Sue K. , Byun Seok‐Soo
Published: September 2010

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

What’s known on the subject? and What does the study add?

Laparoscopic radical nephrectomy (LRN) can be performed by a retroperitoneal approach with similar efficacy compared to the transperitoneal approach. However, the oncological acceptance of LRN has been based on studies which have been carried out primarily by transperitoneal approach, and oncological results of the retroperitoneal approach alone are lacking.

Our study confirmed that retroperitoneal laparoscopic radical nephrectomy is oncologically‐equivalent to transperitoneal approach in homogeneous group with the final pathological diagnosis of clear cell RCC.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the oncological efficacy of retroperitoneal laparoscopic radical nephrectomy (RLRN) compared with transperitoneal laparoscopic radical nephrectomy (TLRN) for the management of clear‐cell renal cell carcinoma (RCC).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

With emphasis on survival and disease recurrence, a retrospective analysis was made of 580 patients who underwent TLRN (472 patients) or RLRN (108 patients) at 23 institutions between January 1997 and December 2007.

Inclusion criteria were clear‐cell RCC, stage pT1 to pT2 without any nodal involvement, and metastasis.

Overall survival and recurrence‐free survival curves were estimated using the Kaplan–Meier method.

To assess the association between the surgical approach and survival outcomes, Cox proportional hazard models were constructed.

RESULTS

The median follow‐up was 30 months in the TLRN group and 35.6 months in the RLRN group. Both groups were comparable regarding age, gender, body mass index (BMI), Fuhrman’s grade, size of tumours and stage.

Kaplan–Meier curves and the log‐rank test showed no significant difference between the TLRN and RLRN groups in 5‐year overall (92.6% vs 94.5%; P = 0.669) and recurrence‐free survival (92.0% vs 96.2%; P = 0.244).

In a Cox regression model with age, gender, Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status, BMI, nuclear grade and T‐stage adjusted variables, no significant difference was found between the two surgical approaches.

CONCLUSION

The present study is the largest oncological analysis for laparoscopic radical nephrectomy (LRN) comparing transperitoneal and retroperitoneal approaches. The data from it provide the objective evidence to suggest similar oncological outcomes for both approaches to LRN.
A SEMIPARAMETRIC BAYESIAN APPROACH TO NETWORK MODELLING USING DIRICHLET PROCESS PRIOR DISTRIBUTIONS
Authors: Ghosh Pulak , Gill Paramjit , Muthukumarana Saman , Swartz Tim
Published: September 2010

This paper considers the use of Dirichlet process prior distributions in the statistical analysis of network data. Dirichlet process prior distributions have the advantages of avoiding the parametric specifications for distributions, which are rarely known, and of facilitating a clustering effect, which is often applicable to network nodes. The approach is highlighted for two network models and is conveniently implemented usingWinBUGSsoftware.
The Role of Texturing and Densification on Optical Transmittance of Hydroxyapatite Ceramics
Authors: Gandhi Abbasi A. , Gunning Robert D. , Ryan Kevin M. , Tofail Syed A. M.
Published: September 2010

A high level of optical transparency (over 65%) has been obtained in hydroxyapatite ceramics. This optical transparency arises due to a combination of the texture, measured as the extent of an in‐plane orientation of the crystallographic c‐axis, and the physical density. The highest value of transparency is observed in pellets sintered at 900°C, below which the transmittance declines due to a decline in the density and texture. Above 900°C, the transmittance declines again due to a loss in the c‐axis orientation.
Thermo‐Chemical Expansion in Strontium‐Doped Lanthanum Cobalt Iron Oxide
Authors: Bishop Sean R. , Duncan Keith L. , Wachsman Eric D.
Published: September 2010

La0.6Sr0.4Co0.2Fe0.8O3−δ (LSCF) displays mixed ionic electronic conductivity at high temperature that makes it suitable for solid oxide fuel cell cathodes, ceramic oxygen generators, and oxygen permeation membranes. However, upon changes in temperature and oxygen partial pressure LSCF exhibits changes in volume, termed chemical expansion, which can result in mechanical failure of the aforementioned devices. The chemical expansion change with temperature also complicates thermal expansion modeling. The present work measures and models chemical expansion as a function of oxygen partial pressure (10−4−1 atm O2) and temperature (700°–900°C) using our previously modeled defect equilibria to determine the chemical expansion coefficient per oxygen nonstoichiometry (δ) of 0.031. The thermal expansion is also measured and modeled using the Morse potential and Debye frequency distribution. The results are combined to yield a model describing the thermo‐chemical expansion of LSCF.
High‐Surface‐Area Alumina–Silica Nanocatalysts Prepared by a Hybrid Sol–Gel Route Using a Boehmite Precursor
Authors: Nampi Padmaja Parameswaran , Moothetty Padmanabhan , Wunderlich Wilfried , Berry Frank John , Mortimer Michael , Creamer Neil John , Warrier Krishna Gopakumar
Published: September 2010

High‐surface‐area alumina–silica mixed oxide (Al2O3:SiO2) nanocatalysts have been prepared by a hybrid sol–gel method using boehmite (synthesized from aluminum nitrate) as the source of alumina and tetraethyl orthosilicate as the source of silica. The gels, after calcination at 400°C, result in mixed oxides with specific surface areas of 287 m2/g (Al2O3:SiO2=3:1) and 262 m2/g (Al2O3:SiO2=3:4). Further heating to 600°C produces materials with specific surface areas of 237 and 205 m2/g, respectively. The larger specific surface areas characteristic of the 3Al2O3:SiO2 samples are attributed, via transmission electron micrograph investigations, to the presence of ∼10 nm size, needle‐like particles having an aspect ratio of 1:50. Further addition of silica leads to the formation of larger needles of 20–75 nm size. Calcination at 600°C induced an approximately 5% decrease in the total pore volume for the 3Al2O3:SiO2 sample. In contrast, the material with Al2O3:SiO2=3:4 showed an approximately 12% increase in pore volume when heated at 600°C. The pore‐size distribution was in the range 1–3.5 nm with rmax at ∼2 and ∼2.5 nm at 600° and 800°C, respectively. Adsorption isotherms and pore‐size distribution analyses are discussed in some detail for the aluminosilicates at different calcination temperatures. This discussion is supported by structural information determined from FTIR and 27Al MAS NMR studies. Relatively high acidity values (0.234 mmol/g for Al2O3: SiO2=3:4) are observed for silica‐rich compositions consistent with their application as efficient acid catalysts.
Photoluminescence of Eu2+‐Doped Strontium Cyanamide: A Novel Host Lattice for Eu2+
Authors: Yuan Shuanglong , Yang Yunxia , Chevire François , Tessier Franck , Zhang Xianghua , Chen Guorong
Published: September 2010

Eu2+‐doped SrCN2 with different Eu2+ contents were prepared by a high‐temperature solid‐state reaction under NH3 atmosphere. SrCN2 has an energy gap of 4.56 eV by the reflection spectra. The photoluminescence spectra of SrCN2:Eu2+ at different temperatures were measured. The results show that Eu2+‐doped SrCN2 shows a broad band emission with a peak at 610 nm when it is excited by 350–520 nm at 77 K. With the temperature increasing, the emission intensity decreases remarkably, indicating that Eu2+‐doped SrCN2 has a low quenching temperature.
Sintering Temperature Dependence of Thermoelectric Performance and Crystal Phase of Calcium Cobalt Oxides
Authors: Tahashi Masahiro , Tanimoto Tetsuya , Goto Hideo , Takahashi Makoto , Ido Toshiyuki
Published: September 2010

Polycrystalline samples were synthesized by a conventional solid‐state reaction. As starting materials, Co3O4 and Ca(OH)2 were mixed in a molar ratio of Ca:Co=3:4 and sintered at 1073–1373 K. The compound phases and thermoelectric properties of the resulting products were dependent on the sintering temperature. X‐ray diffraction analysis showed that the Ca3Co4O9 compound was stable up to 1193 K and that Ca3Co2O6 was formed at 1273 K. At 1373 K, the sample decomposed into cobalt oxide and calcium oxide. A maximum power factor of about 100 μW/(K2·m) at 873 K was obtained for the Ca3Co4O9 phase sintered at 1193 K.
High‐Energy Ball Milling of ZrB2 in the Presence of Graphite
Authors: Galán Carlos A. , Ortiz Angel L. , Guiberteau Fernando , Shaw Leon L.
Published: September 2010

The effect of graphite addition on the high‐energy ball‐milling behavior of zirconium diboride (ZrB2) powder is investigated. It is shown that, regardless of presence or absence of graphite during ball milling, comminution occurs by repeated brittle fracture followed by cold‐welding, thereby resulting in the formation of agglomerates comprising primary particles of 10 nm in average diameter. However, addition of 2 wt% graphite leads to the formation of nanometer agglomerates (∼50 nm) rather than the submicrometer counterparts (∼120 nm) formed in the absence of graphite. The simultaneous attainment of reduced agglomerate size and homogeneous graphite dispersion at the nanometer scale can have important implications for the ultra‐high‐temperature ceramics community because of the expected twofold enhancement in the sintering kinetics of the compacts made from these nanoscale ZrB2 powders and the simplification of the processing routine.
(Ti0.5Nb0.5)5AlC4: A New‐Layered Compound Belonging to MAX Phases
Authors: Zheng Liya , Wang Jiemin , Lu Xinpo , Li Fangzhi , Wang Jingyang , Zhou Yanchun
Published: September 2010

A new‐layered compound, (Ti0.5Nb0.5)5AlC4, which belongs to MAX phases was discovered. The new‐layered carbide was synthesized by reactive hot pressing of Ti, Nb, Al, and C powders. The crystal structure was determined by the combination of X‐ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy analyses, which consists of a 5(Ti, Nb)–C bond chain linked by an Al layer. The lattice parameters are a=3.100 Å, c=28.89 Å, with Ti(Nb)1 at (0, 0, 0), Ti(Nb)2 at (1/3, 2/3, 0.0877), Ti(Nb)3 at (2/3, 1/3, 0.1723), Al at (0, 0, 0.25), C1 at (2/3, 1/3, 0.0463), and C2 at (0, 0, 0.1566).
Matrix heterogeneity affects population size of the harvest mice: Bayesian estimation of matrix resistance and model validation
Authors: Kuroe Misako , Yamaguchi Noriyuki , Kadoya Taku , Miyashita Tadashi
Published: September 2010

It has been increasingly recognized that landscape matrices are an important factor determining patch connectivity and hence the population size of organisms living in highly fragmented landscapes. However, most previous studies estimated the effect of matrix heterogeneity using prior information regarding dispersal or habitat preferences of a focal organism. Here we estimated matrix resistance of harvest mice in agricultural landscapes using a novel pattern‐oriented modeling with Bayesian estimation and no prior information, and then conducted model validation using data sets independent from those used for model construction. First, we investigated the distribution patterns of harvest mice for approximately 400 habitat patches, and estimated matrix resistance for different matrix types using statistical models incorporating patch size, patch environment, and patch connectivity. We used Bayesian estimation with a Markov chain Monte Carlo algorithm, and searched for appropriate matrix resistance that best explained the distribution pattern. Patch connectivity as well as patch quality was an important determinant of local population size for the harvest mice. Moreover, matrix resistance was far from uniform, with rice and crop fields exhibiting low resistance and forests, creeks, roads and residential areas showing much higher resistance. The deviance explained by this model (heterogeneous matrix model) was much larger than that obtained by the model with no consideration of matrix heterogeneity (homogeneous matrix model). Second, we obtained distribution data from five additional landscapes that were more fragmented than that used for model construction, and used them for model validation. The heterogeneous matrix model well predicted the population size for four out of five landscapes. In contrast, the homogeneous model considerably overestimated population sizes in all cases. Our approach is widely applicable to species living in fragmented landscapes, especially those for which prior information regarding movement or dispersal is difficult to obtain.
Pleiotropic effects of the 11p13 locus on developmental verbal dyspraxia and EEG centrotemporal sharp waves
Authors: Pal D. K. , Li W. , Clarke T. , Lieberman P. , Strug L. J.
Published: September 2010

We recently showed genomewide linkage of centrotemporal sharp waves (CTS) in classic Rolandic epilepsy (RE) families to chromosome 11p13, and fine‐mapped this locus to variants in the ELP4 gene. Speech sound disorder (SSD) is a common comorbidity in RE subjects, of unknown etiology, which co‐aggregates in family members in a manner that could hypothetically be explained by shared underlying genetic risk with CTS. Furthermore, the neural mechanism of SSD is unknown, although individuals with rare, Mendelian forms of RE are described with severe verbal and oromotor apraxia. We therefore first performed genomewide linkage analysis for SSD, operationally defined as clinical history consistent with ICD‐10 speech articulation disorder, in 38 families singly ascertained through a proband with RE. We tested the hypothesis of shared genetic risk with CTS at the 11p13 locus. In the second part of the study we used computerized acoustic analysis of recorded speech to test the hypothesis of dyspraxia as a mechanism for SSD in a smaller subset of RE probands and relatives. In two‐point and multipoint LOD score analysis, we found that evidence for linkage to the 11p13 locus increased substantially when the phenotype was broadened from CTS to CTS/SSD. In multipoint analysis, the LOD score rose by 3.2 to HLOD 7.54 at D11S914 for CTS/SSD, the same marker at which multipoint linkage maximized for CTS alone. Non‐parametric, affected‐only methods in a sub‐set of the data provide further confirmatory evidence for pleiotropy. In acoustic analysis there were voice‐onset time abnormalities in 10/18 RE probands, 8/16 siblings and 5/15 parents, providing evidence of breakdown in the spatial/temporal properties of speech articulation consistent with a dyspraxic mechanism. The results from genetic and physiological studies suggest a pleiotropic role for the 11p13 locus in the development of both SSD and CTS, and also indicate a dyspraxic mechanism for the SSD linked to 11p13. Taken together, these data strongly support a neurodevelopmental origin for classic RE.
Motor development curve from 0 to 12 months in infants born preterm
Authors: Kayenne Martins Roberto Formiga Cibelle , Linhares Maria Beatriz Martins
Published: September 2010

Aim: To trace a reference curve for motor development from birth up to 12 months of corrected chronological age in infants born preterm and low birth weight.

Methods: This is a cross‐sectional study with a sample of 308 preterm infants (53% boys) weighing <2500 g at birth. The Alberta Infant Motor Scale (AIMS) was used for motor development assessment.

Results: Comparing the motor performance of preterm infants with infants from a standardized sample on the AIMS, it was found that, except for the age group of the newborn, preterm infants showed lower motor development scores in comparison with the AIMS normative sample in all age groups between 1 and 12 months. The curve of motor development showed a continuous increase in the number of motor skills of preterm infants during their first 12 months of age. However, the average of motor acquisitions of preterm infants showed a nonlinear pattern with a standard indicator of stabilization between 8 and 10 months of age.

Conclusion: Preterm infants, 1–12 months of age, showed motor development AIMS scores lower than the standards established in the normative sample. The findings may contribute as norm‐reference for assessing the motor development of preterm infants in follow‐up programmes in developing countries.
Mortality in out‐of‐hospital premature births
Authors: Jones P , Alberti C , Julé L , Chabernaud J‐L , Lodé N , Sieurin A , Dauger S
Published: September 2010

Aim:  To determine whether the mortality for out‐of‐hospital (OOH) premature births was higher than for in‐hospital premature births and identify additional risk factors.

Patients and Methods:  A historical cohort study of a consecutive series of live‐born, OOH, births of 24–35 weeks gestation cared for by two Transport Teams working in and around Paris, France 1994–2005. Matching with in‐hospital births was according to gestational age, antenatal steroid use, the mode of delivery and nearest year of birth.

Results:  Eighty‐five OOH premature births were identified, of whom 83 met inclusion criteria, and 132 matching in‐hospital premature births were selected. There was 18% mortality in the OOH group compared with 8% for the in‐hospital group [p = 0.04, OR 2.9, (CI 95% 1.0–8.4)]. Variables significantly associated (p < 0.05) with the OOH birth were HIV infection, lower maternal age and endo‐tracheal intubation, lack of medical follow‐up during pregnancy, low temperature and low birth weight.

Conclusions:  Mortality was more than twice as high in out‐of‐hospital deliveries than for in‐hospital matched controls. Hypothermia was an important associated risk factor. Measures such as oxygen administration to maintain an appropriate saturation for gestational age, the provision of polyethylene plastic wraps and skin‐to‐skin contact are recommended.
16S ribosomal DNA analysis and characterization of lactic acid bacteria associated with traditional Tibetan Qula cheese made from yak milk
Authors: TAN Zhongfang , PANG Huili , DUAN Yuheng , QIN Guangyong , CAI Yimin
Published: September 2010

Twenty strains of lactic acid bacteria were isolated from six traditional Tibetan Qula cheese made from yak which were collected from northwest China, including Tibet, Qinghai and Gansu province. These isolates were subjected to phenotypic and genetic analyses. All isolates were Gram‐positive and catalase‐negative cocci that produced gas from glucose and formed D(–) isomer of lactate. Most isolates were able to grow in de Man, Rogosa and Sharpe (MRS) broth at pH values 3.0–9.0 and in 6.5% NaCl (w/v). According to analytical profile index 50 carbohydrates (API 50 CH) fermentation patterns of amygdalin and arabinose, these isolates were divided into three groups (A to C). On the basis of the phylogenetic trees of 16S ribosomal DNA (rDNA) sequence, the strains in all groups were placed in the cluster making up the genus Leuconostoc, which showed that all strains should belong to Leuconostoc species. Strains in Group A and Group B exhibited similarity of 16S rDNA sequence of over 99% to Leuconostoc mesenteroides, indicating that they each comprised a single species. Strains in group C were assigned to the Leuconostoc pseudomesenteroides and their 16S rDNA sequence showed a similarity of over 99%. This study demonstrated that Leuconostoc was the dominant member among lactic acid bacteria in Qula cheese.
Tensile Creep of Melt‐Infiltrated SiC/SiC Composites with Unbalanced Sylramic‐iBN Fiber Architectures
Authors: Morscher Gregory N.
Published: September 2010

The in‐plane creep–rupture behavior at 1315°C was measured in air for melt‐infiltrated SiC/SiC composite panels reinforced by Sylramic‐iBN SiC fibers with unbalanced three dimensional (3D)‐woven and 2D‐braided fiber architectures that displayed a high stress for the onset of through‐thickness matrix cracking at room temperature. It was found that a significant improvement in the creep–rupture behavior at 1315°C was observed, if the primary fiber direction was aligned with the direction of stress. Optical microscopy was used to examine postcreep microstructures in order to determine the extent of matrix cracking, and long‐time rupture stress and strain conditions were identified for the different architectures.
Synthesis of Ti3SiC2Phase from Polycarbosilane Precursor
Authors: Yongming Luo , Zhang Zongbo , Wang Xiujun , Mei Xuening , Zheng Zhimin , Xu Caihong
Published: September 2010

Ti3SiC2phase was synthesized by reactive pyrolysis of three different polycarbosilane, [Si(H)2CH2]m·[(H)Si(Vi)CH2]n·[(H)Si(Me)CH2]p(AHPCS), [Si(CH3)2CH2]x·[Si(H)(CH3)CH2]y(PCS), and [Me(H)SiC≡C]n, filled with metal Ti powder. The pyrolysis was carried out in argon atmosphere between 1200°C and 1400°C. The metal–precursor reactions and phase evolution during the pyrolysis were studied by means of X‐ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy. The results indicated that PCS/Ti system was more beneficial for the synthesis of Ti3SiC2. In addition, the high‐purity Ti3SiC2could be synthesized through the pyrolysis of green compact of the PCS/Ti system with CaF2at 1400°C.
Heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia case study
Authors: Friedrich Debra A.
Published: September 2010

Abstract  Purpose: To examine a case of heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (HeFH) in a primary care setting and to review the epidemiology, pathophysiology, etiology, and treatment guidelines to reduce the mortality related to this disease process.

Data Sources: Findings from the history, physical exam, and laboratory results of a young French Canadian male presenting to a primary care office. Evidence‐based literature search included Ovid MEDLINE, PubMed, National Lipid Association, and e‐medicine website.

Conclusions: Familial hypercholesterolemia is a serious and common genetic disorder that results in premature atherosclerosis. Early screening, detection, and treatment are vital in order to reduce the associated morbidity and mortality.

Implications for practice: Clinicians need to understand hypercholesterolemia and the atherogenic process. Physical exam and laboratory findings are key to the early identification and intervention for children and adults at risk for early cardiovascular disease.
Central American mothers report family history of depression and alcohol abuse as a predictor of teenage health risk behaviors
Authors: Maradiegue Ann
Published: September 2010

Abstract  Purpose: The purpose of this study was to explore the relationships of family history of depression and alcohol abuse as a predictor of health risk behaviors among Central American teenagers.

Data sources: Demographic data were collected from a convenience sample of 101 Central American mothers with a teenage daughter ages 12–17 years who were living in Northern Virginia. The research questions assessed the family history of depression, alcohol abuse, and maternal depression. Scores were calculated to predict risk of teenage health risk behaviors.

Conclusions: The Hispanic mothers in this study reported that their teenagers had significant health risk behaviors, including school dropout and expulsion, alcohol and substance use, pregnancy, and gang membership. Family history of depression and alcohol abuse in a first degree relative predicted teenage risk behavior 71% of the time.

Clinical Implications: There is no consensus on a standard screening approach for depression in teenagers. Developing a standardized approach to gathering information from teenagers that includes genetic family traits may have significant effects on interventions for teenage health risk behavior and ways to provide the best services for vulnerable teenagers. The results of this study have implications for nurse practitioners caring for teenagers.
Obesity stigma: A newly recognized barrier to comprehensive and effective type 2 diabetes management
Authors: Teixeira M. Elizabeth , Budd Geraldine M.
Published: September 2010

Abstract  Purpose: The purpose of this article is to increase awareness regarding the social problem of obesity stigma and its effects on persons with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). In addition, practical strategies to dispel stigma and improve diabetes care that nurse practitioners (NPs) can integrate into practice will be introduced.

Data sources: Thorough review of the literature was conducted including MEDLINE, PsycINFO and CINAHL, spanning the years 1994–2008.

Conclusions: Obesity and diabetes are both epidemics that demand immediate attention; however, obesity stigma can act as a barrier to ongoing management of both conditions. Obese patients with T2DM may feel responsible not only for their weight but also their diabetes. Therefore, NPs can employ specific counseling strategies that may be beneficial with T2DM obese patients to improve continuity of care while decreasing weight‐related stigmatization.

Implications for practice: Negative attitudes toward obesity by healthcare professionals can act as a barrier to diabetes management. Primary care providers including NPs must begin through self‐reflection to recognize their own attitudes regarding weight‐stigma and how these attitudes may affect their patients. By implementing effective strategies to reduce weight bias, an environment conducive to diabetes and lifestyle modification management may prevent patients from forgoing care.
First return to work following injury: does it reflect a composite or a homogeneous outcome?
Authors: Clay Fiona J , Newstead Stuart V , D'Elia Angelo , McClure Roderick J
Published: September 2010

Objective

To test whether return to work as a binary (yes/no) outcome that includes all persons who returned to work regardless of mode of return reflects a composite or a homogeneous outcome in a cohort of workers who have sustained acute orthopaedic trauma resulting in hospitalisation.

Methods

Prospective cohort study. One hundred and sixty-eight participants were recruited and followed for 6 months. The study achieved 89% follow-up. Baseline data were obtained at study recruitment and participants were further surveyed by phone at three timepoints during the study. Polytomous logistic regression was used to simultaneously examine the association between potential predictors and different modes of first return to work (RTW). A test of the equality of the ORs associated with the independent predictor variables was also undertaken.

Results

Of the 152 participants with full follow-up, 46 (30%) returned first to full duties, 58 (38%) returned first to modified work and 48 (32%) did not return to work during the study period. Significant determinants of the two modes of return to work were different. A test of the equality of ORs indicated that the relative ORs for the difference in the slope coefficients for five of the 10 independent factors in the two polytomous logistic regression sub-models corresponding to each mode of return to work were statistically significant. This raises the likelihood that first RTW reflects a composite rather than a homogeneous outcome.

Conclusion

The study provides evidence that RTW may reflect a composite outcome when it includes different modes of first RTW. The identified predictive factors appear to exert different mechanisms of action depending on the mode of RTW. The findings suggest that the different modes of RTW may need to be considered independently. The results of the study have potentially important implications for research and insurance practice.
Parkinson's Disease: Is It a Toxic Syndrome?
Authors: Gad ELhak Seham A. , Ghanem Abdel Aziz A. , AbdelGhaffar Hassan , El Dakroury Sahar , Salama Mohamed M.
Published: September 2010

Parkinson's disease (PD) is one of the neurodegenerative diseases which we can by certainty identify its pathology, however, this confidence disappeares when talking about the cause. A long history of trials, suggestions, and theories tried linking PD to a specific causation. In this paper, a new suggestion is trying to find its way, could it be toxicology? Can we—in the future—look to PD as an occupational disease, in fact, many clues point to the possible toxic responsibility—either total or partial—in causing this disease. Searching for possible toxic causes for PD would help in designing perfect toxic models in animals.
PRIC295, a Nuclear Receptor Coactivator, Identified from PPAR-Interacting Cofactor Complex
Authors: Pyper Sean R. , Viswakarma Navin , Jia Yuzhi , Zhu Yi-Jun , Fondell Joseph D. , Reddy Janardan K.
Published: September 2010

The peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor- (PPAR) plays a key role in lipid metabolism and energy combustion. Chronic activation of PPAR in rodents leads to the development of hepatocellular carcinomas. The ability of PPAR to induce expression of its target genes depends on Mediator, an evolutionarily conserved complex of cofactors and, in particular, the subunit 1 (Med1) of this complex. Here, we report the identification and characterization of PPAR-interacting cofactor (PRIC)-295 (PRIC295), a novel coactivator protein, and show that it interacts with the Med1 and Med24 subunits of the Mediator complex. PRIC295 contains 10 LXXLL signature motifs that facilitate nuclear receptor binding and interacts with PPAR and five other members of the nuclear receptor superfamily in a ligand-dependent manner. PRIC295 enhances the transactivation function of PPAR, PPAR, and ER. These data demonstrate that PRIC295 interacts with nuclear receptors such as PPAR and functions as a transcription coactivator underin vitroconditions and may play an important role in mediating the effectsin vivoas a member of the PRIC complex with Med1 and Med24.
High Prevalence of Alpha- and Beta-Thalassemia in the Kadazandusuns in East Malaysia: Challenges in Providing Effective Health Care for an Indigenous Group
Authors: Tan Jin-Ai Mary Anne , Lee Ping-Chin , Wee Yong-Chui , Tan Kim-Lian , Mahali Noor Fadzlin , George Elizabeth , Chua Kek-Heng
Published: September 2010

Thalassemia can lead to severe transfusion-dependent anemia, and it is the most common genetic disorder in Malaysia. This paper aims to determine the prevalence of thalassemia in the Kadazandusuns, the largest indigenous group in Sabah, East Malaysia.α- andβ-thalassemia were confirmed in 33.6% and 12.8%, of the individuals studied respectively. The high prevalence ofα- andβ-thalassemia in the Kadazandusuns indicates that thalassemia screening, genetic counseling, and prenatal diagnosis should be included as part of their healthcare system. This preliminary paper serves as a baseline for further investigations into the health and genetic defects of the major indigenous population in Sabah, East Malaysia.
Coordination Reactions and Noncovalent Interactions of Polyamines with Nucleotides in Binary Systems and with Nucleotides and Copper(II) Ion in Ternary Systems
Authors: Lomozik Lechoslaw , Gasowska Anna , Krzysko Grzegorz , Bregier-Jarzebowska Romualda
Published: September 2010

Interactions of nucleotides (AMP, CMP) and 1,2‐diaminopropane (tn‐1) or 2‐methyl‐1,2‐diaminopropane (tn‐2) in metal‐free systems as well as in the systems including copper(II) ions were studied. The composition and overall stability constants of the complexes formed were determined by the potentiometric method, whereas the interaction centres and coordination sites were identified by spectroscopic methods. It was found that phosphate groups of nucleotides and the protonated amine groups of polyamines are the centres of interaction. The differences in the interactions with the polyamines which act as models of biogenic amines are impacted by the presence of lateral chains (methylene groups) in tn‐1 and tn‐2. In the ternary systems with Cu(II) ions, the heteroligand complexes are mainly of the ML⋯L’ type, in which the protonated polyamine is engaged in noncovalent interactions with the anchoring Cu(II)‐nucleotide complex. The complexes formed in the Cu/NMP)/tn‐1 system are more stable than those formed in the system with tn‐2. The mode of coordination in the complex is realised mainly through the phosphate groups of the nucleotide with involvement of the endocyclic nitrogen atoms in a manner which depends upon the steric conditions and in particular on the number of the methylene groups in the polyamine molecule.