bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Skipping Meals and Less Walking Among African Americans Diagnosed With Preterm Labor
Authors: Hennessy Mary Dawn , Volpe Stella L. , Sammel Mary D. , Gennaro Susan
Published: March 2010

Purpose: The aim was to compare meal frequency, macronutrient intake, and physical activity between African Americans with preterm labor and those without preterm labor.

Design: A descriptive comparative study was used with 80 pregnant African Americans.

Methods: Three 24‐hour diet recalls, the Block 2005 food frequency questionnaire, International Physical Activity Questionnaire, and Perceived Stress Scale were collected at 24 to 34 weeks of gestation.

Findings: The odds of skipping meals for women in the preterm labor group was 3.57 times the odds of skipped meals for women in the term labor group (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.28–10.16, p=.006). The association was increased to 6.86 (95% CI 2.13–22.12, p<.001) after adjustment for age, prepregnancy body mass index, education, and income. Walking was significantly less in terms of total amount of walking in the preterm labor group (p=.03).

Conclusions: Results have implications for prenatal counseling regarding the importance of frequent meal and snack consumption throughout the day. Further research is necessary to establish the mechanisms by which energy consumption contributes to risk for preterm labor.

Clinical Relevance: Pregnancy is a time when health professionals monitor women regularly and presents a unique opportunity for practitioners to communicate the importance of frequent meals and snacks throughout pregnancy, as well as the health benefits of walking as a form of physical activity.
High‐Temperature Thermoelectric Behaviors of Fine‐Grained Gd‐Doped CaMnO3 Ceramics
Authors: Lan Jinle , Lin Yuan‐Hua , Fang Hui , Mei Ao , Nan Ce‐Wen , Liu Yong , Xu Shaoliang , Peters Matthew
Published: March 2010

Gd‐doped CaMnO3 were synthesized by two methods: a coprecipitation route and a conventional solid‐state reaction. The ceramic samples obtained by the coprecipitation method possess nanometer‐scale grains but the grain sizes by the solid‐state reaction route are several micrometers. Our results show that the electrical conductivity is slightly decreased with a decreasing grain size, which indicates that fine‐grained ceramics can maintain good electrical property. However, thermal conductivity values of the fine‐grained sample are relatively low due to the enhancement of grain boundary scattering. The highest dimensionless figure of merit ZT=0.24 has been obtained at 973 K in the air for fine‐grained Ca0.96Gd0.04MnO3, suggesting that they can be a promising candidate of n‐type material for high‐temperature thermoelectric application.
Ultra‐Low Firing High‐k Scheelite Structures Based on [(Li0.5Bi0.5)xBi1−x][MoxV1−x]O4 Microwave Dielectric Ceramics
Authors: Zhou Di , Randall Clive A. , Wang Hong , Pang Li‐Xia , Yao Xi
Published: March 2010

In this work, dense ceramic samples across the solid solution of the [(Li0.5Bi0.5)xBi1−x][MoxV1−x]O4 system are prepared using the solid‐state reaction process. The monoclinic phase region could be obtained for 0≤x<0.098 and the scheelite tetragonal solid solution region could be obtained for 0.098<x≤1. When x=0.098, the boundary composition [(Li0.5Bi0.5)0.098Bi0.902][Mo0.098V0.902]O4 could be readily sintered at 650°C and also have excellent microwave properties with a high relative permittivity of 81, and a Q×f value of 8000 GHz and a low temperature coefficient of +9.7 ppm/°C. This ceramic is chemically compatible with both Al and Cu electrode materials at its sintering temperature. It can be an excellent candidate for ultra‐low‐temperature co‐fired ceramic technology and is the highest permittivity microwave material found to date with sintering considerations as low as 650°C.
Effects of Preheating of Powder Before Spark Plasma Sintering of Transparent MgAl2O4 Spinel
Authors: Kim Byung‐Nam , Morita Koji , Lim Jae‐Hyuk , Hiraga Keijiro , Yoshida Hidehiro
Published: March 2010

The effects of preheating of powder on microstructure and optical transmission for MgAl2O4 spinel ceramics fabricated by spark plasma‐sintering processing are investigated. The preheating of powder in air enhances light transmission, whereas it has no remarkable effects on the microstructure. A decrease in light absorption was also observed for the spinel sintered after the preheating, and carbon contamination during sintering was not observed.
Biofilm formation by Streptococcus pneumoniae isolates from paediatric patients
Authors: TAPIAINEN TERHI , KUJALA TIIA , KAIJALAINEN TARJA , IKÄHEIMO IRMA , SAUKKORIIPI ANNIKA , RENKO MARJO , SALO JARMO , LEINONEN MAIJA , UHARI MATTI
Published: March 2010

Tapiainen T, Kujala T, Kaijalainen T, Ikäheimo I, Saukkoriipi A, Renko M, Salo J, Leinonen M, Uhari M. Biofilm formation by Streptococcus pneumoniae isolates from paediatric patients. APMIS 2010; 118: 255–60.

The clinical significance of pneumococcal biofilm formation is largely unknown. To clarify this, we tested whether the ability of pneumococcal clinical isolates to form biofilm in vitro accounts for the diverse clinical outcomes. Clinical pneumococcal isolates were cultured from the nasopharynx (n = 106), middle ear effusion (n = 43) and blood (n = 55) of 204 children altogether. Biofilm formation, assessed by measuring optical density (OD) values in microtitre plates after crystal violet staining, did not differ between the bacteria from different sources (p = 0.18), the mean OD values of the isolates being 0.119 [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.100–0.138] in the nasopharynx samples, 0.094 (95% CI 0.069–0.119) in the acute otitis media cases, 0.109 (95% CI 0.077–0.141) in the secretory otitis media cases, 0.122 (95% CI 0.084–0.160) in those with sepsis and 0.175 (95% CI 0.071–0.280) in those with other invasive infections. Serotypes 33 and 14 were the most efficient in forming biofilms, whereas serotypes 3 and 38 were poor biofilm producers. We conclude that the clinical presentation of pneumococcal disease did not differ in relation to biofilm formation in vitro, even though there was marked variation between the clinical isolates and serotypes.
Immunopotentiation on murine spleen lymphocytes induced by polysaccharide fraction of Panax ginseng via upregulating calcineurin activity
Authors: ZHANG SONG‐DONG , YIN YAN‐XIA , WEI QUN
Published: March 2010

Zhang S‐D, Yin Y‐X, Wei Q. Immunopotentiation on murine spleen lymphocytes induced by polysaccharide fraction of Panax ginseng via upregulating calcineurin activity. APMIS 2010; 118: 288–96.

Calcineurin (CN), a unique Ca2+/calmodulin (CaM)‐dependent serine/threonine protein phosphatase, plays a pivotal role in the activation and proliferation of T lymphocytes. Based on the effective molecular screening model established in our laboratory, we found that a part of polysaccharides from the stem and leaves of Panax ginseng, termed PGP‐SL, could activate CN activity. Subsequently, we investigated whether PGP‐SL also has immunological competence on murine spleen lymphocytes. In the present study, we demonstrated that PGP‐SL could significantly promote in vitro spleen lymphocyte proliferation in the absence of either concanavalin A or LPS in a concentration‐dependent manner at concentrations ranging from 100 to 500 μg/ml (p < 0.001). In addition, the proliferation of cyclosporin A (CsA)‐treated spleen lymphocytes was also significantly promoted in the same pattern (p < 0.001); the production of IL‐2 was elevated and the effect appeared as early as 24 h after PGP‐SL treatment. The results of RT‐PCR also indicated that the IL‐2 mRNA level was markedly enhanced, particularly at PGP‐SL concentrations of 300 and 500 μg/ml, and Fura‐2/AM fluorescence probe analysis showed that PGP‐SL could dramatically increase the intracellular free calcium concentration of spleen lymphocytes, i.e. [Ca2+]i was significantly increased by approximately 181 and 107% at 300 and 500 μg/ml of PGP‐SL, respectively. However, this effect could be totally inhibited by verapamil treatment. Taking our results together, we suggest that PGP‐SL exhibits immunopotentiation effects on murine spleen lymphocytes by the Ca2+–CN–NFAT–IL‐2 signaling pathway.
Myoepithelial carcinoma of the orbit: a clinicopathological and histopathological study
Authors: TRAN THUY LINH , BROHOLM HELLE , DAUGAARD SØREN , FUGLEHOLM KÅRE , POULSGAARD LARS , PRAUSE JAN ULRIK , KENNEDY SUSAN M. , HEEGAARD STEFFEN
Published: March 2010

Tran TL, Broholm H, Daugaard S, Fugleholm K, Poulsgaard L, Prause JU, Kennedy SM, Heegaard S. Myoepithelial carcinoma of the orbit: a clinicopathological and histopathological study. APMIS 2010; 118: 324–30.

Two cases of invasive myoepithelial carcinoma arising from the paranasal sinuses and invading the orbit are presented. Patient 1, a 53‐year‐old man, had a 3‐month history of proptosis, pain and epiphora of the right eye. The second patient, a 24‐year‐old man, had for a week been complaining of protrusion of his left eye and of orbital pain. Computed tomography scan and magnetic resonance imaging revealed tumour masses in the frontal, ethmoidal and maxillary sinuses with invasion of the orbit and the frontal lobe. Biopsies from both cases showed spindle and epithelioid tumour cells. Mitotic figures were frequent. Immunohistochemical staining showed positive reaction for bcl‐2, calponin, cytokeratins, CD99, S100, muscle‐specific antigen, smooth muscle antigen and vimentin. The Ki‐67 index was between 30–50% and 5–25%, respectively. Ultrastructurally, intermediate filaments, perinuclear tonofilaments and desmosomes were present. Based on these findings, a diagnosis of myoepithelial carcinoma of mixed cell type in both cases was evident. Both patients died shortly after the diagnosis was made even though both underwent radical surgery. Myoepithelial carcinoma of the paranasal sinuses is very rare and only six cases have been reported previously. We present the first two cases of myoepithelial carcinoma in the paranasal sinuses with invasion of the orbit. This is also the first report of myoepithelial carcinoma arising in the ethmoidal sinus.
Macrolide resistance in group A beta haemolytic Streptococcus isolated from outpatient children in Latvia
Authors: ZAVADSKA DACE , BĒRZIŅA DACE , DRUKAĻSKA LĪGA , PUGAČOVA ŅINA , MIKLAŠEVIČS EDVĪNS , GARDOVSKA DACE
Published: March 2010

Zavadska D, Bērzin¸a D, Drukal¸ska L, Pugačova N¸, Miklaševičs E, Gardovska D. Macrolide resistance in group A beta haemolytic Streptococcus isolated from outpatient children in Latvia. APMIS 2010; 118: 366–70.

Group A streptococci (GAS) are responsible for up to 30% of cases of pharyngitis in children, and such children do not benefit from treatment with antibiotics. During the last decade, increased resistance to macrolides has emerged as a critical issue in the treatment of GAS pharyngitis. The objective of this study was to determine the antimicrobial resistance of group A beta haemolytic Streptococcus isolated from outpatient children. From 2002 to 2006, 96 GAS strains were obtained from the pharynx of outpatients having symptoms of acute pharyngitis. Antibiotic resistance was determined by disc susceptibility tests according to CLSI standards. The presence of ermA, ermB and mefA was established by the amplification of streptococcal DNA with specific primers. Antimicrobial susceptibility tests revealed that all the strains tested were sensitive to vancomycin, linezolid, penicillin and ceftriaxone. Simultaneously, high levels of resistance to macrolides were evident; 78% of the isolates were resistant to clindamycin and erythromycin. No significant change in the yearly or seasonal incidence of resistance was observed. We describe high antimicrobial resistance of GAS to macrolides in outpatient children (78%), which can be explained by the frequent use of macrolides in the treatment of such individuals. Therefore, macrolides should not be the first drug of choice.
Resilient liner vs. clip attachment effect on peri‐implant tissues of bar‐implant‐retained mandibular overdenture: a 1‐year clinical and radiographical study
Authors: Elsyad Moustafa Abdou , Shoukouki Ali Hamed EL
Published: March 2010

Purpose: The aim of this study was to compare between the effects of resilient liner and clip attachments of bar‐implant‐retained mandibular overdenture on peri‐implant tissues.

Materials and methods: In a randomized‐controlled clinical trial, 30 edentulous male patients (mean age 62.5 years) were equally assigned to two groups. In each patient, two implants were inserted in the canine area of the mandible using a two‐stage surgical protocol. After 3 months, the implants were connected with resilient bars. Mandibular overdentures were retained to the bars with either clips (group I) or silicone‐resilient liners (group II). Peri‐implant tissues were evaluated clinically (with regard to plaque scores, gingival scores and probing depths) and radiographically (with regard to peri‐implant vertical and horizontal alveolar bone changes). Evaluations were performed at the time of overdenture insertion (T0), 6 months (T6) and 12 months (T12) after overdenture insertion.

Results: After 12 months of using bar‐implant‐retained mandibular overdenture, the resilient liner attachment had significantly decreased peri‐implant plaque score, gingival score, probing depth, vertical and horizontal bone loss when compared with the clip attachment.

Conclusion: Within the limitations of this study, and in terms of peri‐implant tissue health of bar‐implant‐retained mandibular overdenture, we recommend resilient liner rather than clip attachment.

To cite this article:
 Elsyad MA, EL Shoukouki AH. Resilient liner vs. clip attachment effect on peri‐implant tissues of bar‐implant‐retained mandibular overdenture: a 1‐year clinical and radiographical study. Clin. Oral Impl. Res. 21, 2010; 473–480 doi: 10.1111/j.1600‐0501.2009.01879.x
Relationship between cortical bone thickness or computerized tomography‐derived bone density values and implant stability
Authors: Merheb Joe , Van Assche Nele , Coucke Wim , Jacobs Reinhilde , Naert Ignace , Quirynen Marc
Published: March 2010

Aims: To explore the relationship between primary implant stability and different parameters related to implant or bone properties.

Materials and methods: Twenty‐four patients received a total of 136 Straumann SLActive implants. Resonance frequency analysis (RFA) was performed at implant placement, and RFA and Periotest (PTV) were scored at loading. Bone density [Hounsfield (HU) scores] and coronal cortical thickness at osteotomy sites were measured from pre‐operative computerized tomography scans.

Results: Implant length, diameter or the presence of bony dehiscence did not have a significant effect on the mean RFA scores at implant insertion. Significant linear relations were found between RFA or PTV scores and HU values (P<0.05), or cortical bone thickness (P<0.05), both at insertion as well as at loading.

Conclusion: RFA and PTV scores can be predicted based on implant and especially bone related factors.

To cite this article:
 Merheb J, Van Assche N, Coucke W, Jacobs R, Naert I, Quirynen M. Relationship between cortical bone thickness or computerized tomography‐derived bone density values and implant stability. Clin. Oral Impl. Res. 21, 2010; 612–617. doi: 10.1111/j.1600‐0501.2009.01880.x
The effect of deproteinized bovine bone on osteoblast growth factors and proinflammatory cytokine production
Authors: Amerio Paolo , Vianale Giovina , Reale Marcella , Muraro Raffaella , Tulli Antonello , Piattelli Adriano
Published: March 2010

Objective: To test the ability of Bio‐Oss® in inducing growth factors and proinflammatory cytokines that may have a role in inflammation after grafting, bone resorption, remodeling and in the homeostasis of osteoblasts.

Material and methods: Normal human osteoblasts were seeded in Petri dishes containing granules of Bio‐Oss®, cells were harvested after confluency and RNA was extracted. Reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction was performed using specific primers for osteonectin, bone sialoprotein (BSP), bone morphogenetic protein (BMP)‐2 and BMP‐7, platelet‐derived growth factor (PDGF), interleukin 6 (IL‐6), tumor necrosis factor α (TNF‐α) and integrin β1. Glycerol‐3‐phosphate dehydrogenase was used as the housekeeping gene and normal human osteoblasts grown on Petri dishes without Bio‐Oss® granules were used as negative controls.

Results: Osteoblast grown on Bio‐Oss® showed a normal RNA expression of osteonectin, integrin β1 and PDGF. However, compared with control osteoblasts it showed a reduced expression of BSP, BMP‐2 and BMP‐7, IL‐6 and TNF‐α.

Conclusions: Our findings further support the evidence that Bio‐Oss® is an excellent biomaterial that does not enhance the production of proinflammatory cytokines.

To cite this article:
 Amerio P, Vianale G, Reale M, Muraro R, Tulli A, Piattelli A. The effect of deproteinized bovine bone on osteoblast growth factors and proinflammatory cytokine production. Clin. Oral Impl. Res. 21, 2010; 650–655. doi: 10.1111/j.1600‐0501.2009.01881.x
Combined chelation therapy in thalassemia major with deferiprone and desferrioxamine: a retrospective study
Authors: Ricchi Paolo , Ammirabile Massimiliano , Spasiano Anna , Costantini Silvia , Cinque Patrizia , Di Matola Tiziana , Pagano Leonilde , Prossomariti Luciano
Published: March 2010

Objectives: The benefits of combined chelation therapy with daily deferiprone (DFP) and subcutaneous desferrioxamine (DFO) have been widely reported in literature. We retrospectively evaluated the efficacy of different schedules of combined chelation therapy and the incidence of adverse events. Methods: We evaluated 36 patients affected by thalassemia major treated with combined chelation therapy. Patients were subdivided into four treatment arms according to severity of iron overload and previous onset of adverse events to DFP therapy: Group 1 (13 pts) DFP 75 mg/kg per d plus DFO (25–35 mg/kg per d for 5 d); Group 2 (6 pts) DFP 50 mg/kg per d plus DFO (25–35 mg/kg for 5 d), Group 3 (10 pts) DFP 75 mg/kg per d plus DFO (25–35 mg/kg for 3 d), and Group 4 (7 pts) DFP 50 mg/kg per d plus DFO (25–35 mg/kg for 3 d). Change in serum ferritin level was evaluated in all patients. Results: Overall, ferritin decreased from 2592 ± 1701 to 899 ± 833 ng/mL (P < 0.001). All treatments were able to reduce ferritin levels, but in patients of group 1 and group 2 the highest mean decrease in serum ferritin level and the greatest improvement in liver iron concentration (LIC) and in T2* values were observed. Conclusions: This study showed that the administration of DFO for 5 d a wk in combination with daily administration of DFP at 75 mg/Kg seemed to be the most efficacy and rapid method for reducing iron overload at liver and heart level. Furthermore, the use of different schedules of combined DFO and DFP administration was not associated with different incidence of adverse effects between the groups.
Discovery of a patient with strongly suspected bullous pemphigoid in a ward by oral health care providers
Authors: Kanda N , Soga Y , Meguro M , Tanabe A , Yagi Y , Himuro Y , Fujiwara Y , Takashiba S , Kobayashi N
Published: March 2010

To cite this article:
 
Int J Dent Hygiene
9, 2011; 159–162 DOI: 10.1111/j.1601‐5037.2010.00448.x Kanda N, Soga Y, Meguro M, Tanabe A, Yagi Y, Himuro Y, Fujiwara Y, Takashiba S, Kobayashi N. Discovery of a patient with strongly suspected bullous pemphigoid in a ward by oral health care providers.

Abstract:  Objectives:  Oral health care providers may discover systemic diseases incidentally from signs observed in the oral cavity. Here, we report a case in which oral health care providers in a hospital discovered a patient with strongly suspected bullous pemphigoid (BP), which is a relatively rare but important disease, in a ward.

Methods:  The patient was a 78‐year‐old Japanese woman admitted to our hospital because of severe Alzheimer’s disease. We discovered recurrent ulcers in the oral mucosa and skin when performing oral care in her ward. Biopsy could not be performed safely because of involuntary biting. We performed blood tests for anti‐BP180‐NC16a antibody, which is autoantibody specific for BP.

Results:  The patient had a very high anti‐BP180‐NC16a antibody titre. We consulted a dermatologist regarding her clinical course and the clinical features of the oral mucosa and skin along with blood test results. BP was very strongly suspected.

Discussion:  In cases in which oral health care providers suspect their patients may have BP, appropriate examination and provision of information to the doctor are important. Oral health care providers should have knowledge about systemic diseases, the signs of which appear in oral cavity to avoid missing important systemic diseases.
Is the combination of topsoil replacement and inoculation with plant material an effective tool for the restoration of threatened sandy grassland?
Authors: Eichberg Carsten , Storm Christian , Stroh Michael , Schwabe Angelika
Published: March 2010

Question: Is it possible to restore dry calcareous inland sand ecosystems with their characteristic plant community structure within a 4‐yr period by means of combined abiotic–biotic techniques (topsoil replacement, inoculation with raked/mown plant material from target areas)?

Location: Upper Rhine valley, Germany.

Methods: Two 4‐year experiments were carried out on former arable land, each in the proximity of a reference area bearing a similar complex of threatened sandy grasslands (experiment 1: fine‐scale; experiment 2: landscape scale). In both experiments we used nutrient‐poor deep‐sand substrate (abiotic approach), raked/mown inoculation material from target areas and grazing as management tool (biotic and management approach). The vegetation of the restoration and donor areas was sampled once a year and analysed by non‐metric multidimensional scaling (NMDS) ordination and target‐species ratios. Mixed linear models were calculated to determine effects of grazing (experiment 1) and year (both experiments).

Results: NMDS revealed a continuous development of the restored sites towards the corresponding donor sites. Similarly, target‐species ratios of the restored sites tended towards the ratios of the donor sites. To date, grazing effects have mainly been structural: reduction of a carpet‐forming pleurocarpous moss species and of litter. In addition, cover of target species in relation to total plant cover was significantly enhanced by grazing in the last two study years.

Conclusions: The combination of nutrient‐poor substrate, inoculation with raked/mown plant material and grazing proved to be a very effective restoration method for dry base‐rich sand ecosystems. After 4 yr the restored plant communities serve as well‐developed parts of a habitat network.
“Not the Romantic, All Happy, Coochy Coo Experience”: A Qualitative Analysis of Interactions on an Irish Parenting Web Site
Authors: Brady Ellen , Guerin Suzanne
Published: March 2010

Support groups in online communities provide an anonymous place to exchange information and advice. Previous research has suggested that these groups offer a safe, nonjudgmental forum for new parents to share experiences and interact anonymously. This study investigated how participants in online parenting groups experience support via the Internet and what types of support they receive. All posts made over a 2‐week period on the parenting‐related discussion boards of an Irish parenting Web site were analyzed using content and thematic analyses. Exploratory, semistructured interviews were also conducted with 2 forum participants to discuss their experience of using the Web site. Themes uncovered from the data gathered included the attempts by posters to dispel the myths surrounding motherhood and the recognition of the superiority of the mother as caregiver. The results revealed that the parenting Web site was seen as a safe, supportive space, in which mothers could develop an enhanced frame of reference in which to better understand the role of parenting. The role of online support groups as a viable solution to the decreasing social networks created by modern society is discussed, along with the implications of the findings for future practice and research.
Parental Rule Socialization for Preventive Health and Adolescent Rule Compliance
Authors: Bylund Carma L. , Baxter Leslie A. , Imes Rebecca S. , Wolf Bianca
Published: March 2010

This study examined family rules about nutrition, exercise, and sun protection in 164 parent–young adult children dyads. Both parents and their young adult children independently reported on health rules that they perceived throughout their child's adolescent years and the extent to which the rules were articulated, violations sanctioned, and modeled. Neither child nor parent perceptions of rule‐related communication during adolescence predicted current young adult behaviors for any of the 3 health domains. Perceived rule compliance during adolescence was predicted from rule articulation across health domains, whereas patterns for sanctioning and parental modeling varied by health domain. Parents reported higher rule articulation than was perceived by their children across health domains and selectively reported higher scores on both sanctioning and modeling.
Intergenerational Relationship Quality, Gender, and Grandparent Involvement
Authors: Barnett Melissa A. , Scaramella Laura V. , Neppl Tricia K. , Ontai Lenna , Conger Rand D.
Published: March 2010

This prospective, intergenerational study (N = 181) considered how parent (G1, Generation 1) and child (G2, Generation 2) relationship quality during adolescence and adulthood is associated with G1's level of involvement with their 3‐ to 4‐year‐old grandchildren (G3, Generation 3). Path model analyses indicated different patterns of results for the involvement of grandmothers and grandfathers with the children of their G2 sons and daughters . Current parent‐reported G1‐G2 relationship quality was positively associated with G2 report of G1 involvement with G3, especially for G2 daughters . The relations among confounding variables, including geographic distance, socioeconomic status, and grandparent marital status and grandparent involvement with grandchildren, were considered. Results highlight the roles of intergenerational relationship quality and gender configuration of the G1‐G2 dyad in shaping grandparent involvement with grandchildren.
Custodial Grandmother‐Grandfather Dyads: Pathways Among Marital Distress, Grandparent Dysphoria, Parenting Practice, and Grandchild Adjustment
Authors: Smith Gregory C. , Hancock Gregory R.
Published: March 2010

An adaptation of the Family Stress Model was examined using structural equation modeling with data from 193 custodial grandmother‐grandfather dyads. The model's measurement and structural components were largely invariant by grandparent gender. For grandmothers and grandfathers alike, the effects of their psychological and marital distress on grandchildren's adjustment difficulties were mediated by dysfunctional parenting. The effects of family‐related contextual forces on grandchildren's adjustment were also indirect through direct effects on grandparents' psychological and marital distress.
Spousal Capital as a Resource for Couples Starting a Business
Authors: Matzek Amanda E. , Gudmunson Clinton G. , Danes Sharon M.
Published: March 2010

This longitudinal study finds that spousal capital is an important resource for entrepreneurs starting a business because it has implications for business sustainability and couple relationship quality. Structural equation modeling supported a process whereby gender had an impact on spousal involvement in the business, which was positively associated with dedication to the business, leading to shorter break‐even times, and higher couple relationship quality. Male entrepreneurs were more likely to have a spouse involved in the business compared to female entrepreneurs, which in part, may contribute to the gender gap in the success of new businesses. Study findings have implications for couples seeking to start a business as well as family educators working with such couples.
The Influence of Facilitator and Facilitation Characteristics on Participants' Ratings of Stepfamily Education
Authors: Higginbotham Brian J. , Myler Cory
Published: March 2010

We examine the relative importance of facilitator and facilitation characteristics on participant ratings of a stepfamily education program. Data from 48 facilitators and 598 participants suggest that quality facilitation is more meaningful to participants than whether facilitators have comparable demographic characteristics or life experiences. Hierarchical regressions identified time management effective use of personal experiences, and clear explanation of material as key facilitation skills. Popular assumptions about participant‐facilitator similarity and implications for programming are discussed.
Marriageable Women: A Focus on Participants in a Community Healthy Marriage Program
Authors: Manning Wendy D. , Trella Deanna , Lyons Heidi , Du Toit Nola Cora
Published: March 2010

Although disadvantaged women are the targets of marriage programs, little attention has been paid to women's marriage constraints and their views of marriage. Drawing on an exchange framework and using qualitative data collected from single women participating in a marriage initiative, we introduce the concept of marriageable women—the notion that certain limitations may make women poor marriage partners. Like their male counterparts, we find women also possess qualities that are not considered assets in the marriage market, such as economic constraints, mental and physical health issues, substance use, multiple partner fertility, and gender distrust. We also consider how women participating in a marriage program frame their marriage options, whereas a few opt out of the marriage market altogether.
A new bright green‐emitting fluorescent protein – engineered monomeric and dimeric forms
Authors: Ilagan Robielyn P. , Rhoades Elizabeth , Gruber David F. , Kao Hung‐Teh , Pieribone Vincent A. , Regan Lynne
Published: March 2010

Fluorescent proteins have become essential tools in molecular and biological applications. Here, we present a novel fluorescent protein isolated from warm water coral,Cyphastrea microphthalma. The protein, which we named vivid Verde fluorescent protein (VFP), matures readily at 37 °C and emits bright green light. Further characterizations revealed that VFP has a tendency to form dimers. By creating a homology model of VFP, based on the structure of the red fluorescent protein, DsRed, we were able to make mutations that alter the protein’s oligomerization state. We present two proteins, mVFP and mVFP1, that are both exclusively monomeric, and one protein, dVFP, which is dimeric. We characterized the spectroscopic properties of VFP and its variants in comparison with enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP), a widely used variant of GFP. All the VFP variants are at least twice as bright as EGFP. Finally, we demonstrated the effectiveness of the VFP variants in bothin vitroandin vivodetection applications.

Structured digital abstract

MINT‐7709188:VFP (uniprotkb:D1J6P8) and VFP (uniprotkb:D1J6P8) bind (MI:0407) byclassical fluorescence spectroscopy (MI:0017)

MINT‐7709201:VFP (uniprotkb:D1J6P8) and VFP (uniprotkb:D1J6P8) bind (MI:0407) byfluorescence correlation spectroscopy (MI:0052)

MINT‐7709216, MINT‐7709247, MINT‐7709237:VFP (uniprotkb:D1J6P8) and VFP (uniprotkb:D1J6P8) bind (MI:0407) by molecular sieving (MI:0071)
Nutritional Dimorphism in New Guinea Dioecious Figs
Authors: Weiblen George D. , Lomascolo Silvia B. , Oono Ryoko , Dumont Elizabeth R.
Published: March 2010

The life history of figs (Ficus, Moraceae) involves pollination by specialized insects and seed dispersal by vertebrate frugivores. This three‐way interaction raises the possibility of conflict between pollinators and seed dispersers over fig resources. The conflict might be mediated in dioecious figs by the segregation of inflorescences with specialized male and female sexual functions, termed gall figs and seed figs, on separate trees. In dioecious figs, pollinators are intimately associated with gall figs, whereas vertebrate frugivores prefer seed figs and disperse the seeds they contain. Optimal foraging theory predicts that frugivore preference for ripe seed figs is associated with superior nutritional quality when compared to gall figs. We tested this prediction comparing nutrient and mineral properties of ripe figs in 12 functionally dioecious and two monoecious species from New Guinea. Analyses of variance indicated that gall figs contain more fiber and minerals, whereas seed figs contain significantly more carbohydrates and fat. Fruit bats, the primary dispersers of dioecious figs in New Guinea, prefer carbohydrate‐rich diets, and from this perspective, seed figs offer a greater nutritional reward than gall figs. More nondigestible fiber in gall figs than seed figs would appear to discourage frugivory. Parallel differences between ripe gall figs and seed figs occur in each independent dioecious lineage whereas nutritional content in monoecious figs is more similar to seed figs. This suggests that sexual dimorphism in nutritional quality might be adaptive and associated with the maintenance of functional dioecy in figs.
Are We Losing the Best Parts of Our Protected Areas in Tropical Mountains?
Authors: Chai Shauna‐Lee , Tanner Edmund
Published: March 2010

Protected areas (PAs) on tropical mountains undergo greater forest destruction in their lower altitudes. We compared the extent of forested, nonforested, and fragmented areas between lowland (<1000 m asl) and montane zones of the Blue Mountains inside the Blue and John Crow Mountains National Park established in Jamaica in 1993. We found that in 2008, inside the montane zone, only 4 percent of forest was cleared, and forest fragmentation was minimal. In the lowland zone, however, the percentage of forest cleared was seven times as high, and the density of fragments was 11‐fold higher. We established twenty‐five 0.04 ha lowland plots; ordination of tree species composition in these plots reflected a rainfall gradient, showing that plots on the wetter northern side of the Blue Mountains were floristically different from those on the drier southern side. The conservation value of the remaining lowland forest is high because of its high endemism (18% of species in our plots) and beta diversity. In addition, IUCN Red List data show that about 71 percent of threatened tree species in the Blue Mountains grow in the lowland region, 92 percent of which are endemic. From these findings, we identify a ‘protected area hotspot zone’, which lies between the PA boundary and the core high‐altitude zone, and which should be instituted in IUCN categories I and II PAs.
Does an Argument‐Based Approach to Validity Make a Difference?
Authors: Chapelle Carol A. , Enright Mary K. , Jamieson Joan
Published: March 2010

Drawing on experience between 2000 and 2007 in developing a validity argument for the high‐stakes Test of English as a Foreign Language™ (TOEFL®), this paper evaluates the differences between the argument‐based approach to validity as presented by
Kane (2006)
and that described in the 1999 AERA/APA/NCME Standards for Educational and Psychological Testing. Based on an analysis of four points of comparison—framing the intended score interpretation, outlining the essential research, structuring research results into a validity argument, and challenging the validity argument—we conclude that an argument‐based approach to validity introduces some new and useful concepts and practices.
Standard‐Setting Methods as Measurement Processes
Authors: Nichols Paul , Twing Jon , Mueller Canda D. , O'Malley Kimberly
Published: March 2010

Some writers in the measurement literature have been skeptical of the meaningfulness of achievement standards and described the standard‐setting process as blatantly arbitrary. We argue that standard setting is more appropriately conceived of as a measurement process similar to student assessment. The construct being measured is the panelists' representation of student performance at the threshold of an achievement level. In the first section of this paper, we argue that standard setting is an example of stimulus‐centered measurement. In the second section, we elaborate on this idea by comparing some popular standard‐setting methods to the stimulus‐centered scaling methods known as psychophysical scaling. In the third section, we use the lens of standard setting as a measurement process to take a fresh look at the two criticisms of standard setting: the role of judgment and the variability of results. In the fourth section, we offer a vision of standard‐setting research and practice as grounded in the theory and practice of educational measurement.
RHEOLOGICAL AND PHYSICAL PROPERTIES OF DATE JUICE PALM BY‐PRODUCT (PHOENIX DACTYLIFERA L.) AND COMMERCIAL XANTHAN GUMS
Authors: SALAH RIADH BEN , BESBES SOUHAIL , CHAARI KACEM , RHOUMA ALI , ATTIA HAMMADI , DEROANNE CLAUDE , BLECKER CHRISTOPHE
Published: March 2010

Rheological and thermal properties of xanthan produced by Xanthomonas campestris from date by‐products (DBP‐xanthan) and commercial xanthan were determined. DBP‐xanthan gave solutions with lower apparent viscosity than commercial xanthan. However, DBP‐xanthan solutions were more stable to temperature changes and ionic strength than commercial xanthan. Gradual increase of storage modulus (G′) as function of frequency was observed for the two polysaccharides. On the other hand, loss modulus (G″) remained constant for DBP‐xanthan and an increase was observed for commercial xanthan. Granulometric profile indicates that DPB‐xanthan particle size was lower than commercial xanthan. Differential scanning calorimetry showed that the melting temperatures (Tm) and enthalpy (ΔHm) of DBP‐xanthan were higher than those of commercial xanthan. These properties of DBP‐xanthan are quite rare among xanthan described in the literature and give this new gum great potential for use in the field of bioindustries as thickening and stabilizing agents.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Xanthan gum from date by‐products (DBP‐xanthan) was recently produced in our laboratory. No work has been undertaken to study the rheological properties of this polysaccharide to date. Rheological and some physicals properties were compared to those of commercial xanthan. This could promote industrial use of DBPs as low‐cost natural source for xanthan gum production.
A COMPARATIVE STUDY ON PHYSICAL PROPERTIES AND CHEMICAL INTERACTIONS OF GELS FROM TILAPIA MEAT PASTES INDUCED BY HEAT AND PRESSURE
Authors: TAN FA‐JUI , LAI KUNG‐MING , HSU KUO‐CHIANG
Published: March 2010

The changes of physical properties and chemical interactions of gels from tilapia meat pastes applied to hydrostatic pressure (50–300 MPa; 4C; 30 min) or heat (30–70C; 30 min) treatments were investigated. The control gel (cooking at 90C for 20 min) was elastic and white. The meat paste treated by heat treatment began to form a gel texture at 50C, and the gel was elastic, rigid, white and mainly constituted by covalent bonds. Gels induced by pressure (above 200 MPa) were softer, more viscous than those by heat, meanwhile, they were mainly constituted by hydrogen bonds and hydrophobic interactions. Subsequent cooking process (90C; 20 min) would increase the hardness, elasticity and whiteness of the gels both induced by heat and pressure treatments. The appearance of the pressure‐induced gels showed glossiness and close to native color of meat pastes whereas that of the heat‐induced gels showed white but no luster.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

The textural, chemical and physical characteristics of protein gels induced by heat and pressure are quite different; therefore combinations of heat and pressure treatments may produce various products. Pressure‐induced gels are mainly constituted by noncovalent bonds and are soft, viscous and glossy in appearance, whereas heat‐induced gels are mainly constituted by covalent bonds and are elastic, rigid and white. Different effects of combinations of heat and pressure treatments on protein gelation are applicable to food industries to manufacture various surimi products.
Gene flow in malaria vector Anopheles stephensi (Diptera: Culicidae) across the Aravalli Hills in North‐west India
Authors: VIPIN  , DUBE Madhulika , GAKHAR Surendra Kumar
Published: March 2010

The population structure of An. stephensi in North‐west India was studied to assess the impact of the Aravalli Hills, as a barrier to gene flow using microsatellite markers. Large and significant genetic differentiation was found along the sides of, as well as across, the Aravalli Hills as the mean FST and RST on west vs. east of the Aravalli Hills were 0.213, 0.112 and 0.179, 0.056, respectively. Similarly, across the hills, mean values of FST and RST were 0.100 and 0.094, respectively. Genetic diversity on both sides did not vary significantly. The FST values were more sensitive than RST values, indicating that genetic drift might have caused genetic differentiation between populations. A positive correlation (r = 0.0149 and 0.157, respective to FST and RST) was found between genetic differentiations and geographic distances irrespective of the hills. Low level of gene flow was found along both sides (Nm = 0.92 and 0.14; west vs. east of Aravalli Hills, respectively) as compared to across the Aravalli Hills (Nm = 2.25). It was found that the Aravalli Hills are not working as an effective barrier to gene flow for An. Stephensi, maybe because of the low average height and discontinuous hills, however, the distance is playing a major role for differentiation between populations due to active mode of dispersal of An. stephensi mosquitoes which have a short flight range. All this information should help draw the strategies for genetic control of mosquitoes using transgenic mosquitoes.
A three‐dimensional model of the U1 small nuclear ribonucleoprotein particle
Authors: SOMARELLI Jason A. , MESA Annia , ROY Ambrish , ZHANG Yang , HERRERA Rene J.
Published: March 2010

Most of the pre‐mRNAs in the eukaryotic cell are comprised of protein‐coding exons and non‐protein‐coding introns. The introns are removed and the exons are ligated together, or spliced, by a large, macromolecular complex known as the spliceosome. This RNA‐protein assembly is made up of five uridine‐rich small nuclear RNAs (U1‐, U2‐, U4‐, U5‐ and U6‐snRNA) as well over 300 proteins, which form small nuclear ribonucleoprotein particles (snRNPs). Initial recognition of the 5′ exon/intron splice site is mediated by the U1 snRNP, which is composed of the U1 snRNA as well as at least ten proteins.

By combining structural informatics tools with the available biochemical and crystallographic data, we attempted to simulate a complete, three dimensional U1 snRNP from the silk moth, Bombyx mori. Comparison of our model with empirically derived crystal structures and electron micrographs pinpoints both the strengths and weaknesses in the in silico determination of macromolecular complexes. One of the most striking differences between our model and experimentally generated structures is in the positioning of the U1 snRNA stem‐loops. This highlights the continuing difficulties in generating reliable, complex RNA structures; however, three‐dimensional modeling of individual protein subunits by threading provided models of biological significance and the use of both automated and manual docking strategies generated a complex that closely reflects the assembly found in nature. Yet, without utilizing experimentally‐derived contacts to select the most likely docking scenario, ab initio docking would fall short of providing a reliable model. Our work shows that the combination of experimental data with structural informatics tools can result in generation of near‐native macromolecular complexes.
Impact of third and fourth harmonic laser irradiation at embryonic stage on biocommercial traits of Bombyx mori
Authors: HOSAGOUDAR Satyanarayanaguoda R. , HOOLI Ashok A. , MANJUNATHA H.B.
Published: March 2010

In order to study the impact of third and fourth harmonic laser on bio‐commercial traits of silkworm Bombyx mori, silkworm eggs of 2, 8, 16 and 24 h old embryos were exposed for varying durations to both third and fourth harmonic lasers. Computation of data is explicit that the third harmonic laser had a positive influence for shorter duration exposures on all traits, like hatching percentage (15% increase), larval weight (14% increase), cocooning percentage (12% increase), cocoon weight (7% increase), shell weight (9% increase), shell ratio (15% increase) and fecundity (11% increase) with significant increases in the batches exposed for shorter durations (up to 90 sec) with respect to their controls. Thereafter levels decreased as the duration of exposure increased. Notably, fourth harmonic laser irradiation reveals the negative effect on all the traits studied in the present study. Surprisingly the filament length was decreased in all irradiated samples for both the third and fourth harmonic laser, expect for 24 h old embryos irradiated for 30 s by the third harmonic laser which showed a 6% increase over the control.
Five species of Gracillariidae (Lepidoptera) new to Korea
Authors: KAWAHARA Akito Y. , SOHN Jae‐Cheon , DE PRINS Jurate , CHO Soowon
Published: March 2010

Five species of Gracillariidae are recorded as new to Korea: Calybites securinella (Ermolaev, 1986), Epicephala relictella Kuznetzov, 1979, Parornix alni Kumata, 1965, P. betulae Stainton, 1854, and Spulerina castaneae Kumata & Kuroko, 1988. Epicephala is reported for the first time in Korea. Photographs of adults and genitalia are provided with a brief description of each species and a list of host plants.
First record of the family Embolemidae (Hymenoptera: Chrysidoidea) from Korea
Authors: LEE Jong‐Wook , KIM Chang‐Jun
Published: March 2010

The family Embolemidae Westwood, 1833 is recorded for the first time in Korea, based on a species Embolemus ruddii Westwood. A diagnosis of this species complemented by digital images are provided.
Taxonomic study of the genus Casinaria Holmgren (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae: Campopleginae) from Korea
Authors: CHOI Jin‐Kyung , LEE Jong‐Wook
Published: March 2010

We report two species, Casinaria japonicaKusigemati, 1980 and Casinaria teshionis (Uchida 1928) new to Korea. A revised key to the species of Korean Casinaria Holmgren, redescriptions and photographs of diagnostic characters are provided.
Seasonal prevalence of mosquitoes collected from light traps in the Republic of Korea, 2007
Authors: KIM Heung Chul , CHONG Sung Tae , NUNN Peter V. , KLEIN Terry A.
Published: March 2010

Adult mosquito surveillance was conducted using New Jersey light traps from 1 May to 15 October during 2007 at 14 US Army and three Air Force installations and two US Army training sites located in six provinces in the Republic of Korea to determine threshold levels to initiate pesticide applications based on trap indices. A total of 24 013 adult mosquitoes (19 763 [82.3%] females and 4250 [17.1%] males) comprising 16 species (including five members of the Anopheles Hyrcanus Group) and belonging to seven genera were collected. Females of the most commonly collected species were members of the Anopheles Hyrcanus Group (52.1%), followed by, Culex tritaeniorhynchus Giles (20.6%), Culex pipiens Coquillett (13.8%), and Aedes vexans nipponii (Theobald) (11.6%). Trap indices varied widely for species over their range, due in part, to geographical distribution and degree of association with urban or rural communities.