bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical trial: intravenous pantoprazole vs. ranitidine for the prevention of peptic ulcer rebleeding: a multicentre, multinational, randomized trial
Authors: VAN RENSBURG C. , BARKUN A. N. , RACZ I. , FEDORAK R. , BORNMAN P. C. , BEGLINGER C. , BALANZÓ J. , DEVIÈRE J. , KUPCINSKAS L. , LUEHMANN R. , DOERFLER H. , SCHÄFER‐PREUSS S.
Published: November 2008

Background  Controlled pantoprazole data in peptic ulcer bleeding are few.

Aim  To compare intravenous (IV) pantoprazole with IV ranitidine for bleeding ulcers.

Methods  After endoscopic haemostasis, 1256 patients were randomized to pantoprazole 80 mg+8 mg/h or ranitidine 50 mg+13mg/h, both for 72 h. Patients underwent second‐look endoscopy on day 3 or earlier, if clinically indicated. The primary endpoint was an overall outcome ordinal score: no rebleeding, rebleeding without/with subsequent haemostasis, surgery and mortality. The latter three events were also assessed separately and together.

Results  There were no between‐group differences in overall outcome scores (pantoprazole vs. ranitidine: S0: 91.2 vs. 89.3%, S1: 1.5 vs. 2.5%, S2: 5.4 vs. 5.7%, S3: 1.7 vs. 2.1%, S4: 0.19 vs. 0.38%, P = 0.083), 72‐h clinically detected rebleeding (2.9% [95% CI 1.7, 4.6] vs. 3.2% [95% CI 2.0, 4.9]), surgery (1.9% [95% CI 1.0, 3.4] vs. 2.1% [95% CI 1.1, 3.5]) or day‐3 mortality (0.2% [95% CI 0, 0.09] vs. 0.3% [95% CI 0, 1.1]). Pantoprazole significantly decreased cumulative frequencies of events comprising the ordinal score in spurting lesions (13.9% [95% CI 6.6, 24.7] vs. 33.9% [95% CI 22.1, 47.4]; P = 0.01) and gastric ulcers (6.7% [95% CI 4, 10.4] vs. 14.3% [95% CI 10.3, 19.2], P = 0.006).

Conclusions  Outcomes amongst pantoprazole and ranitidine‐treated patients were similar; pantoprazole provided benefits in patients with arterial spurting and gastric ulcers.
CD40-activated B cells can be generated in high number and purity in cancer patients: analysis of immunogenicity and homing potential
Authors: Kondo E , Gryschok L , Klein-Gonzalez N , Rademacher S , Weihrauch M R , Liebig T , Shimabukuro-Vornhagen A , Kochanek M , Draube A , Von Bergwelt-Baildon M S
Published: November 2008

Cellular adjuvants such as dendritic cells (DC) are in the focus of tumour immunotherapy. In DC-vaccine trials, induction of tumour antigen-specific immunity is observed frequently and well-documented clinical responses have been reported. However, the overall response rate is less than 3%, therefore alternative strategies are being investigated. CD40-activated B cells (CD40-B) have been characterized previously as an interesting alternative because they present antigen efficiently and can be expanded by several logs from small amounts of peripheral blood. To determine the central technical challenges of cell-based vaccines we performed a single-patient analysis of 502 patients from DC-based tumour vaccine trials and identified at least three factors contributing to their limited efficiency: (1) lack of cell numbers; (2) lack of documented purity thus high contamination of bystander cells; and (3) lack of quality control and thus heterogeneous or unknown expression of important surface molecules such as major histocompatibility complex (MHC) and chemokine receptors. Based on these findings we re-evaluated the CD40-B approach in cancer patients. Here, we show that proliferation of B cells from cancer patients is equivalent to that observed in healthy donors. Purity is always > 90% after 2 weeks and remains stable for several weeks. They have comparable antigen-presenting capability determined phenotypically and by allogeneic mixed lymphocyte reaction. Expression of CCR7 and CD62L was detected in all samples and B cells migrated towards the relevant homing chemokines. Taken together, CD40-B cells from cancer patients can be expanded in virtually unlimited numbers at high purity and full function concerning antigen-presentation and migratory properties.
Identification, pathogenicity and distribution of Penicillium spp. isolated from garlic in two regions in Argentina
Authors: Valdez J. G. , Makuch M. A. , Ordovini A. F. , Frisvad J. C. , Overy D. P. , Masuelli R. W. , Piccolo R. J.
Published: November 2008

A total of 147 samples of garlic (Allium sativum) bulbs affected by blue mould were obtained from a variety of agroclimatic districts between December 1999 and February 2000. Penicillium species were identified using both morphological and chemotaxonomic characteristics. Penicillium allii was the predominant species isolated (81·8%) in this survey and the only species proven to be pathogenic on garlic. Other species were isolated much less frequently: P. chrysogenum (13·7%), P. brevicompactum (2·8%), P. phoeniceum (0·9%), P. aurantiogriseum (0·6%) and P. flavigenum (0·2%). Colonies of P. allii could be classified into four morphotypes and their distribution seemed to be influenced by seed trade and agricultural practices. Penicillium allii isolates were grouped into three aggressiveness phenotypes (low, medium and high) based on their ability to cause disease during field trials on susceptible (Fuego INTA) and less susceptible (Castaño INTA) garlic cultivars. The number of surviving plants at 191 days after planting and postharvest bulb weight contributed the most towards aggressiveness modelling.
Efficacy of transfusion of platelet concentrates obtained by manual pooling or by semiautomated pooling of buffy‐coats: a retrospective analysis of count increment, corrected count increment and transfusion interval
Authors: Cid J. , Ramiro L. , Escoda L. , Llorente A.
Published: November 2008

Background and Objective  The preparation of platelet concentrates from pooling buffy‐coats can be done manually or semiautomatically with the OrbiSac BC System. The objective of this study was to compare the clinical outcome of platelet transfusions prepared by these two methods in terms of 1‐h count increment (1‐h CI), 1‐h corrected count increment (1‐h CCI) and transfusion interval.

Materials and Methods  Platelet transfusions were identified retrospectively for inclusion in the control group (manual pooling) or the test group (automated pooling). Transfusion outcome variables were 1‐h CI, 1‐h CCI and transfusion interval. The impact of 16 patient‐ and platelet concentrate‐related variables on transfusion efficacy was investigated by multiple regression analysis.

Results  The database analysed consisted of 205 control transfusions given to 36 patients and 219 test transfusions given to 36 patients. Mean platelet content and mean 1‐h CI were statistically higher in the test group when compared to the control group (P < 0·05), but mean 1‐h CCI and transfusion interval were not. Multiple regression analysis resulted in models explaining 13% of the variance of 1‐h CI, 8% of the variance of 1‐h CCI and 17% of the variance of transfusion interval (P < 0·05).

Conclusion  There are no significant differences between the two preparation methods regarding the clinical outcome of platelet transfusions, as the difference in 1‐h CI is explained by differences in platelet content.
Genotypic variation of resistance to the spotted stalk borer Chilo sacchariphagus (Bojer) in sugarcane: evidence of two distinct resistance mechanisms
Authors: Nibouche S. , Tibère R.
Published: November 2008

We carried out an assessment of the resistance status to the spotted stalk borer Chilo sacchariphagus in a sample of 32 international sugarcane clones in Reunion. Our objectives were to characterize the genotypic variability of resistance and to characterize the role of leaf and stalk resistance in the global resistance. A significant genotypic variability in the % exited tunnels and in the leaf feeding injuries confirmed the existence of two resistance mechanisms located respectively in the leaves and in the stalk. Leaf resistance and stalk resistance exhibited genotypic and phenotypic correlation with stalk tunnelling injuries. No phenotypic or genotypic correlations were observed between leaf resistance and stalk resistance. Both resistances contributed independently to the global resistance quantified by the stalk tunnelling. The resistance status of the two main cultivars cultivated in Reunion was assessed within our germplasm sample: ‘R 570’ was one of the most resistant clones and ‘R 579’ proved to be moderately susceptible.
Non‐cardiac chest pain: Prevalence of reflux disease and response to acid suppression in an Asian population
Authors: Mohd Hanizam , Qua Choon‐Seng , Wong Choon‐Heng , Azman Wan , Goh Khean‐Lee
Published: November 2008

Background:  Gastroesophageal reflux disease is thought to be the commonest cause of ‘non‐cardiac chest pain’. The use of proton‐pump inhibitors resulting in improvement in the chest pain symptom would support this causal association.

Objectives:  To determine the prevalence of gastroesophageal reflux disease in non‐cardiac chest pain and the response of chest pain to proton‐pump inhibitor therapy.

Methods:  Patients with recurrent angina‐like chest pain and normal coronary angiogram were recruited. The frequency and severity of chest pain were recorded. All patients underwent esophagogastroduodenoscopy and 48‐h Bravo ambulatory pH monitoring before receiving rabeprazole 20 mg bd for 2 weeks.

Results:  The prevalence of gastroesophageal reflux disease was 66.7% (18/27). The improvement in chest pain score was significantly higher in reflux compared to non‐reflux patients (P = 0.006). The proportion of patients with complete or marked/moderate improvement in chest pain symptoms were significantly higher in patients with reflux (15/18, 83.3%) compared to those without (1/9, 11.1%) (P < 0.001).

Conclusion:  The prevalence of gastroesophageal reflux disease in patients with ‘non‐cardiac chest pain’ was high. The response to treatment with proton‐pump inhibitors in patients with reflux disease, but not in those without, underlined the critical role of acid reflux in a subset of patients with ‘non‐cardiac chest pain’.
Pro: anesthesia for children in the developing world should be delivered by medical anesthetists
Authors: JACOB REBECCA
Published: November 2008

Outcomes from pediatric surgery when carried out by trained pediatric anesthetists are excellent. This is not the case when the anesthesia provider is poorly trained. The presence of pediatric anesthetists is not only the norm but considered mandatory for children below the age of 2–3 years in developed countries. There are many reasons why trained anesthetists are not readily available in developing countries – migration to greener pastures, inadequate training facilities, poor remuneration and support services being some of them. These problems should be addressed but safety of the children should not be compromised. One should not condone poor standards to deprive children of safe anesthesia and the caregiver of much needed self‐respect.
Recognizing Patterns in Seasonal Variation of Pavement Roughness Using Minimum Message Length Inference
Authors: Byrne M. , Albrecht D. , Sanjayan J.G. , Kodikara J.
Published: November 2008

Abstract:  Pavement roughness is a common measure of pavement condition regularly measured by road authorities. An approach to recognize patterns of seasonal variation in rural sealed granular pavement roughness by minimum message length (MML) inference is demonstrated in this article. MML solves two fundamental questions: First, is the seasonal variation a systematic pattern or merely the result of random scatter? Second, given evidence of seasonal variation to what level of complexity should the seasonal trend be modeled? The MML technique developed does not require user input rather will identify in a quantitative and consistent manner any patterns evident in the data. The patterns identified with MML can be used to remove seasonal variation effects. The analysis utilized 104,188 roughness values obtained from a particular region in Australia over 15 years. MML inference recognized patterns of seasonal variation and demonstrated that these are not merely due to random scatter. The optimum model selected by MML inference has four separate segments of variation. These segments correspond to changes in climatic conditions that support the inference.
Nonlinear Computer Model for the Simulation of Lock‐in Vibration on Long‐Span Bridges
Authors: Caracoglia Luca , Noè Salvatore , Sepe Vincenzo
Published: November 2008

Abstract:  The susceptibility of modern bridges to vortex‐shedding‐induced vibration is a major concern for researchers and designers. The relevance of this phenomenon is associated with the onset of large‐amplitude aeroelastic vibration at moderate wind‐velocity regimes due to synchronization, that is, lock‐in, of the vortex‐shedding frequencies with those corresponding to the natural modes of the structure. Recent observations, either recorded during the monitoring of full‐scale bridges or during experimental tests of deck models in wind tunnels, confirm the importance of these aspects during the operational life of the structure. In this article, a computer model for the simulation of the aeroelastic loading associated with vortex shedding in lock‐in regime is presented, for a direct application to dynamic analysis of long‐span bridges. This approach is based on earlier work focused on the response of slender vertical cylindrical chimneys to vortex‐shedding excitation, which is here extended to noncircular cross sections. The numerical model was employed in conjunction with a finite‐element code for time‐domain nonlinear simulation of the structural dynamic response. The validation of the procedure is performed through numerical simulation, conducted on two specific bridge examples.
Does taxonomic diversity in indicator groups influence their effectiveness in identifying priority areas for species conservation?
Authors: Bladt J. , Larsen F. W. , Rahbek C.
Published: November 2008

The identification of priority areas for biodiversity conservation is a cornerstone of systematic conservation planning. However, biodiversity, or even the distribution of all species, cannot be directly quantified, due to the inherent complexity of natural systems. Species indicator groups may serve as important tools for the identification of priority areas for conservation. Yet, it is unclear which factors make certain indicator groups perform better than others. In this study, using data on the Danish distribution of 847 species of plants, vertebrates and insects, we assessed whether the taxonomic diversity in species indicator groups influence their effectiveness in the identification of priority areas for species conservation. We tested whether indicator groups comprising a higher taxonomic diversity (i.e. indicator groups consisting of species from many different taxonomic groups) perform better than indicator groups comprising a lower taxonomic diversity. The performance of the indicator groups was evaluated on target groups, which, in terms of species composition, were independent of the indicator groups. Overall, we found that using taxonomically diverse indicator groups did not consistently increase the coverage of target species than when using less taxonomically diverse indicator groups. However, indicator groups chosen solely from one taxon were outperformed by taxonomically diverse groups. Second, we found that taxonomic diversity of the indicator did not influence the taxonomic diversity of the covered target species (in terms of number of represented families, orders, etc.) Thus, taxonomic diversity per se only had a marginal influence on the performance of indicator groups. Distributional characteristics, such as the proportion of species with narrow range sizes, had a larger impact on indicator performance. Our results suggest that it might be of minor importance to consider taxonomic diversity when acquiring species data for future conservation projects using indicator groups.
Synchronous development of acute myeloid leukemia in recipient and donor after allogeneic bone marrow transplantation: report of a case with comments on donor evaluation
Authors: Glasser Lewis , Meloni‐Ehrig Aurelia , Greaves Wesley , Demel Kurt C. , Butera James
Published: November 2008

BACKGROUND: A case of donor cell leukemia (DCL) is reported. A 42‐year‐old female developed acute myeloid leukemia (AML) of donor cell origin 18 months after a bone marrow transplant (BMT) from her brother. At the time DCL presented, the donor‐brother was also diagnosed with AML showing identical cytogenetic abnormalities. The classification of DCL and recommendations for laboratory testing of potential hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) donors are discussed.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Marrow specimens were obtained from the posterior iliac crest and analyzed using standard techniques. Leukemic cells were analyzed by flow cytometry. Karyotyping and fluorescence in situ hybridization were performed using standard methods.

RESULTS: The recipient‐sister's original diagnosis was erythroleukemia. Chromosome analysis showed a 46,XX,t(3;5)(q25;q34) karyotype. Both the recipient's new AML and the donor's AML showed an identical karyotype: 46,XY,inv(3)(q21q26),‐7. Both patients were resistant to therapy and died.

CONCLUSION: The clinical and biological aspects of DCL are discussed including the distinction between transformation of healthy donor cells to leukemic cells and transmission of preformed leukemic cells. The former represents almost all the reported cases of DCL compared with transmission of leukemic cells from donor to recipient. With an aging donor population, it is estimated that the latter will increase. Increased testing of older donors to include routine morphologic study of blood and marrow, cytogenetic studies, and evaluation for clonal lymphoproliferative disorders is recommended.
Fast Data Acquisition and Analysis with Real Time Triplane Echocardiography for the Assessment of Left Ventricular Size and Function: A Validation Study
Authors: Nucifora Gaetano , Badano Luigi P. , Dall'Armellina Erica , Gianfagna Pasquale , Allocca Giuseppe , Fioretti Paolo M.
Published: November 2008

Aims: To assess accuracy and reproducibility of real time simultaneous triplane echocardiography (RT3PE) for the assessment of left ventricular (LV) volumes and ejection fraction (EF) using cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) as a reference method. Methods and Results: A total of 24 patients with various degrees of LV dysfunction (EF from 36 to 57%) in sinus rhythm with good image quality were enrolled in the study. Digital loops of apical views were recorded with standard two‐dimensional imaging and with RT3PE. Echocardiography and CMR were performed within 1 hour. RT3PE measurements of LV end‐diastolic volume, end‐systolic volume, and EF resulted closely correlated to CMR (r = 0.95, 0.97, and 0.95, respectively) with small biases (−4 ml, −6 ml, and 1%, respectively) and narrow limits of agreement (SD = 15 ml, 12 ml, and 6%, respectively). Two‐dimensional echocardiography (2DE) showed a weaker correlation with CMR (r = 0.85, 0.91, and 0.83, respectively; P < 0.06) with similar biases (−4 ml, −10 ml, 5%, respectively), but wider limits of agreement (SD = 28 ml, 21 ml, 10%, respectively, P < 0.007). RT3PE showed lower interobserver variability for the assessment of EF (SD = 2% vs. 5%, P = 0.03) and lower measurement time of LV EF (175 ± 54 sec vs. 241 ± 49 sec, respectively; P < 0.0001), as compared to 2DE. Conclusion: RT3PE allows simple and fast image acquisition and volume calculation. In addition, it allows more accurate and reproducible EF measurements than conventional 2DE.
The stability of correlates of labour force activity
Authors: Waghorn G. , Chant D. , Harris M. G.
Published: November 2008

Objective:  To investigate the stability of correlates of labour force activity among people with affective and anxiety disorders, compared with healthy adults, between 1998 and 2003.

Method:  Secondary analyses of multi‐stage probability samples of community residents (n1998 = 37 580 and n2003 = 36 088) obtained from repeat administrations of an Australian population survey.

Results:  Proportionally, fewer people with affective or anxiety disorders were employed compared with well controls. Extent of employment restrictions, sex, age left school, country of birth, age and educational attainment were strong correlates of labour force participation and current employment. These effects were stable despite improved labour market conditions in 2003.

Conclusion:  These results can inform decisions about access to substantial forms of employment assistance. Subgroups of people with anxiety and depression, with severe employment restrictions, low education, low language proficiency, aged 15–24 years, or aged 55 years or more, may require greater access to substantial employment assistance.
Allergic contact dermatitis from EMLA cream: concomitant sensitization to both local anesthetics lidocaine and prilocaine
Authors: Timmermans Martine W.H. , Bruynzeel Derk P. , Rustemeyer Thomas
Published: November 2008

Local anesthetics are widely used drugs. In contrast to the local anesthetics of the ester group, the ones of the amide group (for example prilocaine and lidocaine) are considered to be rare sensitizers. Positive patch test results to both prilocaine and lidocaine in EMLA cream might indicate potential cross‐reactivity.
Evidence of a new phosphoryl transfer system in nucleotide metabolism
Authors: Vannoni Daniela , Leoncini Roberto , Giglioni Stefania , Niccolai Neri , Spiga Ottavia , Aceto Emilia , Marinello Enrico
Published: November 2008

Crude rat liver extract showed AMP–AMP phosphotransferase activity which, on purification, was ascribed to a novel interaction between adenylate kinase, also known as myokinase (EC 2.7.4.3), and adenosine kinase (EC 2.7.1.20). The activity was duplicated using the same enzymes purified from recombinant sources. The reaction requires physical contact between myokinase and adenosine kinase, and the net reaction is aided by the presence of adenosine deaminase (EC 3.5.4.4), which fills the gap in the energy balance of the phosphoryl transfer and shifts the equilibrium towards ADP and inosine synthesis. The proposed mechanism involves the association of adenosine kinase and myokinase through non‐covalent, transient interactions that induce slight conformational changes in the active site of myokinase, bringing two already bound molecules of AMP together for phosphoryl transfer to form ADP. The proposed mechanism suggests a physiological role for the enzymes and for the AMP–AMP phosphotransferase reaction under conditions of extreme energy drain (such as hypoxia or temporary anoxia, as in cancer tissues) when the enzymes cannot display their conventional activity because of substrate deficiency.
The Monitor Practice Programme: is non‐invasive management of dental caries in private practice effective?
Authors: Curtis B , Evans RW , Sbaraini A , Schwarz E
Published: November 2008

Background:  This paper reviews the efficacy of an intensive, preventive‐based, non‐invasive approach to the management of dental caries within a randomized controlled trial.

Methods:  The primary efficacy measure was the two‐year DMFS increment. Changes in risk status, fluoride history, number of emergency visits and toothaches, along with demographic variables such as age, gender, health problems, and the location of the dental practice attended were measured. Regression analysis was undertaken to adjust for potential confounding variables.

Results:  Nine hundred and two patients were recruited within 22 dental practices between May 2005 and March 2006. Baseline DMFS did not differ significantly between the control and study groups (p = 0.83). Age (p < 0.001), health status (p = 0.005), baseline risk (p < 0.001) and fluoride history (p < 0.001) were all independent significant predictors of two‐year DMFS increment. Gender approached significance (p = 0.08). There were no statistically significant differences between the groups in the incidence of toothaches (p = 0.1) or number of treatment visits required (p = 0.35). There was a significant difference in the two‐year incremental DMFS score in the study group compared to the control group (mean difference 2.2; p < 0.001). After adjusting for confounding variables the difference in the DMFS increment between the control and study groups remained significant (mean difference 1.7; p < 0.001).

Conclusions:  The results indicate efficacy of the preventive programme. Efficacy was independent of age, gender, medical concerns, fluoride history, or previous history of dental caries, in a population of patients attending for treatment in private dental practices, in a variety of locations, on a relatively short‐term basis (two years). While encouraging, it will be essential that these results are followed over a longer period of time in order to determine whether the benefits are maintained.
Genome Areas with High Gene Density and CpG Island Neighborhood Strongly Attract Porcine Endogenous Retrovirus for Integration and Favor the Formation of Hot Spots
Authors: Moalic Y. , Félix H. , Takeuchi Y. , Jestin A. , Blanchard Y.
Published: November 2008

Porcine endogenous retroviruses (PERV) are members of the gammaretrovirus genus and display integration preferences around transcription start sites, a finding which is similar to the preferences of the murine leukemia virus (MLV). Our new genome-wide analysis of the integration profile of a recombinant PERV (PERV A/C), enabled us to examine more than 1,900 integration sites and identify 224 integration hot spots. Investigation of the possible genome features involved in hot-spot formation revealed that the expression level of the genes did not influence distribution of the integration sites of gammaretroviruses (PERV and MLV) or the formation of integration hot spots. However, PERV integration and the presence of hot spots was found to be greater in areas of the genome with high densities of genes with CpG islands. Surprisingly, this was not true for MLV. Simulation of integration profiles revealed that retrovirus integration studies involving the use of the restriction enzyme MseI (widely used in genome integration studies of MLV and gammaretroviral vector) underestimated integration near CpG islands and in gene-dense areas. These results suggest that the integration of gammaretrovirus or gammaretroviral vectors might occur preferentially in genome areas that are highly enriched in genes under CpG island promoter regulation.
Analysis of Contradictory Data Sources in Fish Stock Assessment
Authors: Schnute Jon T. , Hilborn Ray
Published: November 2008

Fisheries stock assessments sometimes prove, in retrospect, to be wrong. Errors may be due to poor model assumptions or to data that do not reflect the biological process of interest. We develop a method that formally admits the possibility of such errors. Likelihood functions derived from this method indicate greater uncertainty in parameter values than conventional likelihoods, whose derivations presume that models correctly describe the observed data. The problem of uncertainty is particularly acute when more than one data source is available and different data sets provide contradictory parameter estimates. Traditional methods of stock assessment involve weighted averages of the contradictory data, and these generally produce parameter estimates intermediate to those obtained from the data sets individually. We demonstrate that, when model or data errors are considered, the most likely parameter values are not intermediary to conflicting values; instead, they occur at one of the apparent extremes. We provide an example using contradictory trends in catch-per-u nit-effort data for the Canadian northern cod stock (1978–88).
The Guts to Estimate Fish Daily Ration
Authors: Boisclair Daniel , Marchand François
Published: November 2008

We compared daily ration values estimated using the Elliott and Persson and the Eggers models implemented with field-derived variations in stomach and complete digestive tract (CDT) contents of fish. Stomach evacuation rate (0.31∙h−1) was 2.8 times greater than that of CDT (0.11∙h−1). Daily rations obtained using both models and sections of the digestive tract estimated at 2-h intervals averaged 0.84 (Trial 1), 2.56 (Trial 2), and 2.41 g dryl∙100 g wet−1∙d−1 (Trial 3) and never differed by more than 23.6% within trials (average = 11.4%). Variances in daily ration values from the Elliott and Persson model were, on average, 3.4 times larger than variances derived using Eggers model. Variances associated with daily rations on stomach contents were, on average, 5.9 times larger than variances based on CDT contents. Sampling frequencies (from 2- to 4-, 6-, 8-, and 12-h intervals) had no significant influence on mean daily ration values but, on average, caused a 3.6-fold increase in variances. The precision and robustness of daily ration values appeared more directly influenced by the section of digestive tract used than by the estimation model chosen; the Eggers model implemented with CDT contents appeared to be the most efficient combination.
What is an Abalone Stock: Implications for the Role of Refugia in Conservation
Authors: Shepherd S. A. , Brown L. D.
Published: November 2008

This paper concerns the conservation of abalone stocks in a genetic and fisheries sense. We review genetic and ecological information relating to the differentiation of abalone stocks in South Australia and propose that metapopulation theory provides an apt framework in which to develop the concept of an abalone stock. We consider what is a minimum viable population for abalone and illustrate our discussion with a case study of an abalone population that declined through a combination of fishing, recruitment failure, and inadequate protection by a refugium. Refugia can play an important role in abalone conservation by maintaining egg production and genetic diversity and by preserving populations for scientific study.
ENERGY–MOMENTUM DENSITY OF GRAVITATIONAL WAVES
Authors: ABBASSI AMIR M. , MIRSHEKARI SAEED
Published: November 2008

In this paper, we elaborate the problem of energy–momentum in general relativity by energy–momentum prescriptions theory. Our aim is to calculate energy and momentum densities for the general form of gravitational waves. In this connection, we have extended the previous works by using the prescriptions of Bergmann and Tolman. It is shown that they are finite and reasonable. In addition, using Tolman prescription, exactly, leads to the same results that have been obtained by Einstein and Papapetrou prescriptions.
ELECTROMAGNETIC FORM-FACTOR OF THE π MESON WITH LIGHT-CONE QCD SUM RULES
Authors: WANG ZHI-GANG , WANG ZHI-BIN
Published: November 2008

In this paper, we calculate the electromagnetic form-factor of the π meson with the light-cone QCD sum rules. The numerical value [Formula: see text] is in excellent agreement with the experimental data (extrapolated to the limit of zero momentum transfer or the normalization condition Fπ(0) = 1). For large momentum transfers, the values from the two sum rules are all comparable with the experimental data and theoretical estimations.
SYSTEM DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS OF HIGHLY-INTEGRATED ΣΔ FRACTIONAL-N FREQUENCY SYNTHESIZER
Authors: HUANG SHUILONG , WANG ZHIHUA
Published: November 2008

Modern wireless communication poses the requirements of fast settling time, small channel width, and low phase noise to frequency synthesizer. ΣΔ fractional-N frequency synthesizer is widely adopted due to its excellent characteristics in these aspects. This paper presents a number of system issues and design considerations/tradeoffs which are involved in the design of such a frequency synthesizer from the system point of view. These considerations include selection of loop parameters, choice of key building blocks, and critical system performance issues like spurious tones, quantization noise, in-band phase noise, out-of-band phase noise, and frequency accuracy/resolution. Finally, the future possibilities are briefly analyzed.
VELOCITY AND DISTRIBUTION OF PRIMORDIAL NEUTRINOS
Authors: ALFARO JORGE , GONZÁLEZ PABLO
Published: November 2008

The cosmic neutrinos background (CNB) comprises primordial neutrinos that were decoupled when the Universe was very young. Its detection is complicated, especially if we take into account neutrino mass and a possible breaking of Lorentz invariance at high energy, but has a fundamental relevance to studying the Big Bang. In this paper, we will see that a Lorentz violation does not produce important modification, but the mass does. We will show how the neutrino current velocity, with respect to the comobile system of the universe expansion, is of the order of 1065 km/s, much less than the velocity of light. Besides, we will see that the neutrino distribution is complex due to planetary motion. This prediction differs totally from the usual massless case, where we would get a correction similar to the dipolar moment of the CMB.
WAVELET-BASED EDGE DETECTION IN DIGITAL IMAGES
Authors: HUSSAIN MUHAMMAD , ABDUKIRIM TURGHUNJAN , OKADA YOSHIHIRO
Published: November 2008

This paper proposes a wavelet based multilevel edge detection method that exploits spline dyadic wavelets and a frame work similar to that of Canny's edge detector.2 Using the recently proposed dyadic lifting schemes by Turghunjan et al.1 spline dyadic wavelet filters have been constructed, which are characterized by higher order of regularity and have the potential of better inherent noise filtering and detection results. Edges are determined as the local maxima in the subbands at different scales of the dyadic wavelet transform. Comparison reveals that our method performs better than Mallat's and Canny's edge detectors.
A DENSITY-MATRIX-BASED SIMULATED ANNEALING (SA) TECHNIQUE FOR LOCATING MINIMUM ENERGY STRUCTURES ON THE NEUTRAL POLYTHIOPHENE POTENTIAL ENERGY SURFACE
Authors: NANDY SUBHAJIT , CHAUDHURY PINAKI , SHARMA RAHUL , BHATTACHARYYA S. P.
Published: November 2008

We use the elements of the single particle density matrix in the atomic orbital basis as the basic variables and the simulated annealing method as the optimization tool to locate the global minima on the potential surfaces of polythiophene and polyselenophene oligomers (PT)n, (PS)n with n up to 100. A modified version of the Su–Schrieffer–Heeger Hamiltonian is used to generate the PES and the unitary transformation of the density variables as the bond lengths change during random reconfiguring moves. The cost effectiveness of the method is analyzed.
DENSITY FUNCTIONAL COMPUTATIONS OFRh(I)-CATALYZED HYDROACYLATION OF ETHENE OR ETHYNE
Authors: GAO JIGANG , WANG FEN , MENG QINGXI , LI MING
Published: November 2008

Density functional theory has been used to study Rh(I) -catalyzed hydroacylation of ethene or ethyne. All the intermediates and the transition states were optimized completely at the B3LYP/6-311++G(d,p) level (LANL2DZ(d) for Rh , P). Calculation results confirm that Rh(I) -catalyzed hydroacylation of ethene is exothermic and the total released energy is -54 kJ/mol, and that Rh(I) -catalyzed hydroacylation of ethyne is also exothermic and the total released energy is -122 kJ/mol. In Rh(I) -catalyzed hydroacylation, ethene and ethyne have similar reactivity. Rh(I) -catalyzed oxidative addition of aldehyde is the rate-determinating step for the Rh(I) -catalyzed hydroacylation of ethene or ethyne. Hydrogen transfer reaction is prior to the C – C bond-forming reaction for Rh(I) -catalyzed hydroacylation of ethene. Thus hydrogen transfer reaction and the C – C bond-forming reaction may be co-existed for Rh(I) -catalyzed hydroacylation of ethyne. The effect of solvent in the hydroacylation of ethyne is greater than that in the hydroacylation of ethene.
UNDERSTANDING THE ROLE OF WATER IN PROMOTING E-ISOMER PRODUCTION AND PHOTOCHROMISM OF SOLID SCHIFF BASE: A DFT AND TD-DFT STUDY
Authors: ZHONG AI-GUO , CHEN DINGBEN , LEI MING , LIU SHUBIN
Published: November 2008

The formation mechanism and photochromic property of a novel solid state Schiff base compound (E-isomer, C 21 H 18 I 2 N 3 O 2) derived from 4-aminoantipyrine and 3,5-diiodosalicylaldehyde is investigated in this work using density functional theory at the B3LYP/6-31l++G** level with and without solvent water presence. Our computational results show that the conversion in the gas phase is unlikely to occur and the solvent water is involved in the reaction to decrease the barrier height. We considered one to three water molecule participations in the water-catalyzed mechanism to produce the E-isomer. Time-dependent density functional theory (B3LYP/6-311+G*) is employed to examine the photochromic property of the molecule. A large Stokes shift between absorption and emission has been attributed to the intramolecular H-transfer ( O – H ⋯ N to O ⋯ H – N ) following photoexcitation of the enol species, suggesting that the keto form of the photoproduct structure plays the key role, in agreement with the experimental finding of stereoselectivity. Conceptual DFT reactivity indices are employed to rationalize the findings from the present study.
PINPOINT SOURCE LOCALIZATION FOR OCULAR NONSELECTIVE ATTENTION WITH COMBINATION OF ERP AND fNIRI MEASUREMENTS
Authors: LI TING , LI LI , DU PENG , LUO QINGMING , GONG HUI
Published: November 2008

Compared with event-related potential (ERP) which is widely used in psychology research, functional near-infrared imaging (fNIRI) is a new technique providing hemodynamic information related to brain activity, except for electrophysiological signals. Here, we use both these techniques to study ocular attention. We conducted a series of experiments with a classic paradigm of ocular nonselective attention, and monitored responses with fNIRI and ERP respectively. The results showed that fNIRI measured brain activations in the left prefrontal lobe, while ERPs showed activation in frontal lobe. More importantly, only with the combination measurements of fNIRI and ERP, we were then able to find the pinpoint source of ocular nonselective attention, which is in the left and upper corner in Brodmann area 10. These results demonstrated that fNIRI is a reliable technique in psychology, and the combination of fNIRI and ERP can be promising to reveal more information in the research of brain mechanism.
HYPERBARIC HYPEROXIA AND THE BRAIN IN VIVO: THE BALANCE BETWEEN THERAPY AND TOXICITY
Authors: SONN JUDITH , MEIROVITHZ ELHANAN , MAYEVSKY AVRAHAM
Published: November 2008

Hyperbaric oxygenation (HBO) treatment protocols utilize low pressures up to 3 ATA. Higher pressures may induce side effects such as convulsions due to brain toxicity. The optimal HBO pressure allowing for maximal therapy and minimal toxicity is under controversy. However, it can be evaluated by monitoring oxygen delivery, saturation, and consumption. In this study, the monitoring system fixed on the rats' brain cortex included a time-sharing fluorometer-reflectometer for monitoring mitochondrial NADH and hemoglobin oxygenation ( HbO 2) combined with Laser Doppler Flowmetry (LDF) for blood-flow monitoring. Rats were located in a hyperbaric chamber and exposed to different pressures. The HBO pressure caused an increase in HbO 2 and a decrease in NADH in proportion to the increase in hyperbaric pressure, up to a nearly maximum effect at 2.5 ATA. At 6 ATA, 15 minutes before convulsions started, blood volume and NADH started to increase, while tissue O 2 supply by hemoglobin remained stable. Oxygen pool includes oxygen dissolved in the plasma and also bounded to hemoglobin. Above 2.5 ATA, hemoglobin is fully saturated and the oxygen pool nourishment derives only from the oxygen dissolved in the plasma, exceeding the physiological ability for auto-regulation; hence, homeostasis is disturbed and convulsions appear. This information is vital because pressures around 2.5 ATA–3 ATA are standard clinically applied pressures used to treat most of the pathophysiological problems considering the potential benefit which must be balanced against the potential toxicity. This study enables, for the first time, to evaluate the oxygenation level of hemoglobin in the microcirculation. Furthermore, our study showed that additional oxygen pressure (above 2.5 ATA) caused brain oxygen toxicity within a short variable period of time after the pressure elevation.
DETECTION AND APPLICATION OF MICROFLUIDIC ISOTHERMAL AMPLIFICATION ON CHIP
Authors: HUANG GUOLIANG , YANG XIAOYONG , ZHU JIANG , XU SHUKUAN , DENG CHENG , HAN CHAO
Published: November 2008

Loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) is a novel nucleic acid amplification method. Compared with the widely utilized polymerase chain reaction (PCR), LAMP has higher speed and efficiency as well as lower requirement for system temperature control because the whole amplification process is isothermal and no efforts are needed to switch between different temperatures. In this paper, we designed and fabricated different kinds of polycarbonate (PC) microfluid chips, explored appropriate reaction condition for LAMP in microenvironment (1 nL → 10 μL), and developed a microfluidic isothermal amplification detection system. The DNA optimal amplification temperature is obtained; the starting time of exponential amplification of DNA is put forward farther. The optimal condition of DNA amplification in microenvironment, with a little reaction materials and early starting exponential amplification time of DNA are very important for clinic DNA detection and the application of Lab-on-a-Chip.
Differential Involvement of Projection Neurons During Emergence of Spontaneous Activity in the Developing Avian Hindbrain
Authors: Mochida Hiraku , Fortin Gilles , Champagnat Jean , Glover Joel C.
Published: November 2008

To better characterize the emergence of spontaneous neuronal activity in the developing hindbrain, spontaneous activity was recorded optically from defined projection neuron populations in isolated preparations of the brain stem of the chicken embryo. Ipsilaterally projecting reticulospinal (RS) neurons and several groups of vestibuloocular (VO) neurons were labeled retrogradely with Calcium Green-1 dextran amine and spontaneous calcium transients were recorded using a charge-coupled-device camera mounted on a fluorescence microscope. Simultaneous extracellular recordings were made from one of the trigeminal motor nerves (nV) to register the occurrence of spontaneous synchronous bursts of activity. Two types of spontaneous activity were observed: synchronous events (SEs), which occurred in register with spontaneous bursts in nV once every few minutes and were tetrodotoxin (TTX) dependent, and asynchronous events (AEs), which occurred in the intervals between SEs and were TTX resistant. AEs occurred developmentally before SEs and were in general smaller and more variable in amplitude than SEs. SEs appeared at the same stage as nV bursts early on embryonic day 4, first in RS neurons and then in VO neurons. All RS neurons participated equally in SEs from the outset, whereas different subpopulations of VO neurons participated differentially, both in terms of the proportion of neurons that exhibited SEs, the fidelity with which the SEs in individual neurons followed the nV bursts, and the developmental stage at which SEs appeared and matured. The results show that spontaneous activity is expressed heterogeneously among hindbrain projection neuron populations, suggesting its differential involvement in the formation of different functional neuronal circuits.
Modification of carbonic anhydrase II with acetaldehyde, the first metabolite of ethanol, leads to decreased enzyme activity
Authors: Bootorabi Fatemeh , Jänis Janne , Valjakka Jarkko , Isoniemi Sari , Vainiotalo Pirjo , Vullo Daniela , Supuran Claudiu T , Waheed Abdul , Sly William S , Niemelä Onni , Parkkila Seppo
Published: November 2008

Background

Acetaldehyde, the first metabolite of ethanol, can generate covalent modifications of proteins and cellular constituents. However, functional consequences of such modification remain poorly defined. In the present study, we examined acetaldehyde reaction with human carbonic anhydrase (CA) isozyme II, which has several features that make it a suitable target protein: It is widely expressed, its enzymatic activity can be monitored, its structural and catalytic properties are known, and it contains 24 lysine residues, which are accessible sites for aldehyde reaction.

Results

Acetaldehyde treatment in the absence and presence of a reducing agent (NaBH3(CN)) caused shifts in the pI values of CA II. SDS-PAGE indicated a shift toward a slightly higher molecular mass. High-resolution mass spectra of CA II, measured with and without NaBH3(CN), indicated the presence of an unmodified protein, as expected. Mass spectra of CA II treated with acetaldehyde revealed a modified protein form (+26 Da), consistent with a "Schiff base" formation between acetaldehyde and one of the primary NH2 groups (e.g., in lysine side chain) in the protein structure. This reaction was highly specific, given the relative abundance of over 90% of the modified protein. In reducing conditions, each CA II molecule had reacted with 9–19 (14 on average) acetaldehyde molecules (+28 Da), consistent with further reduction of the "Schiff bases" to substituted amines (N-ethyllysine residues). The acetaldehyde-modified protein showed decreased CA enzymatic activity.

Conclusion

The acetaldehyde-derived modifications in CA II molecule may have physiological consequences in alcoholic patients.
A new model for random X chromosome inactivation
Authors: Starmer Joshua , Magnuson Terry
Published: November 2008

X chromosome inactivation (XCI) reduces the number of actively transcribed X chromosomes to one per diploid set of autosomes, allowing for dosage equality between the sexes. In eutherians, the inactive X chromosome in XX females is randomly selected. The mechanisms for determining both how many X chromosomes are present and which to inactivate are unknown. To understand these mechanisms, researchers have created X chromosome mutations and transgenes. Here, we introduce a new model of X chromosome inactivation that aims to account for the findings in recent studies, to promote a re-interpretation of existing data and to direct future experiments.
The impact of psychotherapy sessions: Internal structure of the Dutch Session Evaluation Questionnaire (SEQ)
Authors: Hafkenscheid Anton.
Published: November 2008

The Session Evaluation Questionnaire (SEQ), intended to measure the impact of psychotherapy sessions, is a self‐rating instrument consisting of 21 bipolar adjective scales in semantic differential format. The SEQ may be conceived as a bridge between psychotherapy process and outcome. Since its introduction in 1980, the original American SEQ has been translated in different languages. However, the reliability and validity of the SEQ have only been assessed for the American SEQ so far.

Objectives. The present study attempted to replicate the dimensional structure of the American SEQ for the Dutch version.

Design. SEQ data were collected in a heterogeneous convenience sample of 96 patients, producing 2074 SEQ ratings, with each patient completing at least four SEQ forms over the course of her/his treatment.

Methods. Exploratory factor analyses (principal component analyses with varimax rotation) were used to establish the dimensional structure of the Dutch SEQ. In the American and English studies, factor analyses were only performed on each of the SEQ parts (session evaluation and post‐session mood) separately. No factor analyses were run with all 21 items included in the analyses. Different from the English and American studies, the internal structure of the Dutch SEQ was not only established for the separate parts, but was also determined by treating the SEQ as a single 21 item rating scale.

Results. Replicating the American and English data analyses, the Depth dimension could convincingly be replicated in the Dutch sample. Moreover, the Smoothness and Positivity dimensions could be recovered in the Dutch sample to a large extent. Different from the American SEQ, the Arousal dimension did not appear as a distinct dimension at all. Factor analyses of all 21 items yielded no more than two interpretable dimensions, encompassing about half of the SEQ items.

Conclusion. The basic psychological concepts in which the American SEQ is rooted‐evaluation and mood‐ also appear in the Dutch SEQ version. However, the results of the current study do not justify a simple transfer of the four American SEQ dimensions to the Dutch SEQ version.