bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In vitro evaluation of the efficacy of commercial green tea extracts in UV protection
Authors: Silva A. R. , Seidl C. , Furusho A. S. , Boeno M. M. S. , Dieamant G. C. , Weffort‐Santos A. M.
Published: September 2012

Synopsis

Plants with antioxidant properties are beneficial for preventing the ageing events evoked by UV light, and numerous products based on Camellila sinensis (green tea) are commercially available, many of which claiming to contain bioactive compounds that would prevent UV‐induced skin damage. In this study, we tested the efficacy of five commercial green tea extracts used to enrich cosmetic formulations for protecting human and mouse fibroblasts against UV radiation effects and compared with a fluid one prepared according to the Brazilian Pharmacopoeia recommendations. Taking into consideration that the ageing process can be accelerated by solar radiation by excessive free radical generation, leading to depletion of skin antioxidant defences, and its collapse caused by disruption of the metalloproteinase metabolism, we have used their individual (‐)‐epigallocathechin‐3‐gallate (EGCG) content, the catalase and SOD status and the matrix‐degrading metalloproteases (MMP)‐1, MMP‐9 and MMP‐13 levels as comparative parameters. The EGCG content of the commercial products showed wide variability, ranging from undetectable levels to 58.65 ± 1.12 μg mL−1, in contrast with the fluid extract (87.82 ± 1.35 μg mL−1). Moreover, only the pharmacopoeic extract was able to significantly reduce MMP degradation while enhancing the levels of SOD and catalase. These results indicate, for the first time, that the methodologies for preparing herbal mixtures can interfere significantly with compounds endowed with photoprotective effects, and the efficacy of products containing C. sinensis extracts thought to act against effects of solar radiation can be compromised.
Relationship between perceived softness of bilayered skin models and their mechanical properties measured with a dual‐sensor probe
Authors: Nakatani M. , Fukuda T. , Sasamoto H. , Arakawa N. , Otaka H. , Kawasoe T. , Omata S.
Published: September 2012

Synopsis

The development of a sensor system that can predict the subjective softness of human skin is an important goal for the cosmetics industry. Here, we first carried out a subjective softness evaluation test using 65 skin models consisting of polyurethane bilayers with different thickness of the superficial layer and different degree of cross‐polymerization of the basal layer. The results showed that perceived softness was dependent on the mechanical properties of both the superficial and basal layers. Then, we used a recently developed tactile sensor system composed of a piezoelectric tactile sensor and a load cell to measure mechanical softness parameters of the superficial layer and the whole model, respectively. Statistical analysis showed that the data obtained from these two sensors were well correlated with the perceived softness of the prepared models. These results suggest that it may be feasible to predict the subjective softness of human skin in vivo from non‐invasive mechanical softness measurements of the superficial skin layer and whole skin obtained with our new dual‐probe sensor system.
Dentine sialoprotein expression in gingival crevicular fluid during trauma‐induced root resorption
Authors: Kumar V. , Logani A. , Shah N.
Published: September 2012

Aim

To detect and quantify dentine sialoprotein (DSP) in the gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) of luxated teeth.

Methodology

Eighteen subjects were enroled and distributed as follows. Group I (n = 6, positive control): subjects with primary second molar teeth undergoing physiological root resorption. Group II (n = 6, negative control): subjects with permanent mature maxillary central incisors. Subjects with a recent history (<1 week) of luxation injury were included in group III (n = 6, test group) and standardized digital radiographs with a superimposed mesh gauge were exposed at various time intervals. Percentage of radiographic root resorption (%RRR) was calculated. GCF was collected using microcapillary pipettes. DSP in the GCF was quantified using enzyme‐linked immunosorbant assay. Group III was subjected to Spearman's rank test to establish the correlation between the concentration of DSP and %RRR at 6 weeks, 3 and 6 months.

Results

Quantifiable amounts of DSP were released in the GCF of subjects in Group I and III. However, the protein was not detected in Group II. Detectable quantities of DSP were observed in the GCF of luxated teeth before any radiographic evidence of root resorption (base line radiograph). A positive correlation was established at 6 weeks (r = 0.795), 3 (r = 0.755) and 6 month (r = 0.837) between the release of DSP and %RRR (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Dentine sialoprotein was released in the GCF of luxated teeth and its concentration correlated with the active and remission phases of this pathological process. Further investigation is required to establish a potentially noninvasive aid for diagnosing and monitoring root resorption.
Comparison of physicochemical, binding, antioxidant and antibacterial properties of chitosans prepared from ground and entire crab leg shells
Authors: Byun Sung Mi , No Hong Kyoon , Hong Joo‐Heon , Lee Sang Il , Prinyawiwatkul Witoon
Published: September 2012

Physicochemical, binding, antioxidant and antibacterial properties of chitosans prepared from ground and entire crab leg shells were compared. Chitosan prepared from ground shell (designated as g‐chitosan) had significantly higher nitrogen content, degree of deacetylation, solubility and viscosity, but lower ash content, bulk density and colour redness (a*) value than chitosan prepared from entire shell (designated as e‐chitosan). Compared with e‐chitosan, g‐chitosan had comparable water‐binding capacity, but higher fat‐binding and dye‐binding capacity, DPPH radical scavenging activity and antibacterial activity against two Gram‐negative (Salmonella Enteritidis and Escherichia coli) and two Gram‐positive (Listeria monocytogenes and Staphylococcus aureus) bacteria. This study demonstrated that chitosans prepared from ground and entire crab leg shell exhibited drastic differences in their physicochemical and functional characteristics. These differences were contributed by the particle size of the crab shell.
In vitro starch digestion in sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas L.) flours
Authors: Chen Gladys , Sopade Peter
Published: September 2012

The kinetics of starch digestion in cryo‐ and hammer‐milled sweet potato flours were investigated to reveal monophasic digestograms that were independent on particle size (80–390 μm), and suitably described (r2 > 0.98; P < 0.05) by a modified first‐order model. Milling conditions significantly affected (P < 0.05) the particle size, salivary–gastric‐digested starch and rate of starch digestion as the effective surface areas changed. The reciprocal of the rate of starch digestion (1/K, s) was significantly related to the square of the average particle size (size2, cm2), with the reciprocal of the slope (0.9–3.8 × 10−7 cm2 s−1) revealing diffusion‐controlled digestion. The hammer‐milled flours gave different digestion and functional parameters as frictional heat and glass transition phenomena played different roles in the overall structural changes in the flours. These parameters are discussed with starch digestion parameters in cereals and legumes to understand starch digestion in sweet potato.
Essential oils of citrus fruit stimulate oviposition in the Mediterranean fruit fly Ceratitis capitata (Diptera: Tephritidae)
Authors: IOANNOU CHARALAMPOS S. , PAPADOPOULOS NIKOS T. , KOULOUSSIS NIKOS A. , TANANAKI CHRYSOULA I. , KATSOYANNOS BYRON I.
Published: September 2012

Female Mediterranean fruit flies (medfly) Ceratitis capitata (Wiedemann) (Diptera: Tephritidae) perceive both qualitative and quantitative aspects of citrus fruit chemistry. However, the behavioural and biological adjustments of this response remain largely unknown. In the present study, the ovipositional responses of gravid female medflies to essential oils (i.e. the most critical resistance factor to medfly infestation) of various citrus fruits are investigated. In dual‐choice (treatment versus distilled water control) experiments, females lay significantly more eggs into pre‐punctured hollow oviposition hemispheres (domes) provided with 1 µL of citrus peel oil from sweet orange, satsuma mandarin, bitter orange, grapefruit and lemon compared with odourless domes. No‐choice tests show a weak effect of lemon essential oils in stimulating oviposition. The female ovipositional response to sweet orange oil (the most active in eliciting oviposition) is dose‐dependent. Additionally, limonene, the most abundant chemical in all citrus oils, stimulates oviposition, whereas linalool, a representative compound of immature citrus fruit associated with high toxicity against immature stages of fruit flies, has a significant deterrent effect. In further no‐choice tests, females lay approximately 23% fewer eggs in limonene (93%) (amount found in orange oil) and 60% fewer eggs in limonene 93% plus linalool 3% (approximately 10‐fold the amount found in orange oil) mixtures, relative to sweet orange oil. The results suggest that the limonene content accounts largely (but not completely) for the ovipositional responses observed in sweet orange oil, whereas high linalool proportions are capable of significantly masking and/or disrupting its stimulatory effects in citrus oils. The importance and practical implications of these findings with respect to understanding how citrus fruit chemistry influences the ovipositional responses of medfly is discussed.
Diversification of Morpho butterflies (Lepidoptera, Nymphalidae): a re‐evaluation of morphological characters and new insight from DNA sequence data
Authors: PENZ CARLA M. , DEVRIES PHILIP J. , WAHLBERG NIKLAS
Published: September 2012

This study compiles previously published morphological, colour and behavioural characters and includes new DNA sequence data for eight markers (one mitochondrial and seven nuclear) to re‐evaluate phylogenetic relationships and estimate times of divergence for Morpho butterflies using parsimony and Bayesian methods. We note an effect of missing data on phylogenetic inference and calculations of Partitioned Bremer Support. Morphology and DNA trees were moderately congruent, and the combined analyses of all data included elements of both sources. Both morphology and DNA support the monophyly of Morpho and the early separation of the sister pair M. marcus plus M. eugenia, but trees from different data sources are congruent mostly at derived nodes, and differ at several internal nodes. The analyses of combined data indicate that Morpho is composed of four clades each of which include one or more previously proposed subgenera. The subgenera Pessonia and Morpho were not monophyletic, and to address this issue we propose that Pessonia, syn.nov. be subsumed within Morpho. The ancestor of Morpho probably arose during the Oligocene, and most diversification seems to have occurred during the late Miocene. S‐DIVA analysis suggests eastern Andean region as the ancestral area for Morpho, and that the South American Atlantic Forest was colonized multiple times.
Phylogeny and classification of whirligig beetles (Coleoptera: Gyrinidae): relaxed‐clock model outperforms parsimony and time‐free Bayesian analyses
Authors: MILLER KELLY B. , BERGSTEN JOHANNES
Published: September 2012

Phylogenetic relationships among members of the family Gyrinidae (Coleoptera: Adephaga) were inferred from analysis of 42 morphological characters and DNA sequence data from the genes 12S rRNA, cytochrome c oxidase I and II, elongation factor 1 alpha (2 different copies) and histone III. Eighty‐nine species of Gyrinidae were included representing all known subfamilies, tribes and genera. Outgroups include species from Noteridae, Paelobiidae and Dytiscidae. Analyses include parsimony analysis, and partitioned time‐free and relaxed‐clock Bayesian analyses of the combined data using reversible‐jump MCMC to simultaneously integrate over all possible 4 × 4 nucleotide substitution models. Analyses resulted in conflicting topologies between the combined parsimony and Bayesian analyses on the one hand, and the relaxed‐clock analysis on the other. The marginal likelihoods of competing models were calculated with stepping‐stone sampling and used in a Bayes factor test, which, along with arguments from morphology, supported the topology generated by the relaxed‐clock analysis. This phylogenetic hypothesis is adopted to revise the higher classification of Gyrinidae. Major taxonomic conclusions include: (i) monophyletic Gyrinidae, (ii) the Nearctic Spanglerogyrinae Folkerts (with one species, Spanglerogyrus albiventris Folkerts) sister to all other Gyrinidae, (iii) the Madagascar endemic Heterogyrinae Brinck stat. n. (with one species, Heterogyrus milloti Legros) sister to all Gyrinidae except Spanglerogyrinae, (iv) monophyletic Gyrininae Latreille including three monophyletic tribes with the following relationship: Orectochilini Régimbart + (Gyrinini Latreille + Enhydrini Régimbart), (v) monophyletic Orectochilini comprising four monophyletic genera with the following relationships: (Gyretes Brullé + Patrus Aubéstat. n.) + (Orectogyrus Régimbart + Orectochilus Dejean), (vi) monophyletic Gyrinini comprising three genera with the following relationships: Gyrinus Geoffroy + (Metagyrinus Brinck + Aulonogyrus Motschulsky), each monophyletic except Metagyrinus with only one included species and not tested for monophyly, and (vii) monophyletic Enhydrini comprising five genera with the following relationships: (Porrorhynchus Laporte + Dineutus MacLeay) + (Enhydrus Laporte + (Andogyrus Ochs + Macrogyrus Régimbart)), each monophyletic except Porrorhynchus, Enhydrus and Andogyrus each with one included species and untested for monophyly. Each subfamily, tribe and genus is diagnosed and discussed. The female reproductive tract of each group is presented, illustrated and discussed with respect to the phylogenetic conclusions.
Perioperative management of children
Authors: Lindahl S G E
Published: September 2012

Along with the decision for surgery in children comes a concern for the development of minor psychological disturbances close to the event and possibly also later in life. There is always also anxiety for the procedure and its influence on normal physiological functions. It is true that these matters are valid also in the adult. There are, however, two factors that differ. One is the special relationship to family or legal guardian and the other is the skill needed to communicate with infants, pre‐school children and other children.
Pharmacological premedication for anaesthesia
Authors: Kanto J. , Watanabe H. , Namiki A.
Published: September 2012

The psychological component of preoperative preparation should be completed with a selective use of drugs. The days of poly‐pharmacy are over. Heavily sedated patients coming to the operation room with minimal oral secretions are not the purpose of modern premedication. Anxiolysis and slight sedation (painless patients) and analgesia (patients suffering from pain) are the main goals. Anticholinergics should be used only when needed, as is the case with premedication generally. The use of antiemetics and that of agents given for prophylaxis against allergic reactions or aspiration pneumonitis depend on specific needs of the patient. More accurate and generally accepted but simple methods are needed in studying the effects of different premedicants. The present results produced with a huge number of different more or less validated assessments can seldom be compared with each other.
Suppression of α‐amylase genes improves quality of rice grain ripened under high temperature
Authors: Hakata Makoto , Kuroda Masaharu , Miyashita Tomomi , Yamaguchi Takeshi , Kojima Mikiko , Sakakibara Hitoshi , Mitsui Toshiaki , Yamakawa Hiromoto
Published: September 2012

High temperature impairs rice (Oryza sativa) grain filling by inhibiting the deposition of storage materials such as starch, resulting in mature grains with a chalky appearance, currently a major problem for rice farming in Asian countries. Such deterioration of grain quality is accompanied by the altered expression of starch metabolism‐related genes. Here we report the involvement of a starch‐hydrolyzing enzyme, α‐amylase, in high temperature‐triggered grain chalkiness. In developing seeds, high temperature induced the expression of α‐amylase genes, namely Amy1A, Amy1C, Amy3A, Amy3D and Amy3E, as well as α‐amylase activity, while it decreased an α‐amylase‐repressing plant hormone, ABA, suggesting starch to be degraded by α‐amylase in developing grains under elevated temperature. Furthermore, RNAi‐mediated suppression of α‐amylase genes in ripening seeds resulted in fewer chalky grains under high‐temperature conditions. As the extent of the decrease in chalky grains was highly correlated to decreases in the expression of Amy1A, Amy1C, Amy3A and Amy3B, these genes would be involved in the chalkiness through degradation of starch accumulating in the developing grains. The results show that activation of α‐amylase by high temperature is a crucial trigger for grain chalkiness and that its suppression is a potential strategy for ameliorating grain damage from global warming.
Visual size perception and haptic calibration during development
Authors: Gori Monica , Giuliana Luana , Sandini Giulio , Burr David
Published: September 2012

It is still unclear how the visual system perceives accurately the size of objects at different distances. One suggestion, dating back to Berkeley’s famous essay, is that vision is calibrated by touch. If so, we may expect different mechanisms involved for near, reachable distances and far, unreachable distances. To study how the haptic system calibrates vision we measured size constancy in children (from 6 to 16 years of age) and adults, at various distances. At all ages, accuracy of the visual size perception changes with distance, and is almost veridical inside the haptic workspace, in agreement with the idea that the haptic system acts to calibrate visual size perception. Outside this space, systematic errors occurred, which varied with age. Adults tended to overestimate visual size of distant objects (over‐compensation for distance), while children younger than 14 underestimated their size (under‐compensation). At 16 years of age there seemed to be a transition point, with veridical perception of distant objects. When young subjects were allowed to touch the object inside the haptic workspace, the visual biases disappeared, while older subjects showed multisensory integration. All results are consistent with the idea that the haptic system can be used to calibrate visual size perception during development, more effectively within than outside the haptic workspace, and that the calibration mechanisms are different in children than in adults.
Discrimination, Ethnic Identity, and Academic Outcomes of Mexican Immigrant Children: The Importance of School Context
Authors: Brown Christia Spears , Chu Hui
Published: September 2012

This study examined ethnic identity, perceptions of discrimination, and academic attitudes and performance of primarily first‐ and second‐generation Mexican immigrant children living in a predominantly White community (N = 204, 19 schools, mean age = 9 years). The study also examined schools’ promotion of multiculturalism and teachers’ attitudes about the value of diversity in predicting immigrant youth’s attitudes and experiences. Results indicated that Latino immigrant children in this White community held positive and important ethnic identities and perceived low overall rates of discrimination. As expected, however, school and teacher characteristics were important in predicting children’s perceptions of discrimination and ethnic identity, and moderated whether perceptions of discrimination and ethnic identity were related to attitudes about school and academic performance.
Surviving the Crisis: Foreign Multinationals versus Domestic Firms
Authors: Godart Olivier , Görg Holger , Hanley Aoife
Published: September 2012

Starting from the observation that all firms in Ireland (foreign and domestic in manufacturing and services industries) were hit by the crisis, the paper asks whether there is a difference in the behaviour of foreign and domestic firms. One hypothesis is that foreign multinationals are less linked into the Irish economy, so more likely to leave once the economy is hit by a negative shock. The paper discusses background hypotheses before giving empirical evidence from first, aggregate data and second, firm‐level observations. The analysis of the latter suggests that foreign firms are not more likely to leave during the crisis than Irish firms. Some policy conclusions are offered in the paper.
A three‐dimensional axis for the study of femoral neck orientation
Authors: Bonneau Noémie , Libourel Paul‐Antoine , Simonis Caroline , Puymerail Laurent , Baylac Michel , Tardieu Christine , Gagey Olivier
Published: September 2012

A common problem in the quantification of the orientation of the femoral neck is the difficulty to determine its true axis; however, this axis is typically estimated visually only. Moreover, the orientation of the femoral neck is commonly analysed using angles that are dependent on anatomical planes of reference and only quantify the orientation in two dimensions. The purpose of this study is to establish a method to determine the three‐dimensional orientation of the femoral neck using a three‐dimensional model. An accurate determination of the femoral neck axis requires a reconsideration of the complex architecture of the proximal femur. The morphology of the femoral neck results from both the medial and arcuate trabecular systems, and the asymmetry of the cortical bone. Given these considerations, two alternative models, in addition to the cylindrical one frequently assumed, were tested. The surface geometry of the femoral neck was subsequently used to fit one cylinder, two cylinders and successive cross‐sectional ellipses. The model based on successive ellipses provided a significantly smaller average deviation than the two other models (P < 0.001) and reduced the observer‐induced measurement error. Comparisons with traditional measurements and analyses on a sample of 91 femora were also performed to assess the validity of the model based on successive ellipses. This study provides a semi‐automatic and accurate method for the determination of the functional three‐dimensional femoral neck orientation avoiding the use of a reference plane. This innovative method has important implications for future studies that aim to document and understand the change in the orientation of the femoral neck associated with the acquisition of a bipedal gait in humans. Moreover, the precise determination of the three‐dimensional orientation has implications in current research involved in developing clinical applications in diagnosis, hip surgery and rehabilitation.
Territorial User Rights for Fisheries as Ancillary Instruments for Marine Coastal Conservation in Chile
Authors: Gelcich Stefan , Fernández Miriam , Godoy Natalio , Canepa Antonio , Prado Luis , Castilla Juan Carlos
Published: September 2012

Territorial user rights for fisheries have been advocated as a way to achieve sustainable resource management. However, few researchers have empirically assessed their potential as ancillary marine conservation instruments by comparing them to no‐take marine protected areas. In kelp (Lessonia trabeculata) forests of central Chile, we compared species richness, density, and biomass of macroinvertebrates and reef fishes among territorial‐user‐right areas with low‐level and high‐level enforcement, no‐take marine protected areas, and open‐access areas in 42 100‐m subtidal transects. We also assessed structural complexity of the kelp forest and substratum composition. Multivariate randomized permutation tests indicated macroinvertebrate and reef fish communities associated with the different access regimes differed significantly. Substratum composition and structural complexity of kelp forest did not differ among access regimes. Univariate analyses showed species richness, biomass, and density of macroinvertebrates and reef fishes were greater in highly enforced territorial‐user‐right areas and no‐take marine protected areas than in open‐access areas. Densities of macroinvertebrates and reef fishes of economic importance were not significantly different between highly enforced territorial‐user‐right and no‐take marine protected areas. Densities of economically important macroinvertebrates in areas with low‐level enforcement were significantly lower than those in areas with high‐level enforcement and no‐take marine protected areas but were significantly higher than in areas with open access. Territorial‐user‐right areas could be important ancillary conservation instruments if they are well enforced.

Derechos de Usuario Territoriales para Pesquerías como Instrumentos Accesorios para la Conservación Marina Costera en Chile
Atypical Scabies Presenting as Annular Patches
Authors: Hossain Delwar
Published: September 2012

Abstract:  Scabies is a common parasitic disease that can be recognized by the development of itchy lesions and a predilection for certain places on the body. It may infrequently present with patchy lesions. We report a patient with well‐defined annular patches. Histopathology showed an egg of the scabies mite in the epidermis. Treatment with permethrin cream resulted in complete resolution of her disease.
Albumin is taken up by hippocampal NG2 cells and astrocytes and decreases gap junction coupling
Authors: Braganza Oliver , Bedner Peter , Hüttmann Kerstin , von Staden Elena , Friedman Alon , Seifert Gerald , Steinhäuser Christian
Published: September 2012

Purpose:  Dysfunction of the blood–brain barrier (BBB) and albumin extravasation have been suggested to play a role in the etiology of human epilepsy. In this context, dysfunction of glial cells attracts increasing attention. Our study was aimed to analyze in the hippocampus (1) which cell types internalize albumin injected into the lateral ventricle in vivo, (2) whether internalization into astrocytes impacts their coupling and expression of connexin 43 (Cx43), and (3) whether expression of Kir4.1, the predominating astrocytic K+ channel subunit, is altered by albumin.

Methods:  The patch‐clamp method was combined with single cell tracer filling to investigate electrophysiologic properties and gap junction coupling (GJC). For cell identification, mice with cell type–specific expression of a fluorescent protein (NG2kiEYFP mice) and immunohistochemistry were employed. Semiquantitative real time polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) allowed analysis of Kir4.1 and Cx43 transcript levels.

Key Findings:  We show that fluorescently labeled albumin is taken up by astrocytes, NG2 cells, and neurons, with NG2 cells standing out in terms of the quantity of uptake. Within 5 days postinjection (dpi), intracellular albumin accumulation was largely reduced suggesting rapid degradation. Electrophysiologic analysis of astrocytes and NG2 cells revealed no changes in their membrane properties at either time point. However, astrocytic GJC was significantly decreased at 1 dpi but returned to control levels within 5 dpi. We found no changes in hippocampal Cx43 transcript expression, suggesting that other mechanisms account for the observed changes in coupling. Kir4.1 mRNA was regulated oppositely in the CA1 stratum radiatum, with a strong increase at 1 dpi followed by a decrease at 5 dpi.

Significance:  The present study demonstrates that extravasal albumin in the hippocampus induces rapid changes of astrocyte function, which can be expected to impair ion and transmitter homeostasis and contribute to hyperactivity and epileptogenesis. Therefore, astrocytes may represent alternative targets for antiepileptic therapeutic approaches.
Evolution of the Ni2+ Environment During the Formation of a MgO–Al2O3–SiO2 Glass‐Ceramic: A Combined XRD and Diffuse Reflectance Spectroscopy Approach
Authors: Dugué Aymeric , Cormier Laurent , Dargaud Olivier , Galoisy Laurence , Calas Georges
Published: September 2012

The effect of the addition of NiO on the crystallization mechanisms has been studied for SiO2–Al2O3–MgO glass‐ceramics. A detailed Rietveld analysis has been made to determine the chemical composition and the cation distribution in the spinel phase and the evolution of Ni2+ coordination site using diffuse reflectance spectroscopy. Powder X‐ray diffraction (XRD) results show the formation of β‐quartz and spinel and the nickel fraction in the spinel phase decreasing as the plateau temperature increases. The determination of cation distribution in spinel using XRD reveals a preference of Ni2+ and Al3+ for octahedral sites and an increasing proportion of Ni2+ in tetrahedral sites for heat treatments at high temperature (1100°C–1200°C). Diffuse reflectance spectroscopy shows that Ni2+ is mainly fivefold coordinated in the starting glass, playing an important role in the crystallization of the spinel phase and it confirms the presence of tetrahedral and octahedral Ni2+ in the glass‐ceramics. The combination of these two techniques also indicates a chemical heterogeneity of spinel crystals with Ni2+‐rich and Mg2+‐rich zones.
Determinants of Retirement Assets and the Amount in Stock in Retirement Assets
Authors: Yang Ting‐Ying , DeVaney Sharon A.
Published: September 2012

This study proposed that human capital, health capital, attitudes toward finances, and the relative bargaining power of the spouse would influence the ownership and the amount of a person's retirement assets and the ownership and amount in stocks within the retirement assets. Using data from couples in the 2007 Survey of Consumer Finances, the results of logistic regressions and ordinary least squares regressions showed some support for each theory. The household heads who had more education, those who were in better health, and those who would take more risk when saving and investing were more likely to own some retirement assets and they had more in retirement assets. In regard to spousal influence, there was support for the bargaining power model but not for the shared resources model. As the spouse's level of education increased, the household head was more likely to own retirement assets and there was more in the retirement assets. The working status of the spouse and whether the spouse was more financially knowledgeable had a negative influence on retirement assets and the amount in assets. However, the amount of variance that was explained by the spousal variables was small; therefore, the results regarding the spouse's influence should be viewed with caution.
Exploring the Relationship of Economic, Sociological, and Psychological Factors to the Savings Behavior of Low‐ to Moderate‐Income Households
Authors: Gutter Michael S. , Hayhoe Celia R. , DeVaney Sharon A. , Kim Jinhee , Bowen Cathy F. , Cheang Michael , Cho Soo Hyun , Evans David A. , Gorham Elizabeth , Lown Jean M. , Mauldin Teresa , Solheim Catherine , Worthy Sheri Lokken , Dorman Rachel
Published: September 2012

Applying a multidisciplinary approach, this study examined economic, sociological, and psychological concepts to understand individual savings behavior with a national sample of low‐ to moderate‐income families (N = 826). Multinomial logistic regression results showed that some of the economic, sociological, and psychological factors were statistically significant in explaining whether a person had only a savings account or both savings and investing accounts compared to having no savings or investment accounts. Economic factors had a more robust relationship with savings behavior when compared to sociological and psychological factors. Specifically, age and a financial behavior score were significantly related to the likelihood of having a savings account while income, net worth, and education were significantly related to the likelihood of having both savings and investment accounts. The number of information sources that a person used (a sociological factor) was significantly related to having both savings and investment accounts. The length of a person's planning horizon and the number of perceived barriers (psychological factors) were significantly related to having a savings account. Implications for researchers, policy makers, educators, and counselors are discussed.
An Unusual Case of Predation: Dog Pack or Cougar Attack?
Authors: Fonseca Gabriel M. , Palacios Rocío
Published: September 2012

Injuries produced by animals are capable of leaving severe patterns and in some cases may result in the death of the attacked individual. Law enforcement authorities may come to erroneous conclusions about the source of the bites based on their awareness of animals present and similarities of the injuries to the untrained eye, with dreadful consequences. Expertise of a carnivore biologist and an odontologist that indentifies the particularities of bite marks may be useful for identifying the attacking species. We present the investigation of a fatal dog pack attack involving a 43‐year‐old man in Bell Ville (Argentina) where the evidence provided by a forensic dentist and a biologist was categorical for establishing the animal species involved. Because of the unusual characteristics of the wounds and the initial hypothesis made by local authorities of a cougar attack, habits and specific patterns of both dog pack and cougar predation on humans are discussed.
Leaders as Planners and Movers: Supervisors' Regulatory Modes and Subordinates' Performance
Authors: Pierro Antonio , Giacomantonio Mauro , Mannetti Lucia , Higgins Tory E. , Kruglanski Arie W.
Published: September 2012

In three field studies, we found that leaders high in both locomotion and assessment tendencies (Studies 1 and 2: evaluated by subordinates; Study 3: evaluated by leaders themselves) elicited higher levels of performance from their subordinates (Studies 1 and 3: as assessed by the subordinates themselves; Study 2: as assessed by their supervisors) than leaders low in one or both of these tendencies. The research supports the notion that locomotion and assessment constitute critical regulatory functions whose conjunction is indispensible for successful performance, whether on the level of the individual (Kruglanski et al., 2000) or the group (Mauro et al., 2009).
Does prey mobility affect niche width and individual specialization in hunting wasps? A network‐based analysis
Authors: Polidori Carlo , Santoro Davide , Blüthgen Nico
Published: September 2012

Niche width and inter‐individual diet variation in predator populations are known to be affected by intrinsic factors such as body size, age, cognitive constraints, and by intra‐ and interspecific competition. By contrast, how variation in prey biological traits may affect niche width and partitioning is still a poorly explored topic. One of these candidate traits is prey mobility, which can affect the predators’ niche because acting on the rate of encounter and, assuming mobility as a proxy for escape capability, on the success of predator attacks. Here we analysed 20 wasp populations and their prey as individual‐based food‐webs to test if prey mobility may explain niche width (here defined by the Shannon entropy‐based index) and patterns of inter‐individual diet variation (here defined by the interaction‐exclusiveness indexH2′and the interaction evenness indexE2). Niche width was very variable among populations and overall network specialization (H2′) was always higher than the expected by null models. In case of high‐speed flying prey (e.g. flies, bees), wasps showed wider niches () and lower specialization (H2′) than in case of non‐flying or slow‐flying prey (e.g. spiders, beetles). Evenness (E2), on the other side, did not vary with prey mobility. Altogether, these results suggest that highly elusive prey may lead to wider predators’ niche but somehow limit their individual niche specialization.
On the significance of belowground overyielding in temperate mixed forests: separating species identity and species diversity effects
Authors: Jacob Andreas , Hertel Dietrich , Leuschner Christoph
Published: September 2012

Complementary soil exploration by the root systems of coexisting tree species has been hypothesised to result in a higher root biomass of mixed forests than of monocultures but the existing evidence for a belowground diversity effect in forests is scarce and not conclusive.

In a species‐rich temperate broad‐leaved forest, we analysed the fine root biomass (roots ≤ 2 mm) and necromass in 100 plots differing in tree species diversity (one to three species) and species composition (all possible combinations of five species of the genera Acer, Carpinus, Fagus, Fraxinus and Tilia) which allowed us to separate possible species diversity and species identity effects on fine root biomass.

We found no evidence of a positive diversity effect on standing fine root biomass and thus of overyielding in terms of root biomass. Root necromass decreased with increasing species diversity at marginal significance.

Various lines of evidence indicate significant species identity effects on fine root biomass (10–20% higher fine root biomass in plots with presence of maple and beech than in plots with hornbeam; 100% higher fine root biomass in monospecific beech and ash plots than in hornbeam plots; differences significant). Ash fine roots tended to be over‐represented in the 2‐ and 3‐species mixed plots compared to monospecific ash plots pointing at apparent belowground competitive superiority of Fraxinus in this mixed forest.

Our results indicate that belowground overyielding and spatial complementarity of root systems may be the exception rather than the rule in temperate mixed forests.
Seasonal fluctuations of resource abundance and avian feeding guilds across forest–farmland boundaries in tropical Africa
Authors: Mulwa Ronald K. , Neuschulz Eike Lena , Böhning‐Gaese Katrin , Schleuning Matthias
Published: September 2012

Seasonal fluctuations in climatic factors are expected to increase in future decades. However, little is known about the response of tropical species communities to seasonal fluctuations in climate and resource availability, particularly across different habitat types. We examined the relationship between spatio‐temporal fluctuations in the abundance of fruits and invertebrates and two avian feeding guilds, i.e. frugivores and insectivores, in forest and farmland habitats in western Kenya. Fruits and invertebrates fluctuated substantially throughout the year, but seasonal fluctuations were asynchronous between the two habitat types. Species richness and total abundance of frugivores and insectivores also fluctuated strongly and were closely related to the abundance of their respective resources. Frugivore species richness fluctuated anti‐cyclical in forest and farmland habitats, suggesting that several frugivorous species tracked fruit resources across habitat boundaries. In contrast, insectivorous bird richness fluctuated synchronously in the two habitat types, suggesting a lack of local‐scale movements across habitat boundaries. We conclude that bird communities strongly respond to seasonal fluctuations in resource availability, but responses differ between feeding guilds. While frugivores seem to respond flexibly to seasonal fluctuations, for instance by tracking fruit resources across habitat boundaries, insectivorous birds appear to be more susceptible to the expected increase in seasonal fluctuations in resource availability.
Eccentric hip abductor weakness in patients with symptomatic external snapping hip
Authors: Jacobsen J. S. , Thorborg K. , Søballe K. , Ulrich‐Vinther M.
Published: September 2012

Symptomatic external snapping hip can be a long‐standing condition affecting physical function in younger people between 15–40 years. Gluteal weakness has been suggested to be associated with the condition. The aim of this study was to investigate whether eccentric hip abduction strength is decreased in patients with external snapping hip compared with healthy matched controls, and to examine isometric hip abduction, adduction, extension, flexion, internal rotation, and external rotation in patients with external snapping hip and matched controls. Thirteen patients with external snapping hip were compared with 13 healthy matched controls in a cross‐sectional study design. The mean age of the patients was 25.5 ± 3.4 years and the mean age of the controls was 25.6 ± 2.6 years. Eccentric and isometric strength were assessed with a handheld dynamometer, using reliable test procedures. Eccentric hip abduction strength was 16% lower in patients with external snapping hip compared with healthy matched controls (1.50 ± 0.47 Nm/kg versus 1.82 ± 0.48 Nm/kg, P = 0.01). No other strength differences were measured between patients and controls (P > 0.05). Eccentric hip abductor weakness was present in patients with symptomatic external snapping hip compared with healthy matched controls.
Women's Sexual Empowerment and Contraceptive Use in Ghana
Authors: Crissman Halley P. , Adanu Richard M. , Harlow Siobán D.
Published: September 2012

Pervasive gendered inequities and norms regarding the subordination of women give Ghanaian men disproportionately more power than women, particularly in relation to sex. We hypothesize that lack of sexual empowerment may pose an important barrier to reproductive health and adoption of family planning methods. Using the 2008 Ghana Demographic Health Survey, we examine the association between women's sexual empowerment and contraceptive use in Ghana among nonpregnant married and partnered women not desiring to conceive in the next three months. Increasing levels of sexual empowerment are found to be associated with use of contraceptives, even after adjusting for demographic predictors of contraceptive use. This association is moderated by wealth. Formal education, increasing wealth, and being in an unmarried partnership are associated with contraceptive use, whereas women who identify as being Muslim are less likely to use contraceptives than those who identify as being Christian. These findings suggest that to achieve universal access to reproductive health services, gendered disparities in sexual empowerment, particularly among economically disadvantaged women, need to be better addressed
Randomised trial of magnesium in the treatment of Irukandji syndrome
Authors: McCullagh Nora , Pereira Peter , Cullen Paul , Mulcahy Richard , Bonin Robert , Little Mark , Gray Suzanne , Seymour Jamie
Published: September 2012

Objectives

Irukandji syndrome is a distressing condition characterised by pain, hypertension and tachycardia. Some develop cardiac failure and there have been two reported deaths. Magnesium sulphate has become the standard of care despite minimal evidence. The aim of this study was to investigate if magnesium would reduce analgesic requirement and length of stay for patients with Irukandji syndrome.

Methods

This was a double‐blind, randomised controlled clinical trial. Patients with Irukandji syndrome who required parenteral opioid analgesia were randomised to receive either 10 mmol of magnesium as a bolus, and then a 5 mmol/h magnesium infusion for 6 h or saline. Fentanyl patient‐controlled analgesia was commenced to allow patients to self‐regulate their pain relief. The primary outcome measure of the study was comparison of total analgesic requirements between the two groups. The secondary outcome measure was to compare length of stay.

Results

The study ran from November 2003 to May 2007. Thirty‐nine patients were enrolled in the study; 26 were male with a median age of 28. Twenty‐two received magnesium. There was no significant difference in the morphine equivalent dose used, peak CK, peak troponin, peak pulse, peak blood pressure, peak mean arterial pressure (MAP), percentage MAP rise and length of stay for those receiving magnesium compared with placebo.

Conclusion

Our study did not demonstrate a benefit in the use of magnesium in the treatment of Irukandji syndrome. As such the current use of magnesium needs to be reconsidered until there is good evidence to support its use.
Is the increase in emergency short‐stay admissions sustainable? Trends across Melbourne, 2000 to 2009
Authors: Lowthian Judy A , Stoelwinder Johannes U , McNeil John J , Cameron Peter A
Published: September 2012

Objectives

To describe the trends in emergency admissions over 10 years in terms of volume, age‐specific rates, hospital length of stay (LOS) and clinical reasons.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of population‐based linked Department of Health ED and hospital admission data for metropolitan Melbourne 1999/2000 to 2008/2009 was conducted. Outcome measures included: hospital admission numbers (total, single day/overnight, ≥2 days LOS); admission rates per 1000 person‐years (total, single day/overnight, ≥2 days LOS); hospital LOS.

Results

The volume of patients admitted to hospital through EDs rose by 56% over the 10 years to June 2009. The number of same day/overnight admissions rose by 60%, equating to a 6.1% average annual increase beyond that accounted for by demographic change (95% CI 5.7–6.5%). The volume of patients admitted for ≥2 days also increased; however, the admission rate per 1000 persons for these longer‐stay patients declined over the decade by 9% (95% CI 5–12%). The most frequent discharge diagnoses were injury or poisoning, and disorders of the circulatory, respiratory or digestive systems. The numbers and mortality rate for ED admissions declined over the decade.

Conclusion

Emergency hospital admissions have risen over the last decade even after adjustment for population changes. There was a disproportionate rise in same day/overnight admissions, with overrepresentation of the elderly. This is possibly related to changes in ED models of care, including introduction of short‐stay units, improved diagnostic and therapeutic capability, and risk‐averse management to optimise safe discharge, within the context of time‐based performance targets.
Modifying Risk Factors to Prevent and Treat Erectile Dysfunction
Authors: Glina Sidney , Sharlip Ira D. , Hellstrom Wayne J.G.
Published: September 2012

Introduction

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common complaint in men over 40 years of age and prevalence rates increase with age. Comorbidities such as heart disease, diabetes, dyslipidemia, hypertension, and depression have been described as primary risk factors for the development of ED. Additionally, a number of modifiable lifestyle factors, including physical activity, smoking, alcohol consumption, diabetes control, and obesity, have been associated with ED.

Aim

The association of modifiable behavioral factors with ED, mainly among men without recognized comorbidities, opens the possibility for intervention strategies to prevent and potentially improve erectile function in patients suffering with ED.

Conclusion

While intriguing, most of the literature and evidence is not completely scientifically compelling as to how modifying lifestyle risk factors can improve erectile function. Weight loss may reverse ED through other mechanisms, namely, decreased inflammation, increased serum testosterone levels, and improved mood and self-esteem. Currently, the evidence at hand recommends that patient education should be aimed at increasing exercise, reducing weight to achieve a body mass index less than 30 kg/m2, and stopping smoking to improve or restore erectile function, mainly in men without established comorbidities. When comorbidities are present, lifestyle modifications may be important in preventing or reducing sexual dysfunction. These modifications may include precise glycemic control in diabetic men and the use of pharmacologic therapies for hypertension and depression, which are less likely to cause sexual side effects.