bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antimicrobial Use and Adverse Drug Reaction in Newborns with Neonatal Sepsis: A Prospective Observational Study from a Tertiary Care Teaching Hospital
Authors: Parmar Riddhi C , Singh Anil P
Published: May 2024

Introduction: Neonatal Sepsis (NS) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, especially in developing countries like India. The role of antimicrobials is life-saving in NS. To achieve a good prognosis, early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are required. Data related to the irrational use of antimicrobials in neonates are limited. Aim: To evaluate the drug usage pattern and Adverse Drug Reactions (ADRs) of antimicrobials in NS. Materials and Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted among 350 neonates who were admitted and diagnosed with NS from January to December 2021 in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) of PDU Medical College and Civil Hospital, Rajkot, Gujarat, India. Demographic data such as age, sex, birth weight, and clinical data such as type of delivery, type of sepsis, culture-sensitivity status, and antimicrobials used were recorded. Suspected ADRs were reported in the pharmacovigilance database. Categorical data were analysed in percentage, whereas some clinical data were analysed with mean and median using Microsoft Office Excel-2019. Results: In the present study, 172 (49.15%) male and 178 (50.85%) female neonates were almost equally affected. The mean gestational age and birth weight were 35 ± 3.6 weeks and 2 ± 0.7 kg, respectively. Early-Onset Neonatal Sepsis (EONS) cases were more at 273 (78%) compared to Late-Onset Neonatal Sepsis (LONS). Seventeen different antimicrobials were used. The average number of antimicrobials used per case was 2.9. The Piperacillin Tazobactam was the most commonly used antimicrobial in 173 cases (49.43%) in early-onset sepsis, while Meropenem was used in 40 cases (11.43%) in late-onset sepsis. Coagulase-negative Staphylococcus was the most commonly isolated organism in 15 cases (4.2%), followed by Klebsiella Pneumoniae in 13 cases (3.7%). Twelve out of 17 antimicrobials (70.59%) were not included in the first list of essential medicines for children of India in 2011. Six ADRs were reported in the present study. Conclusion: In all admitted cases of sepsis, empirical therapy was given, but variations from standard recommendations were observed in dose and frequency. A periodic survey of antimicrobial use patterns in NS will be useful in the rational selection of empirical therapy.
Outcome of Modified Open Latarjet Operation in the Treatment of the Recurrent Anterior Shoulder Dislocation: A Cohort Study
Authors: Jamoriya Rajesh , Pathak Abhishek , Mishra Santosh Kumar
Published: May 2024

Introduction: Shoulder instability is defined as a symptomatic translation of the humeral head about the glenoid fossa during active shoulder motion. Anteroinferior glenoid bone loss or labrum avulsion is most often a consistent finding in recurrent dislocation. The modified open Latarjet procedure is one of the most effective methods of treatment for patients with recurrent shoulder instability with glenoid bone loss. Aim: To determine the functional outcome of the congruent arc modification of the open Latarjet procedure. Materials and Methods: This prospective cohort study was conducted at a tertiary healthcare centre in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, India between January 2018 and December 2020. A total of 25 patients with recurrent anterior shoulder dislocation underwent treatment using the modified open Latarjet procedure. Two patients were lost to follow-up, resulting in the evaluation of 23 patients. All patients underwent a 3D Computed Tomography (CT) scan to document glenoid bone loss. The intensity of pain, activity level, strength of abduction, and Range of Motion (ROM) were assessed to calculate the Constant Shoulder Score for pre- and postoperative evaluation of functional outcomes. Follow-ups were conducted at 3 months, 6 months, 1 year, and 2 years after surgery. The data was analysed using the Wilcoxon’s signed-rank test, and Spearman’s correlation coefficient was used to identify associations between various variables. Results: A total of 23 male patients aged between 18 and 63 years were included. The average age of patients was 30.35±11.27 years. Preoperatively, only 3 patients (13.04%) had good to excellent Constant Shoulder Scores. However, no statistically significant variation in Constant Score was observed three months after surgery. Six months post-surgery, 17 patients (73.92%) showed good to excellent scores. Nearly one year after surgery, 21 patients (91.3%) had good to excellent outcomes. At the final follow-up, 22 patients (95.65%) demonstrated good to excellent outcomes. A statistically significant improvement in good to excellent scores was noted six months postoperatively (p-value <0.001). A total of 20 patients (86.96%) achieved full ROM, with only 3 patients (13.04%) reporting mild to moderate limitations in shoulder ROM. None of the patients experienced redislocation, and the apprehension test was positive in only one patient. Conclusion: The modified open Latarjet procedure is a reliable method for providing stability and Self confidence to patients with recurrent shoulder instability and glenoid bone loss.
Training Impact Assessment: Evaluating PAMETI's Programs for Punjab's Extension Personnel
Authors: Anshuman Jyotishree , Kaur Rupinder , Rampal Vipan kumar , Kar Shreya , Naik Badigi Pavan
Published: May 2024

The study was undertaken with the objective of finding the level of effectiveness of the training programmes for extension personnel. The sample consists of trainees from various competency development training programmes organised by Punjab Agricultural Management and Extension Training Institute (PAMETI) in 2017–2018. In total 5 trainings and 24 trainees from each trainings were selected by purposive and random sampling respectively. Thus, a sample of 120 trainees from PAMETI, Ludhiana were taken for the study. Most of the trainees belonged to the high category of ‘applicability and utility’, ‘knowledge, attitude and skill’ and conviction of the training programmes whereas most belonged to medium category of relevance, timeliness and ‘improvement in job performance and satisfaction’ of training programmes. It was found that average training effectiveness index is highest for applicability and utility of the training programmes whereas lowest for job performance and satisfaction. Most of the trainees perceived to lie in the medium category of the overall training effectiveness index followed by high and low category.
Impact of COVID – 19 on Frequency of Food Purchase in Families of Andhra Pradesh
Authors: Monica Y. , Aruna M. , Lakshmi K. , Dhanasree K. , Prakash K. Kiran
Published: May 2024

The study was undertaken to determine the impact of COVID-19 on the frequency of food purchases in families in Andhra Pradesh. An ex post facto research design was adopted for the study. The study comprised a 360-person sample of families covering both urban and rural areas of three districts of Andhra Pradesh in all three time periods (before, during, and after the pandemic). The frequency of food purchases was used to assess whether there was any change in purchasing patterns in all three time periods among families. The frequency of purchasing food groups was also studied. The results showed that purchasing frequency varied among the families. Comparison of purchasing pattern between the three time periods showed that there was a statistically significant difference in the purchasing pattern of millets. Non-significantly correlated food groups were pulses, fresh fruits, green leafy vegetables, vegetables, milk and milk products, chicken, meat, eggs, fish, sugars, dry fruits, sweets and savories and coffee powder, during three time periods. During the pandemic period, an increase in frequency of purchase was seen in millets and pulses was seen while there was no change in purchasing pattern of cereals and nuts. A decrease in consumption of chicken and sugars was observed. In the post-pandemic period, an increase in frequency of purchase in meat and eggs was noted, and a decrease was noted in purchase of millets and fruits.
Determinants of Profit Efficiency among Rice Farmers in Kilombero Valley, Morogoro, Tanzania
Authors: Anna Mariki, , Damas Philip,
Published: May 2024

Farmers in the Kilombero Valley are experiencing a growing trend towards commercialization seen through the expansion in the cultivated land area rather than agricultural intensification. There is a modicum of information on whether the observed increase in commercialization in the area is associated with an increase in profit. This study used the stochastic profit frontier function to estimate the profit efficiency of rice commercializing farmers and the respective determinants. The study used data collected from 377 rice farmers who were selected by using a multi-stage stratified sampling method. Results indicate that rice commercialising farmers' mean profit efficiency level was 75.65%. This indicates that rice farmers can improve their efficiency levels by 24.4% without increasing the level of inputs used. Maximum likelihood estimates indicated that wage, price of fertilizer, rice area in hectares, and production assets value were significant in determining the profit efficiency of rice commercializing farmers in Kilombero. The study concludes that commercializing farmers in the study area was profit efficient. The study recommends that more emphasis on early formal education in farmers’ society be emphasized for the literate group is more profit-efficient than the illiterate. With the present national educational policy to support education, farming households should strategically take advantage of it as education has exhibited a positive impact on their efficiency. Different services (marketplaces and inputs dealerships) in the area should be improved further to create more room for rice farmers to improve their productivity and profitability.
Effect of Climate Change on Nigerian Economic Sustainability
Authors: Okechukwu Ucheje Okoroafor, , Jacinta Okolo Obiageli, , Mark Chukwueloka Okonma,
Published: May 2024

Climate change is seen as a statistical variation that persists for an extended period, frequently for as long as a decade or more. Moreover, the issue of climate change which has gained global attention poses a serious threat to developing economy like Nigeria, which is characterized by widespread poverty as a result of economic instability. It is against this backdrop that this research is aimed at investigating the effect of climate change on Nigerian economic sustainability. The research made use of Autoregressive Distributive Lag (ARDL)/bond test approach and OLS estimation technique, while data for the period of 1990-2020 was collected. Changes in average temperature and carbon emission were used to capture climate change, while variation in exchange rate and agricultural production were used as control variables. The result of the analysis showed that the goodness-of-fit (R-Square) is 0.998. This means that 99.8% of the changes in the dependent variable (GDP) can be explained by the changes in the independent variables (CEM, AGRIC, EXR, TEMP). The annual speed of adjustment from short run to long run relationship is 34%. At F-statistic = 195.8052 and P value = 0.000, the model is statistically significant at 1% level. The results of the analysis further demonstrated that both in long-run and short-run, carbon emissions adversely affect Nigerian economic sustainability. Additionally, average atmospheric temperature was significantly related to sustainability of Nigerian economy in the short run. It was concluded that environmental stakeholders as well as Nigerian government should develop and enforce policies to reduce carbon emissions and forest depletion. Also, efforts should be made by government towards ensuring that policies that are environmentally friendly are made that can encourage agricultural production in order to reduce import of agricultural produce, thereby boosting economic growth.
Evaluating the Effects of Drought Stress on Biomass and Yield Traits in Sorghum Genotypes
Authors: R Navyashree , UV Mummigatti , P Nethra , B Basavaraj , NG Hanamaratti
Published: May 2024

The study aimed to identify drought-tolerant sorghum genotypes by evaluating twenty sorghum genotypes over two Rabi seasons (2021-22 and 2022-23) under irrigated and rainfed conditions using a split plot design. Results showed that moisture stress significantly affected sorghum performance, including leaf and stem dry matter accumulation, grain yield per plant, stover yield, and harvest index. Among the genotypes, BJV-44 and M-35-1 exhibited the least decline in grain yield per plant under rainfed conditions, with yields of 76.17 and 73.50 g/plant, respectively, compared to irrigated conditions. Conversely, genotypes M 148-138 and Tandur L experienced the most significant reductions in grain yield per plant under rainfed conditions. Basavana pada exhibited the highest harvest index. The study concluded that BJV-44 and M-35-1 are drought-tolerant sorghum genotypes with relatively higher grain yields per plant under rainfed conditions, providing valuable insights into sorghum genotype performance and resource utilization in drought-prone regions.
Groundwater Quality Status of the Parambikulam Aliyar Palar Basin, Tamil Nadu, India Using RS and GIS Techniques
Authors: Jothimani Palanisamy , Poornachandhra Chidamparam , Dinesh Govindaraj Kamalam , Vinothkanna Shanmugam , Vanitha Koothan , Nishanth Paravel
Published: May 2024

The dependency of ground water is rising day by day. The ground water gets recharged mainly through rainfall. Thirty five water samples were collected from Parambikulam Aliyar Palar basin from open wells, bore wells and dug cum bore wells and analysed for chemical properties such as pH, Electrical Conductivity, cations and anions for two years duration (2020 and 2021) at three months interval (summer, winter, southwest monsoon, northeast monsoon) and analysed for the quality parameters. T Electrical conductivity values were ranged from 0.3 to 5.19 dsm-1, 0.29 to 6.80 dsm-1 0.3 to 6.84 dsm-1 and 0.64 to 4.17 dsm-1 during south west, north east, winter and summer seasons of 2020, respectively. The salt content was slightly increased during winter and summers seasons as compared to south west and north east. he samples were classified under USSL classification.  Most of the samples come under medium salinity class (C2) (48.57%) followed by low salinity class (C1), high salinity class (C4) and very high salinity class (C3) with 28.57, 14.29 and 8.57 per cent respectively in all the seasons. Majority of the samples exhibit there is no permeability hazard. Salinity persists in the basin and possibility of salt accumulation in irrigation pipes observed from LSI values. Using remote sensing and GIS technique, the mapping was done for the groundwater quality of PAP basin. The variations in the ground water quality of the basin are directly positively correlated with rainfall pattern and geology of the basin. For effective utilization of saline water in the basin, management strategies were formulated and field experiments were conducted in the farmer’s holdings in the sampling area of the basin.
Overlap Syndrome: Systemic Lupus Erythematosus and ANCA Vasculitis in a Case Report
Authors: Benjelloun Hanane , Rattal Asmaa , Amir Afaf , Harraz Hanaa , Zaghba Nahid , Chaanoun Khadija , Yassine Najiba
Published: May 2024

Introduction: Microscopic polyangiitis is a systemic necrotising vasculitis that predominantly affects small-calibre vessels. It may be associated with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) as part of an overlap syndrome, but there are very few reports of this in the literature.    
Case Report: We report the case of a 19-year-old patient admitted with moderate haemoptysis, epistaxis and petechial purpura revealing intra-alveolar haemorrhage with a strongly positive P-ANCA. In addition, blood tests for antinuclear antibodies and rheumatoid factor were positive, with renal involvement suggesting associated lupus as part of an overlap syndrome. Progression was good with corticoide and immunosuppressant treatment.
Conclusion: The clinical presentation of overlap syndrome is rare and severe, with a dual immunological profile of antinuclear antibodies and neutrophil cytoplasm.
Appendix ‐ Carcinoma
Authors: Sobin L. H. , Gospodarowicz M.K. , Wittekind Ch.
Published: April 2010

Carcinoma of the appendix had been included in the staging of colorectal carcinoma in the TNM 6th edition. In the 7th edition it is separately staged. The basic T, N, and M categories are essentially similar to those of the colon. The separation of mucinous from non‐mucinous carcinomas is required and T4 and M1 are modified to address the particular nature of mucinous carcinomas. Grading was introduced to distinguish between low‐grade and high‐grade mucinous carcinomas because of their differences in behaviour and management. The stage grouping is dependent on these grades. A distinction is made between mucinous peritoneal tumours within the right lower quadrant (T4a) and intraperitoneal metastasis beyond the right lower quadrant, including pseudomyxoma peritonei (M1a) because of the favourable nature of the former compared to the latter. The carcinoma staging scheme also applies to goblet cell carcinoids, but not to typical carcinoids.
Gastric, Small & Large Intestinal Carcinoid Tumours
Authors: Sobin L. H. , Gospodarowicz M.K. , Wittekind Ch.
Published: April 2010

For the first time the TNM classification has addressed carcinoids and other NET. Gastrointestinal carcinoids (appendiceal, gastric, small and large bowel) have separate classifications. Merkel cell carcinoma has a separate classification as well. In the lung and pancreas, NET are covered by the same criteria as are carcinomas.
Uterus ‐ Uterine Sarcomas
Authors: Sobin L. H. , Gospodarowicz M.K. , Wittekind Ch.
Published: April 2010

The TNM system is used to describe and classify cancer stages and progression based on the assessment of three components:

T

The extent of the primary tumour

N

The absence or presence and extent of regional lymph node metastasis

M

The absence or presence of distant metastasis.

TNM classification for the above site is described under the following headings:

Rules for classification with the procedures for assessing T, N, and M categories; additional methods may be used when they enhance the accuracy of appraisal before treatment

Anatomical sites and subsites where appropriate

Definition of the regional lymph nodes

TNM Clinical classification

pTNM Pathological classification

G Histopathological grading

Stage grouping

Summary
A robust optimal sliding‐mode control approach for magnetic levitation systems
Authors: Shieh Hsin‐Jang , Siao Jheng‐Hong , Liu Yu‐Chen
Published: April 2010

This paper presents a robust optimal sliding‐mode control approach for position tracking of a magnetic levitation system. First, a linear model that represents the nonlinear dynamics of the magnetic levitation system is derived by the feedback linearization technique. Then, the robust optimal sliding‐mode control developed from the linear model is proposed. In the proposed control scheme, the integral sliding‐mode control with robust optimal approach is developed to achieve the features of high performance in position tracking response and robustness to the matched and unmatched uncertainties. Simulation and experimental results from the computer‐controlled magnetic levitation system are illustrated to show the validity of the proposed control approach for practical applications.

Copyright © 2010 John Wiley and Sons Asia Pte Ltd and Chinese Automatic Control Society
Sampled‐data H∞ control for networked systems with random packet dropouts
Authors: Fang Xiaosheng , Wang Jingcheng
Published: April 2010

This paper is concerned with the H∞ control problem for networked control systems (NCSs) with random packet dropouts. The NCS is modeled as a sampled‐data system which involves a continuous plant, a digital controller, an event‐driven holder and network channels. In this model, two types of packet dropouts in the sensor‐to‐controller (S/C) side and controller‐to‐actuator (C/A) side are both considered, and are described by two mutually independent stochastic variables satisfying the Bernoulli binary distribution. By applying an input/output delay approach, the sampled‐data NCS is transformed into a continuous time‐delay system with stochastic parameters. An observer‐based control scheme is designed such that the closed‐loop NCS is stochastically exponentially mean‐square stable and the prescribed H∞ disturbance attenuation level is also achieved. The controller design problem is transformed into a feasibility problem for a set of linear matrix inequalities (LMIs). A numerical example is given to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed design method.

Copyright © 2010 John Wiley and Sons Asia Pte Ltd and Chinese Automatic Control Society
Effect of maternal diet rich in omega‐6 and omega‐9 fatty acids on the liver of LDL receptor‐deficient mouse offspring
Authors: De Oliveira Cipriano Torres Dilênia , Dos Santos Ana Célia Oliveira , Silva Amanda Karolina Soares E. , Leite Jacqueline Isaura Alvarez , De Souza José Roberto Botelho , Beltrão Eduardo Isidoro Carneiro , Peixoto Christina Alves
Published: April 2010

BACKGROUND: Omega‐6 fatty acids are important to fetal development. However, during gestation/lactation, these fatty acids may contribute toward the development of fat tissue. Omega‐9 fatty acids are associated with a reduction in serum lipids and protection from liver disease. OBJECTIVES: The present study investigated the effect of the maternal intake of omega‐6 and omega‐9 in hypercholesterolemic mothers on the liver of the offspring. METHODS: LDL receptor–deficient mice were fed a diet rich in either omega‐6 (E6D) or omega‐9 (E9D) for 45 days prior to mating and until the birth of the offspring, evaluating the effect on the offspring liver in comparison to a standard diet (STD). RESULTS: Mothers fed with the E6D experienced an increase in total cholesterol (TC) and the offspring exhibited an increase in TC, hepatic triglycerides (TG), and CC‐chemokine ligand (CCL)2/monocyte chemoattractant protein (MCP)‐1 as well as a reduction in HDL. Histological analysis on this group revealed steatosis, leukocyte infiltrate, and increased CCL2/MCP‐1 expression. The ultrastructural analysis revealed hepatocytes with lipid droplets and myofibroblasts. The offspring of mothers fed the standard diet exhibited low serum TC, but microvesicular steatosis was observed. The offspring of mothers fed the E9D exhibited lower serum and hepatic TG as well as higher LDL in comparison to the other diets. The histological analyses revealed lower steatosis and leukocyte infiltrate. CONCLUSIONS: The findings suggest that hypercholesterolemic mothers with a diet rich in omega‐6 fatty acids predispose their offspring to steatohepatitis, whereas a diet rich in omega‐9 has a protective effect. Birth Defects Res (Part B) 89:164–170, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Rationally engineered double substituted variants of Yarrowia lipolytica lipase with enhanced activity coupled with highly inverted enantioselectivity towards 2‐bromo phenyl acetic acid esters
Authors: Cambon Emmanuelle , Piamtongkam Rungtiwa , Bordes Florence , Duquesne Sophie , André Isabelle , Marty Alain
Published: April 2010

Inverting enzyme enantioselectivity by protein engineering is still a great challenge. Lip2p lipase from Yarrowia lipolytica, which demonstrates a low S‐enantioselectivity (E‐value = 5) during the hydrolytic kinetic resolution of 2‐bromo‐phenyl acetic acid octyl esters (an important class of chemical intermediates in the pharmaceutical industry), was converted, by a rational engineering approach, into a totally R‐selective enzyme (E‐value > 200). This tremendous change in selectivity is the result of only two amino acid changes. The starting point of our strategy was the prior identification of two key positions, 97 and 232, for enantiomer discrimination. Four single substitution variants were recently identified as exhibiting a low inversion of selectivity coupled to a low‐hydrolytic activity. On the basis of these results, six double substituted variants, combining relevant mutations at both 97 and 232 positions, were constructed by site‐directed mutagenesis. This work led to the isolation of one double substituted variant (D97A‐V232F), which displays a total preference for the R‐enantiomer. The highly reversed enantioselectivity of this variant is accompanied by a 4.5‐fold enhancement of its activity toward the preferred enantiomer. The molecular docking of the R‐ and S‐enantiomers in the wild‐type enzyme and the D97A‐V232F variant suggests that V232F mutation provides a more favorable stacking interaction for the phenyl group of the R‐enantiomer, that could explain both the enhanced activity and the reversal of enantioselectivity. These results demonstrate the potential of rationally engineered mutations to further enhance enzyme activity and to modulate selectivity. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2010;106: 852–859. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Monitoring unauthorized internet accesses through a ‘honeypot’ system
Authors: Marchese Mario , Surlinelli Roberto , Zappatore Sandro
Published: April 2010

The role of the Internet is continuously increasing and many technical, commercial, and business transactions are carried out by a multitude of users who exploit a set of specialized/sophisticated network applications. In this context, the task of network monitoring and surveillance is gaining great relevance and honeypots represent promising tools to get information, and understanding about the ‘areas of interests’ of attackers, as well as about the possible relations among ‘blackhat’ teams. The paper presents and discusses the results achieved by a group of honeypots deployed within the networks of the Department of Communication, Computer and System Science at the University of Genoa. The collected statistics, measured over 4‐month long period, reveal that approximately 10 000 different attackers, coming from 130 different countries, have ‘contacted’ the honeypot system and that about 60 000 TCP distinct connections have logged in. Our high‐interaction honeypot has counted more than 25 000 attempts to access a ssh server, thus permitting to trace many attempts to install rootkits. A comparison with results obtained by similar researches carried out in other laboratories is presented and commented. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Architecture of a microgrid energy management system
Authors: Jimeno Joseba , Anduaga Jon , Oyarzabal José , de Muro Asier Gil
Published: April 2010

In the framework of deregulated electricity markets, distributed generation and load management are emerging as new technologies. In this context, the microgrid concept adds value to distributed energy resources (DER) by aggregating them into autonomous grids that provide high levels of efficiency, security and controllability. In order to achieve its functions, a microgrid requires a control system in charge of operating the elements in it in an optimal way while the required quality parameters are fulfilled.

This paper describes the general architecture of a microgrid energy management system (EMS) based on multi‐agent system (MAS) technologies. MAS technologies are considered to be very well suited to systems that require plug and play capabilities, robustness, heterogeneous device integration, high scalability and extensibility. All of which are essential characteristics of a microgrid EMS. This paper also describes the implementation of a secondary control system based on the microgrid EMS architecture developed. This system is in charge of maintaining microgrid frequency and power exchange with the main grid close to predefined values. This is achieved in a way in which generation and consumption resources are optimally dispatched and able to operate in both grid connected and islanded modes. Finally, the control system developed is tested in an actual microgrid in order to assess its performance and demonstrate its applicability. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Access network discovery and selection in the evolved 3GPP multi‐access system architecture
Authors: Sachs Joachim , Olsson Magnus
Published: April 2010

The system architecture evolution (SAE) of mobile networks specified in 3GPP release 8 comprises an evolved packet core (EPC) network to which different types of access networks can be connected. Inter‐system mobility management enables users to change the access network while maintaining ongoing data sessions. One important functionality in a 3GPP system is how a mobile terminal discovers and selects available access networks. In this paper we describe the access network discovery and selection functionality used in 3GPP release 8; we explain the differences of the methods applied for 3GPP access networks (GERAN, UTRAN, E‐UTRAN), for fixed or wireless non‐3GPP access networks (e.g. WLAN, WiMAX), as well as the optimisation used for CDMA2000 access networks. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Relation between frontal lobe symptoms and dementia severity within and across diagnostic dementia categories
Authors: Aries Marcel J. H. , Le Bastard Nathalie , Debruyne Hans , Van Buggenhout Michael , Nagels Guy , De Deyn Peter Paul , Engelborghs Sebastiaan
Published: April 2010

Background

To study frontal lobe symptoms in relation to dementia severity within and across diagnostic dementia categories, a cross‐sectional analysis of behavioural data was performed.

Methods

Patients with probable Alzheimer's disease (AD) (n = 456), frontotemporal dementia (FTD) (n = 55) and dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) (n = 48) were included. Dementia severity and frontal lobe symptoms were assessed by means of the global deterioration scale and the Middelheim frontality score (MFS).

Results

In FTD, no difference in MFS total scores between patients belonging to the mild and severe dementia stages was found (p = 0.828). In AD and DLB groups, significantly higher MFS total scores were found in severe dementia stages compared to mild dementia stages (p < 0.001). Comparing MFS total scores between FTD and AD patients, significantly higher scores were achieved in FTD patients, irrespective of dementia severity (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

In FTD patients, frontal lobe symptoms were severe in the mild, moderate and severe dementia stages although the nature of frontal lobe symptoms depended on disease severity. AD and DLB patients displayed more frontal lobe symptoms in the advanced disease stages as compared to disease onset, suggesting gradual frontal lobe involvement as the disease progresses. The nature of frontal lobe symptoms related to dementia severity differed between AD, DLB and FTD patients, suggesting different patterns of frontal lobe involvement. Last but not the least, these data point to the potential diagnostic value of behavioural observation of frontal lobe symptoms for (differential) dementia diagnosis, especially at the earliest disease stages. These findings await confirmation through a prospective, longitudinal study. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Research capacity strengthening: donor approaches to improving and assessing its impact in low‐ and middle‐income countries
Authors: Gadsby Erica Wirrmann
Published: April 2010

Increasing attention, and a concomitant increase in funds, is being devoted to the strengthening of research capacity for health within low‐ and middle‐income countries. Yet approaches to research capacity strengthening (RCS) are still new, and there is much debate about how to strengthen something that is so difficult to define, let alone measure. This paper aims to inform our understanding of how research capacity is being strengthened, and how we might consider the effectiveness of these initiatives. It does this by examining (a) understandings of and approaches to RCS, and (b) different ways in which RCS is monitored and evaluated. The study included a literature review, internet search, and analysis of the web pages and available documents for six donor organizations key to health RCS. E‐mail and telephone discussions were conducted with experts in the area of health RCS, as well as semi‐structured telephone interviews with representatives from the six identified organizations. The study found that understandings of and approaches to RCS are wide ranging. We are at the early stages of knowing how best to identify, target and affect the many factors that are important for stronger research capacity. Furthermore, as RCS initiatives become more wide‐ranging and complex, they become more difficult to monitor and evaluate. Donors are struggling with many challenges associated with tracking RCS initiatives. There is no consensus on the best methods or tools to use. There is a clear need for improved strategies and the development of a tried and tested framework for RCS tracking. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Piezometric response in zones of a watershed with lateral preferential flow as a first‐order control on subsurface flow
Authors: Anderson A. E. , Weiler M. , Alila Y. , Hudson R. O.
Published: April 2010

Characterizing zones of a watershed based on the water table is used to understand and predict internal watershed processes. In watersheds dominated by lateral preferential flow, the water table response typically shows a distinct hydraulically limited pattern. This response is characterized by a capping of the rising water table when the lateral preferential flow features are activated and subsurface flow still increases. We expected that this response would be related to the contributing area since nearby hillslope excavations showed that the development of preferential flow network was positively correlated with the contributing area. The watershed was stratified into three predetermined zones and installed 25 piezometers to measure the water table dynamics. The objectives were (1) to characterize the water table–runoff relationship, (2) to prove preferential flow by observable characteristics and (3) to test the feasibility of identifying areas within a watershed that are dominated by lateral preferential flow. Watershed zones were not well defined and there was no strong relationship between the hydraulically limited response and observable watershed characteristics. Although zones might still be useful for grouping the hillslope processes, the piezometric response may not be an appropriate indicator for mapping the watershed into areas with runoff dominated by lateral preferential flow. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Storm flow and baseflow response to reduced acid deposition—using Bayesian compositional analysis in hydrograph separation with changing end members
Authors: Tetzlaff D. , Brewer M. J. , Malcolm I. A. , Soulsby C.
Published: April 2010

In this paper, we present the analysis of long‐term (since 1989) hydrochemical data from two small (ca1 km2) catchments in Central Scotland. Both catchments have experienced marked reductions in acid deposition. Time‐series analysis of stream water alkalinity, although systematically changing as a result of recovery from acidification, was used to conceptualize how the composition and contribution of different hydrological sources responded over the study period. Nonlinear curve fitting methods allowed the temporal changes in concentration–discharge relationships to be sufficiently well described to assess the impact of reduced acid deposition on storm flow and baseflow hydrochemistry. A Bayesian compositional analysis was applied to facilitate chemically based hydrograph separation. This allowed temporal variation over longer time periods in catchment‐scale hydrological source contributions (specifically groundwater) to be estimated. Although these showed no systematic trend, they did differ between the two catchments, most likely as a result of small, but significant differences in the riparian soil cover. Understanding such changes to high and low flows over time is of paramount importance as such flow extremes have the most relevance to applied problems, particularly those related to environmental change. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
IHMS—Integrated Hydrological Modelling System. Part 2. Application of linked unsaturated, DiCaSM and saturated zone, MODFLOW models on Kouris and Akrotiri catchments in Cyprus
Authors: Ragab Ragab , Bromley John , Dörflinger Gerald , Katsikides Savvas
Published: April 2010

The integrated hydrological modelling system, IHMS, has been described in detail in Part 1 of this paper. The system comprises three models: Distributed Catchment Scale Model (DiCaSM), MODFLOW (v96 and v2000) and SWI. The DiCaSM simulates different components of the unsaturated zone water balance, including groundwater recharge. The recharge output from DiCaSM is used as input to the saturated zone model MODFLOW, which subsequently calculates groundwater flows and head distributions. The main objectives of this paper are: (1) to show the way more accurate predictions of groundwater levels in two Cyprus catchments can be obtained using improved estimates of groundwater recharge from the catchment water balance, and (2) to demonstrate the interface utility that simulates communication between unsaturated and saturated zone models and allows the transmission of data between the two models at the required spatial and temporal scales. The linked models can be used to predict the impact of future climate change on surface and groundwater resources and to estimate the future water supply shortfall in the island up to 2050. The DiCaSM unsaturated zone model was successfully calibrated and validated against stream flows with reasonable values for goodness of fit as shown by the Nash‐Sutcliffe criterion. Groundwater recharge obtained from the successful tests was applied at various spatial and temporal scales to the Kouris and Akrotiri catchments in Cyprus. These recharge values produced good estimates of groundwater levels in both catchments. Once calibrated, the model was run using a number of possible future climate change scenarios. The results showed that by 2050, groundwater and surface water supplies would decrease by 35% and 24% for Kouris and 20% and 17% for Akrotiri, respectively. The gap between water supply and demand showed a linear increase with time. The results suggest that IHMS can be used as an effective tool for water authorities and decision makers to help balance demand and supply on the island. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Dynamic evolution of nutrient discharge under stormflow and baseflow conditions in a coastal agricultural watershed in Ishigaki Island, Okinawa, Japan
Authors: Blanco Ariel C. , Nadaoka Kazuo , Yamamoto Takahiro , Kinjo Koichi
Published: April 2010

Excessive terrestrial nutrient loadings adversely impact coral reefs by primarily enhancing growth of macroalgae, potentially leading to a phase‐shift phenomenon. Hydrological processes and other spatial and temporal factors affecting nutrient discharge must be examined to be able to formulate effective measures for reducing nutrient export to adjacent reefs. During storm events and baseflow periods, water samples were obtained from the tropical Todoroki River, which drains an intensively agricultural watershed into Shiraho coral reef. In situ nutrient analyzers were deployed for 6 months to hourly measure dissolved nutrient (NO3−‐N and PO43−‐P) concentrations. Total phosphorus (TP) and suspended solid concentration (TSS) were increased by higher rainfall intensity (r = 0·94, p < 0·01) and river discharge Q (r = 0·88, p < 0·01). In contrast, NO3−‐N concentration tends to decrease drastically (e.g. from 3 to 1 mg l−1) during flood events. When base flow starts to dominate afterwards, NO3−‐N manifested an increasing trend, but decreases when baseflow discharge becomes low. This counter‐clockwise hysteresis for NO3−‐N highlights the significant influence of groundwater discharge. N delivery can therefore be considered a persistent process compared to sediment and P discharge, which are highly episodic in nature. Based on GIS analysis, nutrient concentration along the Todoroki River was largely affected by the percentage of sugarcane/bare areas and bedrock type. The spatial distribution of N concentration in the river reflects the considerable influence of subsurface geology—higher N levels in limestone‐dominated areas. P concentrations were directly related to the total length of artificial drainage, which enhances sediment transport. The use of high‐resolution monitoring data coupled with GIS‐based spatial analysis therefore enabled the clarification of control factors and the difference in the spatio‐temporal discharge characteristics between N and P. Thus, although erosion‐reduction schemes would reduce P discharge, other approaches (e.g. minimize fertilizer) are needed to reduce N discharge. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
On nonparametric estimation of a hedonic price function
Authors: Haupt Harry , Schnurbus Joachim , Tschernig Rolf
Published: April 2010

Recently, using mixed data on Canadian housing, Parmeter, Henderson, and Kumbhakar (Journal of Applied Econometrics 2007; 22: 695–699) found that a nonparametric approach for estimating a hedonic house price function is superior to formerly suggested parametric and semiparametric specifications. We carefully reanalyze these specifications for this dataset by applying a recent nonparametric specification test and simulation‐based prediction comparisons. For the case at issue our results suggest that a previously proposed parametric specification does not have to be rejected and we illustrate how nonparametric methods provide valuable insights during all modeling steps. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Thrombin stimulates RPE cell motility by PKC‐ζ‐ and NF‐κB‐dependent gene expression of MCP‐1 and CINC‐1/GRO chemokines
Authors: Palma‐Nicolás José Prisco , López Edith , López‐Colomé Ana María
Published: April 2010

Retinal pigment epithelial cells (RPE) are the major cell type involved in the pathogenesis of proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR), which involves the epithelial‐mesenchymal transition, proliferation, and directional migration of transformed RPE cells to the vitreous upon RPE exposure to serum components, thrombin among them. Although the aqueous humor and vitreous of PVR patients contain high levels of chemokines, their possible involvement in PVR development has not been explored. We here analyzed the effect of thrombin on chemokine gene expression and its correlation with RPE cell migration using rat RPE cells in culture as a model system. We demonstrated that thrombin induces RPE cell migration through the dose‐dependent stimulation of MCP1 and GRO expression/release, and the autocrine activation of CXCR‐2 and CCR‐2 chemokine receptors. Whereas inhibition of CXCR2 by Sb‐225002 and of CCR2 by Rs‐504393 partially prevented hirudin‐sensitive cell migration, the joint inhibition of these receptors abolished thrombin effect, suggesting the contribution of distinct but coincident mechanisms. Thrombin effects were not modified by Ro‐32‐0432 inhibition of conventional/novel PKC isoenzymes or by the MAPkinase pathway inhibitor U0126. MCP1 and GRO expression/secretion, and cell migration were completely prevented by the inhibitory PKC‐ζ pseudosubstrate and by the nuclear factor‐kappa B (NF‐κB) inhibitor BAY11‐7082, but not by wortmannin inhibition of PI3K. Results show that signaling pathways leading to RPE cell migration differ from the MEK–ERK–PI3K‐mediated promotion RPE of cell proliferation, both of which concur at the activation of PKC‐ζ. J. Cell. Biochem. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Expression pattern and sub‐cellular distribution of phosphoinositide specific phospholipase C enzymes after treatment with U‐73122 in rat astrocytoma cells
Authors: Lo Vasco Vincenza Rita , Fabrizi Cinzia , Panetta Barbara , Fumagalli Lorenzo , Cocco Lucio
Published: April 2010

Phosphoinositide specific phospholipase C (PI‐PLC) enzymes interfere with the metabolism of inositol phospholipids (PI), molecules involved in signal transduction, a complex process depending on various components. Many evidences support the hypothesis that, in the glia, isoforms of PI‐PLC family display different expression and/or sub cellular distribution under non‐physiological conditions such as the rat astrocytes activation during neurodegeneration, the tumoural progression of some neoplasms and the inflammatory cascade activation after lipopolysaccharide administration, even if their role remains not completely elucidated. Treatment of a cultured established glioma cell line (C6 rat astrocytoma cell line) induces a modification in the pattern of expression and of sub cellular distribution of PI‐PLCs compared to untreated cells. Special attention require PI‐PLC beta3 and PI‐PLC gamma2 isoforms, whose expression and sub cellular localization significantly differ after U‐73122 treatment. The meaning of these modifications is unclear, also because the use of this N‐aminosteroid compound remains controversial, inasmuch it has further actions which might contribute to the global effect recorded on the treated cells. J. Cell. Biochem. 110: 1005–1012, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Degradation of phthalate esters (PAEs) in soil and the effects of PAEs on soil microcosm activity
Authors: Xie Hui‐Jun , Shi Yi‐Jing , Zhang Jian , Cui Yin , Teng Shao‐Xiang , Wang Shu‐Guang , Zhao Ran
Published: April 2010

BACKGROUND:Phthalate esters (PAEs), a class of refractory and toxic organic compounds, are becoming one of the most widespread contaminants in the environment. Degradation of PAEs in soil has been investigated, but limited to one or a few kinds of PAEs. Microorganisms could be regarded as a sensitive bio‐indicator for soil contaminants. Therefore, four commonly used PAEs were chosen to investigate their degradation patterns and potential impacts on soil microbial activity with a series of bioassays.

RESULT:PAEs in sterile soils changed slightly, while degradation of PAEs in non‐sterile soil followed a single first‐order kinetic. Higher concentrations of PAEs led to lower β‐glucosidase activity and higher protease activity, with smooth changes of phosphatase and urease activities. PAEs decreased average well color development (AWCD), while Shannon index (H) showed a tendency to increase after a decrease. Carbon utilization profile was affected significantly by PAEs, especially at 10 mg kg−1soil.

CONCLUSION:Degradation of PAEs was driven mainly by microbial mediated processes. PAEs affected carbon, nitrogen and phosphorus cycles variously, and had temporal effects on metabolic diversity, owing to the adaptation of microbes. Carbon substrates utilization changed from easily degradable sugars and carboxylic acids to recalcitrant compounds during the simulation. Copyright © 2010 Society of Chemical Industry