bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A review of paediatric tuberculosis in Denmark: 10-year trend, 2000–2009
Authors: Hatleberg Camilla Ingrid , Prahl Julie B. , Rasmussen Jeppe Nørgaard , Andersen Peter Henrik , Bjerrum Stephanie , Thomsen Vibeke Østergaard , Johansen Isik Somuncu
Published: August 2013

Paediatric tuberculosis (TB) is a key indicator for recent transmission and presents a reservoir for the disease. We describe trends in epidemiology, microbiological characteristics and treatment outcome in Denmark between 2000 and 2009. Data were retrieved from the national TB surveillance system and the International Reference Laboratory of Mycobacteriology.

In total, 323 TB cases were reported in children aged <15 years, accounting for 7.6% of all notified cases in Denmark. The overall incidence rate of childhood TB declined from 4.1 per 100 000 to 1.9 per 100 000 in the study period. Immigrant children comprised 79.6% of all cases, with the highest incidence rate of 94.1 per 100 000 children in 2001. In contrast to immigrant children, the majority of Danish children were aged <5 years and had a known exposure to TB. Pulmonary TB was the commonest presentation. Only half of the cases were culture confirmed.

We observed an overall decreasing trend in the child to adult notification ratio, but a slight increase in the ratio when calculated specifically for ethnic Danes.

Childhood TB needs continuous attention with a special focus on risk groups. Emphasis on improving early TB case detection, contact tracing and further implementation of preventive treatment is necessary.
Ontology based molecular signatures for immune cell types via gene expression analysis
Authors: Meehan Terrence F , Vasilevsky Nicole A , Mungall Christopher J , Dougall David S , Haendel Melissa A , Blake Judith A , Diehl Alexander D
Published: August 2013

Background

New technologies are focusing on characterizing cell types to better understand their heterogeneity. With large volumes of cellular data being generated, innovative methods are needed to structure the resulting data analyses. Here, we describe an ‘Ontologically BAsed Molecular Signature’ (OBAMS) method that identifies novel cellular biomarkers and infers biological functions as characteristics of particular cell types. This method finds molecular signatures for immune cell types based on mapping biological samples to the Cell Ontology (CL) and navigating the space of all possible pairwise comparisons between cell types to find genes whose expression is core to a particular cell type’s identity.

Results

We illustrate this ontological approach by evaluating expression data available from the Immunological Genome project (IGP) to identify unique biomarkers of mature B cell subtypes. We find that using OBAMS, candidate biomarkers can be identified at every strata of cellular identity from broad classifications to very granular. Furthermore, we show that Gene Ontology can be used to cluster cell types by shared biological processes in order to find candidate genes responsible for somatic hypermutation in germinal center B cells. Moreover, throughin silicoexperiments based on this approach, we have identified genes sets that represent genes overexpressed in germinal center B cells and identify genes uniquely expressed in these B cells compared to other B cell types.

Conclusions

This work demonstrates the utility of incorporating structured ontological knowledge into biological data analysis - providing a new method for defining novel biomarkers and providing an opportunity for new biological insights.
Identification, expression, and comparative genomic analysis of the IPT and CKX gene families in Chinese cabbage (Brassica rapa ssp. pekinensis)
Authors: Liu Zhenning , Lv Yanxia , Zhang Mei , Liu Yapei , Kong Lijun , Zou Minghua , Lu Gang , Cao Jiashu , Yu Xiaolin
Published: August 2013

Background

Cytokinins (CKs) have significant roles in various aspects of plant growth and development, and they are also involved in plant stress adaptations. The fine-tuning of the controlled CK levels in individual tissues, cells, and organelles is properly maintained by isopentenyl transferases (IPTs) and cytokinin oxidase/dehydrogenases (CKXs). Chinese cabbage is one of the most economically important vegetable crops worldwide. The whole genome sequencing of Brassica rapa enables us to perform the genome-wide identification and functional analysis of the IPT and CKX gene families.

Results

In this study, a total of 13 BrIPT genes and 12 BrCKX genes were identified. The gene structures, conserved domains and phylogenetic relationships were analyzed. The isoelectric point, subcellular localization and glycosylation sites of the proteins were predicted. Segmental duplicates were found in both BrIPT and BrCKX gene families. We also analyzed evolutionary patterns and divergence of the IPT and CKX genes in the Cruciferae family. The transcription levels of BrIPT and BrCKX genes were analyzed to obtain an initial picture of the functions of these genes. Abiotic stress elements related to adverse environmental stimuli were found in the promoter regions of BrIPT and BrCKX genes and they were confirmed to respond to drought and high salinity conditions. The effects of 6-BA and ABA on the expressions of BrIPT and BrCKX genes were also investigated.

Conclusions

The expansion of BrIPT and BrCKX genes after speciation from Arabidopsis thaliana is mainly attributed to segmental duplication events during the whole genome triplication (WGT) and substantial duplicated genes are lost during the long evolutionary history. Genes produced by segmental duplication events have changed their expression patterns or may adopted new functions and thus are obtained. BrIPT and BrCKX genes respond well to drought and high salinity stresses, and their transcripts are affected by exogenous hormones, such as 6-BA and ABA, suggesting their potential roles in abiotic stress conditions and regulatory mechanisms of plant hormone homeostasis. The appropriate modulation of endogenous CKs levels by IPT and CKX genes is a promising approach for developing economically important high-yielding and high-quality stress-tolerant crops in agriculture.
Odor naming and interpretation performance in 881 schizophrenia subjects: association with clinical parameters
Authors: Kästner Anne , Malzahn Dörthe , Begemann Martin , Hilmes Constanze , Bickeböller Heike , Ehrenreich Hannelore
Published: August 2013

Background

Olfactory function tests are sensitive tools for assessing sensory-cognitive processing in schizophrenia. However, associations of central olfactory measures with clinical outcome parameters have not been simultaneously studied in large samples of schizophrenia patients.

Methods

In the framework of the comprehensive phenotyping of the GRAS (Göttingen Research Association for Schizophrenia) cohort, we modified and extended existing odor naming (active memory retrieval) and interpretation (attribute assignment) tasks to evaluate them in 881 schizophrenia patients and 102 healthy controls matched for age, gender and smoking behavior. Associations with emotional processing, neuropsychological test performance and disease outcome were studied.

Results

Schizophrenia patients underperformed controls in both olfactory tasks. Odor naming deficits were primarily associated with compromised cognition, interpretation deficits with positive symptom severity and general alertness. Contrasting schizophrenia extreme performers of odor interpretation (best versus worst percentile; N=88 each) and healthy individuals (N=102) underscores the obvious relationship between impaired odor interpretation and psychopathology, cognitive dysfunctioning, and emotional processing (all p<0.004).

Conclusions

The strong association of performance in higher olfactory measures, odor naming and interpretation, with lead symptoms of schizophrenia and determinants of disease severity highlights their clinical and scientific significance. Based on the results obtained here in an exploratory fashion in a large patient sample, the development of an easy-to-use clinical test with improved psychometric properties may be encouraged.
Applying the trigger review method after a brief educational intervention: potential for teaching and improving safety in GP specialty training?
Authors: McKay John , de Wet Carl , Kelly Moya , Bowie Paul
Published: August 2013

Background

The Trigger Review Method (TRM) is a structured approach to screening clinical records for undetected patient safety incidents (PSIs) and identifying learning and improvement opportunities. In Scotland, TRM participation can inform GP appraisal and has been included as a core component of the national primary care patient safety programme that was launched in March 2013. However, the clinical workforce needs up-skilled and the potential of TRM in GP training has yet to be tested. Current TRM training utilizes a workplace face-to-face session by a GP expert, which is not feasible. A less costly, more sustainable educational intervention is necessary to build capability at scale. We aimed to determine the feasibility and impact of TRM and a related training intervention in GP training.

Methods

We recruited 25 west of Scotland GP trainees to attend a 2-hour TRM workshop. Trainees then applied TRM to 25 clinical records and returned findings within 4-weeks. A follow-up feedback workshop was held.

Results

21/25 trainees (84%) completed the task. 520 records yielded 80 undetected PSIs (15.4%). 36/80 were judged potentially preventable (45%) with 35/80 classified as causing moderate to severe harm (44%). Trainees described a range of potential learning and improvement plans. Training was positively received and appeared to be successful given these findings. TRM was valued as a safety improvement tool by most participants.

Conclusion

This small study provides further evidence of TRM utility and how to teach it pragmatically. TRM is of potential value in GP patient safety curriculum delivery and preparing trainees for future safety improvement expectations.
Carbon dioxide fixation by Calvin-Cycle enzymes improves ethanol yield in yeast
Authors: Guadalupe-Medina Víctor , Wisselink H Wouter , Luttik Marijke AH , de Hulster Erik , Daran Jean-Marc , Pronk Jack T , van Maris Antonius JA
Published: August 2013

Background

Redox-cofactor balancing constrains product yields in anaerobic fermentation processes. This challenge is exemplified by the formation of glycerol as major by-product in yeast-based bioethanol production, which is a direct consequence of the need to reoxidize excess NADH and causes a loss of conversion efficiency. Enabling the use of CO2 as electron acceptor for NADH oxidation in heterotrophic microorganisms would increase product yields in industrial biotechnology.

Results

A hitherto unexplored strategy to address this redox challenge is the functional expression in yeast of enzymes from autotrophs, thereby enabling the use of CO2 as electron acceptor for NADH reoxidation. Functional expression of the Calvin cycle enzymes phosphoribulokinase (PRK) and ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase (Rubisco) in Saccharomyces cerevisiae led to a 90% reduction of the by-product glycerol and a 10% increase in ethanol production in sugar-limited chemostat cultures on a mixture of glucose and galactose. Co-expression of the Escherichia coli chaperones GroEL and GroES was key to successful expression of CbbM, a form-II Rubisco from the chemolithoautotrophic bacterium Thiobacillus denitrificans in yeast.

Conclusions

Our results demonstrate functional expression of Rubisco in a heterotrophic eukaryote and demonstrate how incorporation of CO2 as a co-substrate in metabolic engineering of heterotrophic industrial microorganisms can be used to improve product yields. Rapid advances in molecular biology should allow for rapid insertion of this 4-gene expression cassette in industrial yeast strains to improve production, not only of 1st and 2nd generation ethanol production, but also of other renewable fuels or chemicals.
Effect of salting-out on distribution behavior of di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate and its analogues between water and sediment
Authors: Yuwatini Erini , Hata Noriko , Kuramitz Hideki , Taguchi Shigeru
Published: August 2013

A higher enrichment of organic pollutant, di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) was found in estuary of Oyabe River and Jinzu River, Japan. Based on this, the distribution of DEHP between water and bed sediment was investigated as a model of organic pollutant through both the field investigation and laboratory experiment. The laboratory experiment was performed to examine the effect of seawater, organic matter in sediment and hydrophobicity (log K

ow
) of organic pollutants. The result showed that salting-out effect due to the high salinity in seawater and organic matter in sediment contributed towards the increasing of DEHP distribution between water and sediment. Furthermore, the hydrophobicity of organic pollutant also enhances the distribution between water and sediment to a higher magnitude in the presence of seawater.
Sliced Inverse Regression and Independence in Random Marked Sets with Covariates
Authors: Šedivý Ondřej , Stanek Jakub , Kratochvílová Blažena , Beneš Viktor
Published: August 2013

Dimension reduction of multivariate data was developed by Y. Guan for point processes with Gaussian random fields as covariates. The generalization to fibre and surface processes is straightforward. In inverse regression methods, we suggest slicing based on geometrical marks. An investigation of the properties of this method is presented in simulation studies of random marked sets. In a refined model for dimension reduction, the second-order central subspace is analyzed in detail. A real data pattern is tested for independence of a covariate.
Discrete-Time Approximation of Decoupled Forward‒Backward Stochastic Differential Equations Driven by Pure Jump Lévy Processes
Authors: Aazizi Soufiane
Published: August 2013

We present a new algorithm to discretize a decoupled forward‒backward stochastic differential equation driven by a pure jump Lévy process (FBSDEL for short). The method consists of two steps. In the first step we approximate the FBSDEL by a forward‒backward stochastic differential equation driven by a Brownian motion and Poisson process (FBSDEBP for short), in which we replace the small jumps by a Brownian motion. Then, we prove the convergence of the approximation when the size of small jumps ε goes to 0. In the second step we obtain the Lp-Hölder continuity of the solution of the FBSDEBP and we construct two numerical schemes for this FBSDEBP. Based on the Lp-Hölder estimate, we prove the convergence of the scheme when the number of time steps n goes to ∞. Combining these two steps leads to the proof of the convergence of numerical schemes to the solution of FBSDEs driven by pure jump Lévy processes.
The Expected Total Cost Criterion for Markov Decision Processes under Constraints
Authors: Dufour François , Piunovskiy A. B.
Published: August 2013

In this work, we study discrete-time Markov decision processes (MDPs) with constraints when all the objectives have the same form of expected total cost over the infinite time horizon. Our objective is to analyze this problem by using the linear programming approach. Under some technical hypotheses, it is shown that if there exists an optimal solution for the associated linear program then there exists a randomized stationary policy which is optimal for the MDP, and that the optimal value of the linear program coincides with the optimal value of the constrained control problem. A second important result states that the set of randomized stationary policies provides a sufficient set for solving this MDP. It is important to note that, in contrast with the classical results of the literature, we do not assume the MDP to be transient or absorbing. More importantly, we do not impose the cost functions to be nonnegative or to be bounded below. Several examples are presented to illustrate our results.
Power Laws in Preferential Attachment Graphs and Stein's Method for the Negative Binomial Distribution
Authors: Ross Nathan
Published: August 2013

For a family of linear preferential attachment graphs, we provide rates of convergence for the total variation distance between the degree of a randomly chosen vertex and an appropriate power law distribution as the number of vertices tends to ∞. Our proof uses a new formulation of Stein's method for the negative binomial distribution, which stems from a distributional transformation that has the negative binomial distributions as the only fixed points.
Formation of Two-dimensionally Ordered Diarylethene Annulated Isomer at the Liquid/HOPG Interface upon In Situ UV Irradiation
Authors: Sakano Takeshi , Imaizumi Yohei , Hirose Takashi , Matsuda Kenji
Published: August 2013

A unique photoinduced change in the molecular ordering of a photochromic diarylethene derivative having amide groups was investigated at the liquid/highly oriented pyrolytic graphite (HOPG) interface by scanning tunneling microscopy (STM). Ordering of the diarylethene was stabilized by the hydrogen-bonded network of amide groups. The open- and the closed isomers formed characteristic stripe-patterned orderings; a different hydrogen-bonding network was formed in each case. In situ UV irradiation resulted in the exclusive formation of a third molecular ordering γ that is composed of the photoirreversible annulated isomer. No photoisomerized molecule was detected in the 2-D orderings, i.e., the open-ring isomer in the ordering of the closed-ring isomer and vice versa, despite the similarity in their molecular structures.
Mean Field Equilibrium in Dynamic Games with Strategic Complementarities
Authors: Adlakha Sachin , Johari Ramesh
Published: August 2013

We study a class of stochastic dynamic games that exhibit strategic complementarities between players; formally, in the games we consider, the payoff of a player has increasing differences between her own state and the empirical distribution of the states of other players. Such games can be used to model a diverse set of applications, including network security models, recommender systems, and dynamic search in markets. Stochastic games are generally difficult to analyze, and these difficulties are only exacerbated when the number of players is large (as might be the case in the preceding examples).

We consider an approximation methodology called mean field equilibrium to study these games. In such an equilibrium, each player reacts to only the long-run average state of other players. We find necessary conditions for the existence of a mean field equilibrium in such games. Furthermore, as a simple consequence of this existence theorem, we obtain several natural monotonicity properties. We show that there exist a “largest” and a “smallest” equilibrium among all those where the equilibrium strategy used by a player is nondecreasing, and we also show that players converge to each of these equilibria via natural myopic learning dynamics; as we argue, these dynamics are more reasonable than the standard best-response dynamics. We also provide sensitivity results, where we quantify how the equilibria of such games move in response to changes in parameters of the game (for example, the introduction of incentives to players).
A systematic review and meta-regression of mobile-bearingversusfixed-bearing total knee replacement in 41 studies
Authors: van der Voort P. , Pijls B. G. , Nouta K. A. , Valstar E. R. , Jacobs W. C. H. , Nelissen R. G. H. H.
Published: August 2013

Mobile-bearing (MB) total knee replacement (TKR) was introduced to reduce the risk of aseptic loosening and wear of polyethylene inserts. However, no consistent clinical advantages of mobile- over fixed-bearing (FB) TKR have been found. In this study we evaluated whether mobile bearings have an advantage over fixed bearings with regard to revision rates and clinical outcome scores. Furthermore, we determined which modifying variables affected the outcome.

A systematic search of the literature was conducted to collect clinical trials comparing MB and FB in primary TKR. The primary outcomes were revision rates for any reason, aseptic loosening and wear. Secondary outcomes included range of movement, Knee Society score (KSS), Oxford knee score (OKS), Short-Form 12 (SF-12) score and radiological parameters. Meta-regression techniques were used to explore factors modifying the observed effect.

Our search yielded 1827 publications, of which 41 studies met our inclusion criteria, comprising over 6000 TKRs. Meta-analyses showed no clinically relevant differences in terms of revision rates, clinical outcome scores or patient-reported outcome measures between MB and FB TKRs. It appears that theoretical assumptions of superiority of MB over FB TKR are not borne out in clinical practice.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2013;95-B:1209–16.
Anthro-tourism, documentary film and method
Authors: Peters Roanne
Published: August 2013

The lines between tourist and an anthropologist have become increasingly blurred. The idea of the Anthro-tourist is discussed in terms of a self-reflexive experience in the Kalahari Desert. A conceptual framework is developed through a case study of a reflexive video, I am, You Are? (2003). Auto-ethnographic reflections on personal encounters with the ≠Khomani Bushmen is offered as this author’s comparative experience in light of the commodification of indigenous cultures through tourism as well as the construction of the ‘self’ and ‘other’ relationships. Both tourists and anthropologists have a similar interest in the exotic. Anthropologists, however, aim to educate society through film and video rather than to advertise the exotic.
Experimental evaluation of stress concentration ratio of model stone columns strengthened by additives
Authors: Fattah Mohammed Y. , Shlash Kais T. , Al-Waily Maki J.
Published: August 2013

The main objective of this paper is to find an experimental base for the value of the stress concentration ratio by manufacturing a model of a single stone column with rigid instrumented loading plates such that the total load applied to the model footing, and the load applied to the stone column can be measured alone. Model tests of soil treated with a single stone column and groups of two, three and four stone columns were tested. In addition, model tests were prepared with 10% cement as additive to backfill material for the columns. The backfill material was also modified by mixing 30% sand by weight with 70% crushed stone. It was found that the addition of the sand to the crushed stone indicated a marginal effect on stress concentration ratio in soil of shear strength cu  =  12 kPa, but no clear effect was noticed during addition of sand to stone in treated soil having a shear strength cu  =  6 kPa.
Urban ecology in a developing world: why advanced socioecological theory needs Africa
Authors: McHale Melissa R , Bunn David N , Pickett Steward TA , Twine Wayne
Published: August 2013

Socioecological theory, developed through the study of urban environments, has recently led to a proliferation of research focusing on comparative analyses of cities. This research emphasis has been concentrated in the more developed countries of the Northern Hemisphere (often referred to as the “Global North”), yet urbanization is now occurring mostly in the developing world, with the fastest rates of growth in sub‐Saharan Africa. Countries like South Africa are experiencing a variety of land‐cover changes that may challenge current assumptions about the differences between urban and rural environments and about the connectivity of these dynamic socioecological systems. Furthermore, questions concerning ecosystem services, landscape preferences, and conservation – when analyzed through rural livelihood frameworks – may provide insights into the social and ecological resilience of human settlements. Increasing research on urban development processes occurring in Africa, and on patterns of kinship and migration in the less developed countries of the “Global South”, will advance a more comprehensive worldview of how future urbanization will influence the progress of sustainable societies.
Is Laser Disinfection an Effective Adjunctive Treatment to Bone Augmentation for Peri‐Implantitis? A Review of Current Evidence
Authors: Geisinger Maria L. , Holmes Carolyn M. , Vassilopoulos Philip J. , Geurs Nicolaas C. , Reddy Michael S.
Published: August 2013

Focused Clinical Question:

In patients with endosseous dental implants that demonstrate peri‐implantitis, does surgical bone augmentation with adjunctive laser implant surface disinfection have an effect on implant survival rates, and do these rates differ based on laser treatment modality?

Clinical Scenario:

A 55‐year‐old female presents 10 years after implant placement at sites #18 and #20 (Fig. 1). She demonstrates a 9‐mm probing depth mesially and distally at implant #20. Bleeding on probing is present at all six sites around implant #20. The patient has not noted any discomfort, and suppuration has not been noted on clinical examination. Her medical history is significant for osteoarthritis, gastroesophageal reflux disease, and anxiety. She reports taking ibuprofen as needed for pain, 150 mg ranitidine twice daily, and 20 mg citalopram daily. The patient is concerned about the possibility of implant loss and states that she wants to save and treat the implant, if possible. During flap reflection, a circumferential defect at implant #20 is noted intrasurgically (Fig. 2).
Long-Term Hydrothermal Proppant Performance
Authors: Raysoni Neelam , Weaver Jim
Published: August 2013

The hydrothermal degradation of alumina-based proppants, which can lead to significant loss of fracture conductivity, has been the topic of recent papers. Most of these studies were necessarily compromised either by being performed on too short of a time scale to produce geochemical effects or by using unrealistic temperature conditions to accelerate the geochemical reactions. Those studies, however, provided insight that geochemical reactions likely occur during production from hydraulically generated fractures and gave evidence of possible long-term proppant instability.

This paper presents proppant-pack-permeability and proppant-crush-strength data collected from a selection of hydrothermal tests performed in sealed test cells packed with proppant and formation material, with no flow and no mechanical closure stress. Long-term proppant performance was determined by evaluating the proppant after 0, 15, 45, 90, and 180 days of hydrothermal exposure at 300 and 450°F, resulting in verification that proppants degrade continuously with time at all temperatures. A typical longterm proppant-testing result was 80% loss in proppant-pack permeability and 40% loss in proppant crush strength, with just 180-days exposure at 300°F at typical reservoir pH. These tests were performed both with and without formation material present to demonstrate the impact of reservoir/proppant compatibility. Scanning-electron-microscope (SEM) and energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) spectroscopy analyses verified that dynamic molecular rearrangement occurs over the entire temperature range, though at an accelerated rate as temperature increased. Extensive effort was made to quantify both the accuracy and repeatability of testing procedures used in this study and will be presented. This involves measurement of pack permeability using water before and after hydrothermal exposure, and single-proppant-grain crush-strength determination using Weibull statistical analyses.

This paper presents substantial data to support the importance of proppant compatibility when selecting the best proppant for long-term fracture conductivity. It also suggests that methods in addition to American Petroleum Institute (API) crush and conductivity procedures need to be developed and implemented to rank proppant performance properly.
Barley Seeds Encapsulated in Calcium‐Alginate Gels with Phosphatase and Humate‐Phosphatase Complexes for Improving Phosphorus Bioavailability
Authors: Pilar‐Izquierdo María Concepción , Busto María D. , Ortega Natividad , Perez‐Mateos Manuel
Published: August 2013

A large portion of the soluble P fertilizers introduced into soil reacts with soil components forming insoluble P products, which are not efficiently taken up by plants. Barley seed (Hordeum vulgare L. ‘Volley’) encapsulation in Ca‐alginate gels containing phosphatase free or immobilized with soil humates (humate–phosphatase complexes, HPC) was investigated as a tool to enhance the utilization by plants of accumulated soil P. The effect of the enzyme/carboxymethylcellulose solution ratio on the coating phosphatase activity and on seed germination was studied. A pot experiment with encapsulated seeds was conducted. Dry weight, length and shoot P content were estimated at different days after planting (DAP). Under optimal conditions (0.20 mL mL–1 free phosphatase and 0.13 g mL–1 HPC), the seed encapsulation with free phosphatase and HPC resulted in a coating phosphatase activity of 20 and 17% and in germination percentages of 92 and 85%, respectively. Increased phosphatase activity was observed in the rhizosphere of encapsulated seeds in comparison with non‐treated ones. Under pot culture conditions, at 35 DAP, the inorganic P in soil planted with encapsulated seeds was higher (14–16%) than in control soil. In contrast, soil planted with treated seeds showed lower content of organic P (20–29%) than the control soil. Furthermore, the seed encapsulation significantly increased the shoot P content and the P uptake between 24 and 28% and 15 to 20%, respectively, at 35 DAP. In conclusion, seeds treated with phosphatase could substantially contribute to enhance the plant P nutrition in the early stages of seedling establishment.
Productivity Advantage of Crop–Perennial Pasture Intercropping in Southeastern Australia
Authors: Craig Penny Roberts , Coventry David , Edwards Janelle Hocking
Published: August 2013

Annual‐based pasture and/ annual crops are now commonly the basis of farming practices in higher rainfall regions of southern Australia. For environmental reasons, farming systems used in higher rainfall regions should ideally target use of more perennials in the landscape without impacting farm productivity or profitability. Intercropping may provide the opportunity to achieve this, where the pasture component is a perennial species. The perennial pasture species lucerne (Aurora Medicago sativa L.) and chicory (Puna Cichorium intybus L.) were established and maintained for three seasons with annually sown crop species (Whistler wheat [Triticum aestivum L], Wonga lupin [Lupinus angustifolius L] and Sapphire canola [Brassica napus L.]) in a double skip row arrangement. These intercrops were compared for production and productivity with individual crops and pastures grown as monoculture stands. Grain crop yields were reduced when grown in intercrop with lucerne and chicory. Yield reductions ranged from 0 to 46% for wheat, 45 to 74% for lupin, and 8 to 83% for canola. Pasture dry matter was also reduced when intercropped, with reductions ranging from 0 to 78% for lucerne and 19 to 78% for chicory. Despite reductions in crop and pasture production, the land equivalent ratio (LER) ranged from 0.42 to 1.78, with most intercrop combinations overyielding. Chicory was well adapted as an intercrop species, with chicory intercrops overyielding more frequently than lucerne intercrops. In addition, the overyielding of lupin and canola intercrops demonstrates the potential to expand intercropping to include break crops, creating a more flexible system suited to southeastern Australia.
Efficacy and Safety of a Citrate-Based Protocol for Sustained Low-Efficiency Dialysis in AKI Using Standard Dialysis Equipment
Authors: Fiaccadori Enrico , Regolisti Giuseppe , Cademartiri Carola , Cabassi Aderville , Picetti Edoardo , Barbagallo Maria , Gherli Tiziano , Castellano Giuseppe , Morabito Santo , Maggiore Umberto
Published: August 2013

Background and objectives

A simple anticoagulation protocol was developed for sustained low-efficiency dialysis (SLED) in patients with AKI, based on the use of anticoagulant citrate dextrose solution formulation A (ACD-A) and standard dialysis equipment. Patients’ blood recalcification was obtained from calcium backtransport from dialysis fluid.

Design, setting, participants, & measurements

All patients treated with SLED (8- to 12-hour sessions) for AKI in four intensive care units of a university hospital were studied over a 30-month period, from May 1, 2008 to September 30, 2010. SLED interruptions and their causes, hemorrhagic complications, as well as coagulation parameters, ionized calcium, and blood citrate levels were recorded.

Results

This study examined 807 SLED sessions in 116 patients (mean age of 69.7 years [SD 12.1]; mean Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II score of 23.8 [4.6]). Major bleeding was observed in six patients (5.2% or 0.4 episodes/100 person-days follow-up while patients were on SLED treatment). Citrate accumulation never occurred, even in patients with liver dysfunction. Intravenous calcium for ionized hypocalcemia (< 3.6 mg/dl or < 0.9 mmol/L) was needed in 28 sessions (3.4%); in 8 of these 28 sessions (28.6%), low ionized calcium was already present before SLED start. In 92.6% of treatments, SLED was completed within the scheduled time (median 8 hours). Interruptions of SLED by impending/irreversible clotting were recorded in 19 sessions (2.4%). Blood return was complete in 98% of the cases. In-hospital mortality was 45 of 116 patients (38.8%).

Conclusions

This study protocol affords efficacious and safe anticoagulation of the SLED circuit, avoiding citrate accumulation and, in most patients, systematic calcium supplementation; it can be implemented with commercial citrate solutions, standard dialysis equipment, on-line produced dialysis fluid, and minimal laboratory monitoring.
Albuminuria and Cognitive Decline in People with Diabetes and Normal Renal Function
Authors: Barzilay Joshua I. , Lovato James F. , Murray Anne M. , Williamson Jeff , Ismail-Beigi Faramaz , Karl Diane , Papademetriou Vasilios , Launer Lenore J.
Published: August 2013

Background and objectives

Diabetes mellitus is associated with increased risk of cognitive impairment. This study examines whether microvascular disease, as measured by albuminuria and decline in estimated GFR (eGFR), is associated with cognitive decline during 3.3 years of follow-up in individuals with diabetes with a normal baseline eGFR (approximately 90 ml/min per 1.73 m2).

Design, setting, participants, & measurements

Participants were from the Action to Control Cardiovascular Risk in Diabetes Memory in Diabetes study (N=2977; mean age 62.5±5.8 years; recruitment from August 2003 to December 2005, followed through June 2009), which examined the association of intensive versus standard glucose control on cognitive function. Participants underwent three neuropsychologic tests at baseline, 20 months, and 40 months. Tests included information processing speed, verbal memory, and executive function. Mixed-effects models were used to assess the association of albuminuria and eGFR on the percentage decline in each test.

Results

Participants with albuminuria at baseline and follow-up (persistent albuminuria) (−5.8% [95% confidence interval (CI), −7.3 to −4.2]) and participants with albuminuria at follow-up but none at baseline (progressive albuminuria) (−4.1% [95% CI, −5.6 to −2.7]) had greater percentage declines on information processing speed than participants without albuminuria at baseline and at follow-up (no albuminuria) (−2.6% [95% CI, −3.4 to −1.9]) (P=0.001 and P=0.10, respectively). There were borderline percentage changes in the test of verbal memory (4.8% [95% CI, 2.4 to 7.1] and 4.7% [95% CI, 2.5 to 7.0] versus 7.1% [95% CI, 6.0 to 8.3]; P=0.11 and P=0.08, respectively). On logistic regression analysis, persistent albuminuria (odds ratio, 1.37 [95% CI, 1.09 to 1.72]) and progressive albuminuria (odds ratio, 1.25 [95% CI, 1.02 to 1.56]) were associated with a ≥5% decline in information processing speed scores but not with verbal memory or executive function performance. A 1 ml/min per 1.73 m2 per year eGFR decline had a borderline association with decline in tests of cognitive function.

Conclusions

Persistent albuminuria and progressive albuminuria are associated with a decline in cognitive function in relatively young individuals with diabetes with unimpaired eGFR. These findings do not rule out the possibility of other processes causing cognitive decline.
Residual β-Cell Function 3–6 Years After Onset of Type 1 Diabetes Reduces Risk of Severe Hypoglycemia in Children and Adolescents
Authors: Sørensen Jesper S. , Johannesen Jesper , Pociot Flemming , Kristensen Kurt , Thomsen Jane , Hertel N. Thomas , Kjaersgaard Per , Brorsson Caroline , Birkebaek Niels H. ,   the Danish Society for Diabetes in Childhood and Adolescence
Published: August 2013

OBJECTIVE

To determine the prevalence of residual β-cell function (RBF) in children after 3–6 years of type 1 diabetes, and to examine the association between RBF and incidence of severe hypoglycemia, glycemic control, and insulin requirements.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

A total of 342 children (173 boys) 4.8–18.9 years of age with type 1 diabetes for 3–6 years were included. RBF was assessed by testing meal-stimulated C-peptide concentrations. Information regarding severe hypoglycemia within the past year, current HbA1c, and daily insulin requirements was retrieved from the medical records and through patient interviews.

RESULTS

Ninety-two children (27%) had RBF >0.04 nmol/L. Patients with RBF <0.04 nmol/L were significantly more likely to have severe hypoglycemia than patients with RBF >0.04 nmol/L (odds ratio, 2.59; 95% CI, 1.10–7.08; P < 0.03). HbA1c was significantly higher in patients with RBF <0.04 nmol/L compared with patients with RBF >0.04 nmol/L (mean, 8.49 ± 0.08% [69.3 ± 0.9 mmol/mol] vs. 7.92 ± 0.13% [63.1 ± 1.4 mmol/mol]; P < 0.01), and insulin requirements were significantly lower in patients with RBF >0.2 nmol/L (mean ± SE: 1.07 ± 0.02 vs. 0.93 ± 0.07 units/kg/day; P < 0.04).

CONCLUSIONS

We demonstrated considerable phenotypic diversity in RBF among children after 3–6 years of type 1 diabetes. Children with RBF are at lower risk for severe hypoglycemia, have better diabetes regulation, and have lower insulin requirements compared with children without RBF. There appears to be a lower limit for stimulated RBF of ∼0.04 nmol/L that confers a beneficial effect on hypoglycemia and metabolic control.
Fracture of the Greater Tuberosity of the Humerus
Authors: Crowell Michael S. , Plank Ryan J.
Published: August 2013

The patient was a 27-year-old male pilot referred to a physical therapist for a suspected left acromioclavicular joint injury following a fall 3 weeks prior. Physical examination revealed decreased active shoulder flexion, decreased supraspinatus strength, and a positive Hawkins test. Radiographs were ordered and the anterior-posterior radiographic view showed an incomplete nondisplaced fracture in the superior aspect of the greater tuberosity. The patient was placed in a sling for 4 weeks and performed passive range-of-motion exercises to maintain shoulder mobility. Radiographs at 7 weeks following the injury revealed a healed greater tuberosity fracture. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2010;40(7):447. doi:10.2519/jospt.2010.0411
October 2010 Book Reviews
Authors: Neumann Donald
Published: August 2013

The JOSPT offers invited reviews of current titles. The October 2010 column includes 7 reviews of the following books: Orthopaedic Trauma Care; Mechanisms and Management of Pain for the Physical Therapist; Fundamentals of Musculoskeletal Imaging, Third Edition; Gait Analysis: Normal and Pathological Function, Second Edition; The Lumbar Intervertebral Disc; Spine Classifications and Severity Measures; and Physical Agents in Rehabilitation: From Research to Practice, Third Edition. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2010;40(10):668–673. doi:10.2519/jospt.2010.40.10.668
Digital Infrared Thermal Imaging Following Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction
Authors: Barker Lauren E. , Markowski Alycia M. , Henneman Kimberly
Published: August 2013

This case describes the selective use of digital infrared thermal imaging for a 48-year-old woman who was being treated by a physical therapist following left anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction with a semitendinosus autograft.

J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2012;42(3):292. doi:10.2519/jospt.2012.0405
Impaction Fracture of the Medial Femoral Condyle
Authors: Mabry Lance M. , Ross Michael D. , Abbott Jessica L.
Published: August 2013

The patient was a 20-year-old man who sustained a noncontact left knee hyperextension injury while playing soccer. In reviewing left knee radiographs that had previously been interpreted as normal, the physical therapist noted an abnormally deep depression of the medial condylopatellar sulcus, which was concerning for a possible impacted osteochondral fracture. After discussing the radiographic findings with a radiologist, the physical therapist ordered magnetic resonance imaging, which revealed a focal indentation of the anterior portion of the medial femoral condyle with adjacent bone marrow edema that was consistent with an impaction fracture of the medial femoral condyle.

J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2013;43(7):512. doi:10.2519/jospt.2013.0413
Spatial Double Generalized Beta Regression Models
Authors: Cepeda-Cuervo Edilberto , Núñez-Antón Vicente
Published: August 2013

In this article, a proposed Bayesian extension of the generalized beta spatial regression models is applied to the analysis of the quality of education in Colombia. We briefly revise the beta distribution and describe the joint modeling approach for the mean and dispersion parameters in the spatial regression models’ setting. Finally, we motivate the need for the innovative use of the generalized beta spatial regression model to the study of the performance of school children in Mathematics and Language, as well as in the analysis of illiteracy data, and present its results in the context of evaluating the quality of education in Colombia.
Method for Estimation of Calcium Carbonate in Soils from Iraq
Authors: Kassim Jabbar K
Published: August 2013

Attempts have been made to evaluate four methods of quantitative determination of soil carbonates. Calcium carbonates equivalent were determined by the acid neutralization, calcimeter and acetic acid methods. Also, it obtains by the fourth methods when the acid neutralization method is corrected against proton adsorption. The acid neutralization method gave significantly higher estimates of total carbonates and different from each of the others. The calcimeter method gave the lower estimates of CaCO3 equivalent. The results showed that the corrected values of CaCO3 equivalent did not differ significantly from other three methods but the overall mean tended to be higher than the acetic acid and calcimeter methods. It may be concluded that the acetic acid method is simple, can reasonably estimate the carbonate content and requires only a pH meter. It can be used for routine determination of soil carbonate. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ije.v1i1.8524   International Journal of Environment Vol.1(1) 2013: 9-19
Artisanal Fisheries in Zimbabwe: Options for Effective Management
Authors: Mhlanga Wilson , Mhlanga Lindah
Published: August 2013

The small-scale (artisanal) fisheries in Zimbabwe play an important role in income-generation and food security at the household level. This sector has the potential to significantly increase its contribution to household income and food security if more effective fisheries management strategies are put in place. Historically, fisheries management has adopted a centralised “Top-down” approach. This approach has had very limited effectiveness. Over the last decade, efforts have been made to implement co-management in the fisheries sector. Several factors have hampered the success of fisheries co-management in the artisanal fishery. These factors have been institutional, ecological, human and financial. This paper discusses these factors and proposes possible solutions. A more innovative and effective fisheries management approach is also proposed. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ije.v1i1.8526   International Journal of Environment Vol.1(1) 2013: 29-45
Dual occipital and supraorbital nerve stimulation for chronic migraine: a single-center experience, review of literature, and surgical considerations
Authors: Hann Shannon , Sharan Ashwini
Published: August 2013

Occipital nerve stimulation (ONS) has been studied in a few clinical trials for the treatment of chronic migraine (CM) with failure to prove sufficient efficacy. To date, peripheral nerve stimulation for the treatment of primary headache is limited to off-label use only. The authors report their institutional experience in CM therapy with combined ONS and supraorbital nerve stimulation (SONS). Fourteen patients treated with dual ONS and SONS for CM were studied with follow-up ranging from 3 to 60 months. Seventy-one percent achieved successful stimulation as defined by a 50% or greater decrease in pain severity. The mean reduction in headache-related visual analog scale (VAS) score was 3.92 ± 2.4. Half of the patients also had resolution of migraine-associated neurological symptoms and returned to normal functional capacity. The main adverse events included lead migration (42.8%), supraorbital lead allodynia (21.4%), and infection (14.2%) with a resulting high reoperation rate (35.7%). The authors' stimulation efficacy was superior to the combined 33% positive response rates (≥ 50% pain reduction) in the published studies of ONS for CM. This is likely due to the fact that topographical paresthesia induced by combined ONS and SONS covers the area of migraine pain better than ONS alone. The authors also discuss effective surgical techniques to prevent patient morbidity.
Prevalence of Mycobacterium avium in Slaughter Pigs Based on Serological Monitoring Results and Bacteriological Validation
Authors: Hiller Anne , Oorburg Derk , Wisselink Henk , Solt-Smits Conny , Urlings Bert , Klein Günter , Althoff Gereon , Heres Lourens
Published: August 2013

Mycobacterium avium (MA) is a potential food safety hazard in pigs. Blood samples of slaughtered pigs in the Netherlands and Germany were tested for the presence of MA antibodies to estimate the serological prevalence in the tested population. In the Dutch and German population 1.0% and 1.7% samples were positive, and 0.5% and 17.4% of the herds were at risk for having a MA infection respectively. The validity of the applied MA-ELISA was evaluated under field conditions. The specificity of the MA-ELISA was high (>98.4%). The average herd sensitivity was 18%. In the affected herds on average 50% of the animals were tested bacteriological positive for MA. It can be concluded that serological screening for the presence of MA antibodies is capable of identifying pig populations that are at risk for a MA infection.
An Acetylcholinesterase-Based Chronoamperometric Biosensor for Fast and Reliable Assay of Nerve Agents
Authors: Pohanka Miroslav , Adam Vojtech , Kizek Rene
Published: August 2013

The enzyme acetylcholinesterase (AChE) is an important part of cholinergic nervous system, where it stops neurotransmission by hydrolysis of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. It is sensitive to inhibition by organophosphate and carbamate insecticides, some Alzheimer disease drugs, secondary metabolites such as aflatoxins and nerve agents used in chemical warfare. When immobilized on a sensor (physico-chemical transducer), it can be used for assay of these inhibitors. In the experiments described herein, an AChE- based electrochemical biosensor using screen printed electrode systems was prepared. The biosensor was used for assay of nerve agents such as sarin, soman, tabun and VX. The limits of detection achieved in a measuring protocol lasting ten minutes were 7.41 × 10−12 mol/L for sarin, 6.31 × 10−12 mol /L for soman, 6.17 × 10−11 mol/L for tabun, and 2.19 × 10−11 mol/L for VX, respectively. The assay was reliable, with minor interferences caused by the organic solvents ethanol, methanol, isopropanol and acetonitrile. Isopropanol was chosen as suitable medium for processing lipophilic samples.