bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ULTRASONOGRAPHIC EVALUATION OF NORMAL CANINE ILIOPSOAS MUSCLE
Authors: CANNON MATTHEW S. , PUCHALSKI SARAH M.
Published: July 2008

The aim of this study was to describe the normal ultrasonographic appearance of the iliopsoas muscle and related landmarks. Hind limbs of five dog cadavers with no history of lameness were evaluated. The origin and mid‐body of the psoas major and the common insertion of the iliacus and psoas major on the lesser trochanter of the femur were identified and evaluated. New methylene blue was injected under ultrasonographic guidance at the three sites. Dissection was performed to confirm placement of the dye. The L3 origin, mid‐body, and insertion of the muscle were identified in all dogs and were consistent in appearance and compatible with the general appearance of muscle and tendons. The L2 origin was consistently difficult to image. The same ultrasound technique was subsequently applied to four healthy dogs, and consistent images of the iliopsoas muscle and associated landmarks were obtained. In this study, the major structures of the iliopsoas could be identified and in all dogs had a similar appearance. Ultrasound is an important tool for the diagnosis of musculotendinous injury and may be useful for identification of ilipsoas injury as a cause of lameness in the dog.
Collective Goods, Free Riding and Country Brands: The Chinese Experience
Authors: Barney Jay B. , Zhang Shujun
Published: July 2008

Company brands signify a message to consumers about the quality and value of a product. Countries can also be branded. However, unlike the brands of individual firms, country brands are collective goods. The nature of country brands creates the possibility of free riding, where individual firms benefit – in terms of price or access – from the promise made by a country brand but deliver at a level lower than what is promised by the brand. Such free riding threatens the stability of what the country brand represents unless legal, governmental, or other institutions engage in activities to reduce these adverse effects. In this paper, we investigate the Chinese brand – once standing for average quality at a low price – in the light of recent recalls. We examine how country brands emerge and the incentives that firms operating in a country have to either support or not support a country brand. We also explore the implications of diese incentives for the role of various institutions, including the government, in developing, maintaining and changing a country brand and in developing and enforcing the policies, such as protection of intellectual property, necessary to support firms' efforts toward reinforcing a trusted country brand.
The Janus‐faced atracotoxins are specific blockers of invertebrate KCa channels
Authors: Gunning Simon J. , Maggio Francesco , Windley Monique J. , Valenzuela Stella M. , King Glenn F. , Nicholson Graham M.
Published: July 2008

The Janus‐faced atracotoxins are a unique family of excitatory peptide toxins that contain a rare vicinal disulfide bridge. Although lethal to a wide range of invertebrates, their molecular target has remained enigmatic for almost a decade. We demonstrate here that these toxins are selective, high‐affinity blockers of invertebrate Ca2+‐activated K+ (KCa) channels. Janus‐faced atracotoxin (J‐ACTX)‐Hv1c, the prototypic member of this toxin family, selectively blocked KCa channels in cockroach unpaired dorsal median neurons with an IC50 of 2 nm, but it did not significantly affect a wide range of other voltage‐activated K+, Ca2+ or Na+ channel subtypes. J‐ACTX‐Hv1c blocked heterologously expressed cockroach large‐conductance Ca2+‐activated K+ (pSlo) channels without a significant shift in the voltage dependence of activation. However, the block was voltage‐dependent, indicating that the toxin probably acts as a pore blocker rather than a gating modifier. The molecular basis of the insect selectivity of J‐ACTX‐Hv1c was established by its failure to significantly inhibit mouse mSlo currents (IC50 ∼ 10 μm) and its lack of activity on rat dorsal root ganglion neuron KCa channel currents. This study establishes the Janus‐faced atracotoxins as valuable tools for the study of invertebrate KCa channels and suggests that KCa channels might be potential insecticide targets.
A novel mechanism of TGFβ‐induced actin reorganization mediated by Smad proteins and Rho GTPases
Authors: Vardouli Lina , Vasilaki Eleftheria , Papadimitriou Elsa , Kardassis Dimitris , Stournaras Christos
Published: July 2008

In previous studies, we have demonstrated that RhoA/B‐dependent signaling regulates TGFβ‐induced rapid actin reorganization in Swiss 3T3 fibroblasts. Here we report that TGFβ regulates long‐term actin remodeling by increasing the steady‐state mRNA levels of the RhoB gene in mouse Swiss 3T3 fibroblasts and human hepatoma HepG2 cells. We show that this regulation is specific for the RhoB gene and is facilitated by enhanced activity of the RhoB promoter. Adenovirus‐mediated gene transfer of Smad2 and Smad3 in Swiss 3T3 fibroblasts induced transcription of the endogenous RhoB gene but not the RhoA gene. Interestingly, in JEG‐3 choriocarcinoma cells that lack endogenous Smad3, TGFβ‐induced transcriptional up‐regulation of the RhoB gene was not observed, but it was restored by adenoviral Smad3 overexpression. In addition, Smad2 and Smad3 triggered activation of RhoA and RhoB GTPases and long‐term actin reorganization in Swiss 3T3 fibroblasts. Finally, Smad3, and to a lesser extent Smad2, induced transcription of the α‐smooth muscle actin (α‐SMA) gene, and enhanced the incorporation of α‐SMA into microfilaments in Swiss 3T3 fibroblasts. These data reveal a novel mechanism of cross‐talk between the classical TGFβ/Smad pathway and Rho GTPases, regulating the rapid and the long‐term actin reorganization that may control the fibroblast–myofibroblast differentiation program.
Impact of preoperative positron emission tomography scans on survival after liver resection for metastatic colorectal cancer
Authors: Riffat Faruque , Niu Rui , Zhu Charles , Chu Francis , Morris David L.
Published: July 2008

Aim:  Positron emission tomography (PET) has been used to detect extrahepatic disease in patients in order to determine their suitability for liver resection from colorectal metastases. Our hypothesis is that PET scanning would result in a better 5‐year survival after liver resection due to better patient selection through downstaging of disease.

Methods:  Between 1997 and 2005 there were 467 patients undergoing potentially curative liver resections in three cohorts. PET scanning was available to our patients without restriction from 2002. There were 215 patients in the pre‐PET era (Group 1), 188 in the PET era where a PET scan was not performed (Group 2) and 64 patients with preoperative PET scanning (Group 3). Our three cohorts were followed up at 1, 3, 6 and 12 months postoperatively with a median follow up of 24, 21 and 20 months, respectively.

Results:  The 5‐year survival rate for patients with preoperative PET scanning was 68%. The 5‐year survival rate for patients without preoperative PET scanning was 40% in the PET era and 30% in the pre‐PET era (P = 0.0113). The disease‐free interval was 35% in the PET group and 20% without PET scans at 3 years (P < 0.05).

Conclusion:  The usage of preoperative PET scanning has led to an improved overall survival because of better patient selection from detection of occult extrahepatic disease missed by traditional staging techniques.
Transanal protrusion of ventriculoperitoneal shunt
Authors: Li Hok‐Nam , Tan Tze‐Ching , Cheung Fung‐Ching
Published: July 2008

A 54‐year‐old woman with a history of ventriculoperitoneal shunt insertion presented with per‐anal protrusion of a tube after defecation. Computed tomography of the abdomen revealed the presence of the shunt in the colon. The patient underwent emergency surgery for removal of the shunt system, with external ventricular drainage. Anal protrusion is a rare presentation following bowel perforation of ventriculoperitoneal shunts.
Spontaneous rupture of incisional hernia associated with pregnancy
Authors: De Utpal , Ray Ramdip
Published: July 2008

Incisional hernia following Caesarean section is a common clinical entity with numerous complications. We report a rare case of spontaneous rupture of incisional hernia associated with pregnancy.
Laparoscopic management of bowel perforation by ingested pins and needles: Report of two cases with a literature review
Authors: Ng Wai‐Tat , Lee Yiu‐Kee , Kong Chi‐Kwan
Published: July 2008

A sharp pin or needle depicted on a routine abdominal X‐ray film presents a rather alarming picture. Apparently, this intriguing entity has received scant attention thus far; a review of the literature found only 22 cases reported in sufficient detail for evaluation over the past four decades. Herein, we add two cases of our own. When all these cases are analyzed, a remarkably consistent – and rather peculiar – pattern of clinical features emerges. For example, young women are commonly involved and a history of ingestion is often absent, as are the abdominal signs. More recently, the advent of laparoscopy has allowed the surgical treatment to continue evolving as the feasibility of this approach gains recognition as a preferable option. Including the present two cases, there have been only five patients successfully managed totally by laparoscopic exploration and extraction. In the most recent four cases where there were no signs of the foreign body at laparoscopy, intraoperative fluoroscopy greatly aided in the localization of the elusive slender object.
Evaluation of a Pilot Hospital‐Based Community Program Implementing Fitness and Nutrition Education for Overweight Children
Authors: Gabel Speroni Karen , Tea Christine , Earley Cynthia , Niehoff Vonzie , Atherton Martin
Published: July 2008

PURPOSE.  Evaluate the effect of the Kids Living Fit™ hospital‐based intervention on body mass index (BMI) percentile, adjusted for age (months) and gender in children ages 8–12 years with BMI percentiles ≥ 85.

DESIGN AND METHODS.  Twelve weekly exercise sessions and three nutrition presentations were held. Nurses recorded BMI and waist circumference at baseline, week 12, and week 24. Participants completed food and activity diaries.

RESULTS.  Of the 32 participants enrolled, 16 completed all outcome measures and experienced a decrease in average BMI, BMI percentile, and waist circumference between baseline and weeks 12 and 24.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS.  Hospitals can offer exercise and nutrition programs to decrease childhood obesity in their communities.
Mollusc herbivory influenced by endophytic clavicipitaceous fungal infections in grasses
Authors: Barker G.M.
Published: July 2008

Clavicipitaceous fungi of the genus Neotyphodium occur widely as mutualistic, systemic, seed‐borne infections in festucoid grasses. Grass infection by these fungi is associated with the presence of a range of secondary metabolites (SM), several of which have been demonstrated to confer to the plant resistance against herbivorous vertebrates and insects. An initial experiment demonstrated that endophytic infection by Neotyphodium can influence the utilisation of grasses by Deroceras, with feeding preferences and impact on plant yields affected differentially by endophytes with different SM profiles. The role of Neotyphodium SM in feeding preferences of Deroceras slugs were then evaluated in artificial diets. Among the indole diterpenoids tested, lolitrem B was demonstrated to reduce feeding, while diets containing paxilline, lolitriol, α‐paxitriol and β‐paxitriol tended to be preferred over that of untreated diet. The pyrrolopyrazine alkaloid peramine had no effect. Among the ergopeptine alkaloids tested in the diets, ergotamine and ergovaline were demonstrated to be phagostimulatory. These results with artificial diets were generally consistent with Deroceras reticulatum preferences among plants of known Neotyphodium endophyte strain and SM profile. Deroceras slugs obtained from sites containing contrasting frequencies of Neotyphodium‐infected grasses, exhibited differential responses to Neotyphodium SM incorporated into artificial diet. This study demonstrates that infection of grasses by different isolates of Neotyphodium endophytes differentially influence herbivory by molluscs, reflecting their SM profile. These results offer an explanation for variable acceptability of grasses to molluscs and their importance in the diet of molluscs in the field reported in previous studies in both natural and agricultural systems. Neotyphodium endophytes potentially offer novel approaches to management of mollusc pests in agricultural gramineous crops.
Clonal genetic diversity and populational genetic differentiation in Phragmites australis distributed in the Songnen Prairie in northeast China as revealed by amplified fragment length polymorphism and sequence‐specific amplification polymorphism molecular markers
Authors: Li M. , Gong L. , Tian Q. , Hu L. , Guo W. , Kimatu J.N. , Wang D. , Liu B.
Published: July 2008

Genetic variation within and between four naturally occurring Phragmites australis land populations, DBS, QG, SS1 and SS2 (named after locality), which colonise distinct habitats (different edaphic conditions) in the Songnen Prairie in northeast China, were investigated by amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) and sequence‐specific amplification polymorphism (S‐SAP) markers. It was found that the selected primer combinations of both markers were highly efficient in revealing the inter‐clonal genetic diversity and inter‐populational genetic differentiation in P. australis from a molecular ecological perspective. Cluster analysis categorised the plants into distinct groups (DBS, QG and SS groups), which were in line with their localities, albeit the two SS group populations (SS1 and SS2) showed a lower degree of inter‐populational differentiation. These results were strongly supported by multiple statistical analysis including Mantel’s test, principal coordinate analysis, allocation test and analysis of molecular variance, which further suggested that gene flow, genetic drift and differences in as yet unidentified edaphic factors may all underpin the inter‐clonal genetic diversity and inter‐populational differentiation at the nucleotide sequence level. Analysis of intra‐population clonal diversity also revealed that the QG population harboured a strikingly lower amount of within‐population variation compared with those of the other three populations, presumably being caused by genetic drift and followed by physical and/or biological isolation. Homology analysis of a subset of population‐specific or population‐private AFLP and S‐SAP bands suggested that regulatory genes and retroelements might play important roles in the ecological adaptation and differentiation of the P. australis populations. Possible causes for and implications of the extensive genetic variability in P. australis were discussed for its future genetic conservation and use in ecological revegetation.
Genetic diversity in a collection of old and new bread wheat cultivars from Iran as revealed by simple sequence repeat‐based analysis
Authors: Mohammadi S.A. , Khodarahmi M. , Jamalirad S. , Jalal Kamali M.R.
Published: July 2008

Genetic diversity in a collection of 70 bread wheat (Triticum aestivum) genotypes was studied using 73 microsatellite [simple sequence repeat (SSR)] loci evenly spaced on wheat chromosomes. A total of 592 alleles with an average of 8.53 allele/locus were detected, of which 185 (31.25%) occurred only in a specific group of genotypes. A set of SSR markers consisted of 22 loci with polymorphic information content values of 0.80 or higher were selected for rapid fingerprinting of many genotypes. Average of gene diversity was 0.74 ± 0.017, and significant difference between observed and maximum theoretical values of gene diversity in the analysed SSR loci was obtained using a paired t‐test. Genetic distance‐based clustering methods including unweighted pair group method with arithmetic average and neighbour joining (NJ) were used for grouping of genotypes. The resulted dendrogram based on NJ and number of differences coefficient hinted of the existence of three groups. This grouping was in agreement with the pedigree information and confirmed by high within‐group bootstrap value. A comparatively higher genetic diversity in the studied wheat collection as revealed by presence of high allelic diversity and large number of specific alleles could be utilised in development of new cultivars with desired characteristics.
Extreme-ultraviolet laser metrology of O i transitions
Authors: Ivanov T. I. , Salumbides E. J. , Vieitez M. O. , Cacciani P. C. , de Lange C. A. , Ubachs W.
Published: July 2008

Some 16 transitions in atomic oxygen originating from its 3P ground state were measured using a tunable narrow-band extreme-ultraviolet laser source, with an unprecedented accuracy of Δλ/λ = 8 × 10−8. The results are relevant for comparisons with spectral absorption features observed in the line of sight of quasars, in order to test a possible variation of the fine-structure constant α on a cosmological time-scale.
Weight Management and Fruit and Vegetable Intake Among US High School Students*
Authors: Lowry Richard , Lee Sarah M. , McKenna Mary L. , Galuska Deborah A. , Kann Laura K.
Published: July 2008

Background:  Consumption of fruits and vegetables is often recommended to promote healthy weight. The purpose of this study was to examine associations between fruit and vegetable intake and common weight management behaviors among US high school students who were trying to lose or stay the same weight.

Methods:  Data from the 1999, 2001, and 2003 national high school Youth Risk Behavior Surveys were combined and the analyses stratified by gender (females, N = 16,709; males, N = 10,521). We considered 3 common weight management strategies—being physically active (ie, moderate activity for 30 minutes on 5 or more days per week or vigorous activity for 20 minutes on 3 or more days per week), eating a reduced calorie or fat diet, and limiting TV viewing. Sufficient fruit and vegetable intake was defined as eating 5 or more servings per day. Odds ratios (ORs) were calculated using logistic regression.

Results:  Only 21.3% of females and 24.7% of males ate sufficient fruits and vegetables. Being physically active was associated with sufficient fruit and vegetable intake. Eating a reduced calorie or fat diet and limiting TV viewing (among males) were associated with sufficient fruit and vegetable intake only among physically active students. The odds of sufficient fruit and vegetable intake were greatest among female (OR = 3.01) and male (OR = 2.91) students who combined all 3 strategies (31.5% of females, 21.6% of males).

Conclusions:  Interventions that promote fruit and vegetable intake within the context of healthy weight management may be more effective if they combine nutrition and physical activity strategies. Further research is needed to test this approach.
Physical Activity Levels of Overweight and Nonoverweight High School Students During Physical Education Classes
Authors: Hannon James C.
Published: July 2008

Background:  This study examined physical activity (PA) levels of overweight and nonoverweight African American and Caucasian students (n = 198) during game play in physical education classes.

Methods:  Body fat percentages (%BFs) were determined using the skinfold technique and Slaughter et al prediction equations. Girls were classified as overweight if their %BF was ≥32; boys were classified as overweight if their %BF was ≥25. PA was monitored using pedometers during flag football, ultimate Frisbee, and soccer game play. Three 2 (weight classification) × 2 (gender) × 2 (race) factorial analyses of variance were conducted.

Results:  Results indicated no significant difference in steps per minute between overweight and nonoverweight students regardless of game. Males were more active than females, and Caucasians were more active than African Americans.

Conclusions:  The most important implication of the current study is that the overweight and nonoverweight students accumulated similar amounts of PA during physical education. This emphasizes the importance physical education plays in providing both overweight and nonoverweight students with opportunities for PA. For many students, it may be their only source of regular PA.
2‐(2,6‐Dihalo‐phenyl)‐3‐heteroaryl‐2‐ylmethyl‐1, 3‐thiazolidin‐4‐ones: Anti‐HIV agents
Authors: Rawal Ravindra K. , Tripathi Rajkamal , Kulkarni Smitha , Paranjape R. , Katti S. B. , Pannecouque Christophe , De Clercq Erik
Published: July 2008

A diversity of novel 2‐aryl‐3‐heteroaryl‐2‐ylmethyl‐1,3‐thiazolidin‐4‐ones were designed and synthesized by reacting heteroaryl‐2‐ylmethyl amine with various 2,6‐dihalosubstituted benzaldehydes and mercaptoacetic acid. The title compounds were evaluated for human immunodeficiency virus type‐1 (HIV‐1) reverse transcriptase (RT) inhibitory activity. The results of in vitro assays showed that some of the compounds were effective inhibitors of HIV‐1 reverse transcriptase enzyme at micromolar concentrations with less cytotoxicity in both MT‐4 cells as well as acutely infected human T‐lymphoid CEM cells. Compounds 4h and 4k emerged as moderately more potent with EC50 are at 0.20 and 0.21 μm as compared to reference parent compound thiazolobenzimidazoles EC50 0.35 μm in MT‐4 cells.
Revisiting Anticommons and Blockings in the Biotechnology Industry: A View from Competition Law Analysis
Authors: See Eng Teong
Published: July 2008

The commencement of biotechnology marks a new chapter in modern scientific research and a new industry. Numerous inventions and discoveries come to light day after day as scientists unravel more and more mysteries once thought to be beyond human comprehension. Its complicated nature, the lack of prior art and its constantly evolving characteristic brought with it a new rise in patent numbers. The situation was made worse by legal and commercial arrangements that tend to stack one patent on another and cause the legal rights to criss‐cross to become a web of overlapping rights held by entities of diverse backgrounds. This situation caused some academics to fear for anticommons and blockings. While anticommons and blockings have been raised in relation to the biotechnology industry for a very long time in countless academic literature, this article attempts to revisit the issues from the competition law point of view. Through competition law analysis, this article attempts to explain the feasibility of certain solutions for such problems. Legislation and case law of certain jurisdictions are also examined to make analogy with the analysis. From the analysis, it appears that the problems, particularly blockings, may require an interlegal approach.
THE PETROLEUM SYSTEM IN THE SANDINO FOREARC BASIN, OFFSHORE WESTERN NICARAGUA
Authors: Struss I. , Artiles V. , Cramer B. , Winsemann J.
Published: July 2008

The underexplored Sandino Basin (Nicaragua Basin/Trough) is located within the forearc area of western Nicaragua and NW Costa Rica. Exploration activity since 2004 has focussed on the onshore sector of the basin, and has included the first drilling campaign for over 30 years. Recent 2D basin modelling of the offshore sector together with organic geochemical studies has attempted to reassess the basin's petroleum potential. Geochemical data from the deepest offshore well indicate that Middle Eocene to Lower Oligocene sediments of the Brito Formation, as well as Upper Oligocene to Lower Miocene sediments of the Masachapa Formation, may have source rock potential. A third and perhaps more significant potential source rock interval is associated with the Lower Cretaceous black shales of the Loma Chumico Formation, which has been studied in the adjacent forearc area in NW Costa Rica (Tempisque Basin) and is inferred to be present in the Sandino Basin.

The thermal history of the forearc basin is controlled by the low basal heat flow (39 mW/m2). 2D modelling has shown that the Sandino Basin is thermally mature, resulting in the potential for hydrocarbon generation in organic‐rich intervals in the Brito and Masachapa Formations. A petroleum‐generating “kitchen” has tentatively been identified on a NE‐SW seismic section which crosses the basin. Modelling suggests that this kitchen has been active from the Late Eocene until the present day, and that the main phases of petroleum generation in general coincide with phases of maximum subsidence in the Late Eocene, Late Oligocene and Plio‐Pleistocene. Hydrocarbon migration most probably occurred from the deep basin towards the flanks. Significant volumes of petroleum may have been lost prior to the Late Miocene before the formation of a coastal flexure which can be recognised in the NE of the seismic profile.
OIL POLYMERISATION AND FLUID EXPULSION FROM LOW TEMPERATURE, LOW MATURITY, OVERPRESSURED SEDIMENTS
Authors: Antia D. D. J.
Published: July 2008

A mechanism for hydrocarbon expulsion from low temperature (T = <20 – 150° C), low maturity (Ro=<0.6), overpressured sediments (clays, shales and enclosed sands) with active hydrocarbon concentration and/or generation is outlined. Low temperature polymerisation of light hydrocarbons (e.g. biogenic methane) is considered to be a potential source for some oils found in association with hydrates (resulting from fluidisation discharges from overpressured zones), and some oils found in shales displaying suppression of vitrinite reflectance. It is observed that low temperature polymerisation will increase the potential pressure load retained within an overpressured zone and increase the overall volume of gas/fluids discharged on pressure release.

Field observations, including measured recharge volumes and the fluid discharge volumes through a chimney from an overpressured zone, have been used to produce a triple porosity, poroelastic fluidisation expulsion model which links the discharge volume to pressure loading. The model predicts that expulsion from an active pressure mound will be cyclic and episodic.

Published geochemical results from seismic chimneys in the Lower Congo Basin have been reinterpreted using the model to demonstrate that expulsion through a chimney is episodic, and to identify overpressured zones where the dominant fluid is oil and others where the overpressured zone contains both oil and gas. It is suggested that some of the oil in these overpressured zones, currently interpreted as thermogenic, may be derived from the polymerisation of biogenic gas.
DEVONIAN CARBONATES OF THE NIGEL PEAK AREA, ROCKY MOUNTAINS, CANADA: A FOSSIL PETROLEUM SYSTEM?
Authors: Köster J. , Littke R. , Machel H. G.
Published: July 2008

In this study we report on Devonian (Frasnian – Famennian) limestones and dolostones exposed near Nigel Peak in the Main Ranges of the Canadian Rocky Mountains. These carbonates are a proximal facies of the Southesk‐Cairn Carbonate Complex. The investigated strata are stratigraphically equivalent to the oil‐ and gas bearing Nisku Formation in the subsurface of the Western Canada Sedimentary Basin, about 300 km to the east. The rocks were investigated by polarisation and cathodoluminescence microscopy, total organic carbon analysis, Rock‐Eval pyrolysis, solid bitumen reflectance measurements, gas chromatography and fluid inclusion analysis.

Thin section analyses showed that silt‐grade quartz and saddle dolomite increase upward from the base of the stratigraphic section, and that porosities are generally low. This is due to reduction of pore space due to early cementation and extensive dolomitization. Cathodoluminescence identified up to four generations of calcite cements. TOC values ranged from 0.2 to 2.4 %. Rock‐Eval pyrolysis of carbonate samples resulted in measurable S1 peaks but not S2 peaks, indicating that there was no residual petroleum generation potential. Organic petrographic analyses identified dispersed kerogen and migrabitumen, and calculated vitrinite reflectance values were around 4 % on average which implies peak temperatures of 234–262 °C (due to deep burial) or 309–352 °C (due to short term hydrothermal heating). Fluid inclusion data indicates at least one pulse of hot fluids with elevated homogenization temperatures of > 300 °C, and this may explain the high thermal maturity of the studied rocks.
Substance Abuse by Youth and Young Adults in Rural America
Authors: Lambert David , Gale John A. , Hartley David
Published: July 2008

ABSTRACT: Purpose:Addressing substance abuse in rural America requires extending our understanding beyond urban‐rural comparisons to how substance abuse varies across rural communities of different sizes. We address this gap by examining substance abuse prevalence across 4 geographic levels, focusing on youth (age 12‐17 years) and young adults (age 18‐25 years).Methods:The analysis is based on 3 years (2002‐2004) of pooled data from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health. We measure rurality using a four‐tier consolidation of the 2003 Rural‐Urban Continuum Codes: urban, rural‐adjacent, rural‐large, and rural‐small and medium.Findings:Rural youth have higher alcohol use and methamphetamine use than urban youth and the more rural the area, the higher the use. Rural young adults living in rural‐large areas have higher rates of substance abuse than their urban peers; those living in the most rural areas have nearly twice the rate of methamphetamine use as urban young adults. Rural youth are more likely than urban youth to have engaged in the high‐risk behavior of driving under the influence of alcohol or other illicit drugs.Conclusions:Higher prevalence rates, coupled with high‐risk behavior, place rural youth and young adults at risk of continued substance use and problems associated with this use. Rural community infrastructure should be enhanced to support substance abuse prevention and intervention for these populations.
Trends in Tuberculosis Reported From the Appalachian Region: United States, 1993‐2005
Authors: Wallace Ryan M. , Armstrong Lori R. , Pratt Robert H. , Kammerer J. Steve , Iademarco Michael F.
Published: July 2008

ABSTRACT: 
Context:

Appalachia has been characterized by its poverty, a factor associated with tuberculosis, yet little is known about the disease in this region. Purpose: To determine whether Appalachian tuberculosis risk factors, trends, and rates differ from the rest of the United States. Methods: Analysis of tuberculosis cases reported to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's National Tuberculosis Surveillance System (NTSS) within the 50 states and the District of Columbia from 1993 through 2005. Results: The 2005 rate of tuberculosis in rural Appalachia was 2.1/100,000, compared to 2.7/100,000 in urban Appalachia. Urban non‐Appalachia had a 2005 tuberculosis rate of 5.4/100,000. Over the 13‐year period, tuberculosis rates fell in Appalachia at an annual rate of 7.8%. In one age group (15‐ to 24‐year‐olds) the rates increased at an annual rate of 2.8%. Foreign‐born Hispanics were the largest racial/ethnic group in this age group. When private providers gave exclusive care for tuberculosis disease, Appalachians were less likely to complete therapy in a timely manner when compared to non‐Appalachians (OR 0.6, 95% CI 0.5‐0.7). Conclusions: Tuberculosis rates and trends are similar in urban and rural Appalachia. It is crucial for public health officials in Appalachia to address the escalating TB rate among 15‐ to 24‐year‐olds by focusing prevention efforts on the growing numbers of foreign‐born cases. Due to the increased risk of treatment failure among Appalachians who do not seek care from the health department, public health authorities must ensure completion of treatment for patients who seek private providers.
Attitudes Toward Telehealth Use Among Rural Residents: A Danish Survey
Authors: Sørensen Jens F.L.
Published: July 2008

ABSTRACT: 
Context:

Rural communities tend to be underserved by medical services. Low access to medical services affects quality of life and may also affect settlement decisions. The use of telehealth has often been mentioned as an alternative way to provide health care services in remote, underserved areas. One prerequisite for successful delivery of health care by means of telehealth is the existence of positive attitudes toward telehealth solutions among the potential end beneficiaries. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to examine the attitudes toward telehealth use among residents in a Danish rural area. Method: A representative sample from the island of Ærø (n = 1,000) was selected and attitudes toward 2 telehealth applications were examined by structured telephone interviews regarding: (1) video consultation between patient and specialist, and (2) transfer of work tasks from local hospital to a hospital outside Denmark. Findings: As many as 58% did not like the idea of having a consultation with a specialist carried out by video consultation, whereas 26% did not like the idea of having their X‐rays assessed by a hospital outside Denmark. The reluctance regarding both telehealth solutions was higher among older people and people with no education beyond primary school. Conclusions: As the rural population in Denmark, as well as in other countries, tends to be older and less educated than the national average, the introduction of telehealth services faces special challenges in rural areas.
Religious ethos and employment equality: a comparative Irish perspective
Authors: Coen Mark
Published: July 2008

This paper addresses, from a comparative perspective, the legal position of the lay employees of religious institutions such as schools and hospitals. The legal regimes governing ‘ethos’ in the Republic of Ireland, Northern Ireland and Britain are compared. The tension which exists between the right of religious schools and hospitals to uphold their ethos in a secular society on the one hand, and the rights of their employees to privacy and personal autonomy on the other, is highlighted. It will be argued that legislative reform is required to remove uncertainty from the lives of lay employees of religious institutions who work conscientiously but fear dismissal or discrimination because an aspect of their lifestyle – usually their sexuality – is considered unorthodox by their employer. The need for a change in judicial attitudes and a lessening of deference towards the actions of religious denominations is also a theme throughout.
Correlations between clinical and physiological consequences of the novel mutation R878C in a highly conserved pore residue in the cardiac Na+ channel
Authors: Zhang Y. , Wang T. , Ma A. , Zhou X. , Gui J. , Wan H. , Shi R. , Huang C. , Grace A. A. , Huang C. L.‐H. , Trump D. , Zhang H. , Zimmer T. , Lei M.
Published: July 2008

Aim:  We compared the clinical and physiological consequences of the novel mutation R878C in a highly conserved pore residue in domain II (S5‐S6) of human, hNav1.5, cardiac Na+ channels.

Methods:  Full clinical evaluation of pedigree members through three generations of a Chinese family combined with SCN5A sequencing from genomic DNA was compared with patch and voltage‐clamp results from two independent expression systems.

Results:  The four mutation carriers showed bradycardia, and slowed sino‐atrial, atrioventricular and intraventricular conduction. Two also showed sick sinus syndrome; two had ST elevation in leads V1 and V2. Unlike WT‐hNav1.5, whole‐cell patch‐clamped HEK293 cells expressing R878C‐hNav1.5 showed no detectable Na+ currents (iNa), even with substitution of a similarly charged lysine residue. Voltage‐clamped Xenopus oocytes injected with either 0.04 or 1.5 μg μL−1 R878C‐hNav1.5 cRNA similarly showed no iNa, yet WT‐hNav1.5 cRNA diluted to 0.0004–0.0008 ng μL−1resulted in expression of detectable iNa. iNa was simply determined by the amount of injected WT‐hNav1.5: doubling the dose of WT‐hNav1.5 cRNA doubled iNa. iNa amplitudes and activation and inactivation characteristics were similar irrespective of whether WT‐hNav1.5 cRNA was given alone or combined with equal doses of R878C‐hNav1.5 cRNA therefore excluding dominant negative phenotypic effects. Na+ channel function in HEK293 cells transfected with R878C‐hNav1.5 was not restored by exposure to mexiletine (200 μm) and lidocaine (100 μm). Fluorescence confocal microscopy using E3‐Nav1.5 antibody demonstrated persistent membrane expression of both WT and R878C‐hNav1.5. Modelling studies confirmed that such iNa reductions reproduced the SSS phenotype.

Conclusion:  Clinical consequences of the novel R878C mutation correlate with results of physiological studies.
Towards a Critical Geography of Flexibility: Facets of Adaptability in Society and Space
Authors: Buzar Stefan
Published: July 2008

This article explores the multiple dimensions of the property of flexibility in society and space, going beyond the industrial location and labour relations domains where it has traditionally received the greatest amount of attention. I argue that tendencies of ‘flexibilization’ can be observed in a much wider range of domains, from households to architectural formations. While claiming that these dynamics are mutually interconnected and contingent, I also advance the argument that there is a need for a critical understanding of flexibility within human geography, one that would recognize and examine the inherent multiplicity and diversity of this concept.
Effect of Moderate Spray Drying Conditions on Functionality of Dried Egg White and Whole Egg
Authors: Ayadi M.A. , Khemakhem M. , Belgith H. , Attia H.
Published: July 2008

ABSTRACT:  Dried egg and egg‐derived proteins have a range of applications in baking, dressings, and confectionery products. Egg powder was produced under high time–temperature scales (approximately 160 °C), which led to many changes in egg components, resulting in different functional properties of eggs after reconstitution. In this study, moderate operating conditions were selected to dry egg white and whole egg using a pilot‐scale spray dryer. Functional properties changes were evaluated with an appropriate statistical technique. Major finding supports that spray drying of egg white at moderate conditions (air inlet temperature ranged from 110 to 125 °C) resulted in a product that enhanced considerably the water holding capacity of produced gels. Moreover, gel prepared with the dried samples was firmer than that of the fresh samples. Drying at a moderate scale allowed not only the increasing of the foaming capacity and the stability of foam but also an increase in their emulsifying capacity and stability of the emulsions.
An electronic thesaurus of Evidence Based Laboratory Medicine hematological and biochemical diagnostic tests
Authors: DORIZZI R. M. , MACONI M. , GIAVARINA D. , LOZA G. , AMAN M. , MOREIRA J. , BISOFFI Z. , GENNUSO C. ,   ON BEHALF OF Evidence Based Laboratory Medicine Group of Italian Society of Laboratory Medicine (SIMeL)
Published: July 2008

The adoption of Evidence Based Laboratory Medicine (EBLM) has been hampered until today by the lack of effective tools. The SIMeL EBLM e‐Thesaurus (on‐line Repertoire of the diagnostic effectiveness of the laboratory, radiology and cardiology test) provides a useful support to clinical laboratory professionals and to clinicians for the interpretation of the diagnostic tests. The e‐Thesaurus is an application developed using Microsoft® Active Server Pages technology and carried out with Web Server Microsoft® Internet Information Server and is available at the SIMeL website using a browser running JavaScript® scripts (Internet Explorer® is recommended). It contains a database (in Italian, English and Spanish) of the sensitivity and specificity (including the 95% confidence interval), the positive and negative likelihood ratios, the Diagnostic Odds Ratio and the Number Needed to Diagnose of more than 2000 diagnostic (most laboratory but also cardiology and radiology) tests. The e‐Thesaurus improves the previous SIMeL paper and CD Thesaurus; its main features are a three languages search and a continuous and an easy updating capability.
An investigation of the link between beach morphology and wave climate at Duck, NC, USA
Authors: Horrillo‐Caraballo J.M. , Reeve D.E.
Published: July 2008

Beaches can play an important role in flood defence by providing protection from the wave action. Understanding how beaches respond during storms and how beach profiles interact with waves and tides is very important in terms of the management of flood and erosion risks. In this paper we describe the application of canonical correlation analysis (CCA) to an historical data set of seabed elevations in Duck, NC, USA. The study site is a sandy beach located on the east coast of USA. The data set comprises detailed bathymetric surveys of beach profiles covering a period of over 24 years, and wave conditions measured over the same period, but at a different sampling rate. The structure of the data set and the data handling methods are described. The CCA method is applied using different assumptions about the distribution of wave heights. The results extend previous work by Larson et al. (2000), and demonstrate that the choice of how to describe the wave conditions can influence the quality of predictions made on the basis of the CCA results.
Comprehensive dental treatment of a patient with Huntington's disease: literature review and case report
Authors: Rada Robert E.
Published: July 2008

Huntington's disease is an inherited neurodegenerative disorder for which there is no cure. Because of the physical impairment and medication side effects, these patients can experience extensive oral disease.

A patient presented to the dental clinic with complaints of oral pain and an inability to chew due to extensive caries and periodontal disease. General anesthesia was required to treat his oral problem due to the patient's disease‐associated uncontrolled movements, psychological status, and extensive oral disease. As varying anesthesia techniques have been recommended for patients with Huntington's disease, medical consultation was important to restore this individual's oral health.
Characterization of 15 polymorphic microsatellite markers in the freshwater snail Aplexa marmorata (Mollusca, Gastropoda)
Authors: DUBOIS MARIE‐PIERRE , NICOT ANTOINE , JARNE PHILIPPE , DAVID PATRICE
Published: July 2008

We describe 15 new variable microsatellites in the freshwater snail Aplexa (Physa) marmorata, as well as conditions for multiplexing and simultaneous genotyping sets of loci. Two to 11 alleles were detected per locus over the five populations studied, and up to eight alleles per locus and population. The observed heterozygosity was extremely low, most probably as the consequence of high selfing rates. The genetic differentiation among populations was large. These markers will constitute efficient tools for investigating the population structure in fragmented habitats. Cross‐species amplification in three Physa species (P. acuta, P. fontinalis and P. gyrina) was rather unsuccessful.
Identification and characterization of 15 polymorphic microsatellite loci in the western drywood termite, Incisitermes minor (Hagen)
Authors: BOOTH W. , LEWIS V. R. , TAYLOR R. L. , SCHAL C. , VARGO E. L.
Published: July 2008

Despite recognition of the western drywood termite, Incisitermes minor (Hagen), as one of the most economically important and destructive termite species in the USA, both its population and colony breeding structure genetically remain unclear. Here, we present primer sequences and initial characterization for 15 polymorphic microsatellite loci. In a sample of 30 individuals, representing six geographically distinct locations collected in California, USA, three to 15 alleles were detected segregating per locus. Within a single population observed heterozygosity ranged from 0.050 to 0.866.
Polymorphic microsatellites in nēnē, the endangered Hawaiian goose (Branta sandvicensis)
Authors: VEILLET ANNE , SHRESTHA RAJESH , PRICE DONALD K.
Published: July 2008

The nēnē (Branta sandvicensis) is an endangered Hawaiian goose endemic to the Hawaiian Islands. The nēnē nearly went extinct in the mid‐19.00s and the majority of the approximately 1300 individuals currently in Hawai’i are descendants from less than 30 birds. The low adult breeding success and juvenile survival is likely due, in part, to inbreeding depression in wild individuals. Thirty‐eight microsatellite primer sets developed in nēnē, Canada goose, and waterfowl species provided 8 polymorphic loci. Four of these polymorphic loci exhibited only two alleles, which is likely a reflection of the high inbreeding in this species.
A method for quantifying melanosome transfer efficacy from melanocytes to keratinocytes in vitro
Authors: Lin Hwang‐Chi , Shieh Bin‐Han , Lu Mei‐Hua , Chen Jang‐Yi , Chang Li‐Tze , Chao Chung‐Faye
Published: July 2008

Several different in vivo and in vitro bioassays are used to evaluate melanosome transfer efficacy from melanocytes to keratinocytes. However, these methods are complicated and time consuming. Here, we report on a simple, rapid, direct, and reliable in vitro method for observing the process of melanosome transfer from melanocytes to keratinocytes. First, we selected and tested a melanoma cell line RPMI‐7951 that can normally synthesize melanin and transfer from mature melanosomes to keratinocytes in vitro. We cocultured these cells with a human ovarian teratoma transformed epidermal carcinoma cell line, which is also capable of accepting melanosomes transferred from melanocytes, as in normal keratinocytes. The cells were cocultured for 24–72 h and double labeled with FITC‐conjugated antibody against the melanosome‐associated protein TRP‐1, and with Cy5‐conjugated antibody against the keratinocyte‐specific marker keratin 14. The cells were examined by fluorescence microscope and flow cytometry. Melanosome transfer from melanocytes to keratinocytes increased in a time‐dependent manner. To verify the accessibility of this method, the melanosome transfer inhibitor, a serine protease inhibitor, 4‐(2‐aminoethyl) benzenesulfonyl fluoride hydrochloride, and a melanosome transfer stimulator, α‐melanocyte‐stimulating hormone, were added. The serine protease inhibitor decreased melanosome transfer, and α‐melanocyte‐stimulating hormone increased melanosome transfer, in a dose‐dependent manner. In conclusion, this is a simple, rapid, and effective model system to quantify the melanosome transfer efficacy from melanocytes to keratinocytes in vitro.
The relationship between single nucleotide polymorphisms of the interleukin‐10 gene promoter in systemic lupus erythematosus patients in Malaysia: a pilot study
Authors: HEE Chee Seng , GUN Suk Chyn , NAIDU Rakesh , SOMNATH Sushela Devi , RADHAKRISHNAN Ammu Kutty
Published: July 2008

Aim:  Recent studies have shown that single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) have been identified within the promoter of the human interleukin‐10 (IL‐10) gene may participate in the pathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and may be related to disease activity. This is a pilot study that investigated the allelic and genotype frequencies of three SNPs in the human IL‐10 gene promoter [rs1800896 (position: –1082G > A), rs1800871 (position: –824C > T) and rs1800872 (position: –597C > A)] among Malaysian SLE patients and normal subjects.

Methods:  Blood was drawn from 44 SLE patients and 44 age‐ and sex‐matched healthy control subjects for DNA extraction. The SNPs were identified using the polymerase chain reaction‐restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR‐RFLP) method.

Results:  There was no significant difference in the genotype and allele frequencies between the SLE patients and control subjects. A statistically significant difference was detected in the haplotype frequencies between the patients and controls (P = 0.004).

Conclusions:  There is a significant difference in the haplotype frequencies between the SLE patients and controls; the SNPs in the human IL‐10 gene promoter could play an important role in the pathogenesis of SLE.