bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Environmental Sporting
Authors: Schaffner Spencer
Published: July 2009

This article describes birding as an example of what I call environmental sporting, an ostensibly green category of sport that relies on both environmental protection and degradation. Three competitive forms of birding are explored in relation to three toxic sites: the birding event called the World Series of Birding and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Superfund sites, big-year birding and landfills, and the competitive practice of listing and sewage ponds. At each site and in each competitive instantiation of birding, birders seek birds in close proximity with potent environmental toxins. The presence of active birds and birders at such sites works to make toxicity seem both hospitable and harmless. By discussing how birding relies on and ultimately masks the perils of toxic sites, the article suggests contradictions that arise from the relationship between sport and environmentalism.
The Relationship Between RN Job Satisfaction and Accountability
Authors: Sorensen Emily E. , Seebeck Elizabeth D. , Scherb Cindy A. , Specht Janet P. , Loes Jean L.
Published: July 2009

The purpose of this descriptive correlational secondary data analysis is to describe the relationship between job satisfaction and accountability among registered nurses with clinical responsibilities employed by a rural health care network in the Midwest. The response rate from the primary study is 39%, with 337 RN respondents. The sample for this secondary analysis is 299. The instruments used to measure accountability and job satisfaction are the Specht and Ramler Accountability Index—Individual Referent and the McCloskey—Mueller Satisfaction Scale (MMSS). The results indicate that accountability is perceived to be relatively high and job satisfaction is moderate. Accountability and job satisfaction are significantly correlated at a moderate level. The correlations between the subscales of the MMSS and accountability are all statistically significant but low. The subscales with the highest correlations (e.g., control and responsibility, praise and recognition, professional opportunities, scheduling) provide direction for nurse administrators about important target areas for improvement.
How Should Microrobots Swim?
Authors: Abbott Jake J. , Peyer Kathrin E. , Lagomarsino Marco Cosentino , Zhang Li , Dong Lixin , Kaliakatsos Ioannis K. , Nelson Bradley J.
Published: July 2009

Microrobots have the potential to dramatically change many aspects of medicine by navigating through bodily fluids to perform targeted diagnosis and therapy. Researchers have proposed numerous micro-robotic swimming methods, with the vast majority utilizing magnetic fields to wirelessly power and control the microrobot. In this paper, we compare three promising methods of microrobot swimming (using magnetic fields to rotate helical propellers that mimic bacterial flagella, using magnetic fields to oscillate a magnetic head with a rigidly attached elastic tail, and pulling directly with magnetic field gradients) considering practical hardware limitations in the generation of magnetic fields. We find that helical propellers and elastic tails have very comparable performance, and they generally become more desirable than gradient pulling as size decreases and as distance from the magnetic-field-generation source increases. We provide a discussion of why helical propellers are likely the best overall choice for in vivo applications.
The Belief Roadmap: Efficient Planning in Belief Space by Factoring the Covariance
Authors: Prentice Samuel , Roy Nicholas
Published: July 2009

When a mobile agent does not know its position perfectly, incorporating the predicted uncertainty of future position estimates into the planning process can lead to substantially better motion performance. However, planning in the space of probabilistic position estimates, or belief space, can incur a substantial computational cost. In this paper, we show that planning in belief space can be performed efficiently for linear Gaussian systems by using a factored form of the covariance matrix. This factored form allows several prediction and measurement steps to be combined into a single linear transfer function, leading to very efficient posterior belief prediction during planning. We give a belief-space variant of the probabilistic roadmap algorithm called the belief roadmap (BRM) and show that the BRM can compute plans substantially faster than conventional belief space planning. We conclude with performance results for an agent using ultra-wide bandwidth radio beacons to localize and show that we can efficiently generate plans that avoid failures due to loss of accurate position estimation.
A Fast Stereo-based System for Detecting and Tracking Pedestrians from a Moving Vehicle
Authors: Bajracharya Max , Moghaddam Baback , Howard Andrew , Brennan Shane , Matthies Larry H.
Published: July 2009

In this paper we describe a fully integrated system for detecting, localizing, and tracking pedestrians from a moving vehicle. The system can reliably detect upright pedestrians to a range of 40 m in lightly cluttered urban environments. The system uses range data from stereo vision to segment the scene into regions of interest, from which shape features are extracted and used to classify pedestrians. The regions are tracked using shape and appearance features. Tracking is used to temporally filter classifications to improve performance and to estimate the velocity of pedestrians for use in path planning. The end-to-end system runs at 5 Hz on 1 ,024 × 768 imagery using a standard 2.4 GHz Intel Core 2 Quad processor, and has been integrated and tested on multiple ground vehicles and environments. We show performance on a diverse set of datasets with groundtruth in outdoor environments with varying degrees of pedestrian density and clutter. In highly cluttered urban environments, the detection rates are on a par with state-of-the-art but significantly slower systems.
Using graphical notations to assess children’s experiencing of simple and complex musical fragments
Authors: Verschaffel Lieven , Reybrouck Mark , Janssens Marjan , Van Dooren Wim
Published: July 2009

The aim of this study was to analyze children’s graphical notations as external representations of their experiencing when listening to simple sonic stimuli and complex musical fragments. More specifically, we assessed the impact of four factors on children’s notations: age, musical background, complexity of the fragment, and most salient sonic/musical parameter. One hundred and sixteen children — 8—9-year-olds and 11—12-year-olds with and without extra music education — were exposed to six fragments that differed from one another in terms of complexity and the most salient sonic parameter. Their notations were categorized by means of a classification scheme that differentiated between (a) global notations, which represent the fragments in a holistic way, and (b) differentiated notations, which try to capture one or more sonic/ musical parameters in their temporal unfolding. As expected, we found a significant impact of age and music education, with older children and children with extracurricular music education generating more differentiated notations. Furthermore, complex sounding fragments elicited much fewer differentiated notations than simple ones. We also found significant interaction effects between subject and task variables. Finally, we found a correlation between the sophistication level of children’s representations of the simple and complex fragments.
A limiting feature of the Mozart effect: listening enhances mental rotation abilities in non-musicians but not musicians
Authors: Aheadi Afshin , Dixon Peter , Glover Scott
Published: July 2009

The ‘Mozart effect’ occurs when performance on spatial cognitive tasks improves following exposure to Mozart. It is hypothesized that the Mozart effect arises because listening to complex music activates similar regions of the right cerebral hemisphere as are involved in spatial cognition. A counter-intuitive prediction of this hypothesis (and one that may explain at least some of the null results reported previously) is that Mozart should only improve spatial cognition in non-musicians, who process melodic information exclusively in the right hemisphere, but not in musicians, who process melodic information in both hemispheres. This hypothesis was tested by comparing performance of musicians and non-musicians on a mental rotation task before and after exposure to either Mozart or silence. It was found that performance on the mental rotation task improved only in non-musicians after listening to Mozart. Performance did not improve for non-musicians after exposure to silence, or for musicians after exposure to either Mozart or silence. These results support the hypothesis that the benefits of listening to Mozart arise because of activation of right hemispheric structures involved in spatial cognition.
Distal Biceps Tendon Repair
Authors: Jobin Charles M. , Kippe Matthew A. , Gardner Thomas R. , Levine William N. , Ahmad Christopher S.
Published: July 2009

Background

Distal biceps tendon repair with interference screw or double suture-anchor fixation are 2 successful techniques performed with either 1- or 2-incision approaches. No study has examined the accuracy and quality of the repaired tendon footprint with these devices and approaches.

Hypothesis

A 2-incision approach will allow a more anatomic repair of the distal biceps footprint compared with a 1-incision anterior approach. Fixation technique will affect insertional footprint location and footprint contact area.

Study Design

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods

After randomization, 36 distal biceps repairs were performed on human cadaveric upper extremity specimens, with 1- or 2-incision approaches and with fixation devices of either two 5.5-mm suture anchors or an 8-mm interference screw. Native and repaired footprint areas and centroid location were calculated with a 3-dimensional digitizer.

Results

Interference screw repair had the smallest footprint area (135 mm 2 ) compared with suture anchor repair (197 mm 2 ) and the native tendon (259 mm 2 ) ( P = .013). The 2-incision approach repaired the footprint to a more posterior and anatomic position (2.5 mm) than a 1-incision approach ( P = .001). The fixation device did not affect footprint location significantly.

Conclusion

Suture anchor repair more closely re-creates the footprint area on the radial tuberosity of the native distal biceps tendon compared with the interference screw repair. A 2-incision approach more closely re-creates footprint position compared with the 1-incision approach.

Clinical Relevance

A 2-incision approach with double suture-anchor fixation may yield a more anatomic distal biceps repair based on reproduction of the footprint compared with a 1-incision approach.
Chronic Ethanol Intake Alters Circadian Phase Shifting and Free-Running Period in Mice
Authors: Seggio Joseph A. , Fixaris Michael C. , Reed Jeffrey D. , Logan Ryan W. , Rosenwasser Alan M.
Published: July 2009

Chronic alcohol intake is associated with widespread disruptions in sleep and circadian rhythms in both human alcoholics and in experimental animals. Recent studies have demonstrated that chronic and acute ethanol treatments alter fundamental properties of the circadian pacemaker—including free-running period and responsiveness to photic and nonphotic phase-shifting stimuli—in rats and hamsters. In the present work, the authors extend these observations to the C57BL/6J mouse, an inbred strain characterized by very high levels of voluntary ethanol intake and by reliable and stable free-running circadian activity rhythms. Mice were housed individually in running-wheel cages under conditions of either voluntary or forced ethanol intake, whereas controls were maintained on plain water. Forced ethanol intake significantly attenuated photic phase delays (but not phase advances) and shortened free-running period in constant darkness, but voluntary ethanol intake failed to affect either of these parameters. Thus, high levels of chronic ethanol intake, beyond those normally achieved under voluntary drinking conditions, are required to alter fundamental circadian pacemaker properties in C57BL/6J mice. These observations may be related to the relative ethanol insensitivity displayed by this strain in several other phenotypic domains, including ethanol-induced sedation, ataxia, and withdrawal. Additional experiments will investigate chronobiological sensitivity to ethanol in a range of inbred strains showing diverse ethanol-related phenotypes.
Period Gene Expression in Four Neurons Is Sufficient for Rhythmic Activity of Drosophila melanogaster under Dim Light Conditions
Authors: Rieger Dirk , Wülbeck Corinna , Rouyer Francois , Helfrich-Förster Charlotte
Published: July 2009

The clock gene expressing lateral neurons (LN) is crucial for Drosophila 's rhythmic locomotor activity under constant conditions. Among the LN, the PDF expressing small ventral lateral neurons (s-LNv) are thought to control the morning activity of the fly (M oscillators) and to drive rhythmic activity under constant darkness. In contrast, a 5th PDF-negative s-LN v and the dorsal lateral neurons (LNd) appeared to control the fly's evening activity (E oscillators) and to drive rhythmic activity under constant light. Here, the authors restricted period gene expression to 4 LN—the 5th s-LNv and 3 LNd— that are all thought to belong to the E oscillators and tested them in low light conditions. Interestingly, such flies showed rather normal bimodal activity patterns under light moonlight and constant moonlight conditions, except that the phase of M and E peaks was different. This suggests that these 4 neurons behave as ″M″ and ″E″ cells in these conditions. Indeed, they found by PER and TIM immunohistochemistry that 2 LNd advanced their phase upon moonlight as predicted for M oscillators, whereas the 5th s-LNv and 1 LNd delayed their activity upon moonlight as predicted for E oscillators. Their results suggest that the M or E characteristic of clock neurons is rather flexible. M and E oscillator function may not be restricted to certain anatomically defined groups of clock neurons but instead depends on the environmental conditions.
Sleep Timing and Circadian Phase in Delayed Sleep Phase Syndrome
Authors: Chang Anne-Marie , Reid Kathryn J. , Gourineni Ramadevi , Zee Phyllis C.
Published: July 2009

Delayed sleep phase syndrome (DSPS) is a circadian rhythm sleep disorder in which the timing of the sleep episode occurs later than desired and is associated with difficulty falling asleep, problems awakening on time (e.g., to meet work or school obligations), and daytime sleepiness. The phase relationship between the timing of sleep and endogenous circadian rhythms is critical to the initiation and maintenance of sleep, and significant alteration leads to impairment of sleep quality and duration. The aim of this retrospective study was to determine the phase relationship between sleep-wake times and physiological markers of circadian timing in clinic patients with DSPS. Objective and subjective measures of sleep timing and circadian phase markers (core body temperature and melatonin) were measured in patients with DSPS and compared with age-matched controls. As expected, significant delays in the timing of the major sleep episode and circadian phase of body temperature and melatonin rhythms were seen in the DSPS group when allowed to sleep at their own habitual schedules, but the phase relationship between sleep-wake times and circadian phase was similar between the 2 groups. These results suggest that the symptoms of insomnia and excessive daytime sleepiness in DSPS patients living under entrained real-life conditions cannot be explained by an alteration in the phase relationship between sleep-wake patterns and other physiological circadian rhythms.
Does the Morning and Evening Oscillator Model Fit Better for Flies or Mice?
Authors: Helfrich-Förster Charlotte
Published: July 2009

The morning and evening dual oscillator model can explain the adaptation of animals to different photoperiods and other phenomena as bimodal activity patterns, aftereffects, and internal desynchronization of the activity rhythm into 2 free-running components. This review summarizes evidence for and against the existence of morning and evening oscillator cells in the core circadian pacemaker centers of mice and fruit flies.
“Peer but Not Peer”: Considering the Context of Infant Feeding Peer Counseling in a High HIV Prevalence Area
Authors: Nor Barni , Zembe Yanga , Daniels Karen , Doherty Tanya , Jackson Debra , Ahlberg Beth Maina , Ekström Eva-Charlotte , PROMISE-EBF Study Group
Published: July 2009

Postnatal transmission of HIV through breastfeeding remains an unsolved problem in resource poor settings, where refraining from breastfeeding is neither feasible nor safe. This study describes how women experienced infant-feeding peer counseling within a community-based intervention trial in 3 settings in South Africa. In total, 17 interviews and 10 observations were done with HIV-infected and uninfected women. The findings raise questions on the concept of “peer.” Some women feared the peer counselor visits and questioned their intentions. Others, especially HIV-infected women, valued peer counseling for the emotional support provided. Being HIV infected with limited or no network of support appeared stressful for most women. The effects of data collection on the delivery and uptake of peer counseling are discussed. The findings underline the contextual barriers facing peer counselors and show that these challenges could have important implications for the effectiveness of infant-feeding counseling in high HIV prevalence countries.
Development of Measures of Abuse Among Women With Disabilities and the Characteristics of Their Perpetrators
Authors: Curry Mary Ann , Renker Paula , Hughes Rosemary B. , Robinson-Whelen Susan , Oschwald Mary , Swank Paul R. , Powers Laurie E.
Published: July 2009

Three hundred and five women with diverse disabilities completed an anonymous audio computer—assisted self-interview designed to increase women’s awareness of abuse. Data were also collected regarding abuse experienced in the past year and the risk characteristics of their perpetrators. Overall, 68% reported some type of abuse. Preliminary evidence for the validity and reliability of questions to assess abuse and perpetrator risk characteristics was found. Latent class analysis revealed four distinct classes of abuse experiences: sexual abuse, physical abuse, multiple forms of abuse, and minimal abuse and three classes of perpetrator risk characteristics: controlling characteristics, noncontrolling characteristics, and minimal risk characteristics.
Aligning Identities, Emotions, and Beliefs to Create Commitment to Sustainable Social and Political Action
Authors: Thomas Emma F. , McGarty Craig , Mavor Kenneth I.
Published: July 2009

In this article the authors explore the social psychological processes underpinning sustainable commitment to a social or political cause. Drawing on recent developments in the collective action, identity formation, and social norm literatures, they advance a new model to understand sustainable commitment to action. The normative alignment model suggests that one solution to promoting ongoing commitment to collective action lies in crafting a social identity with a relevant pattern of norms for emotion, efficacy, and action. Rather than viewing group emotion, collective efficacy, and action as group products, the authors conceptualize norms about these as contributing to a dynamic system of meaning, which can shape ongoing commitment to a cause. By exploring emotion, efficacy, and action as group norms, it allows scholars to reenergize the theoretical connections between collective identification and subjective meaning but also allows for a fresh perspective on complex questions of causality.
Effects of leisure-time physical activity on well-being among women: a 32-year perspective
Authors: Blomstrand Ann , Björkelund Cecilia , Ariai Nashmil , Lissner Lauren , Bengtsson Calle
Published: July 2009

Aims: To explore potential effects of physical activity on well-being in a population study. Results are from baseline and 32-year follow-ups. Methods: In a population study of 1462 women in five age strata cross-sectional and prospective analysis were carried out. Activity levels were divided into low, intermediate and high. Well-being was based on self-reported well-being using a Likert-type 7-point scale. Results: Cross-sectional analysis showed strong associations between level of physical activity and well-being. The odds ratio (OR) for poor well-being in women with low physical activity compared with physically more active women was, when studied cross-sectionally, after 12 years in 1980—81 3.94, 95% confidence interval (CI) 2.70—5.74, after 24 years in 1992—93 4.01, CI 2.61—6.17, and after 32 years in 2000—01 7.17, CI 3.56—14.44. Similar associations were observed when relating physical activity at baseline to subsequent well-being: after 12 years: OR 2.09, 95% CI 1.31—3.34, after 24 years: OR 2.74; 95% CI 1.56—4.83, and after 32 years: OR 1.49, 95% CI 0.77—2.88. There was a linear correlation between changes in the individual’s physical activity level and her simultaneous changes in experience of well-being between 1980—81 and 1992—93 and between 1992—93 and 2000—01 as well as between 1980—81 and 2000—01. Conclusions: Strong associations were observed between leisure time physical activity level and reported experience of well-being cross-sectionally and prospectively. Well-being increased with concurrent changes in physical activity. Increased physical activity in sedentary individuals appears to promote not only health but also well-being.
Neonatal findings among children of substance-abusing women attending a special child welfare clinic in Norway
Authors: Hjerkinn Bjørg , Rosvold Elin O , Lindbæk Morten
Published: July 2009

Aims: A special child welfare clinic (SCWC) in Norway provides care for pregnant women with substance abuse problems to prevent the adverse effects of substances. The SCWC aims to give treatment without replacements. This article describes neonatal findings among children of substance-abusing women at the clinic. Methods: This was a retrospective cohort study including 62 children whose mothers had attended the SCWC during pregnancy. A comparison group with children of women with no substance abuse was included. Data were collected from medical records and by means of a questionnaire concerning neonatal data, health, and living conditions. SCWC mothers were divided into short-term users (substance use stopped within first trimester) and long-term users (continued moderate substance use throughout pregnancy). Results: Average birthweight and head circumference were significantly lower in the substance-abusing groups: 3084 g and 34.0 cm in the short-term group, 3048 g and 33.9 cm in the long-term group, and 3496 g and 34.8 cm in the comparison group. There was no difference in Apgar score. Substance abuse and psychiatric illness were associated with low birthweight. Long-term users were more likely than comparisons to experience premature birth and have low-birthweight children. This difference was not found among short-term users. We found no difference in Caesarean sections and vacuum extractions. Conclusions: Substance abusers who stop their drug use early in pregnancy tend to have birth outcomes that are similar to those of mothers with no substance abuse. The study indicates that attendance at a voluntary, low-threshold initiative for pregnant substance abusers, with a focus on prenatal care and substance abuse treatment without replacements, may reduce the harmful effect of the abuse on the newborn.
Participatory Photography as a Qualitative Approach to Obtain Insights into Farmer Groups
Authors: Gotschi Elisabeth , Delve Robert , Freyer Bernhard
Published: July 2009

Participatory methods and visual tools are increasingly popular as qualitative approaches for enriching and complementing quantitative survey tools for understanding livelihoods and assessing and documenting impacts of development projects. However, the use of visual tools for analyzing and documenting social processes is still in its infancy. This article reports on an innovative attempt in adopting existing methods of using disposable cameras to stimulate interviews and focus group discussions with groups of smallholder farmers and to obtain new insights into farmer group dynamics and social capital of groups.
Combining Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for the Treatment of Chronic Pain in Older Adults
Authors: Lunde Linn-Heidi , Nordhus Inger Hilde
Published: July 2009

The article discusses a combination of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) for chronic pain and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) that was applied to an older adult. Findings reveal that a brief intervention of 8 weeks was effective in producing a clinically significant change in pain experience, as well as an increase in sleep quality/sleep maintenance and acceptance of pain. It is suggested that a central ACT component such as mindfulness skills as well as the focus on values may contribute to efficacy of cognitive behavioral treatment for chronic pain.
Treatment of a Depressed Breast Cancer Patient With Problem-Solving Therapy
Authors: Carvalho John P. , Hopko Derek R.
Published: July 2009

Problem-solving therapy (PST) has emerged as a promising treatment for major depressive disorder (MDD). The treatment, which is brief and easily accessible to a variety of health practitioners, has often been implemented within primary care settings. Building on this research, this case study highlights utilization of problem-solving therapy with a breast cancer patient diagnosed with recurrent major depression, applied within the context of a medical center oncology clinic. Following an 8-session PST protocol, the patient demonstrated notable decreases in self-reported depression and anxiety symptoms and an overall increase in quality of life and medical functioning. Consistent with an accumulating literature, these data support PST as an effective and parsimonious intervention for individuals with depression and concurrent medical problems such as breast cancer.
The Personality Assessment Inventory in the Evaluation of Multiple Channel Exposure Therapy
Authors: Petrac Diane C. , Bedwell Jeffrey S.
Published: July 2009

The National Comorbidity Survey (NCS) determined that the comorbidity rate of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) with panic disorder is 7.3% for males and 12.6% for females. A 21-year-old female's presenting symptoms corresponded to this dual diagnosis, with the addition of comorbid major depressive disorder. The Personality Assessment Inventory (PAI) was used as part of an initial comprehensive assessment battery. Treatment was provided over a period of 6 months, and multiple channel exposure therapy (MCET) was chosen as the primary treatment, as it has been shown to be a promising treatment for the comorbid presentation of PTSD with panic disorder. Upon completion of the MCET, the PAI was readministered as a posttreatment evaluation. The posttreatment PAI results indicated clinical improvement across all indices that initially suggested clinical problems. Results of this case study suggest that the PAI is sensitive to treatment gains from the MCET for the comorbid conditions of PTSD, panic disorder, and major depressive disorder.
Effects of Nonverbal Social Disapproval on Attention-Maintained Spitting and Disruptive Vocalizing in a Child With Autism
Authors: Kozlowski Alison , Wood Lindsey , Gilligan Katherine , Luiselli James K.
Published: July 2009

This study addressed attention-maintained problem behaviors (spitting and disruptive vocalizing) of a child with autism. The intervention procedures consisted of service providers cleaning up the presence of saliva and demonstrating a “quiet” cue when the child spit and vocalized respectively. In two single-case reversal designs, the procedures reduced both behaviors to low frequency. Factors responsible for intervention success are discussed.
Treatment of Chronic Skin-Picking in an Adolescent With Asperger Syndrome and Borderline Intellectual Disability
Authors: Lang Russell , Didden Robert , Sigafoos Jeff , Rispoli Mandy , Regester April , Lancioni Giulio E.
Published: July 2009

We present the case of a 17-year-old girl with Asperger syndrome and borderline intellectual disability with a 5-year history of chronic skin-picking. Our intervention approach included an initial functional assessment to identify variables maintaining skin-picking, followed by evaluation of a behavioral treatment package. Results of the functional assessment suggested that skin-picking was maintained by automatic reinforcement in the form of tactile and visual stimulation. The intervention, consisting of an antecedent control procedure (covering areas with bandages) and differential reinforcement, was evaluated in an ABAC single-case experimental design. The number of open sores decreased from an average of 37 in baseline to zero during intervention. No new sores were found 4 months following intervention. These results suggest that the treatment package was effective in reducing skin-picking and that the treatment effects were maintained, but it was not clear if both treatment components were necessary and/or sufficient for behavior change.
Community-Based Strength Training Improves Physical Function in Older Women With Arthritis
Authors: Layne Jennifer E. , Arabelovic Senada , Wilson Lynn Bairos , Cloutier Gregory J. , Pindrus Mariya A. , Mallio Charlotte J. , Roubenoff Ronenn , Castaneda-Sceppa Carmen
Published: July 2009

Exercise is recognized as a mainstay treatment of arthritis, yet more than 40% of adults with arthritis report no leisure time physical activity participation. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is working to identify and promote evidence-based physical activity programs to improve physical function among adults with arthritis. The authors conducted a multisite, pilot randomized controlled trial to examine the effects of community-based strength training versus usual activity in women (n = 33) 55 years of age and older with arthritis. The moderate-intensity, progressive strength training intervention included balance and flexibility exercises. Classes met 2 times per week for 12 weeks. Outcome measures included muscle strength, performance-based physical function (mobility, flexibility, and balance), and arthritis symptoms. Lower body strength improved from baseline to 12 weeks in the strength training versus control group (32.2%-7.3%, respectively; P = .004). Physical function improved in the strength training group over 12 weeks (range, 7%-50%; P < .05), with no change in control group. Adherence to the intervention was 82% ± 16%. There were no adverse effects on arthritis symptoms. These results demonstrate the efficacy of this program and its potential to be disseminated as an evidence-based strength training intervention to improve physical function and strength among older women with arthritis and other major comorbidities.
Coefficients of thermal expansion of (Ni0·5Al0·5)(1–x)Hfx alloys (x=0...0·2)
Authors: Masset P. J. , Texier D. , Schütze M.
Published: July 2009

The coefficients of thermal expansion (CTEs) of Ni–Al–Hf alloys have been investigated due to their potential as corrosion resistant coatings in aggressive environments at high temperature. The CTEs of (Ni0·5Al0·5)(1–x)Hfx alloys ( x=0...0·2) were measured between 473 and 1073 K (200–800°C) and range between 8 and 15×10–6 K–1 depending on temperature and alloy composition. The temperature dependence of the CTE was found to be properly described by a simple expression: (19·982–0·24016 XHf)[0·15182+1·8287×10–3( T/K)–2·12378×10–6( T/K)2+8·87011×10–10( T/K)3]. It was shown that the CTE of (Ni0·5Al0·5)(1–x)Hfx alloys varies linearly with the amount of Hf in the alloy which allows the control of the CTE. Within the (Ni0·5Al0·5)(1–x)Hfx alloy composition range ( x=0...0·2) it covers the CTE range of most of the austenitic and ferritic steels and the CTE of the coatings can be adjusted to those of the substrate to be protected without inducing additional strains at the coatings/substrate interface.
The preferentially expressed antigen in melanoma (PRAME) inhibits myeloid differentiation in normal hematopoietic and leukemic progenitor cells
Authors: Oehler Vivian G. , Guthrie Katherine A. , Cummings Carrie L. , Sabo Kathleen , Wood Brent L. , Gooley Ted , Yang Taimei , Epping Mirjam T. , Shou Yaping , Pogosova-Agadjanyan Era , Ladne Paula , Stirewalt Derek L. , Abkowitz Janis L. , Radich Jerald P.
Published: July 2009

The preferentially expressed antigen in melanoma (PRAME) is expressed in several hematologic malignancies, but either is not expressed or is expressed at only low levels in normal hematopoietic cells, making it a target for cancer therapy. PRAME is a tumor-associated antigen and has been described as a corepressor of retinoic acid signaling in solid tumor cells, but its function in hematopoietic cells is unknown. PRAME mRNA expression increased with chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) disease progression and its detection in late chronic-phase CML patients before tyrosine kinase inhibitor therapy was associated with poorer therapeutic responses and ABL tyrosine kinase domain point mutations. In leukemia cell lines, PRAME protein expression inhibited granulocytic differentiation only in cell lines that differentiate along this lineage after all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) exposure. Forced PRAME expression in normal hematopoietic progenitors, however, inhibited myeloid differentiation both in the presence and absence of ATRA, and this phenotype was reversed when PRAME was silenced in primary CML progenitors. These observations suggest that PRAME inhibits myeloid differentiation in certain myeloid leukemias, and that its function in these cells is lineage and phenotype dependent. Lastly, these observations suggest that PRAME is a target for both prognostic and therapeutic applications.
BMP/Smad signaling is not enhanced in Hfe-deficient mice despite increased Bmp6 expression
Authors: Kautz Léon , Meynard Delphine , Besson-Fournier Céline , Darnaud Valérie , Al Saati Talal , Coppin Hélène , Roth Marie-Paule
Published: July 2009

Impaired regulation of hepcidin expression in response to iron loading appears to be the pathogenic mechanism for hereditary hemochromatosis. Iron normally induces expression of the BMP6 ligand, which, in turn, activates the BMP/Smad signaling cascade directing hepcidin expression. The molecular function of the HFE protein, involved in the most common form of hereditary hemochromatosis, is still unknown. We have used Hfe-deficient mice of different genetic backgrounds to test whether HFE has a role in the signaling cascade induced by BMP6. At 7 weeks of age, these mice have accumulated iron in their liver and have increased Bmp6 mRNA and protein. However, in contrast to mice with secondary iron overload, levels of phosphorylated Smads 1/5/8 and of Id1 mRNA, both indicators of BMP signaling, are not significantly higher in the liver of these mice than in wild-type livers. As a consequence, hepcidin mRNA levels in Hfe-deficient mice are similar or marginally reduced, compared with 7-week-old wild-type mice. The inappropriately low levels of Id1 and hepcidin mRNA observed at weaning further suggest that Hfe deficiency triggers iron overload by impairing hepatic Bmp/Smad signaling. HFE therefore appears to facilitate signal transduction induced by the BMP6 ligand.
Reconstructing Indian-Australian phylogenetic link
Authors: Kumar Satish , Ravuri Rajasekhara Reddy , Koneru Padmaja , Urade BP , Sarkar BN , Chandrasekar A , Rao VR
Published: July 2009

Background

An early dispersal of biologically and behaviorally modern humans from their African origins to Australia, by at least 45 thousand years via southern Asia has been suggested by studies based on morphology, archaeology and genetics. However, mtDNA lineages sampled so far from south Asia, eastern Asia and Australasia show non-overlapping distributions of haplogroups within pan Eurasian M and N macrohaplogroups. Likewise, support from the archaeology is still ambiguous.

Results

In our completely sequenced 966-mitochondrial genomes from 26 relic tribes of India, we have identified seven genomes, which share two synonymous polymorphisms with the M42 haplogroup, which is specific to Australian Aborigines.

Conclusion

Our results showing a shared mtDNA lineage between Indians and Australian Aborigines provides direct genetic evidence of an early colonization of Australia through south Asia, following the "southern route".
The evolutionary dynamics of the Helena retrotransposon revealed by sequenced Drosophila genomes
Authors: Granzotto Adriana , Lopes Fabrício R , Lerat Emmanuelle , Vieira Cristina , Carareto Claudia MA
Published: July 2009

Background

Several studies have shown that genomes contain a mixture of transposable elements, some of which are still active and others ancient relics that have degenerated. This is true for the non-LTR retrotransposonHelena, of which only degenerate sequences have been shown to be present in some species (Drosophila melanogaster), whereas putatively active sequences are present in others (D. simulans). Combining experimental and population analyses with the sequence analysis of the 12Drosophilagenomes, we have investigated the evolution ofHelena, and propose a possible scenario for the evolution of this element.

Results

We show that six species ofDrosophilahave theHelenatransposable element at different stages of its evolution. The copy number is highly variable among these species, but most of them are truncated at the 5' ends and also harbor several internal deletions and insertions suggesting that they are inactive in all species, except inD. mojavensisin which quantitative RT-PCR experiments have identified a putative active copy.

Conclusion

Our data suggest thatHelenawas present in the common ancestor of theDrosophilagenus, which has been vertically transmitted to the derived lineages, but that it has been lost in some of them. The wide variation in copy number and sequence degeneration in the different species suggest that the evolutionary dynamics ofHelenadepends on the genomic environment of the host species.
Functional analysis of the C-reactive protein (CRP) gene -717A>G polymorphism associated with coronary heart disease
Authors: Wang Laiyuan , Lu Xiangfeng , Li Yun , Li Hongfan , Chen Shufeng , Gu Dongfeng
Published: July 2009

Background

Atherosclerosis underlies the major pathophysiological mechanisms of coronary heart disease (CHD), and inflammation contributes to all phases of atherosclerosis. C-reactive protein (CRP), a sensitive, but nonspecific marker of inflammation has been shown to play proatherogenic roles in the process of atherosclerosis. Our previous report showed that rs2794521 (-717A>G), located in the promoter of the CRP gene, was independently associated with CHD in Chinese subjects. In the present study, we tried to investigate the biological significance of this genetic variation in vitro.

Methods

The influence of G to A substitution at the site of rs2794521 on the transcriptional activity of the promoter of the CRP gene was assessed by luciferase reporter assay, and protein binding to the site of rs2794521 was detected by EMSA assay.

Results

The G to A exchange at the site of rs2794521 resulted in an increased transcriptional activity of the promoter of CRP gene, and glucocorticoid receptor (GR) protein factor bound drastically differently to the A and G alleles at the site of rs2794521.

Conclusion

These results provided functional evidence supporting the association of the SNP rs2794521 of the CRP gene with CHD probably through regulating the expression level of CRP by different variations of rs2794521.
Role of the EGF +61A>G polymorphism in melanoma pathogenesis: an experience on a large series of Italian cases and controls
Authors: Casula Milena , Alaibac Mauro , Pizzichetta Maria A , Bono Riccardo , Ascierto Paolo A , Stanganelli Ignazio , Canzanella Sergio , Palomba Grazia , Zattra Edoardo ,   The Italian Melanoma Intergroup (IMI), Palmieri Giuseppe
Published: July 2009

Background

A single nucleotide polymorphism (61A>G) in the epidermal growth factor (EGF) gene has been implicated in both melanoma pathogenesis and increased melanoma risk. To further evaluate this association, we conducted a case-control study in a clinic-based Italian population.

Methods

Individuals with less than 10 (N = 127) or more than 100 (N = 128) benign nevi, and patients with cutaneous melanoma (N = 418) were investigated for the EGF +61A>G polymorphism, using an automated sequencing approach.

Results

Overall, no difference in EGF genotype frequencies was observed among subjects with different number of nevi as well as when non-melanoma healthy controls were compared with the melanoma patients. However, a heterogeneous distribution of the frequencies of the G/G genotype was detected among cases and controls originating from North Italy (21.1 and 18.3%, respectively) vs. those from South Italy (12.6 and 17.1%, respectively).

Conclusion

Our findings further suggest that EGF +61A>G polymorphism may have a limited impact on predisposition and/or pathogenesis of melanoma and its prevalence may vary in different populations.
Altered myocardial substrate metabolism is associated with myocardial dysfunction in early diabetic cardiomyopathy in rats: studies using positron emission tomography
Authors: van den Brom Charissa E , Huisman Marc C , Vlasblom Ronald , Boontje Nicky M , Duijst Suzanne , Lubberink Mark , Molthoff Carla FM , Lammertsma Adriaan A , van der Velden Jolanda , Boer Christa , Ouwens D Margriet , Diamant Michaela
Published: July 2009

Background

In vitro data suggest that changes in myocardial substrate metabolism may contribute to impaired myocardial function in diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM). The purpose of the present study was to study in a rat model of early DCM, in vivo changes in myocardial substrate metabolism and their association with myocardial function.

Methods

Zucker diabetic fatty (ZDF) and Zucker lean (ZL) rats underwent echocardiography followed by [11C]palmitate positron emission tomography (PET) under fasting, and [18F]-2-fluoro-2-deoxy-D-glucose PET under hyperinsulinaemic euglycaemic clamp conditions. Isolated cardiomyocytes were used to determine isometric force development.

Results

PET data showed a 66% decrease in insulin-mediated myocardial glucose utilisation and a 41% increase in fatty acid (FA) oxidation in ZDF vs. ZL rats (both p < 0.05). Echocardiography showed diastolic and systolic dysfunction in ZDF vs. ZL rats, which was paralleled by a significantly decreased maximal force (68%) and maximal rate of force redevelopment (69%) of single cardiomyocytes. Myocardial functional changes were significantly associated with whole-body insulin sensitivity and decreased myocardial glucose utilisation. ZDF hearts showed a 68% decrease in glucose transporter-4 mRNA expression (p < 0.05), a 22% decrease in glucose transporter-4 protein expression (p = 0.10), unchanged levels of pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase-4 protein expression, a 57% decreased phosphorylation of AMP activated protein kinase α1/2 (p < 0.05) and a 2.4-fold increased abundance of the FA transporter CD36 to the sarcolemma (p < 0.01) vs. ZL hearts, which are compatible with changes in substrate metabolism. In ZDF vs. ZL hearts a 2.4-fold reduced insulin-mediated phosphorylation of Akt was found (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Using PET and echocardiography, we found increases in myocardial FA oxidation with a concomitant decrease of insulin-mediated myocardial glucose utilisation in early DCM. In addition, the latter was associated with impaired myocardial function. These in vivo data expand previous in vitro findings showing that early alterations in myocardial substrate metabolism contribute to myocardial dysfunction.
Late presentation of a paranasal sinus glass foreign body: a case report
Authors: Mangwani Jitendra , Su Archibald Paul
Published: July 2009

Foreign bodies in the paranasal sinuses are rare and mostly related to maxillo-facial trauma. We treated a 47-year-old man with a late complication arising from a foreign body in the nasoethmoid sinus present for 16 years after a road traffic accident. Patients presenting with maxillo-facial injuries, especially those with lacerations due to glass or car wind-screen trauma should have thorough examination and appropriate imaging of the injury.
Perniosis (chilblains) masquerading as CA-MRSA: a case report
Authors: Bohman Keith D , Papadimos Thomas J , Gottwald Lorie D , Pan Zhixing K
Published: July 2009

Perniosis (chilblains) is a vasospastic, inflammatory disease that occurs when the skin is subjected to cold above the freezing point, under damp conditions. Erythematous (violaceous) blisters, ulcerations or pustules that sit on an edematous base, accompanied by pain, burning or itching, are usually evident. To the inexperienced clinician it may resemble community-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and could lead to inappropriate treatment. Here we report such a case.
Metastatic follicular thyroid carcinoma to the mandible: a case report
Authors: Ismail Sumairi Bin , Abraham Mannil Thomas , Zaini Zuraiza Binti , Yaacob Hashim Bin , Zain Rosnah Binti
Published: July 2009

Introduction

Metastatic lesions to the oro-facial region may be the first evidence of dissemination of an unknown tumour from its primary site.

Case presentation

We described a case of metastatic follicular thyroid carcinoma to the mandible presenting with pain and loosening of teeth in a 70 years old female patient leading to extraction of the loose teeth.

Conclusion

The present case emphasizes the importance of considering metastasis in the differential diagnosis of swelling related to loosening of teeth, even though the patient had no history of any malignant disease.
Epidural bleeding after ACL reconstruction under regional anaesthesia: a case report
Authors: Roidis Nikolaos T , Poultsides Lazaros A , Gougoulias Nikolaos E , Liakou Paraskevi D , Karachalios Theofilos S , Malizos Konstantinos N
Published: July 2009

Introduction

Epidural bleeding as a complication of catheterization or epidural catheter removal is often associated with perioperative thromboprophylaxis especially in adult reconstructive surgery.

Case presentation

We report on a case of a 19 years old male athlete that underwent anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction, receiving low molecular weight heparin for thromboprophylaxis and developed an epidural hematoma and subsequent cauda equina syndrome two days after removal of the epidural catheter. An urgent magnetic resonance imaging scan revealed an epidural hematoma from the level of L3 to L4. Emergent decompression and hematoma evacuation resulted in patient's significant neurological improvement immediately postoperatively.

Conclusion

A high index of clinical suspicion and surgical intervention are necessary to prevent such potentially disabling complications especially after procedures on a day-case basis and early patient's discharge.