bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Consumer behaviour in the credit card market: a banking case study
Authors: Pulina Manuela
Published: October 2010

This paper analysed the demographic, socio‐economic and banking‐specific determinants that influence the choice of credit cards. A multinomial logit model was run on a recent portfolio of banking customers based in Italy. The model incorporates the type of credit cards as the dependent variable and a set of explanatory variables. The empirical results provided useful insight into the structural characteristics of the card payment system and offered a microeconomics perspective to analyse consumers' behaviour and preferences. Overall, women, older people, residents in the centre of Italy and secondary card owners are more likely to acquire a classic card. Gold cards are preferred by older customers, whereas younger clients have a higher probability to choose a revolving card, which is also preferred by the residents in the North‐east. The analysis on the continuous variables highlighted that Italy can be regarded as a ‘conservative’ market with room for credit card upgrading and expansion into more sophisticated products.
Administration of thiazolidinediones for neuroprotection in ischemic stroke: a pre‐clinical systematic review
Authors: White Amanda T. , Murphy Anne N.
Published: October 2010

J. Neurochem. (2010) 115, 845–853.

Thiazolidinediones (TZDs) may prevent or attenuate CNS injury arising from an ischemic event. We performed meta‐analysis of experimental studies in which a TZD (either rosiglitazone or pioglitazone) was administered in a rodent model of focal or global cerebral ischemia. Infarct volume was the primary endpoint for analysis of drug efficacy, and neurological outcome was also assessed. We identified 31 studies through the use of PubMed and Embase, 22 of which met our pre‐specified inclusion criteria and were analyzed with the Cochrane Review Manager software. Treatment with TZDs decreased infarct volume and improved neurological outcome regardless of study quality, dose timing, or ischemia model (transient or permanent). Rosiglitazone and pioglitazone were similarly effective in reducing infarct volume and protecting neurologic function. Importantly, the collective data suggest that pre‐treatment with a TZD is not required for neuroprotection, although additional studies are clearly needed to define the breadth of the therapeutic window. The data warrant further studies into the potential acute use of TZDs for ischemic stroke therapy in the general population.
Transient diabetes mellitus in a neonatal Thoroughbred foal
Authors: Navas de Solis Cristobal , Foreman Jonathan H.
Published: October 2010

Objective
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To describe the clinical presentation, treatment, and outcome of a neonatal foal diagnosed with transient Type 1 diabetes mellitus.

Case Summary
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A 3‐day‐old Thoroughbred foal presented with a 24‐hour history of diarrhea and depression. Coronavirus particles were observed in the feces via electron microscopy. During hospitalization the foal developed hyperglycemia concomitantly with low insulin concentration and an adequate response to exogenous insulin therapy supported a diagnosis of Type 1 diabetes mellitus. The foal required SC insulin for 26 days, but developed complications associated with insulin therapy that resolved with appropriate care. On follow up assessment the foal was found to be a healthy euglycemic animal with normal insulin concentration at 11 months of age.

New or Unique Information Provided
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To our knowledge this is the first report of Type 1 diabetes in this age group and the first report of transient neonatal diabetes mellitus in horses. Type 1 diabetes mellitus should be considered a differential diagnosis for hyperglycemia in equine neonates and that it can be transient and managed successfully.
VULNERABILITY OF NOSTOC MUSCORUM AGARDH (CYANOPHYCEAE) MOTILE HORMOGONIA TO CILIATE GRAZING1
Authors: Pajdak‐Stós Agnieszka , Fiałkowska Edyta , Fyda Janusz
Published: October 2010

Experiments were carried out to investigate if the stage of life cycle of Nostoc muscorum Agardh alters vulnerability to grazing by Pseudomicrothorax dubius Maupas. When the percentage of motile hormogonia of all counted trichomes exceeded 10%, most of the grazers (80%–100%) became satiated within 2 h. In most cases (90%) grazers successfully attacked motile hormogonia. Attacks on nonmotile trichomes were much rarer (8%) and mainly unsuccessful. Direct observations revealed that hormogonia could be ingested by the ciliates as long as they remained motile. Hormogonia already adhered to the bottom were still recognized by ciliates as potential food but were not ingested. We did not observe attacks on old vegetative colonies. This is apparently the first report on the motile stage of Nostoc being susceptible to ciliate grazing. Experiments with other grazers, Nassula tumida Maskell and two different clones of Furgassonia blochmanni Faure‐Fremiet, showed that only one clone of F. blochmanni was able to feed on motile hormogonia, whereas the second clone and N. tumida showed no interest in them.
Effect of New Disability Subtype on 3‐Year Mortality in Chinese Older Adults
Authors: Feng Qiushi , Hoenig Helen M. , Gu Danan , Yi Zeng , Purser Jama L.
Published: October 2010

OBJECTIVES: To examine a new method of classifying disability subtypes by combining self‐reported and performance‐based tools to predict mortality in older Chinese adults.

DESIGN: Prospective cohort study.

SETTING: Community‐dwelling older adults.

PARTICIPANTS: Sixteen thousand twenty Chinese adults aged 65 and older from the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey (CLHLS).

MEASUREMENTS: Self‐reported activities of daily living (ADLs) and physical performance (PP) tests (chair standing, lifting a book from floor, turning 360°) cross‐classified to create mutually exclusive disability subtypes: subtype 0 (no limitations in PP or ADLs), subtype 1 (limitations in PP, no limitations in ADLs), subtype 2 (no limitations in PP, limitations in ADLs), and subtype 3 (limitations in PP and ADLs). Outcome was mortality over 3 years.

RESULTS: Cox proportional hazard models, controlling for sociodemographic variables, living situation, healthcare access, social support, health status, and life‐style, showed that older adults without any limitations in ADLs or PP had significantly lower mortality risk than those with other disability subtypes and that there was a graded pattern of greater mortality according to subtype 1 (hazard ratio (HR)=1.31, 95% confidence interval (CI)=1.20–1.42), 2 (HR=1.39, 95% CI=1.23–1.59), and 3 (HR=1.88, 95% CI=1.72–2.05). When compared with the average survival curve in the cohort, subtypes of isolated performance deficits or self‐reported disability did not substantially discriminate risks of death over 3 years.

CONCLUSION: Combined use of self‐reported and PP tools is necessary when screening for mutually exclusive disability subtypes that confer significantly higher or lower mortality risks on a population of older adults.
Racial and Ethnic Disparities in Indicators of Physical Health Status: Do They Still Exist Throughout Late Life?
Authors: August Kristin J. , Sorkin Dara H.
Published: October 2010

Physical health problems become more common as people age and are associated with a great deal of disability. Although racial and ethnic disparities have been reported in physical health, little is known about whether these disparities remain in the latest part of older adulthood. Accordingly, the current study sought to examine racial and ethnic differences in the physical health status of three age groups of older adults, using the 2005 and 2007 California Health Interview Survey. The sample for the current study included 40,631 individuals aged 55 and older: 33,488 non‐Hispanic whites, 1,858 blacks, 2,872 Asians and Pacific Islanders, and 2,412 Latinos. Respondents were compared with regard to three indicators of physical health: four chronic health conditions, difficulties with activities of daily living, and self‐rated health. Analyses were conducted with and without adjustment for sex, marital status, education, English‐language proficiency, nativity, and insurance status. Results revealed that, in general, racial and ethnic disparities existed for physical health in late adulthood, with differences less pronounced for Asians and Pacific Islanders and Latinos aged 75 and older after multivariable adjustment. Disparities between blacks and non‐Hispanic whites and disparities across all racial and ethnic minorities in self‐rated health still existed. These findings suggest that, to reduce racial and ethnic disparities, clinicians need to address specific sociodemographic and lifestyle factors related to racial and ethnic differences in health before these conditions are manifested in late adulthood.
Health Status of Older Asian Americans in California
Authors: Kim Giyeon , Chiriboga David A. , Jang Yuri , Lee Seungah , Huang Chao‐Hui , Parmelee Patricia
Published: October 2010

Given the paucity of research on differences between older adults representing the many Asian‐American subcategories, the present study explored physical and mental health status in five subcategories of Asian Americans aged 60 and older: Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Vietnamese, and Filipino. Data were drawn from the 2007 California Health Interview Survey (CHIS). Background characteristics and physical and mental health conditions were compared, with results showing differences cross the five subcategories of older Asian Americans. Specific patterns were identified in chronic diseases, disease comorbidity, and disability rates. Vietnamese and Filipinos tended to have poorer physical health than Chinese, Japanese, and Koreans. The poorest self‐rated health and the highest disability rate were found in the older Vietnamese. Filipinos also exhibited the greatest number of chronic diseases, including the highest rates of asthma, high blood pressure, and heart disease. Although Koreans had the fewest self‐reported chronic diseases and the least evidence of disease comorbidity, they also had the highest psychological distress. The lowest psychological distress was found in older Japanese. Findings suggest that generalizing findings from one particular Asian category or from an aggregate Asian category may be problematic and may not reflect an accurate picture of the burden of health in specific Asian categories. Being aware of these differences in background and health characteristics may help providers to better serve older Asian clients.
Prognostic Effect of Exercise Capacity on Mortality in Older Adults with Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Nylen Eric S. , Kokkinos Peter , Myers Jonathan , Faselis Charles
Published: October 2010

OBJECTIVES: To investigate the prognostic effect of exercise capacity in older individuals with diabetes mellitus.

DESIGN: Retrospective data review in a clinic‐based cohort.

SETTING: Veterans Affairs Medical Centers in Washington, District of Columbia, and Palo Alto, California.

PARTICIPANTS: Two thousand eight hundred sixty‐seven men aged 50 to 87 with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

MEASUREMENTS: Exercise tolerance testing with fitness categories based on peak metabolic equivalents of task (METs) achieved adjusted for age. All‐cause mortality in age groups 50 to 65 (Group 1; n=1,658) and older than 65 (Group 2; n=1,209) was analyzed using adjusted Cox proportional hazards models.

RESULTS: After a mean ± standard deviation follow‐up period of 7.8 ± 5.1 years, there were 324 deaths in Group 1 (20%) and 464 in Group 2 (38%). For each 1‐MET increase in exercise capacity, mortality was 18% lower for the entire cohort (hazard ratio (HR)=0.82, 95% confidence interval (CI)=0.79–0.86), 23% lower for Group 1 (HR=0.77, 95% CI=0.73–0.82), and 16% lower for Group 2 (HR=0.84, 95% CI=0.8–0.89). When fitness categories were considered, the mortality risk was 30% to 80% lower for those who achieved more than 4 METs in both age groups.

CONCLUSION: Augmented exercise capacity is associated with lower risk of mortality in people with type 2 diabetes mellitus aged 50 to 65 as well as in those older than 65. Thus, physical fitness, as represented by exercise capacity, lowers mortality risk in people with diabetes mellitus irrespective of age. These findings suggest that healthcare providers should be cognizant of the level of exercise capacity in individual patients and encourage a physically active lifestyle regardless of age.
Sisters in Motion: A Randomized Controlled Trial of a Faith‐Based Physical Activity Intervention
Authors: Duru O. Kenrik , Sarkisian Catherine A. , Leng Mei , Mangione Carol M.
Published: October 2010

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate a faith‐based intervention (Sisters in Motion) intended to increase walking in older, sedentary African‐American women.

DESIGN: Randomized controlled trial using within‐church randomization.

SETTING: Three Los Angeles churches.

PARTICIPANTS: Sixty‐two African‐American women aged 60 and older who reported being active less than 30 minutes three times per week and walked less than 35,000 steps per week as measured using a baseline pedometer reading.

INTERVENTION: Intervention participants received a multicomponent curriculum including scripture readings, prayer, goal‐setting, a community resource guide, and walking competitions. Intervention and control participants both participated in physical activity sessions.

MEASUREMENTS: The primary outcome was change in weekly steps walked as measured using the pedometer. Secondary outcomes included change in systolic blood pressure (SBP). Outcomes were assessed at baseline and 6 months after the intervention.

RESULTS: Eighty‐five percent of participants attended at least six of eight sessions. Intervention participants averaged 12,727 steps per week at baseline, compared with 13,089 steps in controls. Mean baseline SBP was 156 mmHg for intervention participants and 147 mmHg for controls (P=.10). At 6 months, intervention participants had increased their weekly steps by 9,883 on average, compared with an increase of 2,426 for controls (P=.02); SBP decreased on average by 12.5 mmHg in intervention participants and only 1.5 mmHg in controls (P=.007).

CONCLUSION: The Sisters in Motion intervention led to an increase in walking and a decrease in SBP at 6 months. This is the first randomized controlled trial of a faith‐based physical activity program to increase physical activity in older African‐American women and represents an attractive approach to stimulate lifestyle change in this population.
Receipt of Influenza and Pneumonia Vaccinations: The Dual Disparity of Rural Minorities
Authors: Bennett Kevin J. , Bellinger Jessica D. , Probst Janice C.
Published: October 2010

OBJECTIVES: To examine the receipt of age‐appropriate influenza and pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccinations (PPV), with particular attention to rural minority persons.

DESIGN: Data were drawn from the 2005 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System. The dependent variables were self‐reported receipt of annual influenza immunizations in adults aged 50 and older (n=177,417) or lifetime pneumococcal immunizations in adults aged 65 and older (n=81,762). The main independent variables were residence and race.

MEASUREMENTS: All data are self‐reported. Multivariate analysis controlled for selected personal and county‐level characteristics. Analyses were conducted in 2009/10.

RESULTS: Forty‐two percent of adults aged 50 and older reported an influenza vaccination; 31.1% of rural African Americans reported an influenza vaccination, and 64.6% reported a PPV. White and African‐American rural residents reported lower vaccination rates. Adjusted analysis indicated an interaction between race and rurality. White rural residents were more likely to be vaccinated than other whites, whereas rural African Americans were less likely to be vaccinated than urban African Americans.

CONCLUSION: This study confirms previous findings while finding an interactive effect between rurality and race. The results indicated the importance of provider availability to delivery. Alternative delivery methods may be an effective solution to improve delivery rates.
Comparing Forms of Common Property Resource and Collective Goods Organizations Operating Water Markets in the Colorado Lower Arkansas River Basin
Authors: Lepper Troy , Freeman David
Published: October 2010

Abstract

What sociological attributes characterize the form of an enduring social organization that empowers individually rational self‐interested actors to provide themselves with a common property or collective goods resource? To address this question, two common property/collective goods organizations for water management—located in the Arkansas River Basin of Colorado—were compared. The method was to assess attributes of each organization against those of conceptual benchmarks that reflect a tradition of common property resource and collective goods organizational research. The organizations were the Arkansas River Water Bank Pilot Program and the Lower Arkansas Valley Water Management Association. The Arkansas River Water Bank Pilot Program lacked the characteristics that theorists advancing the conceptual benchmarks have hypothesized as important to success. The pilot program also failed to generate local interest. The program was decommissioned in 2005 after the pilot trial period concluded. The Lower Arkansas Water Management Association possessed the attributes. It was considered a success as defined by member support for the organization and the capacity of that organization to re‐time flows on the Arkansas River. This program has been operating a water market in the lower Arkansas River Basin for over 30 years and continues to successfully move groundwater and surface water around the landscape. Implications for policy and theory are addressed.
Unexpected suppression of anti‐Fya and prevention of hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn after administration of Rh immune globulin
Authors: Branch Donald R. , Scofield Terry L. , Moulds John J. , Swanson Jane L.
Published: October 2010

BACKGROUND: Rh immune globulin (RhIG) has been used successfully for many years for the antenatal suppression of anti‐D in D– mothers carrying D+ babies to prevent hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn. Although the mechanism of RhIG‐induced immunosuppression remains unknown, a recent report (TRANSFUSION 2006;46:1316‐22) has shown that women receiving RhIG produce elevated levels of transforming growth factor (TGF)β‐1, a powerful immunosuppressant cytokine. It was suggested that induction of TGFβ‐1 and immunosuppression may be independent of cognate antigen recognition by RhIG. Herein, we present a description of a mother and baby that supports this hypothesis.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Red blood cells and serum were analyzed using saline‐tube indirect antiglobulin test methods. RhIG (RhoGAM) was administered after each amniocentesis performed at 28, 31, and 36 weeks' gestation.

RESULTS: A group A, D–(cde), K+, Fy(a−b+), MNs, Jk(a+b+) mother with no detectable anti‐D had an anti‐Fya titer of 4096 before RhIG but only 256 after RhIG. Mother gave birth to a group O, D–(cde), Fy(a+b+) healthy baby boy having a weak‐positive direct antiglobulin test with anti‐Fya eluted from his cells and the titer in the cord serum was 4.

CONCLUSION: This case demonstrates the potential immunosuppressive properties of RhIG for down regulation of a possible clinically significant alloantibody, not anti‐D, where no D+ antigen is in the circulation of the mother. The case illustrates the potential utility for using RhIG to modulate antibody levels in situations other than for classical suppression of anti‐D production. Although the mechanism in this case is unknown, TGFβ‐1–mediated or antibody‐mediated immunosuppression to soluble nonparticulate antigens are possible mechanisms.
Utility of Postoperative Testing of Implantable Cardioverter‐Defibrillators
Authors: SAUER WILLIAM H. , LOWERY CHRISTOPHER M. , BARGAS ROYCE L. , SCHULLER JOSEPH L. , STEES CHRISTOPER S. , ALEONG RYAN G. , VAROSY PAUL D.
Published: October 2010

Background: Implantable cardioverter‐defibrillators (ICDs) can provide life‐saving therapies for ventricular arrhythmias. Arrhythmia induction and defibrillation threshold testing is often performed at implantation and postoperatively during long‐term follow‐up to ensure proper device function.

Methods: We sought to evaluate the prevalence and predictors of occult device malfunction at follow‐up defibrillation testing in asymptomatic individuals. A cohort of 853 patients underwent 1,578 defibrillation tests during the 13‐year study period. Defibrillation efficacy was evaluated primarily by the two‐shock (2S) method, with an adequate safety margin ≥10 joules (J) less than the maximum energy delivered by the ICD.

Results: A total of 38 testing failures requiring intervention were discovered during testing (2.4% of all tests). There were 11 ICD system failures resulting in failure to defibrillate, six with underdetection of ventricular fibrillation, and 21 clinically significant increases in defibrillation threshold. There was a higher incidence of failure in older ICD systems (1996–2002) compared to newer ICD systems (2003–2009), reaching statistical significance (3.6% vs 1.0%; P < 0.01). There were 178 subjects (20.8%) with a >20‐J safety margin on previous testing, detected R waves >7.0 mV, and all system components implanted after 2003 at the time of testing who did not have any testing failures (0% vs 5.6%; P < 0.01).

Conclusion: Postoperative defibrillation testing identifies a small number of ICD malfunctions in asymptomatic individuals. ICD testing failure is seen more frequently in older systems and in those with borderline results from prior interrogation or testing. These findings suggest that serial postoperative defibrillation testing is not indicated in asymptomatic patients without suspicion for specific problems. (PACE 2011; 34:186–192)
Isolated Tramadol Overdose Associated with Brugada ECG Pattern
Authors: COLE JON B. , SATTIRAJU SRINIVASAN , BILDEN ELISABETH F. , ASINGER RICHARD W. , BERTOG STEFAN C.
Published: October 2010

Tramadol is a commonly prescribed synthetic opioid analgesic. In humans, electrocardiogram (ECG) changes consistent with sodium‐channel blockade have not been described in overdoses with tramadol. We report a case of isolated tramadol overdose associated with a Brugada ECG pattern. A review of the literature reveals no previous human cases of tramadol overdose causing ECG changes consistent with sodium‐channel blockade. However, in vitro blockade of sodium‐channels has been demonstrated with high concentrations of tramadol. Tramadol overdose should be recognized as a cause for the manifestation of a Brugada ECG pattern in the setting of suicidal intoxication. (PACE 2012; 35:e219–e221)
Translation of Health Surveys Using Mixed Methods
Authors: Baker Dian L. , Melnikow Joy , Ying Ly May , Shoultz Janice , Niederhauser Victoria , Diaz‐Escamilla Rafael
Published: October 2010

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to determine the effectiveness of a process‐based translation method for a health survey instrument, Searching for Hardships and Obstacles to Shots (SHOTS), using a community‐based participatory approach with the Hmong community.

Design: The study was based on a cross‐sectional survey to assess the reliability and validity of the SHOTS immunization survey, an instrument used in the Hmong community, who are refugees originally from Laos living in the United States.

Method: Process‐based universalistic health survey translation methods were used in a six‐step procedure to translate the instrument. Mixed methods were used to analyze results, including cognitive interviewing, content validity indexing, Cronbach's α, t tests, and the Kolmogorov‐Smirnov test.

Findings: Participants were able to accurately complete the SHOTS survey in either Hmong or English, depending on participant preference.

Conclusions: Universalistic, process‐based, mixed methods used to analyze language translation, in combination with the principles of community‐based participatory research, provide effective methods to translate health surveys. Involvement of the community strengthens the quality of translation and improves reliability and validity of survey results.

Clinical Relevance: Healthcare providers require accurate and reliable information from evidence‐based health surveys to plan for culturally responsive care. Cross‐cultural research often relies on language translation. Translation of a health survey instrument may be improved with universalistic, process‐based methodology.
Linguistic Anthropology at the End of the Naughts: A Review of 2009
Authors: Cody Francis
Published: October 2010

ABSTRACT Here I consider some of the major themes that emerged in linguistic anthropology in 2009, focusing on intersections with other disciplinary fields. Research on globalization, citizenship, publics, footing, and register formation shows how linguistic anthropology has developed a distinctive set of tools to address broad questions in the human sciences. The subdiscipline remains centrally concerned with the semiotic qualities specific to language and the forms of social life that these qualities enable. “Language” has not yet dissolved into a weak adjective in quite the same way that “culture” or “society” seem to have done, and much of the most sophisticated conceptual work on the semiotics of life lived collectively continues to focus on the concrete aspects of this multifaceted phenomenon. Linguistic anthropology maintains a relatively stable theoretical core compared to its subdisciplinary siblings, even if few of us would agree on what constitutes the limits of the field.
Feminine Knowledge and Skill Reconsidered: Women and Flaked Stone Tools
Authors: Arthur Kathryn Weedman
Published: October 2010

ABSTRACT  Archaeologists continue to describe Stone Age women as home bound and their lithic technologies as unskilled, expedient, and of low quality. However, today a group of Konso women make, use, and discard flaked stone tools to process hides, offering us an alternative to the man‐the‐toolmaker model and redefining Western “naturalized” gender roles. These Konso women are skilled knappers who develop their expertise through long‐term practice and apprenticeship. Their lithic technology demonstrates that an individual's level of skill and age are visible in stone assemblages. Most importantly, they illustrate that women procure high‐quality stone from long distances, produce formal tools with skill, and use their tools efficiently. I suggest in this article that archaeologists should consider women the producers of Paleolithic stone scrapers, engaged in bipolar technology, and as such perhaps responsible for some of the earliest‐known lithic technologies.
Better Women: The Cultural Politics of Gendered Expertise in Indonesia
Authors: Jones Carla
Published: October 2010

ABSTRACT  Through analysis of an increasingly popular phenomenon of courses training feminine comportment in Indonesia, I argue in this article that the appeal and work of femininity can be analyzed as a form of what Timothy Mitchell has called the “rule of experts.” Building on Mitchell, I suggest that expertise is central to authoritarian projects and postauthoritarian aftermath and is especially evident in zones that masquerade as least public and yet most self‐evident. As a result, expertise gains its value from the conditions it claims to alleviate. Placing gender at the center of the analytical frame reveals these effects more clearly and can potentially expose the ideological contradictions that ground their allure.
Improved Room‐Temperature Ferromagnetism in Self‐Assembled Disk‐Like Superstructures of Fe‐Doped PbTiO3 Nanocrystals
Authors: Liu Zhenya , Ren Zhaohui , Wei Xiao , Xiao Zhen , Hou Xiaohong , Shen Ge , Xu Gang , Han Gaorong
Published: October 2010

Large improvement of room‐temperature ferromagnetism has been achieved in disk‐like self‐assembled Fe(1%)‐doped PbTiO3 nanocrystals synthesized by a hydrothermal reaction route, where KOH was used as precipitator, and poly(ethylene glycol) as a surfactant. Fe‐doped PbTiO3 nanocrystals assembled into disk‐like superstructure with a diameter about 10 μm. The saturation magnetization (Ms) of the Fe‐doped PbTiO3 sample is close to 7.54 × 10−2 emu/g with a coercive field (Hc) of 50 Oe, nearly 27 times larger than that reported previously (≈2.8 × 10−3 emu/g for Fe(1%)‐doped PbTiO3 using NH3·H2O as a precipitator). The improvement of ferromagnetism of the sample is attributed to the interface effect between the nanocrystals.
Structure and Piezoelectric Properties Near the Bismuth Scandium Oxide–Lead Zirconate–Lead Titanate Ternary Morphotropic Phase Boundary
Authors: Sehirlioglu Alp , Sayir Ali , Dynys Fred , Nittala Krishna , Jones Jacob
Published: October 2010

Ternary phase diagram of BiScO3 (BS), PbZrO3 (PZ), and PbTiO3 (PT) was explored for identification of high‐performance piezoelectrics for actuator applications. The ternary morphotropic phase boundary (MPB) connecting the binary MPBs of BS–PT (45/65) and PZ–PT (52/48) was determined using X‐ray diffraction (XRD). High‐temperature XRD and dielectric measurements were used to determine the phase transformation temperatures. Curie temperature (TC) had a near linear dependence on composition, rate of which is determined for each component of the ternary independently. Specimens on the tetragonal side of the MPB exhibited lower high field resistivity and proper poling was not possible. Specimens on the rhombohedral side were superior with saturated hysteresis loops and piezoelectric coefficient (d33)>400 pm/V. Unlike phase transformation temperatures, the proximity to MPB was more dominant than the compositional effects in determining electrical and electromechanical properties, which maximized for the compositions closest to the MPB. Both weak‐ and high field properties are reported as a function of temperature.
Densification and Crystallization of Nonstoichiometric Cordierite Glass with Excess MgO Synthesized from Kaolin and Talc
Authors: Banjuraizah Johar , Mohamad Hasmaliza , Ahmad Zainal Arifin
Published: October 2010

Densification and crystallization behaviors of nonstoichiometric cordierite synthesized from minerals through the glass route are reported in this paper. DTA of glass powder was conducted under isothermal and nonisothermal conditions. The activation energy was calculated from the dilatometry test at constant heating rate by using Arrhenius equation to observe their densification behavior. The densification and crystallization of composition with MgO mole ratio of 3.4 and 4.0 below 900°C were confirmed using nonisothermal DTA and dilatometry. However, samples below 2.6 mol MgO were not fully densified and crystallized when isothermally heated for 2 h. When MgO content was increased 2.0–3.0 mole ratio, the activation energy for densification decreased, but it increased for MgO mole ratio≥3.4.
Fabrication of Transparent Lutetium Oxide by Spark Plasma Sintering
Authors: An Liqiong , Ito Akihiko , Goto Takashi
Published: October 2010

Transparent lutetium oxide bodies were fabricated by spark plasma sintering. The effects of sintering temperature, applied pressure, and holding time on the density, microstructure, and transmittance of these bodies were investigated. Nearly fully dense specimens were fabricated at above 1573 K and 100 MPa for 2.7 ks or at 1673 K and above 40 MPa for 2.7 ks. The grain size and transmittance steadily increased with increasing sintering temperature from 1273 to 1723 K and abnormal grain growth occurred above 1723 K, resulting in a decrease of density and transparency.
Relationships among timing of moult, moult duration and feather mass in long‐distance migratory passerines
Authors: De La Hera Iván , Pérez‐Tris Javier , Tellería José Luis
Published: October 2010

Moult is a costly but necessary process in avian life, which displays two main temporal patterns within the annual cycle of birds (summer and winter moult). Timing of moult can affect its duration and consequently the amount of material invested in feathers, which could have a considerable influence on feather structure and functionality. In this study, we used two complementary approaches to test whether moult duration and feather mass vary in relation to the timing of moult. Firstly, we conducted a comparative study between a sample of long‐distance migratory passerine species which differ in moult pattern. Secondly, we took advantage of the willow warbler's Phylloscopus trochilus biannual moult, for which it is well‐known that winter moult takes longer than summer moult, to assess between‐moult variation in feather mass. Our comparative analysis showed that summer moulting species performed significantly shorter moults than winter moulters. We also detected that feathers produced in winter were comparatively heavier than those produced in summer, both in between‐species comparison and between moults of the willow warbler. These results suggest the existence of a trade‐off between moult speed and feather mass mediated by timing of moult, which could contribute to explain the diversity of moult patterns in passerines.
Effect of accurate and inaccurate distance feedback on performance markers and pacing strategies during running
Authors: Faulkner J. , Arnold T. , Eston R.
Published: October 2010

This study assessed the effect of distance feedback on athletic performance, physiological and perceptual markers and the pacing strategies utilized during treadmill exercise. Thirteen men completed four self‐paced 6 km treadmill time trials with either accurate, inaccurate or no distance feedback (NF). Inaccurate time trials involved participants receiving premature (PF) or delayed (DF) feedback, before or following the completion of each kilometer. The provision of accurate or inaccurate distance feedback (PF, DF) did not moderate the completion time or the rate of change in the ratings of perceived exertion (P>0.05). However, completion times were significantly slower when exercising with no distance feedback (P<0.001). Heart rate (HR), oxygen uptake () and running velocity all increased during the conditions (P<0.001). A significantly lower (up to 7%) and HR (up to 6%) were observed during NF. This study has demonstrated that athletic performance and perceptual and physiological responses are unaffected by inaccurate distance feedback. However, the study indicates that individuals may exercise at a lower metabolic intensity when running without distance feedback.
Explaining educational differences in leisure‐time physical activity in Europe: the contribution of work‐related factors
Authors: Mäkinen T. E. , Sippola R. , Borodulin K. , Rahkonen O. , Kunst A. , Klumbiene J. , Regidor E. , Ekholm O. , Mackenbach J. , Prättälä R.
Published: October 2010

Although educational differences in leisure‐time physical activity (LTPA) exist across Europe, the independent effect of educational level on leisure‐time physical activity has rarely been explored. This study examines the relative contribution of occupational class, employment status, and educational level to LTPA across 12 European countries. The data were obtained from 12 European health surveys conducted at the turn of the century and identified in the EUROTHINE project. All information was self‐reported. Logistic regression was applied and relative inequality index (RII) was calculated. Analyses were limited to those in the prime working‐age (age 30–59; total N=137 646) men and women. In all 12 European countries, LTPA was more common in the high‐educated than in the low‐educated. The association between education and LTPA remained mostly unchanged after adjusting for marital status, urbanization, and self‐rated health. After further adjusting for occupational class and employment status, the educational differences in LTPA were only slightly attenuated. An inverse association was found between educational level and LTPA across almost all 12 European countries. Occupational class and employment status had only a modest effect on educational differences in LTPA in most of the examined countries, suggesting that education remains an important predictor of LTPA.
Changes in perceived stress and recovery in overreached young elite soccer players
Authors: Brink M. S. , Visscher C. , Coutts A. J. , Lemmink K. A. P. M.
Published: October 2010

The aim of this study was to prospectively monitor sport‐specific performance and assess the stress–recovery balance in overreached (OR) soccer players and controls. During two competitive seasons, 94 players participated in the study. The stress–recovery balance (RESTQ‐Sport) and sport‐specific performance (Interval Shuttle Run Test) were assessed monthly. Seven players with performance decrement of at least a month were classified as OR. Stress and recovery measures were assessed between groups (OR vs healthy players) and at different times within the OR group. An unfavorable total recovery score appeared 2 months before diagnosis when compared with the reference values of the healthy group established at the start of the season (P=0.009) and also over the two seasons (P=0.028). The scales Emotional Stress (P=0.044), Physical Recovery (P=0.009), General Well‐being (P=0.001) and Sleep Quality (P=0.045) were sensitive to OR compared with the average of the healthy group over the two seasons. Finally, Fatigue and Being in Shape demonstrated the largest changes in stress and recovery within the OR players (effect size=1.14 and 1.50). The longitudinal monitoring of performance and changes in stress and recovery may be useful for the detection of OR in its earliest stage. The information obtained from these tests can be used to optimize individual training and recovery programs.
Resistance exercise‐induced hormonal response under the influence of delayed onset muscle soreness in men and boys
Authors: Pullinen T. , Mero A. , Huttunen P. , Pakarinen A. , Komi P.V.
Published: October 2010

It was hypothesized that exercise‐induced muscle damage (EIMD)‐related alterations in hormonal responses could be observed if a second exercise bout is performed soon after an identical unaccustomed bout leading to delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS). Eight men (31 ± 7 years) and eight boys (14 ± 0 years) performed two exercise bouts (E1 and E2, with 48 h rest in between) consisting of three sets of bilateral knee extensions until exhaustion with 40% load. No differences between the groups or bouts were observed in the number of repetitions performed and maximal isometric force decline, or between groups in serum creatine kinase activity and DOMS. Decreased peak epinephrine (EPI) (−38%), growth hormone (GH) (−45%) and cortisol (COR) (−31%) concentrations were found in E2 in men (P<0.05). In men, the peak GH concentration was also lower in E2 and COR was higher in both bouts than in boys. No changes in norepinephrine and testosterone responses were found in either group. The results suggest that in men, the responses of EPI, GH and COR are attenuated when the second bout is performed under the influence of DOMS. In boys, the lack of this attenuation may not be explained by less severe EIMD.
A comparative study on the rumen microbial populations, hydrolytic enzyme activities and dry matter degradability between different species of ruminant
Authors: MOON Yea Hwang , OK Ji Un , LEE Shin Ja , HA Jong Kyu , LEE Sung Sill
Published: October 2010

A comparative study among Korean native cow (Hanwoo), Holstein dairy cow, Korean native goat and crossbred sheep on the population and marker concentration of ruminal microbes, the activities of carboxymethylcellulase (CMCase), xylanase and amylase, and in situ dry matter (DM) degradability were conducted. Twelve ruminally cannulated animals, three of each species, were used. Animals were fed the same diet containing 40% formula feed and 60% rice straw at the level of 2.5% of body weight. Total viable microbial populations in the rumen fluid were significantly (P < 0.01) greater for bacteria and fungi in goat than those of Holstein. The protozoan population among ruminant species was the reverse from that of bacteria. The concentrations of 2,6‐diaminopimelic acid and chitin as markers for bacteria and fungi in the rumen fluid, respectively, were highest in goat, which is in accordance with the above population data. The concentration of aminoethylphosphonic acid as marker of protozoa was highest in Hanwoo and lowest in sheep (P < 0.01). Goat had the highest (P < 0.01) activities of all the enzymes investigated among ruminants. In situ effective degradation of the DM of rice straw was approximately 19% higher in the rumen of goat compared with other animals.
Genetic variation within coat color genes of MC1R and ASIP in Chinese brownish red Tibetan pigs
Authors: MAO Huirong , REN Jun , DING Nengshui , XIAO Shijun , HUANG Lusheng
Published: October 2010

Melanocortin receptor 1 (MC1R) and agouti signaling protein (ASIP) are two major genes affecting coat color phenotypes in mammals, and inactivation mutations in the MC1R gene are responsible for red coat color in European pig breeds. Conversely, the gain‐of‐function ASIP mutations block MC1R signaling and lead to the production of red pheomelanin. Chinese Tibetan pigs have three types of coat color phenotypes, including brownish red, solid black and black with patches of brownish red and white. Herein, we investigated variations of the MC1R and ASIP genes in Tibetan pigs. The results showed that the brownish red Tibet pig had the dominant black MC1R allele (ED1). No loss‐of‐function mutation in MC1R responsible for red coat color in European breeds was observed in this breed. No causal mutation for the red coat color phenotype was found in the coding sequence of the ASIP gene. A novel missense mutation c.157G > A was firstly identified in exon 2 of ASIP, which was further genotyped in 285 pigs from five Chinese breeds and three Western breeds having different coat color phenotypes. Nearly all pigs were GG homozygotes. In conclusion, no functional variant responsible for brownish red coloration was found in the coding region of MC1R and ASIP in Tibetan pigs.
Hydrogen peroxide produced by a low‐molecular‐weight compound in milk with high electrical conductivity in dairy cows
Authors: SAKAI Senkiti , SATOW Takahiro , IMAKAWA Kazuhiko , NAGAOKA Kentaro
Published: October 2010

In dairy cows, hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) produced from a low‐molecular‐weight compound in milk from inflamed quarters was lower than that in milk from un‐inflamed quarters. In milk of delivery grade, characteristics of H2O2 production in milk with high electrical conductivity (EC) were examined in this study. Milk samples were collected from a total of 230 cows at 1‐month intervals, and the EC of skimmed milk was determined. Based on the highest and the lowest EC of a cow's quarter milk, the inter‐quarter difference of ≥0.6 mS/cm (mean + t0.01 SE) was taken as a high EC. Milk with high EC was found in 52 quarters. In cows with milk of high EC, H2O2 production in milk with normal EC was higher than that in milk with high EC in the same animal but was lower than that in the control population. In milk with high EC, the decrease of H2O2 production correlated with the increase in EC. The production of H2O2 decreased in particular when the inter‐quarter difference exceeded 0.8 mS/cm. In milk collected from the same quarter 1 month before, EC changed from normal to high, and H2O2 production decreased. In milk from the other three quarters, EC remained normal and H2O2 production remained unchanged. We concluded that milk with high EC appeared in low H2O2‐producing cows. The results suggest that the degree of decrease in H2O2 production reflects the extent of quarter abnormality.
Anti‐allergic effects of Lactobacillus crispatus KT‐11 strain on ovalbumin‐sensitized BALB/c mice
Authors: TOBITA Keisuke , YANAKA Hiroyuki , OTANI Hajime
Published: October 2010

In this study, we investigated the effects of oral ingestion of Lactobacillus crispatus KT‐11 strain (KT‐11) on the immune response in an allergic rhinitis mouse model, ovalbumin (OVA)‐sensitized BALB/c mice. Sneezing activity in mice that were administered a KT‐11‐supplemented diet was significantly lower than that in mice administered a KT‐11‐free diet (control diet) at age 11 weeks. We found that serum OVA‐specific immunoglobulin E (IgE) levels and total number of interleukin (IL)‐4+CD4+ spleen cells in mice that were administered a KT‐11‐supplemented diet were significantly lower than in mice administered a control diet. The ratio of spleen interferon‐γ+CD4+/IL‐4+CD4+ cells was higher in the mice administered the KT‐11‐supplemented diet compared to that in mice administered the control or L. rhamnosus GG‐supplemented diet. In contrast, the number of CD11b+CD80+ and FcεRIα+CD117+ cells was significantly lower in mice administered the KT‐11‐supplemented diet. These results suggested that KT‐11 reduced OVA‐induced allergic symptoms in BALB/c mice via the adjustment of the T helper type 1/T helper type 2 balance, and a decrease in the number of antigen‐presenting cells and high affinity IgE receptor‐positive mast cells.
Modulatory effects of two levels of dietary Alliums on immune response and certain immunological variables, following immunization, in White Leghorn chickens
Authors: HANIEH Hamza , NARABARA Kiyoaki , PIAO Mingzi , GERILE Chaogetu , ABE Asaki , KONDO Yasuhiro
Published: October 2010

This study aimed at investigating the effects of dietary Allium sativum (garlic, G) and Allium cepa (onion, O) on immune functions in White Leghorn chicken. One‐week‐old chicks, were fed diets without (control) or with Alliums (GL and OL, 10 g or GH and OH, 30 g/kg diet). Chickens were immunized with Newcastle disease virus (NDV), sheep red blood cells (SRBC) and Brucella abortus (BA). Antibodies, lymphocyte proliferation, and ratios of CD4+, CD8+ and CD4‐CD8‐ lymphocytes were investigated. Histology and weights of the spleen, thymus and bursa (BF), and white blood cell (WBC) counts were studied as well. Alliums at 10 g/kg diet enhanced anti‐NDV, anti‐SRBC and anti‐BA antibody productions, whereas 30 g/kg diet had less stimulatory effects. Histology of the lymphoid organs and proliferation of peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBL) were not influenced. However, splenocyte and thymocyte proliferations were augmented with garlic. Flow cytometry analysis showed reduction in CD4+ and increase in CD4‐CD8‐ lymphocyte ratios in GH and OH groups. Garlic‐supplemented chickens had heavier spleen and thymus, and higher WBC counts, whereas BF weight increased with both Alliums at 30 g/kg diet. These results suggest that dietary Alliums have a potential to enhance the immune functions in White Leghorn chickens.
MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING OF THE CANINE BRAIN AT 3 AND 7 T
Authors: MARTÍN‐VAQUERO PAULA , Da COSTA RONALDO C. , ECHANDI RITA L. , TOSTI CHRISTINA L. , KNOPP MICHAEL V. , SAMMET STEFFEN
Published: October 2010

Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging of the canine brain is commonly acquired at field strengths ranging from 0.2 to 1.5 T. Our purpose was to compare the MR image quality of the canine brain acquired at 3 vs. 7 T in dogs. Low‐resolution turbo spin echo (TSE) T2‐weighted images (T2W) were obtained in transverse, dorsal, and sagittal planes, and high‐resolution TSE T2W and turbo spin echo proton density‐weighted images were obtained in the transverse and dorsal planes, at both 3 and 7 T. Three experienced reviewers evaluated 32 predetermined brain structures independently and without knowledge of field strength for spatial resolution and contrast. Overall image quality and evidence of artifacts were also evaluated. Contrast of gray and white matter was assessed quantitatively by measuring signal intensity in regions of interest for transverse plane images for the three pulse sequences obtained. Overall, 19 of the 32 neuroanatomic structures had comparable spatial resolution and contrast at both field strengths. The overall image quality for low‐resolution T2W images was comparable at 3 and 7 T. High‐resolution T2W was characterized by superior image quality at 3 vs. 7 T. Magnetic susceptibility and chemical shift artifacts were slightly more noticeable at 7 T. MR imaging at 3 and at 7 T provides high spatial resolution and contrast images of the canine brain. The use of 3 and 7 T MR imaging may assist in the elucidation of the pathogenesis of brain disorders, such as epilepsy.