bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Long‐term survival of children with cerebral palsy in Okinawa, Japan
Authors: TOUYAMA MAYUMI , TOUYAMA JUN , OCHIAI YASUO , TOYOKAWA SATOSHI , KOBAYASHI YASUKI
Published: February 2013

Aim The aim of this study was to describe the survival prognosis of children with cerebral palsy (CP) in Okinawa, Japan.

Method A cohort study was conducted on all children with CP born between 1988 and 2005 in Okinawa, Japan. Survival proportions were determined with a life table and Kaplan–Meier survival curves were plotted. The effect of each predictor variable was estimated using Cox regression analysis.

Results This study included 580 children with CP (332 males, 248 females). In the cohort, 119 (20.5%) children were classified in Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) level I, 65 (11.2%) were classified in level II, 40 (6.9%) in level III, 189 (32.6%) in level IV, 166 (28.6%) in level V and GMFCS level was unknown for one. Of the 34 children who died, 29 were classified in GMFCS level V and GMFCS level was unknown for one. Mean age at start of follow‐up was 24.5 months (SD 2.6mo); mean length of follow‐up was 8 years 8 months (standard error of the mean 0.214y). The 5 year‐ and 18‐year survival percentages of the entire cohort were 98% and 89% respectively. In children with CP, significantly lower survival rates were associated with multiple factors, including a birthweight of at least 2500g (p=0.009), a gestational age of at least 37 weeks (p=0.004), and the most severe gross motor limitation, GMFCS level V (p<0.001). However, multivariate analysis showed GMFCS level V was the only significant predictor variable (p<0.001) for survival of CP.

Interpretation This study is the first to describe survival of children with CP in Japan. Our results are similar to those previously reported in other countries. These results are important in planning adequate provision of social and medical services for individuals with CP.
Reproductive periodicity of the sparid, Acanthopagrus pacificus, on a hierarchy of temporal scales
Authors: Sheaves M. , Molony B.
Published: February 2013

The reproductive periodicity of the sparid, Acanthopagrus pacificus, over four temporal scales is described. Acanthopagrus pacificus had a short spawning season between June and September, and within this, a peak reproductive period from July to early September. During the peak period there were several spawning peaks corresponding to a lunar periodicity, with intense reproductive activity on new and full moons that peaked during the period of the full moon when the tidal range was greatest. At the smallest temporal scale, spawning occurred at night on ebb tides. Because this study draws on data collected in 1991 and 1995, it provides a useful baseline against which to judge future changes in reproductive periodicity.
Effective nursing care of adolescents with anorexia nervosa: a consumer perspective
Authors: Zugai Joel , Stein‐Parbury Jane , Roche Michael
Published: February 2013

Aims and objectives

To establish how nurses ensure weight gain and a positive inpatient experience for the treatment of adolescents with anorexia nervosa by considering consumer perspectives.

Background

Consumer perspective literature indicates approval and dissatisfaction with certain aspects of the inpatient experience, and there is a limited understanding of what consumers perceive to be effective nursing practice.

Design

The design of this study was qualitative, the data being interpreted with a thematic analysis.

Methods

This study sought the perspectives of eight (n = 8) recovered consumers through semi‐structured interviews.

Results

Nurses were considered highly influential over the inpatient experience. The findings of this study are characterised by three overall themes regarding nursing practice: (1) ensuring weight gain, (2) maintaining a therapeutic milieu, and (3) the nursing relationship.

Conclusions

Consumers have clear perspectives of how nurses effectively ensure weight gain and how nurses ensure a positive inpatient experience. The quality of relationships between consumers and nurses had implications for both weight gain and the perceived quality of the inpatient experience. By relying on the strength of positive, thoughtful and well‐timed interactions, nurses may contribute to productive physical outcomes and a positive inpatient experience. Consumers indicated that motivation to adhere to care was derived from strong relationships with nurses. Ensuring both weight gain and a positive experience involves achieving a productive ‘balance of restrictions’. Consumers also valued nurses that created a comfortable and productive environment.

Relevance to clinical practice

This study indicates that the process of weight gain may be enhanced when accompanied by a process of therapeutic engagement. Therapeutic alliance may be an effective way for nurses to ensure weight gain and an enhanced inpatient experience. Therapeutically beneficial relationships may enhance treatment and possibly enhance outcomes for consumers.
Purification of swine carbonic anhydrase isoenzymeIIIand measurement of its levels in tissues and plasma
Authors: Nishita T. , Harada T. , Sakanoue H. , Arai S. , Itoh S. , Orito K. , Arishima K.
Published: February 2013

The changes in the levels of carbonic anhydrase isozyme III (CA‐III) in swine plasma and urine have not been previously determined or reported.CA‐III is relatively specific to skeletal muscles, and should therefore be a useful diagnostic marker for muscle diseases. We isolatedCA‐III from swine muscle tissues and determinedCA‐III levels in the plasma and urine from both healthy and diseased pigs. The levels ofCA‐III in the tissues of female swine (age, 3 months) and plasma of young swine (age, 1–5 months) and adult female pigs (age, 2–3 years) were determined using theELISAsystem for swineCA‐III. The mean (± SD) levels ofCA‐III in the skeletal muscles were 3.8 ± 3.2 mg/g (wet tissue), and in the plasma, 230 ± 193 ng/ml at 1 month, 189 ± 208 ng/ml at 2 months, 141 ± 148 ng/ml at 3 months, 78 ± 142 ng/ml at 4 months and 53 ± 99 ng/ml at 5 months. The mean level of CA‐III in the plasma samples from 2‐ to 3‐year‐old pigs was 18 ± 60 ng/ml. CA‐III in the plasma samples was found to decrease from 1 month until 3 years of age (p < 0.01). We performed far‐western blotting to clarify the cause of the observed decrease in CA‐III in plasma. Our results demonstrated that CA‐III is bound to the transferrin and albumin. In addition, we determined that the levels of CA‐III in plasma and urine samples were higher in diseased swine compared with the healthy pigs.
Effects of pCO2 and iron on the elemental composition and cell geometry of the marine diatom Pseudo‐nitzschia pseudodelicatissima (Bacillariophyceae)1
Authors: Sugie Koji , Yoshimura Takeshi
Published: February 2013

Partial pressure of CO2 (pCO2) and iron availability in seawater show corresponding changes due to biological and anthropogenic activities. The simultaneous change in these factors precludes an understanding of their independent effects on the ecophysiology of phytoplankton. In addition, there is a lack of data regarding the interactive effects of these factors on phytoplankton cellular stoichiometry, which is a key driving factor for the biogeochemical cycling of oceanic nutrients. Here, we investigated the effects of pCO2 and iron availability on the elemental composition (C, N, P, and Si) of the diatom Pseudo‐nitzschia pseudodelicatissima (Hasle) Hasle by dilute batch cultures under 4 pCO2 (~200, ~380, ~600, and ~800 μatm) and five dissolved inorganic iron (Fe′; ~5, ~10, ~20, ~50, and ~100 pmol · L−1) conditions. Our experimental procedure successfully overcame the problems associated with simultaneous changes in pCO2 and Fe′ by independently manipulating carbonate chemistry and iron speciation, which allowed us to evaluate the individual effects of pCO2 and iron availability. We found that the C:N ratio decreased significantly only with an increase in Fe′, whereas the C:P ratio increased significantly only with an increase in pCO2. Both Si:C and Si:N ratios decreased with increasing pCO2 and Fe′. Our results indicate that changes in pCO2 and iron availability could influence the biogeochemical cycling of nutrients in future oceans with high‐ CO2 levels, and, similarly, during the time course of phytoplankton blooms. Moreover, pCO2 and iron availability may also have affected oceanic nutrient biogeochemistry in the past, as these conditions have changed markedly over the Earth's history.
Novel assessment of microvascular changes in idiopathic restless legs syndrome (Willis–Ekbom disease)
Authors: Anderson Kirstie N. , Di Maria Costanzo , Allen John
Published: February 2013

Many patients with restless legs syndrome (Willis–Ekbom disease) complain of burning sensations in their feet associated with the desire to move, such that they seek cooler environments. This pilot study aimed to characterise the microvascular skin changes in 12 patients with restless legs syndrome compared with 12 age‐ and sex‐matched controls. Patients with moderate or severe restless legs syndrome and controls underwent detailed thermovascular assessment in a controlled temperature room at three different stages (normothermic phase 23 °C, hot phase 30 °C, cold phase 18 °C). Microvascular activity was recorded during all phases by bilateral great toe laser‐Doppler flowmetry and also by whole‐body thermography. Patient and control measurements were compared. The study protocol was well tolerated. Parameters extracted from the laser‐Doppler flowmetry measurements were used to model a logistic function using binary logistic regression. This demonstrated a statistically significant difference between patients with restless legs syndrome and healthy controls (P < 0.001). Visual inspection of the body thermography image sequences showed increased lower limb movement in patients with restless legs syndrome patients compared with controls. Thermography analysis also showed significant differences between foot temperatures in patients with restless legs syndrome compared with controls during the hot phase (P = 0.011). Notably, patients with restless legs syndrome had more uniform foot temperatures, whereas controls had a wider variability in surface temperature across the feet. This novel study demonstrates impaired microvascular circulation in patients with restless legs syndrome in comparison to matched controls and a potential mechanism for the sensation of burning feet. The protocol also provides an experimental paradigm to test therapeutic interventions for the future.
Chronic stress undermines the compensatory sleep efficiency increase in response to sleep restriction in adolescents
Authors: Astill Rebecca G. , Verhoeven Dorit , Vijzelaar Romy L. , Van Someren Eus J. W.
Published: February 2013

To investigate the effects of real‐life stress on the sleep of adolescents, we performed a repeated‐measures study on actigraphic sleep estimates and subjective measures during one regular school week, two stressful examination weeks and a week's holiday. Twenty‐four adolescents aged 17.63 ± 0.10 years (mean ± standard error of the mean) wore actigraphs and completed diaries on subjective stress, fatigue, sleep quality, number of examinations and consumption of caffeine and alcohol for 4 weeks during their final year of secondary school. The resulting almost 500 assessments were analysed using mixed‐effect models to estimate the effects of mere school attendance and additional examination stress on sleep estimates and subjective ratings. Total sleep time decreased from 7:38 h ± 12 min during holidays to 6:40 h ± 12 min during a regular school week. This 13% decrease elicited a partial compensation, as indicated by a 3% increase in sleep efficiency and a 6% decrease in the duration of nocturnal awakenings. During examination weeks total sleep time decreased to 6:23 h ± 8 min, but it was now accompanied by a decrease in sleep efficiency and subjective sleep quality and an increase in wake bout duration. In conclusion, school examination stress affects the sleep of adolescents. The compensatory mechanism of more consolidated sleep, as elicited by the sleep restriction associated with mere school attendance, collapsed during 2 weeks of sustained examination stress.
Oocyte Diameter and Plasma Vitellogenin as Predictive Factors to Identify Potential Channel Catfish, Ictalurus punctatus, Suitable for Induced Spawning
Authors: Chatakondi Nagaraj G. , Kelly Anita M.
Published: February 2013

This study monitors the progression of oocyte size and plasma hormone profiles of female channel catfish, Ictalurus punctatus, at monthly intervals to stage expectant ovulating, females for strip spawning. The “critical minimum” diameter of an oocyte to reach threshold maturity for channel catfish was 2.5 ± 0.21 mm. Monthly increases of oocyte diameters and plasma vitellogenin concentrations were linear until spawning. The reproductive performance of cannulated and noncannulated catfish did not differ, negating adverse effects of routine cannulation. This study suggests oocyte diameter in channel catfish can be used as a predictive factor to determine and stage potential broodfish suitable for hormone‐induced spawning.
Effects of Neutral Phytase Supplementation on Biochemical Parameters in Grass Carp, Ctenopharyngodon idellus, and Gibel Carp, Carassius auratus gibelio, Fed Different Levels of Monocalcium Phosphate
Authors: Liu Liwei , Luo Yuliang , Liang Xu‐Fang , Wang Weimin , Wu Junjie , Pan Jing
Published: February 2013

Two 8‐wk studies were conducted to evaluate the effects of neutral phytase supplementation on hemato‐biochemical status, liver biochemical parameter, and intestinal digestive enzyme activity of grass carp, Ctenopharyngodon idellus, and gibel carp, Carassius auratus gibelio, fed with different levels of monocalcium phosphate (MCP). The control diet was prepared with 2% MCP but without phytase (P2.0). The other three experimental diets were prepared with the addition of 1.5, 1.0, and 0.5% MCP, respectively, when supplemented with 500 U/kg neutral phytase in each diet and designated as PP1.5, PP1.0, and PP0.5, respectively. The results indicated that the serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP), alanine transaminase (ALT), and aspartate transaminase (AST) activities, as well as the albumin (ALB) content were increased in grass carp (P < 0.05) and gibel carp (P > 0.05) fed with phytase‐supplemented diets. Meanwhile, the serum cholesterol, high‐density lipoprotein, and total protein contents of the two species of fish were increased in comparison to the control. In addition, dietary phytase inclusion did not significantly affect hepatic ALP, ALT, and AST activities in the two species of carp fed with different levels of MCP. Amylase activity increased in foregut and hindgut of both species when fed with the phytase‐supplemented diets while lipase activity was reduced in the foregut and hindgut in both fish. This study suggests that neutral phytase supplementation increases serum ALP, ALT, and AST activities but does not notably affect these enzyme activities in the liver of the two species of carp when fed different levels of MCP. On the other hand, amylase activity increased while lipase activity was reduced in the intestine of the species of carp fed with phytase‐supplemented diets.
Daily and Annual Variation in Digestive Enzymes – Amylase and Basic and Acid Proteases – in Gilt‐head Sea Bream, Sparus aurata
Authors: Sánchez‐Muros Maria J. , Gómez‐Milán Encarnación , Barroso Fernando G. , Manzano‐Agugliaro Francisco
Published: February 2013

This study examines the daily and annual changes in amylase and basic and acid protease activities in gilt‐head sea bream, Sparus aurata. During the experiment, the fish were kept in cages for production under natural temperature and photoperiod conditions and fed with a commercial diet. To study the effect of photoperiod and temperature, the experiments were conducted during six different months that were chosen based on temperature and photoperiod. To determine daily changes in enzymes activities, for every 3 h during 24 h period, six fish were randomly selected and sacrificed. The annual results for acid protease activity show a rhythm with 6‐mo period (bimodal rhythm) with acrophases in May and November. The activities of pancreatic enzymes, which include basic protease and amylase, exhibited parallel changes with two peaks of activity in January and October without a rhythmic pattern. The daily changes in enzyme activities are significant only in May, June, and November for basic proteases and May, October, and November for amylase (P < 0.05). The observed variations suggest a varying capacity for digestion depending on the day and the year and could aid in the study of seasonal feeding protocols.
Growth, Mortality, and Biochemical Composition inOctopus vulgarisReared Under Different Conditions of Sex Ratio
Authors: Estefanell Juan , Roo Javier , Izquierdo Marisol , Socorro Juan , Guirao Rafael
Published: February 2013

Octopus vulgarisis a potential candidate to diversify marine aquaculture. Even though mortality under rearing conditions has been related to reproductive processes, the benefit of sex segregation remains unclear. In order to clarify this, wild octopuses (862 ± 101 g) were reared in floating cages under three proportions of male : female sex ratio: 1:1, 1:0, and 4:1 (n = 30 per treatment). The experimental period lasted 2 mo and octopuses were fed on bogue,Boops boops(aquaculture by‐product). Higher growth rates were observed in octopuses reared under 1:1 and 1:0 (1.8%/d) in comparison with those reared under 4:1 conditions (1.6%/d). Regarding sexes, a lower growth was detected in females reared under 4:1 (1.1%/d) in comparison with females (1.8%/d) and males (1.7–1.9%/d) reared under 1:1 conditions. Survival was 97, 97, and 90% in sex ratio 1:1, 1:0, and 4:1, respectively. Sexual maturity data showed that males were all mature, while most females were still maturing (60–84%) at the end of the rearing period. High lipid content in bogue (44% dw) did not reflect on octopus muscle. This tissue showed a similar biochemical composition irrespective of the sex ratio condition, with a high protein (87% dw), a low lipid (5% dw), and a high n‐3HUFAcontent (42%).
Utilization of Soluble Canola Protein Concentrate as an Attractant Enhances Production Performance of Sunshine Bass Fed Reduced Fish Meal, Plant‐Based Diets
Authors: Hill Heidi A. , Trushenski Jesse T. , Kohler Christopher C.
Published: February 2013

Soluble canola protein concentrate (SCPC) is rich in glutamic acid and may act as a feed attractant to improve feed acceptance and production performance of fish fed plant‐based diets. In the first experiment, attractant properties of SCPC were evaluated by comparing production performance of sunshine bass, Morone chrysops × Morone saxatilis, fed reduced fish meal (FM) diets supplemented with 1% SCPC or a betaine‐based feed attractant. In the second experiment, production performance of fish was compared after feeding reduced FM diets with or without SCPC. Following the first experiment, production performance was similar among fish fed attractants, but at 0% FM weight gain and survival were significantly lower compared to the 30% FM control treatment regardless of attractant inclusion. According to broken‐line analysis of data from the second experiment, the critical breakpoints in dietary FM inclusion rates needed to achieve maximal weight gain were similar regardless of SCPC. However, weight gain observed among fish fed SCPC was significantly greater than fish not fed SCPC. Including FM in plant‐based sunshine bass diets at rates >10–13% dry matter did not improve weight gain, and weight gain is optimized when a feed attractant/palatant such as SCPC is included in these plant‐based diets.
Improvement of Matrinxã, Brycon amazonicus, Larviculture by Exposing Eggs to Triiodothyronine
Authors: Leonardo Antonio Fernando Gervásio , Hoshiba Márcio Aquio , Urbinati Elisabeth Criscuolo , Senhorini José Augusto
Published: February 2013

This work evaluated the effect of triiodothyronine (T3) on larviculture of matrinxã, Brycon amazonicus. Oocytes of three females were pooled, fertilized with pooled semen of two males and separated in four batches that were immersed in triiodothyronine solutions as follows: M1 (control – water); M2 (0.01 mg/L T3); M3 (0.05 mg/L T3); and M4 (0.1 mg/L T3). Triiodothyronine did not affect fertilization rate and number of hatched larvae. Weight of hatched larvae was significantly higher in treatments M3 and M4, as well as among larvae sampled at Day 12 in all treatments. After 12 d of rearing, biomass gain was higher in the hormone treatments (M1 688 ± 569 mg; M2 2436 ± 562 mg; M3 3572 ± 569 mg; and M4 4129 ± 770 mg). In general, coefficients of variation of weight (CVw) and length (CVl) did not differ among treatments and cannibalism was registered between 36 and 72 hours post‐hatching (h.p.h.) without differences among treatments. Larval survival increased in the hormone treatments (M1 26.5%; M2 37.6%; M3 40.6%; and M4 40.8%). The results indicate that the immersion of matrinxã eggs in triiodothyronine can promote beneficial effects to its larviculture and indicate promising perspectives for culture of this tropical species.
Color and Carotenoid Content Changes of Yellow Discolored Channel Catfish, Ictalurus punctatus, Fillets during Refrigerated Storage
Authors: Li Yilin , Bell Leonard N. , Liu Shaoyang , Wang Yifen
Published: February 2013

Yellow pigment deposition is a quality defect associated with channel catfish fillets. This study evaluated the relationship between fillet color and carotenoid contents as well as the effect of refrigerated storage on the color and carotenoid content of discolored catfish fillets. The color and carotenoid content of the yellow fillets were analyzed using the L, a, b‐color system and high performance liquid chromatography analysis, respectively. A strong linear relationship between visual yellowness (i.e., the b‐values) of fresh catfish fillets and the sum of three major carotenoid contents was observed. Yellow discolored catfish fillets became darker and more yellow during 12 d of refrigerated storage. However, the total carotenoid content of yellow fillets decreased or remained unchanged during storage. Results suggest that while the yellow discoloration of fresh catfish fillets is related to carotenoid contents, the intensification of the discoloration during storage appears to be related to another chemical phenomenon.
Nitrogen and Phosphorus Dynamics in the Biofloc Production of the Pacific White Shrimp, Litopenaeus vannamei
Authors: da Silva Kassio Rios , Wasielesky Wilson , Abreu Paulo César
Published: February 2013

A study evaluating nitrogen and phosphorus dynamics was carried out using biofloc technology (BFT) systems employed to raise Litopenaeus vannamei juveniles. The study was carried out for 42 d in three fiberglass tanks with 210 L useful volume with no water exchange. Salinity, temperature, dissolved oxygen, pH, nutrients, suspended solids, and chlorophyll‐a were monitored every 3 d. At the completion of the experiment, the shrimp had absorbed 39.1 and 35.0% of the total nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) inputs, respectively, while 39.0% of the N and 34.1% of the P remained in the system in dissolved forms. The dominant process of ammonium immobilization in the system was oxidation by nitrifying bacteria. On Day 42, the nitrate concentration represented more than 80% of the total dissolved inorganic nitrogen in all tanks. However, most of the dissolved nitrogen present in the tanks (80%) was organic. Phosphate and organic nitrogen and phosphorus continuously accumulated in the system throughout the experiment. The removal of these nutrients should be the focus of future studies because they may enhance the growth of harmful algae in tanks and in the water bodies that collect the post‐crop wastewater.
Dietary Esterified Astaxanthin Concentration Effect on Dermal Coloration and Chromatophore Physiology in Spinecheek Anemonefish, Premnas biaculeatus
Authors: Ho Adeljean L. F. C. , Orlando Bertran Nicole M. , Lin Junda
Published: February 2013

Anemonefishes dominate the marine ornamental aquaculture production and coloration plays an important role in market price of the product. This study examined the effect of dietary esterified astaxanthin concentration and duration on skin coloration in spinecheek anemonefish, Premnas biaculeatus. The chromatophore physiology parameters examined were color, density, and diameter of carotenoid granules. Juveniles of 30 days post hatch (d.p.h.) were fed diets consisting of 23, 214, or 2350 ppm esterified astaxanthin for 115 d and the fish were sampled at 45, 120, and 145 d.p.h. Hue was significantly reduced with increasing time and astaxanthin concentration. Saturation fluctuated over time while luminosity was only affected by time. Carotenoid granule density was similar across the treatments: approximately 0.3 granules/µm2. Significant difference in carotenoid granule size was detected, with larger diameters at the higher astaxanthin treatment. Carotenoid granules showed significantly lower hues, higher saturation, and lower luminosity values for the higher astaxanthin concentration diets. This is indicative of higher concentration of carotenoids in the granules. Diets explicitly imparted different coloration in P. biaculeatus and the manifested color differences in the fish are result of increased carotenoid granule size and increased carotenoid concentration within granules. Astaxanthin concentration of 214 ppm imparts adequate coloration for high market value.
The integration of multiple independent data reveals an unusual response toPleistocene climatic changes in the hard tickIxodes ricinus
Authors: Porretta Daniele , Mastrantonio Valentina , Mona Stefano , Epis Sara , Montagna Matteo , Sassera Davide , Bandi Claudio , Urbanelli Sandra
Published: February 2013

In the last few years, improved analytical tools and the integration of genetic data with multiple sources of information have shown that temperate species exhibited more complex responses to ice ages than previously thought. In this study, we investigated how Pleistocene climatic changes affected the current distribution and genetic diversity of European populations of the tickIxodes ricinus,an ectoparasite with high ecological plasticity. We first used mitochondrial and nuclear genetic markers to investigate the phylogeographic structure of the species and itsPleistocene history using coalescent‐based methods; then we used species distribution modelling to infer the climatic niche of the species at last glacial maximum; finally, we reviewed the literature on theI. ricinushosts to identify the locations of their glacial refugia. Our results support the scenario that during the last glacial phase,I. ricinusnever experienced a prolonged allopatric divergence in separate glacial refugia, but persisted with interconnected populations acrossSouthern andCentralEurope. The generalist behaviour in host choice ofI. ricinuswould have played a major role in maintaining connections between its populations. Although most of the hosts persisted in separate refugia, from the point of view ofI. ricinus,they represented a continuity of ‘bridges’ among populations. Our study highlights the importance of species‐specific ecology in affecting responses toPleistocene glacial–interglacial cycles. Together with other cases in Europe and elsewhere, it contributes to setting new hypotheses on how species with wide ecological plasticity coped withPleistocene climatic changes.
Reproductive success depends on the quality of helpers in the endangered, cooperative El Oro parakeet (Pyrrhura orcesi)
Authors: Klauke Nadine , Segelbacher Gernot , Schaefer H. M.
Published: February 2013

In cooperative species, helping behaviour and reproductive success can be correlated, but understanding this correlation is often impaired by the difficulty to correctly infer causation. While helpers can incur costs by participating in brood care, it is yet unclear if their help depends on their individual quality. We address these questions in the previously unknown cooperative breeding system of the endangered El Oro parakeet (Pyrrhura orcesi). Specifically, we ask (i) whether breeders benefit directly from helpers by an enhanced reproductive success and if so, (ii) whether the amount of this potential benefit is regulated by the quality of contributing group members. Groups consist of a dominant breeding pair accompanied by helpers, but cooperation is not obligate. Microsatellite heterozygosity was used to assess individual quality; its suitability as indicator of quality was reflected in the positive relationship between offspring heterozygosity and recruitment into the population. The reproductive success of breeding pairs depended on helper (genetic) quality and the number of helpers. This relationship occurred on two different levels: clutch size and fledging success, indicating (i) that females profit from high‐quality helpers and probably adjust clutch size accordingly and (ii) that the helpers increase fledging success. Congruently, we found that offspring body condition is positively affected by helper quality, which is most probably explained by the increased feeding rates when helpers are present. We suggest a causal link between cooperation and reproductive success in this frugivorous, endangered parakeet. Further, helper (genetic) quality can be a relevant factor for determining reproductive fitness in cooperative species, particularly in small and bottlenecked populations.
Selection of Accelerometer Location on Bricklayers Using Decision Trees
Authors: Joshua Liju , Varghese Koshy
Published: February 2013

Abstract:  Preliminary investigations on accelerometer‐based activity recognition in construction have shown that it has good potential to be utilized for recognizing categories of work in a construction trade. Selecting the accelerometer locations is an important consideration in activity recognition studies, but currently it is decided primarily on the basis of comfort requirements. This article proposes a methodology for selecting the location of accelerometers using video annotations and decision trees. A video annotation tool is used to track the movement of body segments and decision tree algorithm helps to prioritize the relevant body segments for classifying activities. A two‐phase experimental study was conducted to assess the methodology. In the first phase, video annotation studies were carried out on four bricklayers, and based on decision tree analysis three locations: right lower arm, left lower arm, and waist were selected. In the second phase, an activity recognition study was conducted on another group of bricklayers with accelerometers attached at the selected locations. The results of study show that the location of accelerometer has a significant influence on accuracy and the proposed methodology is effective in selecting accelerometer locations. In the current study only bricklaying activity was considered, however, the methodology is generic and has the potential to be applied to objectively evaluate accelerator placement location for a wide range of structured activities.
Continuity and Reform in Vatican II's Teaching on Islam
Authors: D'Costa Gavin
Published: February 2013

How credible is the Catholic Church's teaching on Islam in the light of some modern appreciations of Islam? Does the teaching about Islam at the Council, welcomed by so many, represent a discontinuity of magisterial doctrinal teaching? This paper argues that Pope Benedict's hermeneutic for the Council can be tested using this question. It is argued that the discontinuity at Vatican II lies at the level of historically contingent circumstances, with continuity at a doctrinal level. Hence, the Church retains credibility in looking at a new issue and developing a “new” response, discerning the signs of the times, without contradicting previously held doctrinal teachings.
‘Sacrament of the Dynamic Transcendence of Christianity’: Cornelius Ernst on the Church
Authors: Keenan Oliver James
Published: February 2013

The new ontology of meaning proposed by Fr Cornelius Ernst OP as a means of articulating the Thomistic synthesis in the idiom of the modern era coheres around ecclesiology. Drawing upon the linguistic philosophy of Ludwig Wittgenstein's Philosophical Investigations, Ernst sees meaning as the distinctively human praxis by which man ‘subdues’ and ‘transcends’ the world to which he belongs, thereby transposing it into the world that belongs to man. The Church, as the Body of Christ – who is personally the ontological meaning of history – is the distinctively Christian linguistic community of meaning, in which ultimate meaning – the ‘meaning of meaning’, i.e. God – is present in each successive era. Established in the illuminating event of Christ's incarnation, the Church is the sacramental institution that makes present Christ's re-integration of the plurality of human meanings, realising itself as a concrete community within the world, and realising the world authentically within itself. As the sacrament of the Trinitarian mediation of meaning, therefore, the Church is irreducibly both human institution and mystical communion, serving as the ontological a priori of faith, and thus the authentic locus of Christian theology.
A proteomic approach to identify proteins from Trichuris trichiura extract with immunomodulatory effects
Authors: Santos L. N. , Gallo M. B. C. , Silva E. S. , Figueiredo C. A. V. , Cooper P. J. , Barreto M. L. , Loureiro S. , Pontes‐de‐Carvalho L. C. , Alcantara‐Neves N. M.
Published: February 2013

Infections with Trichuris trichiura and other trichurid nematodes have been reported to display protective effects against atopy, allergic and autoimmune diseases. The aims of the present study were to investigate the immunomodulatory properties of T. trichiura adult worm extract (TtE) and its fractions (TtEFs) on the production of cytokines by peripheral blood mononuclear cells and to identify their proteinaceous components. Fourteen TtEFs were obtained by ion exchange chromatography and tested for effects on cytokine production by peripheral blood mononuclear cells. The molecular constituents of the six most active fractions were evaluated using nano‐LC/mass spectrometry. The homology between T. trichiura and the related nematode Trichinella spiralis was used to identify 12 proteins in TtEFs. Among those identified, fructose biphosphate aldolase, a homologue of macrophage migration inhibitory factor and heat‐shock protein 70 may contribute to the immunomodulatory effects of TtEFs. The identification of such proteins could lead to the development of novel drugs for the therapy of allergic and other inflammatory diseases.
Influence of plant host species on intraspecific competition during infection by Aspergillus flavus
Authors: Mehl H. L. , Cotty P. J.
Published: February 2013

Compositions of Aspergillus flavus populations determine the extent to which crops become contaminated with aflatoxins. In the current study, influences of diverse crop hosts on competition among A. flavus isolates were quantified with pyrosequencing. Maize, cotton, soyabean and sorghum supported different levels of sporulation, but intraspecific differences in sporulation were not detected on any host. However, hosts differentially influenced competition during infection, allowing greater sporulation by some isolates and increased host tissue invasion by others. Furthermore, competitive interactions during host invasion did not predict isolate success during sporulation. Isolates were similarly competitive on maize and sorghum, the two most closely related hosts. Host‐specific influences on intraspecific competition may dictate compositions of A. flavus populations and, as a result, the severity of aflatoxin contamination. Host factors should be considered when designing and implementing aflatoxin management strategies including biocontrol with atoxigenic strains.
Characterization of a novel HLA‐C*07 allele, HLA‐C*07:56:01
Authors: Wang D. , Liu N. , Wang L. , Ni L. , Zhang Z.
Published: February 2013

A novel HLA‐C allele, C*07:56:01, is the close matching allele C*07:02:01:01 by one nucleotide substitution in exon 2, at position 343 G>A.
Kinematics of the Dadeldhura klippe shear zones (W Nepal): implications for the foreland evolution of the Himalayan metamorphic core
Authors: Antolín Borja , Godin Laurent , Wemmer Klaus , Nagy Carl
Published: February 2013

Mapping combined with structural analyses in the foreland edge of the metamorphic core of the Himalayas in SW Nepal highlights the existence of two north‐dipping shear zones with opposite sense of shear. Here, the metamorphic core is mainly affected by non‐coaxial top‐to‐the‐south sense of shear at temperatures between 450 °C and 550 °C that switch to a top‐to‐the‐north sense of shear at the top of the metamorphic core. We regionally correlate this upper shear zone with the South Tibetan detachment system. Ar‐dating on white mica indicates that both shear zones operated between 23 Ma and 17 Ma. Restoration of the folded South Tibetan detachment in far western Nepal yields a minimum dip‐slip distance of 190 km, compatible with predictions made by models of extrusion of a weak mid‐crustal channel. Our results support an orogenic model in which channel flow in the hinterland coexisted with thrust wedge mechanics in the foreland.
Toxocara seropositivity, atopy and asthma: a study in Cuban schoolchildren
Authors: Kanobana K. , Vereecken K. , Junco Diaz R. , Sariego I. , Rojas L. , Bonet Gorbea M. , Polman K.
Published: February 2013

Introduction

Evidence suggests that human toxocariasis (HT) could stimulate the onset of allergic diseases such as asthma. More specifically, in subjects having a hypothetical ‘atopic genotype’, HT could boost preexistent allergy symptoms. We tested the latter hypothesis in Cuba, a country where both asthma and HT are prevalent.

Material and methods

In a group of Cuban school‐aged children (n = 958), we investigated the association of Toxocara seropositivity and atopic status with asthma. Toxocara seropositivity was diagnosed with ELISA and atopy by allergen skin prick test. Both physician‐diagnosed asthma and current wheeze, as determined by International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood (ISAAC) questionnaire, were considered. Associations were assessed using multivariable logistic regression analyses, with either ‘physician‐diagnosed asthma’ or ‘current wheeze’ as outcome variable.

Results

40.1% of the children were Toxocara seropositive. Prevalences were 21.7% for current wheeze and 32.7% for physician‐diagnosed asthma. The odds of having asthma were almost two times higher in atopic children, but only reached borderline significance (OR=1.90, CI 95%: 0.95–3.80 for physician‐diagnosed asthma and OR=1.94, CI 95%: 0.98–3.85 for current wheeze). Toxocara seropositivity and physician‐diagnosed asthma were associated (OR=1.51, CI 95%: 1.01–2.26). Moreover, in children without antibodies to Toxocara, being atopic was significantly associated with having physician‐diagnosed asthma (OR=2.53, CI 95%: 1.63–3.90), while this association was not present in Toxocara positives (OR=1.38, CI 95%: 0.82–2.37).

Conclusion

Our data confirm previous observations of higher Toxocara seropositivity rates in asthmatic children. Toxocara seropositivity appeared to abrogate the apparent association between atopy and asthma in Cuban children. Although this observation was limited to physician‐diagnosed asthma, it challenges the hypothesis that HT stimulates the onset of allergic diseases such as asthma in atopic individuals.
The risk of transfusion‐transmitted HIV from blood donations of men who have sex with men, 12 months after last sex with a man: 2005–2007 estimates from England and Wales
Authors: Davison K. L. , Conti S. , Brailsford S. R.
Published: February 2013

The risk of transfusion‐transmitted HIV infection under (i) permanent exclusion and (ii) 12‐month deferral of MSM in England and Wales during 2005–2007 was estimated. Assuming equal compliance with both scenarios, estimated risk under a 12‐month deferral (0.228/million donations [range 0·168–0·306/million donations]) was only marginally greater (0·5%) than that under lifetime exclusion (0·227/million donations [range 0·157–0.318/million donations]), with one extra‐HIV infectious donation every 455 years. Poorer compliance of MSM with a 12‐month deferral would be expected to increase the estimated risk, whereas improved compliance could decrease risk by up to 29·1%.
Haematopoietic stem cell transplantation: a comparison between the accreditation process performed by competent authorities and JACIE in Italy
Authors: Lombardini L. , Bosi A. , Grosz S. , Pamphilon D. , Fehily D. , Mareri M. , Carella C. , Pia Mariani M. , Pupella S. , Grazzini G. , Costa A. N.
Published: February 2013

There have been great advances over the last decades in haematopoietic stem cell (HSC) transplantation, using either bone marrow, peripheral blood or cord blood‐derived stem cells. The coming into force of the European legislation on tissues and cells and the consequent transposition of Directives into national laws have required the health authorities in the Member States (MS) and the scientific societies to review the transplantation activities to ensure the circulation of safe HSC products. Here, the regulatory inspection process performed by the Competent Authorities and the professional voluntary accreditation process of the Transplant Programmes active in Italy is compared.
Bacterial growth in red blood cell units exposed to uncontrolled temperatures: challenging the 30‐minute rule
Authors: Ramirez‐Arcos S. , Perkins H. , Kou Y. , Mastronardi C. , Kumaran D. , Taha M. , Yi Q.‐L. , McLaughlin N. , Kahwash E. , Lin Y. , Acker J.
Published: February 2013

Background and Objectives

The ‘30‐min rule’ requires discarding red blood cells (RBCs) exposed to uncontrolled temperatures for >30 min to ensure safe RBC transfusion. This study was aimed at determining whether multiple room temperature (RT) exposures promote bacterial growth.

Materials and Methods

Pooled and split RBC units were inoculated with ~1 CFU/ml of Serratia marcescens, Yersinia enterocolitica, Escherichia coli or Staphylococcus epidermidis. Control units remained in storage, while test units were exposed to RT for six 30‐min or three 60‐min intervals. Bacterial concentrations and endotoxin levels were determined after each exposure and at 42 days of storage. RBC core temperature and RT were monitored in mock units with Escort iLog temperature loggers. A mixed model was used for statistical analyses.

Results

Red blood cell core temperature reached 10·7 ± 0·4°C and 14·2 ± 0·2°C during 30‐ and 60‐min exposures, respectively. Staphylococcus epidermidis and E. coli did not grow in either control or exposed RBCs. Yersinia enterocolitica concentration and endotoxin levels were similar in both control and test units. Serratia marcescens concentration and endotoxin levels were higher in exposed units; however, differences between units exposed for 30 min or 60 min were not observed.

Conclusion

There is no added risk to RBC safety by increasing RT exposures to 60 min with each removal from storage for up to a total of 3 h during RBC shelf life. Therefore, extending the 30‐min limitation in RBCs exposed to uncontrolled temperatures to 60 min should be considered by regulatory agencies.
Surveillance of Parapoxvirus Among Ruminants in Virginia and Connecticut
Authors: Roess A. A. , McCollum A. M. , Gruszynski K. , Zhao H. , Davidson W. , Lafon N. , Engelmeyer T. , Moyer B. , Godfrey C. , Kilpatrick H. , Labonte A. , Murphy J. , Carroll D. S. , Li Y. , Damon I. K.
Published: February 2013

In 2008, two deer hunters in Virginia and Connecticut were infected with a unique strain of pseudocowpox virus, a parapoxvirus. To estimate the prevalence of this virus, and in an attempt to define the reservoir, Parapoxvirus surveillance was undertaken between November 2009 and January 2010. 125 samples from four ruminant species (cows, goat, sheep and white‐tailed deer) were collected in Virginia, and nine samples from white‐tailed deer were collected in Connecticut. We found no evidence that the parapoxvirus species that infected the deer hunters is circulating among domesticated ruminants or white‐tailed deer. However, parapoxvirus DNA of a different parapoxvirus species, bovine papular stomatitis virus (BPSV), was detected in 31 samples obtained from asymptomatic cattle in Virginia. Parapoxvirus DNA–positive cattle originated from the same counties indicating probable transmission among animals. Molecular analysis identified BPSV as the parapoxvirus affecting animals. Asymptomatic parapoxvirus infections in livestock, particularly young animals, may be common, and further investigation will inform our knowledge of virus transmission.
Effects of Centrifugal Forces on Particle Deposition for a Representative Seal Pin Between Two Blades
Authors: Barringer M. D. , Thole K. A. , Breneman D. L. , Tham K.-M. , Laurello V.
Published: February 2013

Many land-based gas turbine applications are conducive to the formation of rust in the supply piping and other components that are upstream of the gas turbine. Many of these applications do not incorporate an effective filtration system for removing rust particles from the secondary air systems thereby resulting in rust deposits. Deposits in the small passages significantly block the secondary flow that ultimately reduces component life. This study investigates the effects of rust deposition in a geometry representative of an axial seal pin between two blades. Initial studies were performed to determine the effects of engine-representative particle composition, temperature, and centrifugal acceleration on deposition characteristics. These initial results pointed to the importance of simulating centrifugal forces representative of that experienced in the engine. A new facility was developed to directly measure flow blockages under static conditions and under rotational conditions.
Material dependence of argon cluster ion sputter yield in polymers: Method and measurements of relative sputter yields for 19 polymers
Authors: Cumpson Peter J. , Portoles Jose F. , Sano Naoko
Published: February 2013

There is a pressing need for reference data to allow sputter depth-profiling of polymers using cluster and polyatomic ion sources for the quantification of depth in XPS and SIMS. The authors have developed a new method of sputter rate measurement based on a combination of contact masking and white-light interferometry. This allowed us to measure sputter rates for 19 different polymers of technological significance, a much wider set of data than any available previously. The results show a much larger range of sputter yield than might previously have been expected. For example, the sputter yield of PMMA being more than ten times that of poly ether ether ketone when using argon ion clusters of around 4 eV/atom, with other polymers being widely distributed between these extremes. Without reference data for sputter rate this wide range could lead to major errors in depth estimation in sputter depth-profiling of polymer coatings, biomaterials, nanostructures, polymer electronic and polymer photovoltaic devices.