bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Measuring potential spatial access to primary health care physicians using a modified gravity model
Authors: SCHUURMAN NADINE , BÉRUBÉ MYRIAM , CROOKS VALORIE A.
Published: March 2010

Ensuring equity of access to primary health care (PHC) across Canada is a continuing challenge, especially in rural and remote regions. Despite considerable attention recently by the World Health Organization, Health Canada and other health policy bodies, there has been no nation‐wide study of potential (versus realized) spatial access to PHC. This knowledge gap is partly attributable to the difficulty of conducting the analysis required to accurately measure and represent spatial access to PHC. The traditional epidemiological method uses a simple ratio of PHC physicians to the denominator population to measure geographical access. We argue, however, that this measure fails to capture relative access. For instance, a person who lives 90 minutes from the nearest PHC physician is unlikely to be as well cared for as the individual who lives more proximate and potentially has a range of choice with respect to PHC providers. In this article, we discuss spatial analytical techniques to measure potential spatial access. We consider the relative merits of kernel density estimation and a gravity model. Ultimately, a modified version of the gravity model is developed for this article and used to calculate potential spatial access to PHC physicians in the Canadian province of Nova Scotia. This model incorporates a distance decay function that better represents relative spatial access to PHC. The results of the modified gravity model demonstrate greater nuance with respect to potential access scores. While variability in access to PHC physicians across the test province of Nova Scotia is evident, the gravity model better accounts for real access by assuming that people can travel across artificial census boundaries. We argue that this is an important innovation in measuring potential spatial access to PHC physicians in Canada. It contributes more broadly to assessing the success of policy mandates to enhance the equitability of PHC provisioning in Canadian provinces.
“Give Me Some Sugar!” The Diabetes Self‐Management Activities of African‐American Primary Caregiving Grandmothers
Authors: Carthron Dana L. , Johnson Tiny Marie , Hubbart Tara D. , Strickland Courtney , Nance Kimya
Published: March 2010

Purpose: To compare the diabetes self‐management activities of African American primary caregiving grandmothers before and after the initiation of caregiving and to compare the diabetes self‐management activities of African American primary caregiving grandmothers to diabetic women who were not caring for their grandchildren.

Design: Using a cross‐sectional, descriptive design, 68 African American women 55 to 75 years of age were recruited as part of a larger study examining the impact of caregiving responsibilities on the diabetic health of African American primary caregiving grandmothers. Each participant was asked the frequency of their performance of six self‐management activities. Caregiving grandmothers were asked about these activities before and after the initiation of caregiving.

Results: Dependent and independent t‐tests with Bonferroni correction were used to analyze the data. Statistically significant differences were noted in diet (t=4.400, p=.000) and self‐monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG; t=3.484, p=.001) before and after the initiation of caregiving. For the caregiver versus non‐caregiver comparison, statistically significant differences were noted in SMBG (t=−3.855, p=.000) and eye examinations (t=−3.211, p=.001).

Conclusions: The findings provide preliminary data to support further research examining the self‐management activities of diabetic African American primary caregiving grandmothers. Diabetic African American primary caregiving grandmothers may have a decreased ability to integrate self‐management activities into their daily patterns of living. Additional research is needed to determine what factors prevent this population from performing these tasks routinely.

Clinical Relevance: African American primary caregiving grandmothers were found to have more difficulty performing some of their self‐management activities, which may severely impact their overall diabetic health.
Coping With Preclinical Disability: Older Women's Experiences of Everyday Activities
Authors: Lorenz Rebecca Ann
Published: March 2010

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to describe coping practices used by older women during preclinical disability.

Design: This paper was derived from qualitative data gathered during a larger multimethod longitudinal study. Twelve women (60 to 80 years of age) participated in baseline functional performance measures and then repeated in‐depth interviews and participant observations over 18 months.

Methods: A hermeneutic approach was used to interpret the in‐depth interviews, participant observations, and field notes using three interrelated processes of thematic, exemplar, and identification of paradigm cases to identify coping practices.

Findings: Women coped with functional decline, such as difficulty getting up from the floor, in many different ways. Coping practices were grouped into five themes: resist, adapt, substitute, endure, and eliminate.

Clinical Relevance: These findings suggest that nurses need to realize outward appearances may mask the level of effort required for older women to complete daily activities.
Hypothesis: The Electrophysiological Basis of Evil Eye Belief
Authors: ROSS COLIN ANDREW
Published: March 2010

The sense of being stared at is the basis of evil eye beliefs, which are regarded as superstitions because the emission of any form of energy from the human eye has been rejected by Western science. However, brainwaves in the 1–40 Hertz, 1–10 microvolt range emitted through the eye can be detected using a high‐impedance electrode housed inside electromagnetically insulated goggles. This signal, which the author calls “human ocular extramission,” is physiologically active and has distinct electrophysiological properties from simultaneous brainwave recordings over the forehead. Western science's rejection of evil eye beliefs may be based on an erroneous rejection of a widespread component of human consciousness, the sense of being stared at, which may in turn be based on a real electrophysiological signal. The author proposes a series of future studies designed to determine whether human ocular extramission is the basis of evil eye beliefs.
Qualité des emplois dans les centres d'appels en Allemagne
Authors: WEINKOPF Claudia
Published: March 2010

Depuis 1995, l'emploi faiblement rémunéré a augmenté en Allemagne, les employeurs cherchant des échappatoires aux normes institutionnelles afin de réduire le coût de la main‐d'æuvre. Cet article présente une étude sur six centres d'appels (quatre dans les services collectifs, deux dans les services financiers), qui a exploré l'effet des institutions (notamment accords salariaux collectifs et conseils d'entreprise) sur l'organisation du travail, les salaires et les conditions de travail dans les centres d'appels internes aux entreprises, et chez les fournisseurs de services externes. Il explique pourquoi les écarts salariaux sont importants, et traite des répercussions de l'externalisation sur les salaires.
INTRODUCTION
Authors: OSTERMAN Paul
Published: March 2010

The articles in this special issue of the International Labour Review present the findings of a major international comparative research project on low‐wage work supported by the Russell Sage Foundation. In his brief introduction, Paul Osterman, who coordinated this special issue of the journal, outlines the rationale and methodology of the research project and explains its significance for public policy aimed at improving job quality at the lower end of the market.
Low‐wage work in five European countries and the United States
Authors: BOSCH Gerhard
Published: March 2010

Analysing research findings on Denmark, Germany, France, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom and the United States, the author shows that the incidence and conditions of low‐paid employment in each country are determined by a set of institutions, including minimum wage and active labour market policies, tax and social security systems, and collective bargaining. The widely assumed trade‐off between employment and wages, he argues, is not inescapable: active labour market policies for individual empowerment and institutions imposing “beneficial constraints” can prevent improved conditions at the bottom of the earnings distribution from translating into higher unemployment, while also helping to narrow inequalities.
Retail jobs in the Netherlands: Low pay in a context of long‐term wage moderation
Authors: VAN KLAVEREN Maarten , SALVERDA Wiemer , TIJDENS Kea
Published: March 2010

Wage moderation has been at the heart of the Netherlands' model of socio‐economic governance since the 1980s. Low‐paid employment has grown significantly, lower wages being constrained by declining minimum wages. Lagging incomes and consumption have depressed demand in retail, whose workforce – especially young people – accepted low‐paid, part‐time jobs. Low pay tends to reduce job quality – a phenomenon which has been heightened by the exceptionally long tail of youth minimum wages and the education grant system allowing students to work and skewing the labour market against young full‐time jobseekers. The current crisis may thwart retail's budding re‐professionalization.
Can more inclusive wage‐setting institutions improve low‐wage work? Pay trends in the United Kingdom's public‐sector hospitals
Authors: GRIMSHAW Damian
Published: March 2010

International research findings highlight the important role of institutions in shaping the wage structure of an economy. Evidence from a sample of seven public hospitals in the United Kingdom confirms those findings, suggesting that a more coordinated and centralized system of wage‐setting (including extension of public‐sector conditions to outsourced workers) improves pay for low‐wage cleaners and assistant nurses. Renewal of wage‐setting institutions provides a necessary but insufficient foundation for the elimination of low‐wage work. Employee investment in skill development, career advancement and skill‐based pay require management's commitment to the design of new, higher‐skilled jobs and the strengthening of internal labour markets.
Periodontal healing following reconstructive surgery: effect of guided tissue regeneration using a bioresorbable barrier device when combined with autogenous bone grafting. A randomized‐controlled trial 10‐year follow‐up
Authors: Nygaard‐Østby Per , Bakke Vibeke , Nesdal Oddny , Susin Cristiano , Wikesjö Ulf M. E.
Published: March 2010

Nygaard‐Østby P, Bakke V, Nesdal O, Susin C, Wikesjö UME. Periodontal healing following reconstructive surgery: effect of guided tissue regeneration using a bioresorbable barrier device when combined with autogenous bone grafting. A randomized controlled trial 10‐year follow‐up. J Clin Periodontol 2010; 37: 366–373. doi: 10.1111/j.1600‐051X.2010.01532.x.

Objective: The objective of this 10‐year randomized‐controlled trial follow‐up was to evaluate the stability of treatment outcomes following the implantation of autogenous bone graft with or without guided tissue regeneration (GTR) in the treatment of deep intra‐bony periodontal defects.

Materials and Methods: Forty patients exhibiting deep intra‐bony periodontal defects were included in a randomized‐controlled trial evaluating the adjunctive effect of GTR to autogenous bone graft. Twenty‐six of 39 patients completing the original study were available for follow‐up 10 years post‐treatment. The patients had been included in a structured maintenance programme and were evaluated using the criteria of the original study by the same investigators.

Results: Significant improvements in the probing depth and clinical attachment level were observed for both groups between baseline and 9 months. Whereas the autogenous bone graft+GTR group showed significant improvements in probing bone levels and increased gingival recession at 9 months, no significant differences were observed for the autogenous bone graft group. Nine‐month within‐group results were maintained throughout the 10‐year follow‐up. Nevertheless, between‐group comparisons at 10 years showed that the autogenous bone graft+GTR group exhibited significantly greater probing depth reduction (mean ± SE: 4.2 ± 0.5 versus 2.7 ± 0.5 mm, p=0.023) and probing bone‐level gain (3.9 ± 0.8 versus 1.3 ± 0.9 mm, p=0.034) than the autogenous bone graft group. Borderline significant differences between the autogenous bone graft+GTR and the autogenous bone graft groups were observed for clinical attachment level gain at 10 years (3.8 ± 0.5 versus 2.2 ± 0.7 mm, p=0.067), whereas no significant differences were observed for gingival recession (0.7 ± 0.3 versus 0.6 ± 0.5 mm, p>0.05).

Conclusions: The results of this randomized study suggest that statistically significant differences were found with the adjunct use of GTR to an autogenous bone graft at 10 years. Nevertheless, these results should be interpreted with caution in light of its clinical relevance and biological rationale. Importantly, resolution of deep intra‐bony periodontal defects can be maintained in the presence of a structured maintenance programme emphasizing high oral hygiene standards.
Regenerative effect of basic fibroblast growth factor on periodontal healing in two‐wall intrabony defects in dogs
Authors: Shirakata Yoshinori , Taniyama Katsuyoshi , Yoshimoto Takehiko , Miyamoto Motoharu , Takeuchi Naoshi , Matsuyama Takashi , Noguchi Kazuyuki
Published: March 2010

Shirakata Y, Taniyama K, Yoshimoto T, Miyamoto M, Takeuchi N, Matsuyama T, Noguchi K. Regenerative effect of basic fibroblast growth factor on periodontal healing in two‐wall intrabony defects in dogs. J Clin Periodontol 2010; 37: 374–381. doi: 10.1111/j.1600‐051X.2010.01539.x.

Aim: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of a basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) candidate treatment on periodontal healing in two‐wall intrabony defects in dogs.

Materials and Methods: Two‐wall intrabony defects (5 × 5 × 5 mm) were created surgically on the distal and mesial sides of bilateral mandibular second and fourth premolars in four Beagle dogs. bFGF, enamel matrix derivative (EMD) and platelet‐derived growth factor with β‐tricalcium phosphate (PDGF/β‐TCP) treatments, and sham‐surgery (OFD) were rotated among the four defects in each animal, EMD and PDGF/β‐TCP serving as benchmark controls. The animals were euthanized for radiographic and histologic evaluation at 8 weeks.

Results: Bone formation was significantly greater in the bFGF group (4.11 ± 0.77 mm) than in the EMD (3.32 ± 0.71 mm; p<0.05) and OFD (3.09 ± 0.52 mm; p<0.01) groups. The EMD (4.59 ± 1.19 mm) and PDGF/β‐TCP (4.66 ± 0.7 mm) groups exhibited significantly greater cementum regeneration with periodontal ligament‐like tissue than the OFD group (2.96 ± 0.69 mm; p<0.01). No significant differences were observed between the bFGF and the PDGF/β‐TCP groups in any of the histometric parameters.

Conclusions: The candidate bFGF treatment supported periodontal regeneration comparable with that of established benchmarks: EMD and PDGF/β‐TCP.
Assessment of nickel release from earrings randomly purchased in China and Thailand using the dimethylglyoxime test
Authors: Hamann Carsten R. , Hamann Dathan J. , Hamann Quinlan J. , Hamann Curtis P. , Boonchai Waranya , Li Lin‐Feng , Thyssen Jacob P.
Published: March 2010

Background: China and Thailand produce large amounts of jewellery that are sold domestically and abroad.

Objective: To identify nickel release and metal content in earrings purchased in China and Thailand.

Methods: A total of 557 earrings were randomly purchased from vendors in 11 markets located in Beijing, Chengdu, Bangkok, Patong Beach, and Hat Yai. Earrings were subjected to dimethylglyoxime (DMG) tests and 26 of the DMG negative earrings were further evaluated qualitatively for major and minor metal content using X‐ray fluorescence spectrometry.

Results: A total of 314 Chinese earrings (31.5%) and 243 Thai earrings (29.2%) were DMG test positive. Three (11.5%) of 29 DMG negative earrings contained nickel as a major component; 7 (26.9%) of 29 DMG negative earrings contained nickel as a minor component.

Discussion: Excessive nickel release was frequent. This may contribute to the high prevalence of nickel allergy in both countries. Increased public education together with the adoption of a regulatory intervention in Thailand may be warranted. In China, enforcement of the 2002 Chinese National Standard GB 11887 may assist in reducing sensitization. These initiatives may eventually result in decreased morbidity among the Chinese and Thai citizens, but can potentially benefit recipient countries of these important earring producing countries.
Spatial co‐occurrence networks predict the feeding histories of polyphagous arthropod predators at field scales
Authors: Bell James R. , Andrew King R. , Bohan David A. , Symondson William O. C.
Published: March 2010

In agricultural systems, polyphagous beetles and spiders are abundant components of the beneficial arthropod community. Although data on the dietary ranges of these groups is increasing, remarkably little is understood regarding how individuals interact with their prey at small spatial scales. We demonstrate the utility of a spatially‐explicit network model that integrates predator behaviour using predator‐prey co‐occurrences. Three co‐occurrence matrices, one each for June, July and August, were generated using Vortis suction sample data collected from an 80 point grid imposed on a field of winter wheat. Heuristic predator‐prey linkages, based on positive spatial co‐occurrence, were imposed on these three matrices to create networks. It was found that primary consumers were highly aggregated and showed a strong tendency to co‐occur. This contrasted with patterns of predator–predator or predator–prey co‐occurrences that either aggregated to their prey or were weak and more scattered. These patterns could not be explained by either competition for resources or body size differences. Procrustean methods indicated that the networks were temporally dynamic, consistently achieving rates of turnover >60%. A negative relationship was found between decreasing predator–prey co‐occurrence in the network and the number of prey positives in the guts of those predators. For large polyphagous beetles, the closer they were to their prey at the field scale, the more likely they were to have eaten them. This simple underlying relationship suggests that spatial co‐occurrence networks can be used to predict feeding behaviour and could make a valuable contribution to food web structuring.
Melatonin ameliorates cerulein‐induced pancreatitis by the modulation of nuclear erythroid 2‐related factor 2 and nuclear factor‐kappaB in rats
Authors: Jung Kyung Hee , Hong Sang‐Won , Zheng Hong‐Mei , Lee Hee‐Seung , Lee Hyunseung , Lee Don‐Haeng , Lee Sang Yoon , Hong Soon‐Sun
Published: March 2010

Abstract:  Melatonin exhibits a wide variety of biological effects, including antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory functions. Its antioxidant role impedes the etiopathogenesis of pancreatitis, but little is known about the signaling pathway of melatonin in the induction of antioxidant enzymes in acute pancreatitis (AP). The aim of this study was to determine whether melatonin could prevent cerulein‐induced AP through nuclear factor erythroid 2‐related factor 2 (Nrf2) and curtail inflammation by inhibition of NF‐κB. AP was induced by two intraperitoneal (i.p.) injections of cerulein at 2 h intervals (50 μg/kg) in Sprague‐Dawley rats. Melatonin (10 or 50 mg/kg/daily, i.p.) was administered 24 h before each injection of cerulein. The rats were killed 12 h after the last injection. Acinar cell degeneration, pancreatic edema, and inflammatory infiltration were significantly different in cerulein‐ and melatonin‐treated rats. Melatonin significantly reduced amylase, lipase, MPO, and MDA levels, and increased antioxidant enzyme activities including SOD and GPx, which were decreased in AP (P < 0.05). Melatonin increased the expression of NQO1, HO‐1, and SOD2 when compared with the cerulein‐induced AP group (P < 0.05). In addition, melatonin increased Nrf2 expression, and reduced expressions of tumor necrosis factor‐alpha, IL‐1β, IL‐6, IL‐8, and iNOS. The elevated nuclear binding of NF‐κB in the cerulein‐induced pancreatitis group was inhibited by melatonin. These results show that melatonin increases antioxidant enzymes and Nrf2 expression, and limits inflammatory mediators in cerulein‐induced AP. It is proposed that melatonin may play an important role in oxidative stress via the Nrf2 pathway in parallel with reduction of inflammation by NF‐κB inhibition.
Synergistic effect of melatonin on exercise‐induced neuronal reconstruction and functional recovery in a spinal cord injury animal model
Authors: Park Kanghui , Lee Youngjeon , Park Sookyoung , Lee Seunghoon , Hong Yunkyung , Kil Lee Sang– , Hong Yonggeun
Published: March 2010

Abstract:  Nitric oxide (NO) may aggravate neuronal damage after spinal cord injury (SCI). We hypothesized that NO produced by inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) accelerates secondary damage to spinal tissue, which may be reversed by the neuroprotectant, melatonin. This study investigated the effects of combination therapy with melatonin (10 mg/kg) and exercise (10 m/min) on recovery from SCI caused by contusion. We examined locomotor recovery, iNOS gene expression, autophagic and apoptotic signaling, including Beclin‐1, LC3, p53 and IKKα protein expression and histological alterations in the ventral horn of the spinal cord. Melatonin in combination with exercise resulted in significantly increased hindlimb movement (P < 0.05), a reduced level of iNOS mRNA (P < 0.05) and more motor neurons in the ventral horn, versus control SCI and SCI plus exercise alone, with no effect on the other signaling molecules examined. This study shows that combined therapy with melatonin and exercise reduces the degree of secondary damage associated with SCI in rats and supports the possible use of melatonin in combination with exercise to reduce the side effects related to exercise‐induced fatigue and impairment.
N‐terminal residues regulate proteasomal degradation of AANAT
Authors: Huang Zheping , Liu Tiecheng , Borjigin Jimo
Published: March 2010

Abstract:  Serotonin N‐acetyltransferase (AANAT) catalyzes the conversion of serotonin to N‐acetylserotonin, which is the immediate precursor for formation of melatonin. Although it is known that AANAT is degraded via the proteasomal proteolysis, detailed mechanisms are not defined. In this paper, we tested the in vivo role of proteasome inhibition on AANAT activity and melatonin release and examined the amino acid residues in AANAT that contribute to the proteasome degradation. We have shown that inhibition of proteasome activities in vivo in the intact pineal gland fails to prevent the light‐induced suppression of melatonin secretion. Furthermore, in cell lines stably expressing AANAT, inhibition of proteasomal proteolysis, which resulted in a large accumulation of AANAT protein, similarly failed to increase AANAT enzyme activity proportional to the amount of proteins accumulated. Site‐directed mutagenesis analysis of AANAT revealed that the AANAT degradation is independent of lysine and the two surface cysteine residues. Deletion analysis of N‐terminus identified the second amino acid leucine (L2) as the key residue that contributes to the proteasomal proteolysis of AANAT protein. These results suggest that rat AANAT protein is degraded via the N‐end rule pathway of proteasomal proteolysis and the leucine at the N‐terminus appears to be the key residue recognized by N‐end rule pathway.
Executive summary: The health and fitness benefits of regular participation in small‐sided football games
Authors: Krustrup P. , Dvorak J. , Junge A. , Bangsbo J.
Published: March 2010

The present special issue of Scandinavian Journal of Medicine & Science in Sports deals with health and fitness benefits of regular participation in small‐sided football games. One review article and 13 original articles were the result of a 2‐year multi‐center study in Copenhagen and Zurich and include studies of different age groups analyzed from a physiological, medical, social and psychological perspective. The main groups investigated were middle‐aged, former untrained, healthy men and women who were followed for up to 16 months. In addition, elderly, children and hypertensive patients were studied. A summary and interpretations of the main findings divided into an analysis of the physical demands during training of various groups and the effect of a period of training on performance, muscle adaptations and health profile follow. In addition, social and psychological effects on participation in recreational football are considered, the comparison of football training and endurance running is summarized and the effects of football practice on the elderly and children and youngsters are presented.
Recreational football training decreases risk factors for bone fractures in untrained premenopausal women
Authors: Helge E. W. , Aagaard P. , Jakobsen M. D. , Sundstrup E. , Randers M. B. , Karlsson M. K. , Krustrup P.
Published: March 2010

The present intervention was designed to investigate whether a 14‐week period of regular recreational association football (F) or endurance running (R) has an effect on the risk of falls and bone fractures due to gains in muscle function and volumetric bone mineral density (vBMD). Fifty healthy untrained Danish premenopausal women were randomized into two training groups (F and R) that trained 1.8±0.3 (±SD) and 1.9±0.3 h/week, respectively, and these groups were compared with an inactive control group (C). Jumping and dynamic muscle strength were tested and tibial vBMD was measured using peripheral quantitative computed tomography. Total vBMD in left and right tibia increased by 2.6±2.3% and 2.1±1.8% (P<0.005), respectively, in F and by 0.7±1.3% (P=0.05) and 1.1±1.5% (P<0.01), respectively, in R without any significant changes in C. Similar results were found for trabecular vBMD. In F, peak jump power increased by 3±6% (P<0.05), and hamstring strength during fast (240°/s) and slow (30°/s) contractions increased by 11±25% and 9±21%, respectively, (P<0.05) without any significant changes in R or C. In conclusion, 14 weeks of regular recreational football improved peak jump power, maximal hamstring strength and vBMD in the distal tibia, suggesting a decreased fracture risk due to stronger bones and a reduced risk of falling.
Recreational football as a health promoting activity: a topical review
Authors: Krustrup P. , Aagaard P. , Nybo L. , Petersen J. , Mohr M. , Bangsbo J.
Published: March 2010

The present review addresses the physiological demands during recreational football training and the effects on central health variables that influence the risk of life‐style diseases of young and middle‐aged men. Recent studies have established that recreational football, carried out as small‐sided games can be characterized as having a high aerobic component with mean heart rates of 80–85% of maximum heart rate, which is similar to values observed for elite football players. In addition, the training includes multiple high‐speed runs, sprints, turns, jumps and tackles, which provide a high impact on muscles and bones. Recreational football training in untrained men results in marked improvements in maximum aerobic power, blood pressure, muscle capillarization and intermittent exercise performance, and those effects are similar to interval training and more pronounced than moderate‐intensity continuous running and strength training. Further, recreational football training enhances fat oxidation during exercise and results in a higher fat loss than interval training and strength training, and results in marked muscle hypertrophy and elevates bone mass, more than interval and continuous running. Taken together, recreational football appears to effectively stimulate musculoskeletal, metabolic and cardiovascular adaptations of importance for health and thereby reduces the risk of developing life‐style diseases.
Beneficial effects of recreational football on the cardiovascular risk profile in untrained premenopausal women
Authors: Krustrup P. , Hansen P. R. , Randers M. B. , Nybo L. , Martone D. , Andersen L. J. , Bune L. T. , Junge A. , Bangsbo J.
Published: March 2010

The present study examined the cardiovascular health effects of 16 weeks of recreational football training in untrained premenopausal women in comparison with continuous running training. Fifty healthy women were matched and randomized to a football (FG, n=25) or a running (RG, n=25) group and compared with a control group with no physical training (CO, n=15). Training was performed for 1 h twice a week. After 16 weeks, systolic and diastolic blood pressure was reduced (P<0.05) in FG (7±2 and 4±1 mmHg) and systolic blood pressure was lowered (P<0.05) in RG (6±2 mmHg). After 16 weeks, resting heart rate was lowered (P<0.05) by 5±1 bpm both in FG and RG, and maximal oxygen uptake was elevated (P<0.05) by 15% in FG and by 10% in RG (5.0±0.7 and 3.6±0.6 mL/min/kg, respectively). Total fat mass decreased (P<0.05) by 1.4±0.3 kg in FG and by 1.1±0.3 kg in RG. After 16 weeks, pulse pressure wave augmentation index (−0.9±2.5 vs 4.2±2.4%), skeletal muscle capillarization (2.44±0.15 vs 2.07±0.05 cap/fib) and low‐density lipoprotein/high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio were improved (P<0.05) in FG, but not altered in RG. No changes were observed in CO. In conclusion, regular recreational football training has significant favorable effects on the cardiovascular risk profile in untrained premenopausal women and is at the least as efficient as continuous running.
Correlation Between the European System for Cardiac Operative Risk Evaluation and Sexual Function After Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery
Authors: Mohamed Osama A. , Hamed Hamed A. , Roaiah Mohamed Farid , Helmy Tarek , Mahran Ali , Bennett Carol J.
Published: March 2010

Introduction

The published studies discussing the prognostic factors for expected sexual function after coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) are still limited.

Aim

Examining the correlation between the European System for Cardiac Operative Risk Evaluation (EuroSCORE) and the abridged form of International Index of Erectile Function questionnaire (IIEF-5), as a quick and inexpensive tool for the cardiologist to predict the sexual function after CABG.

Main Outcome Measures

Validated standardized questionnaire commonly used by cardiologists in identifying appropriate weight to various risk factors related to adult cardiac operations.

Methods

Preoperatively patients were evaluated as regards to the sexual function by (IIEF-5) and pharmaco-penile duplex ultrasound. Moreover all patients were evaluated bu EuroSCORE. Six months after surgery, the erectile function of all patients was revaluated according to the same preoperative procedures. The patients were categorized with EuroSCORE as follows: The low-risk group (EuroSCORE 0–2), the medium-risk group (EuroSCORE 3–5), and the high-risk group (EuroSCORE 6 plus).

Results

The EuroSCORE was negatively correlated with the IIEF-5 score (r = −0.224, P = 0.025 or rs=−0.259, P = 0.009). Moreover, low-risk patients had significantly higher IIEF-5 scores compared with medium-risk patients (mean ± standard deviation=15.27 ± 6.03 vs. 12.18 ± 6.07, P <0.05).

Conclusions

There is an inverse correlation between the components of EuroSCORE and the IIEF-5 score. Patients with higher EuroSCORE had lower IIEF-5 scores and vice versa.The EuroSCORE is a useful, quick, and inexpensive tool that allows prediction of ED in those patients with coronary artery disease patients who are undergoing CABG.
Structure of the nervous system in Tubiluchus troglodytes (Priapulida)
Authors: Rothe Birgen Holger , Schmidt‐Rhaesa Andreas
Published: March 2010

Abstract. The nervous system of the meiobenthic priapulid species Tubiluchus troglodytes is described by immunohistochemistry and confocal laser scanning microscopy. The brain is circumpharyngeal, consisting of a central ring of neuropil and both anterior and posterior somata. From the brain emerges a ventral nerve cord, which shows ganglion‐like swellings in the neck and caudal region. The introvert includes longitudinal neurite bundles running below and between the rows of scalids, with a small cluster of sensory cells under each scalid. In the body wall of the neck and trunk region, longitudinal and circular neurite bundles are present in an orthogonal pattern. The tail is innervated from the caudal swelling of the ventral nerve cord; it also includes longitudinal and circular bundles in an orthogonal pattern. The pharynx has a reticulated system of neurite bundles running between the pharyngeal teeth and fimbrillae. Below each tooth and fimbrilus is a ganglion‐like cluster of somata. The intestine is surrounded by a nerve net. The data on the nervous system are compared within other priapulids and with other species of Scalidophora (Kinorhyncha and Loricifera).
Immunohistochemical analysis and 3D reconstruction of the cephalic nervous system in Chaetognatha: insights into the evolution of an early bilaterian brain?
Authors: Rieger Verena , Perez Yvan , Müller Carsten H. G. , Lipke Elisabeth , Sombke Andy , Hansson Bill S. , Harzsch Steffen
Published: March 2010

Abstract.We examined the brain architecture in different species of Chaetognatha using immunofluorescence methods with a set of nervous system markers and confocal laser‐scan microscopic analysis. These markers include antibodies against synaptic proteins, RFamide‐related peptides, and tyrosinated tubulin, as well as a marker of cell nuclei. Furthermore, we present a 3D reconstruction based on histological section series. Our results expand the previous knowledge on neuroanatomy in Chaetognatha. We suggest a structural and functional subdivision of the rather complex chaetognath brain into two domains, a posterior domain that may be primarily involved in the integration of sensory input, and an anterior domain that may be involved in the control of the mouthparts and the anterior part of the digestive system. Immunolocalization of a neuropeptide suggests the presence of an identifiable group of neurons associated with the brain of all species examined here. However, our data also reveal a certain degree of interspecific variation and divergence within the Chaetognatha concerning, for example, the pattern of nerves branching off the brain and the proportional sizes of the various neuropil compartments. We compare our data to brain architecture in various other representatives of Protostomia and Deuterostomia. The chaetognath brain fits within the range of structural variation encountered in protostomian brains, and we cannot find any brain characteristics that would argue in favor of placing chaetognaths outside of the Protostomia. Rather, we see the circumoral arrangement of their cephalic nervous system as an argument that suggests protostome affinities.
Musculature in polychaetes: comparison of Myrianida prolifera (Syllidae) and Sphaerodoropsis sp. (Sphaerodoridae)
Authors: Filippova Anna , Purschke Günter , Tzetlin Alexander B. , Müller Monika C. M.
Published: March 2010

Abstract. The relationship of the polychaete taxa Syllidae and Sphaerodoridae within Phyllodocida is still unresolved: phylogenetic analyses either show them as sister groups or more widely separated. The present article aims to provide information about the structure of the muscular system that could be essential for understanding their relationship. A crucial point is whether the body wall contains circular muscles, which has recently been shown to be absent in more taxa than previously known. The F‐actin filaments in members of Myrianida prolifera (Syllidae) and Sphaerodoropsis sp. (Sphaerodoridae) were labeled with phalloidin and their three‐dimensional relationships reconstructed by means of confocal laser scanning microscopy. Among the noteworthy differences that emerged between the species are (1) members of M. prolifera possess four, those of Sphaerodoropsis sp. eight, longitudinal muscle strands; (2) the body wall in M. prolifera contains transverse fibers in a typical, supralongitudinal position, while in Sphaerodoropsis sp., corresponding fibers lie beneath the longitudinal strands; (3) pro‐ and peristomium in M. prolifera have no distinct F‐actin fibers, while five longitudinal pairs and three single transverse muscular fibers shape the anterior end in Sphaerodoropsis sp.; (4) the proventricle of M. prolifera comprises primarily radial muscle fibers arranged in distinct rows, while in Sphaerodoropsis sp. the axial proboscis consists of longitudinal and circular fibers and radial fibers are lacking; (5) in M. prolifera, the proximal and distal sections of the two anteriormost pairs of dorsal cirri possess longitudinal myofilaments, which are separate from the body wall musculature; by contrast, all appendages in Sphaerodoropsis sp. do not; (6) both species have bracing muscles: in M. prolifera they are positioned above the longitudinal fibers, whereas in Sphaerodoropsis sp. they are uniquely positioned between longitudinal and sublongitudinal transverse fibers. These results do not support a sister‐group relationship of Syllidae and Sphaerodoridae. In addition, Sphaerodoropsis sp. is yet another example in the list of polychaetes lacking typical circular muscles in the body wall.
Virus Removal and Eradication by Modified Double Filtration Plasmapheresis Decreases Factor XIII Levels
Authors: Hanafusa Norio , Satonaka Hiroshi , Doi Kent , Noiri Eisei , Fujita Toshiro
Published: March 2010

Factor XIII (FXIII) deficiency increases the chance for pathological bleeding, but this disorder cannot be detected by routine laboratory tests. Virus removal and eradication (VRAD, the trademark of Asahikasei Kuraray Medical) by double filtration plasmapheresis (DFPP) is an effective technique used to eradicate the hepatitis C virus in people afflicted with the disease. We have previously reported that DFPP significantly reduced FXIII in those undergoing this treatment. VRAD is a modified type of DFPP with a larger pore size of the second filter compared to conventional DFPP. Because VRAD may have similar effects on FXIII levels, we investigated the kinetics of FXIII during the course of VRAD therapy. A retrospective, observational study of the patients who underwent VRAD between July 2008 and May 2009 was performed. Reduction ratios and sieving coefficients of FXIII and other marker proteins were examined. FXIII levels were decreased to 20% after each therapy. The reduction ratio and sieving coefficients of FXIII were between those of IgG (0.4–0.5) and LDL cholesterol (0.35). Similar to other blood purification therapies, therapeutic intensity, molecular weight, and half life are crucial factors for solute removal. Although the coexistence of liver disease might modify the course of FXIII during VRAD, the therapy itself effectively reduced FXIII levels. FXIII levels should be closely monitored during VRAD in order to reduce the chance of negative clinical sequelae.
Impact of Serum Apolipoprotein A‐IV as a Marker of Cardiovascular Disease in Maintenance Hemodialysis Patients
Authors: Omori Maho , Watanabe Makoto , Matsumoto Kei , Honda Hirokazu , Hattori Hiroaki , Akizawa Tadao
Published: March 2010

The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between serum apolipoprotein (apo) A‐IV levels and markers for atherosclerosis, including carotid intima‐media thickness (CIMT) and the ankle–brachial index (ABI), in hemodialysis patients. We performed a cross‐sectional study involving 116 maintenance hemodialysis patients (70 males; median age, 64 years), measuring CIMT, ABI, the usual laboratory examinations, and serum apo A‐IV before the dialysis session. The apo A‐IV concentration was measured by a noncompetitive ELISA. Serum apo A‐IV concentrations were significantly lower in hemodialysis patients with cardiovascular disease and plaque in the carotid artery. The apo A‐IV level was positively associated with urea nitrogen and creatinine, and negatively associated with age, interleukin‐6, the neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio, and maximum CIMT. Moreover, serum apo A‐IV concentrations were significantly lower in the low ABI group. On logistic analysis, patients with high apo A‐IV levels had a lower odds ratio for atherosclerosis (maximum CIMT > 1.0) and cardiovascular disease compared to patients with low apo A‐IV levels. On stepwise multivariate regression analysis, the serum apo A‐IV level was independently associated with creatinine, the neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio, and the maximum CIMT. Serum apo A‐IV is associated with atherosclerotic lesions in hemodialysis patients. Apo A‐IV levels may be useful for estimating the risk of cardiovascular disease in dialysis patients.
Ultrasonographic Detection of Thyroid Nodules in Hemodialysis Patients in Japan
Authors: Sanai Toru , Okamura Ken , Inoue Teruo , Abe Tetsuya , Tsuruya Kazuhiko , Node Koichi
Published: March 2010

The study of thyroid nodules in hemodialyzed patients using ultrasonography has been described in a limited number of reports. The thyroid glands of 143 patients with end‐stage renal disease on hemodialysis were examined by ultrasonography using frequency probes. Although a goiter (thyroid volume > 20 mL) was observed in only 20 patients (14%), nodular lesions of the thyroid gland were more frequent and found in 85 patients (59.4%), especially in female patients (42 patients, 72.4%). The etiology of thyroid nodular lesions was as follows: cyst in 43 (30.0%), adenomatous goiter in 14 (9.8%), adenoma in 11 (7.7%), hypoechoic lesion in 17 (11.9%), and intrathyroid calcification in 8 (5.6%). Ultrasound‐guided fine‐needle aspiration cytology was performed in 5 patients, but no abnormal cells were found. Compared to patients without nodules, the age was higher in patients with cysts (54 ± 15 vs. 63 ± 13 years; P < 0.05) and hypoechoic lesions (70 ± 13 years; P < 0.05). The serum thyroglobulin level was higher in patients with adenomatous goiters (26 ± 28 vs. 148 ± 166 ng/mL; P < 0.05). The thyroid volume was greater in patients with adenomatous goiters (14.2 ± 5.7 vs. 19.0 ± 7.3 mL; P < 0.05) and adenomas (18.2 ± 6.7 mL; P < 0.05). In conclusion, patients undergoing hemodialysis frequently develop thyroid abnormalities and ultrasonography is a useful imaging modality to identify these lesions.
EFFECTS OF DEGREE OF CUTTING AND STORAGE ON ATMOSPHERE COMPOSITION, METABOLIC ACTIVITY AND QUALITY OF ROCKET LEAVES UNDER MODIFIED ATMOSPHERE PACKAGING
Authors: KOUKOUNARAS ATHANASIOS , SIOMOS ANASTASIOS S. , SFAKIOTAKIS EVANGELOS
Published: March 2010

This work investigates the effect of degree of cutting on atmosphere composition as well as on metabolic activity (CO2and ethylene production), color and some nutritional parameters of rocket leaves subjected to storage at 8C for 7 and 14 days under modified atmosphere packaging (MAP). Harvested leaves were trimmed at the point that lamina starts and then they were used without further processing (intact), or after cutting into two (half) or four (quarter) similar parts, vertically to the midrib. The results showed that degree of cutting did not affect the metabolic activity of rocket leaves (CO2and ethylene production), but storage duration did. This resulted in non‐significant differences in atmosphere composition (CO2and ethylene concentration) of the packages containing leaves of different degree of cutting as well as on color and some nutritional parameters of rocket leaves. These results suggest that storage duration is more critical than the degree of cutting and it should be considered for application to MAP design for the rocket leaves.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Rocket is usually marketed as fresh‐cut in modified atmosphere packages (MAPs) either alone or in a mixture with other leafy vegetables. Important response of tissues to wounding, induced during the preparation of fresh‐cut produce, is the increase of CO2and ethylene production, affecting its perishability. The intensity of the wounding response is proportional to the extent of wounding. However, the effect of degree of cutting of rocket leaves on the metabolic activity as well as on the quality is still unresolved. The increase of ethylene production as a wounding response, if any, could have a detrimental effect on the color of minimally processed rocket leaves stored under MAP. This work investigates the effect of degree of cutting and storage duration on atmosphere composition as well as on metabolic activity, color and some nutritional parameters of rocket leaves stored under MAP, which can be useful for application to MAP design for this product.
Are Consumers Disadvantaged or Vulnerable? An Examination of Consumer Complaints to the Better Business Bureau
Authors: GARRETT DENNIS E. , TOUMANOFF PETER G.
Published: March 2010

Questions have emerged recently about the appropriateness of defining disadvantaged consumers based on their membership in certain demographic categories, such as income, age, education, and race. This study assessed whether these traditional classifications are useful for understanding consumer complaining behavior with the Better Business Bureau. Results of analysis of more than 24,000 consumer complaints filed with a local BBB office during a 13‐year period do not provide consistent support for this disadvantaged consumer perspective. Instead, the emerging vulnerable consumer perspective may provide a more promising basis for future research.
Concern with Immediate Consequences Magnifies the Impact of Compulsive Buying Tendencies on College Students' Credit Card Debt
Authors: JOIREMAN JEFF , KEES JEREMY , SPROTT DAVID
Published: March 2010

This research examines whether temporal orientation moderates the impact of compulsive buying tendencies (CBT) on credit card debt. Participants completed the consideration of future consequences scale, a compulsive buying scale, and reported their credit card debt. Results revealed that CBT mediated the relationship between concern with immediate consequences and credit card debt, and high concern with immediate consequences magnified the impact of CBT on credit card debt. This suggests that compulsive buyers who focus on maximizing immediate consequences are at a much higher risk of building up significant amounts of credit card debt.
Cohort Effects of Household Expenditures on Food Away from Home
Authors: ZAN HUA , FAN JESSIE X.
Published: March 2010

Data from 23 years of the U.S. Consumer Expenditure Survey (1982–2004) are analyzed to investigate cohort effects on food away‐from‐home (FAFH) expenditures using the age, period, and cohort (APC) model. Nine 10‐year interval cohorts are included, from the Interbellum Generation born between 1896 and 1905 to the MTV Generation born between 1976 and 1985. Analyses reveal that later‐born cohorts spend more on FAFH, both in dollar amount and in food budget share, compared with earlier‐born cohorts. Significant cohort differences in FAFH remain after additional sociodemographic and economic variables are controlled.
ACCI Memorial Paper: The Scholarly Legacy of E. Scott Maynes
Authors: GEISTFELD LOREN V.
Published: March 2010

This paper honors E. Scott Maynes, who died on June 24, 2007 and had been a professor emeritus in the Department of Policy Analysis and Management at Cornell University. The paper describes Scott's scholarly legacy in research, highlighting four areas: survey research methods, research using data from Surveys of Consumer Finances, Scott's studies of local consumer markets, and two significant books Scott Maynes authored. The author of this memorial paper concludes that Scott's scholarly legacy is neither a new theory nor a new statistical technique but the importance of vision, passion, perseverance, commitment, and creativity for the applied social science researcher.