bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Kisspeptin-Like Immunoreactive Neuron Distribution in the Green Anole (Anolis carolinensis)
Authors: Dunham Leslie A. , Lutterschmidt Deborah I. , Wilczynski Walter
Published: May 2009

Kisspeptins are a recently identified class of neuropeptides belonging to the RFamide peptide family. Despite growing evidence supporting kisspeptin as a key regulator of reproduction, data addressing whether kisspeptin is a conserved reproductive signal are lacking. We investigated the distribution of kisspeptin in adult green anole lizards (Anolis carolinensis) via immunohistochemistry. Additionally, we examined the possibility of a sexual dimorphism in kisspeptin expression. Kisspeptin immunoreactivity was observed rostrally in the preoptic area and caudally in an area lateral to the dorsal hypothalamic nucleus in both male and female anoles. These kisspeptin immunoreactive cells are associated with vesiculated fibers traveling through the paraventricular zone of the hypothalamus and preoptic area and extending into the rostral telencephalon. Preabsorption of the antiserum with gonadotropin inhibitory hormone (GnIH), a second RFamide peptide known to cross-react with the kisspeptin antiserum, eliminated staining of the caudal population of cells but retained staining in the rostral population, suggesting that kisspeptin is present in this area. Preabsorption with kisspeptin eliminated all immunoreactivity. These preabsorption results suggest that kisspeptin is restricted to a single population in the preoptic area in anoles. No sex differences were found in kisspeptin immunoreactive cell number. The presence of kisspeptin RFamide peptide in the green anole suggests that this reproductive regulatory signal is indeed evolutionarily conserved. Whether this reproductive signal functions similarly in regulating the reproductive axis of ectotherms requires further study.
Statins for Asymptomatic Middle Cerebral Artery Stenosis: The Regression of Cerebral Artery Stenosis Study
Authors: Mok Vincent C.T. , Lam Wynnie W.M. , Chen X.Y. , Wong Adrian , Ng Ping Wing , Tsoi Tak Hon , Yeung Vincent , Liu Roxanna , Soo Yannie , Leung T.W. , Wong Ka Sing
Published: May 2009

Background: The progression of cerebral atherosclerosis increases the risk of stroke and vascular events. Given the known benefits of statins in retarding coronary and carotid atherosclerosis progression, we studied the effects of statins on asymptomatic middle cerebral artery (MCA) stenosis progression. Methods: We conducted a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study to evaluate the effects of simvastatin on the progression of MCA stenosis among stroke-free individuals who had mild to moderately elevated LDL cholesterol (3.0–5.0 mmol/l). Two hundred and twenty-seven subjects were randomized to either placebo (n = 114) or simvastatin 20 mg daily (n = 113). The severity of MCA stenosis at baseline and at the end of the study was graded by MRA into normal, minimal (<10%), mild (10–49%), moderate (50–90%) and severe (>90%). The primary outcome was the change in grading of MCA stenosis over 2 years. Results: At the end of the study, the LDL cholesterol level decreased by 1.43 and 0.12 mmol/l for the active and placebo groups, respectively (p < 0.001). There was no significant difference in the proportion of patients having stable, progressive and regressive MCA stenosis between the placebo (72, 22 and 6%) and active groups (78.6, 15.5 and 5.8%). The all-cause mortality was significantly lower in the active group (n = 0) relative to the placebo group (n = 7, p = 0.014). Any clinical events were also lower in the active group (n = 5) than in the placebo group (n = 13, p = 0.052). Conclusions: Simvastatin 20 mg daily had no apparent effect upon the evolution of asymptomatic MCA stenosis over 2 years.
Risk Score to Predict the Outcome of Patients with Cerebral Vein and Dural Sinus Thrombosis
Authors: Ferro José M. , Bacelar-Nicolau Helena , Rodrigues Teresa , Bacelar-Nicolau Leonor , Canhão Patrícia , Crassard Isabelle , Bousser Marie-Germaine , Dutra Aurélio Pimenta , Massaro Ayrton , Mackowiack-Cordiolani Marie-Anne , Leys Didier , Fontes João , Stam Jan , Barinagarrementeria Fernando
Published: May 2009

Background: Around 15% of patients die or become dependent after cerebral vein and dural sinus thrombosis (CVT). Method: We used the International Study on Cerebral Vein and Dural Sinus Thrombosis (ISCVT) sample (624 patients, with a median follow-up time of 478 days) to develop a Cox proportional hazards regression model to predict outcome, dichotomised by a modified Rankin Scale score >2. From the model hazard ratios, a risk score was derived and a cut-off point selected. The model and the score were tested in 2 validation samples: (1) the prospective Cerebral Venous Thrombosis Portuguese Collaborative Study Group (VENOPORT) sample with 91 patients; (2) a sample of 169 consecutive CVT patients admitted to 5 ISCVT centres after the end of the ISCVT recruitment period. Sensitivity, specificity, c statistics and overall efficiency to predict outcome at 6 months were calculated. Results: The model (hazard ratios: malignancy 4.53; coma 4.19; thrombosis of the deep venous system 3.03; mental status disturbance 2.18; male gender 1.60; intracranial haemorrhage 1.42) had overall efficiencies of 85.1, 84.4 and 90.0%, in the derivation sample and validation samples 1 and 2, respectively. Using the risk score (range from 0 to 9) with a cut-off of ≥3 points, overall efficiency was 85.4, 84.4 and 90.1% in the derivation sample and validation samples 1 and 2, respectively. Sensitivity and specificity in the combined samples were 96.1 and 13.6%, respectively. Conclusions: The CVT risk score has a good estimated overall rate of correct classifications in both validation samples, but its specificity is low. It can be used to avoid unnecessary or dangerous interventions in low-risk patients, and may help to identify high-risk CVT patients.
Association between Prenatal Tobacco Exposure and Outcome of Neonates Born to Opioid-Maintained Mothers
Authors: Winklbaur Bernadette , Baewert Andjela , Jagsch Reinhold , Rohrmeister Klaudia , Metz Verena , Aeschbach Jachmann Crispa , Thau Kenneth , Fischer Gabriele
Published: May 2009

Background: Prenatal nicotine exposure is associated with increased neonatal mortality, low birth weight, and smaller head circumference. Opioid-dependent pregnant women show a particularly high prevalence of tobacco smoking and are at greater risk for additional adverse events. However, little is known about the impact of tobacco smoking on opioid-maintained pregnant women and neonatal outcomes. Patients and Methods: This study examined the effect of cigarette smoking on 139 opioid-maintained pregnant women and their neonates. Forty-five percent of the participants were maintained on slow-release oral morphine (SROM), 39% received methadone maintenance, and 16% received buprenorphine. Participants were divided into two groups: (1) women who reported a low cigarette consumption of ≤10 cigarettes/day (56.8%) and (2) those reporting heavy consumption of ≥20 cigarettes/day (43.2%). Neonatal outcome measures were assessed, and a standardized Finnegan score was applied to determine the neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS). Results: Fifty-two percent of the newborns did not require treatment for NAS (54% of neonates born to methadone-maintained mothers, 30% born to SROM-maintained mothers, and 95% born to buprenorphine-maintained mothers; p < 0.001). Heavy cigarette consumption was associated with significantly lower neonatal birth weight (p < 0.001), smaller birth length (p = 0.017) as well as with the severity of NAS (p = 0.03). With regard to concomitant consumption of opioids (p = 0.54), cocaine (p = 0.25), amphetamines (p = 0.90) or benzodiazepines (p = 0.09), no significant differences between heavy or low nicotine consumption were noted. Conclusion: Heavy tobacco smoking in opioid-maintained pregnant women is associated with adverse medical and developmental consequences for the newborn. Future treatment programs for this target group should focus on an individualized approach to opioid maintenance therapy in addition to offering specially tailored counseling for smoking cessation.
Rapid Progression from Mild Cognitive Impairment to Alzheimer’s Disease in Subjects with Elevated Levels of Tau in Cerebrospinal Fluid and the APOE ε4/ε4 Genotype
Authors: Blom Elin S. , Giedraitis Vilmantas , Zetterberg Henrik , Fukumoto Hiroaki , Blennow Kaj , Hyman Bradley T. , Irizarry Michael C. , Wahlund Lars-Olof , Lannfelt Lars , Ingelsson Martin
Published: May 2009

Background/Aims: Increased cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) tau, decreased CSF amyloid-β42 (Aβ42) and the apolipoprotein E gene (APOE) ε4 allele predict progression from mild cognitive impairment (MCI) to Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Here, we investigated these markers to assess their predictive value and influence on the rate of disease progression. Methods: Using ELISA, we measured the CSF biomarkers in 47 AD patients, 58 patients with MCI and 35 healthy control subjects. Twenty-eight MCI patients revisited the clinic and half of them progressed to AD during a period of 3–12 years. Results: The expected changes in CSF total (T)-tau, phosphorylated (P)-tau and Aβ42 levels were found in AD, confirming the diagnostic value of these biomarkers. We were also able to corroborate an increased risk for progression from MCI to AD with elevated CSF T-tau and P-tau and with the presence of the APOE ε4/ε4 genotype, but not with decreased Aβ42. Finally, for the first time we demonstrated that MCI subjects with high CSF T-tau or P-tau and APOE ε4 homozygosity progressed faster from MCI to AD. Conclusions: CSF T-tau and P-tau as well as the APOE ε4/ε4 genotype are robust predictors of AD and are also associated with a more rapid progression from MCI to AD.
Lysophosphatidic Acid Stimulates Cell Growth by Different Mechanisms in SKOV-3 and Caov-3 Ovarian Cancer Cells: Distinct Roles for Gi- and Rho-Dependent Pathways
Authors: Hurst Jillian H. , Hooks Shelley B.
Published: May 2009

Background/Aims: Lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) is an autocrine growth signal critical to the initiation and progression of ovarian cancer. In the current study, we investigated the receptors and signaling cascades responsible for mediating LPA-stimulated cell growth in SKOV-3 and Caov-3 ovarian cancer cell lines. Methods: Pharmacological inhibitors of distinct LPA and epidermal growth factor receptors, G proteins and kinases were tested for their effect on LPA-stimulated cell growth, MAP kinase activation and Akt activation in SKOV-3 and Caov-3 cells. Results: Distinct agonist pharmacological profiles were observed. Saturated and unsaturated LPA species were equally potent in Caov-3 cells, while saturated LPA was less potent than unsaturated LPA in SKOV-3 cells. Further, the LPA1/LPA3 receptor antagonist Ki16425 was more potent in SKOV-3 cells. The effect of LPA on cell growth in both cell lines was dependent on phosphatidylinositol-3 kinases and MAP kinases. However, LPA-stimulated SKOV-3 cell growth required Gi G proteins, while Caov-3 cell growth was dependent on the Rho effector p160 Rho kinase. Finally, we demonstrated that regulator of G protein signaling proteins significantly regulated Gi-dependent LPA-stimulated cell growth in SKOV-3 cells. Conclusions: LPA-stimulated cell growth is mediated by distinct but overlapping receptors and signaling pathways in these two model ovarian cancer cell lines.
Population Variation in Glial Fibrillary Acidic Protein Levels in Brain Ageing: Relationship to Alzheimer-Type Pathology and Dementia
Authors: Wharton S.B. , O’Callaghan J.P. , Savva G.M. , Nicoll J.A.R. , Matthews F. , Simpson J.E. , Forster G. , Shaw P.J. , Brayne C. , Ince P.G.
Published: May 2009

Background: The cellular pathology of astrocytes in brain ageing and their role in modulating the brain’s response to neurodegenerative pathology remain incompletely understood. Methods: Using quantitative ELISA, we have investigated glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) expression in the population-based neuropathology cohort of the Medical Research Council Cognitive Function and Ageing Study to determine: (1) the population variation in the astroglial hypertrophic response, (2) its relationship to the presence of Alzheimer-type pathology, and (3) its association with cognition. Results: Increasing GFAP was found with increasing Braak stage, levels increasing even at early stages. Within Braak stages, GFAP did not differ between demented and non-demented individuals, but there was greater variance in GFAP in the demented. Possession of ApoE ε4 was associated with slightly increased GFAP levels (not significant) for given amyloid β protein loads. Conclusion: In a population-based sample, increasing gliosis precedes development of Alzheimer lesions. Population variation in GFAP with varying Alzheimer lesion burdens suggests that they are not the only driver for astrogliosis. GFAP was not independently predictive of dementia, but the variation in astrocytic responses may be a factor modulating brain responses to neurodegenerative pathology.
Isoflavone Reduces Body Weight by Decreasing Food Intake in Ovariectomized Rats
Authors: Zhang Yunbo , Na Xiaolin , Zhang Yang , Li Lina , Zhao Xinyu , Cui Hongbin
Published: May 2009

Background/Aims: The primary objective of this study was to further determine the mechanisms by which isoflavone prevents obesity induced by ovariectomy. Methods: Female 8-week-old Wistar rats were randomly assigned to 6 groups: a sham-operated group; an ovariectomized (OVX) control group; 3 OVX groups orally administered 400 ppm (L-SI), 1,200 ppm (M-SI) and 3,600 ppm (H-SI) of an isoflavone preparation, respectively, and an OVX group receiving 0.45 ppm of diethylstilbestrol. All animals were allowed free access to a high-fat diet and water for 4 weeks. Some neuropeptides, including ghrelin, neuropeptide Y (NPY), α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH), cholecystokinin (CCK), peptide YY (PYY), insulin and estradiol (E2), were measured by radioimmunoassay. Results: Compared with the OVX control group, body weight, total abdominal fat, food intake and food availability of the M-SI and H-SI groups were significantly reduced. The results also showed that isoflavone and diethylstilbestrol could decrease ghrelin and NPY levels and increase CCK, PYY and E2 levels. The level of α-MSH was not changed. Conclusions: These findings showed that isoflavone could reduce obesity by decreasing food intake, possibly by (1) reducing ghrelin and NPY levels, thereby decreasing food intake, and (2) increasing CCK and PYY levels, which can induce satiety by irritating the vagal center.
Secular Trends in Energy Intake and Diet Quality in a Mediterranean Population
Authors: Valdés Javiera , Grau Maria , Subirana Isaac , Marrugat Jaume , Covas Maria-Isabel , Schröder Helmut
Published: May 2009

Background/Aims: Assessing secular trends of diet quality at the population scale is an important tool for health policymakers. The aim of this study was to describe secular trends in energy intake and diet quality in a representative Mediterranean population, accounting for energy underreporting. Methods: We analyzed the dietary data from 4,061 men and 4,409 women who were included in 2 population-based cross-sectional studies conducted in northeast Spain in 2000 and 2005. The surveys included randomly selected free-living men and women between 35 to 74 years of age. Results: No significant differences in reported energy intake between 2000 and 2005 were observed. Protein (p = 0.014) and carbohydrate (p = 0.02) consumption (expressed as percent of total energy intake) decreased in men and women, respectively. Energy density and intake of total, saturated and monounsaturated fat were significantly higher (p < 0.001) in 2005 than in 2000 in both genders. In contrast, lower consumption of fibre, fruit and meat (p < 0.001) was observed for both genders in 2005 compared to 2000. A significantly lower proportion of men and women met the recommended intake for carbohydrates, total fat, saturated fat, cholesterol and fruits in 2005 when compared to 2000. When energy underreporters were excluded from the analysis, a decline in energy intake (p < 0.001) and an increase in fish consumption (p < 0.001) between 2000 and 2005 was observed in men; no other significant differences were found in diet quality and food consumption trends among non-underreporters. Conclusions: Whereas energy intake remained stable from 2000 to 2005, overall diet quality showed an unfavourable trend during this timeframe. Secular dietary trends did not change their magnitude or direction, with the exception of energy and fish consumption in men, after excluding energy underreporters from the analysis.
Familial Aggregation of the Metabolic Syndrome: Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study
Authors: Azizi Fereidoun , Farahani Zeinab Kishani , Ghanbarian Arash , Sheikholeslami Farhad , Mirmiran Parvin , Momenan Amir Abbas , Asl Saleh Zahedi , Hadaegh Farzad , Eskandari Fateme
Published: May 2009

Aims: Familial aggregation of the metabolic syndrome has been reported in some nations. The aim of this study was to evaluate familial aggregation of the metabolic syndrome in Tehranian families. Methods: In a cross-sectional study, anthropometry, blood pressure and biochemical data were collected for 4,558 individuals in the Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study. Variables of the metabolic syndrome in offspring were correlated with those of their parents. Results: There were 1,274 fathers, 1,576 mothers, 802 sons and 906 daughters. Prevalence of metabolic syndrome was 24.4% for fathers, 39.7% for mothers, 9.0% for sons and 7.6% for daughters. Triglycerides and HDL-C of children whose fathers had metabolic syndrome, and BMI, triglycerides and HDL-C of those whose mothers had it were significantly different from those adolescents whose parents were free of metabolic syndrome. Compared with children whose parents did not have metabolic syndrome, the odds ratio (confidence interval) for children with both parents having metabolic syndrome was 4.53 (2.42–8.8) for metabolic syndrome, 2.22 (1.17–4.19) for abdominal obesity, 1.90 (1.15–3.13) for high blood pressure, 2.66 (1.77–4.00) for low HDL-C and 3.16 (2.10–4.75) for high triglyceride levels. Conclusion: This survey provides evidence suggesting that there is a familial aggregation of the metabolic syndrome among Iranian families.
Mechanism of Fluoride Dentifrice Effect on Enamel Demineralization
Authors: Tenuta L.M.A. , Zamataro C.B. , Del Bel Cury A.A. , Tabchoury C.P.M. , Cury J.A.
Published: May 2009

Although the anticaries effect of fluoride (F) dentifrices is clearly established, the relative importance of F taken up by dental plaque not removed by brushing and of F products (CaF2-like) formed on totally cleaned enamel for the subsequent inhibition of demineralization is not known. Both effects were evaluated using conventional (1,100 μg F/g) and low-F concentration (500 μg F/g) dentifrices in a randomized, crossover, double-blind in situ study. Enamel blocks not treated or pretreated with the dentifrices to form CaF2-like deposits were mounted in palatal appliances in contact with a Streptococcus mutans test plaque. Volunteers brushed with non-F (negative control), low-F or conventional dentifrices and inserted the appliance in the mouth. F concentration in the fluid and solid phases of the test plaque was determined after 30 min, and a rinse with 20% sucrose solution was performed. After additional 45 min, plaque was collected and the loss of surface hardness at different test-plaque depths was measured. CaF2-like deposition on enamel and F taken up by plaque due to the use of F dentifrices were able to significantly increase F concentration in the fluid phase of the test plaque, but only the latter significantly reduced the loss of hardness because of the 20–30 times higher F concentration. Also, significant differences between the low-F and conventional dentifrices were observed for F on enamel, in plaque and on the subsequent loss of hardness. The results suggest that uptake of F by dental plaque not removed by brushing may be the main cause of the anticaries effect of F dentifrices.
Income, Income Inequality, Dental Caries and Dental Care Levels: An Ecological Study in Rich Countries
Authors: Bernabé E. , Sheiham A. , Sabbah W.
Published: May 2009

Research has shown that beyond a certain level of absolute income, there is a weak relationship between income and population health. On the other hand, relative income or income inequality is more strongly related to health than absolute income in rich countries. The objective of this study was to assess the relationships of income and income inequality with dental caries and dental care levels in 35- to 44-year-old adults among rich countries. Income was assessed by gross domestic product and gross national income, income inequality by Gini coefficient and the ratio between the income of the richest and poorest 20% of the population, dental caries by DMFT and dental care levels by the care, restorative and treatment indices. Pearson and partial correlation were used to examine the relationships between income, income inequality, caries experience and dental care. Income measures were not related to either dental caries or dental care levels. However, income inequality measures were inversely and significantly related to number of filled teeth, DMFT, care index and restorative index, but not to number of decayed or missing teeth. It is concluded that DMFT scores were higher in more equal countries and may be explained by greater levels of restorative care in those countries.
Intraperitoneal Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor C Level Is Related to Peritoneal Dialysis Ultrafiltration
Authors: Yang Wei-Shun , Tsai Tun-Jun , Shih Chung-Liang , Huang Jenq-Wen , Chuang Hsueh-Fang , Chen Meng-Han , Fang Cheng-Chung
Published: May 2009

Background: Local inflammation and neovascularization have a negative influence on peritoneal dialysis (PD). Patients with higher peritoneal transport have higher interleukin-6 (IL-6) and vascular endothelial growth factor-A (VEGF-A) levels in their dialysate. However, the relationship of other members of the VEGF family, such as VEGF-C, to peritoneal transport or ultrafiltration (UF) is yet to be studied. Methods: Peritoneal cytokine and growth factor levels were determined during the peritoneal equilibration test (PET). Ultrafiltration, peritoneal clearance and residual renal function were also considered. Results: Forty-two PD patients were enrolled. They had been on PD for at least 1 month and free of peritonitis for at least 1 month prior to the study. Patients with high or high average PET had higher dialysate IL-6 and VEGF-C. Dialysate IL-6 and VEGF-C correlated negatively with PET and UF. Conclusions: Dialysate VEGF-C is related to higher transport rate and poorer UF. The role of VEGF-C in PD deserves further study.
Clinical and Analytical Findings in Gitelman’s Syndrome Associated with Homozygosity for the c.1925 G>A SLC12A3 Mutation
Authors: Coto Eliecer , Arriba Gabriel , García-Castro Mónica , Santos Fernando , Corao Ana I. , Díaz Marta , Sánchez Heras Marta , Basterrechea María A. , Tallón Serafín , Alvarez Victoria
Published: May 2009

Background: Gitelman’s syndrome (GS) is caused by mutations in the SLC12A3. Most of the mutations are rare, making it difficult to establish a genotype-phenotype correlation. Although GS is a recessive disorder, some patients also have an affected parent, suggesting a dominant inheritance. Methods: We sequenced the 26 coding exons of SLC12A3 in a family in which the proband and her father had a late onset GS. We obtained cDNA of the 2 patients and analyzed the effect of a mutation on pre-mRNA splicing. Results: The 2 patients were homozygous for a nucleotide change in the last nucleotide of exon 15: c.1925 G>A. The mother was a heterozygous carrier for this putative mutation. Amplification of cDNA with primers for exons 14–17 was negative, suggesting that this mutation affected the splicing and promoted mRNA degradation through nonsense-mediated decay. Conclusions: We report a family with 2 patients with late onset GS and homozygous for a mutation in the last nucleotide of exon 15. Our study shows that homozygosity for this mutation resulted in a significant loss of normal SLC12A3 transcript.
Long-term Results of Isolated Anterolateral Bundle Reconstructions of the Posterior Cruciate Ligament
Authors: Hermans Stijn , Corten Kristoff , Bellemans Johan
Published: May 2009

Background

Little is known about the parameters that influence the long-term results of isolated arthroscopically assisted reconstructions of the anterolateral bundle of the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL).

Hypothesis

Chondrosis, time interval from injury to surgery, and graft choice significantly influence the long-term results of single-bundle PCL reconstructions.

Study Design

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods

Between 1995 and 2001, 22 male and 3 female patients with a mean age of 30.8 years (range, 17-52) underwent an anterolateral bundle reconstruction of the PCL for functional instability and pain. Nine were treated with a bone–patellar tendon– bone autograft (BPTB), 15 with a semitendinosus gracilis (STG) autograft, and 1 with an Achilles tendon allograft. Twenty-two patients were clinically and radiographically reviewed at a mean follow-up of 9.1 years (range, 6.5-12.6). Three patients were interviewed by telephone. Thirteen patients had chondrosis at time of surgery. The mean time from injury to surgery was 1.5 years.

Results

The mean final International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC), Lysholm, and functional visual analog scale (VAS) scores (65, 75, and 8, respectively) were fair to good and were significantly better than preoperatively (38, 50, and 4, respectively) (P <. 001). The final Tegner (5.7) score was significantly lower than the preinjury score (7.2) (P <. 001). The mean anteroposterior laxity measured by KT-1000 arthrometer and Telos stress radiographs was significantly increased on the operated side (mean side-to-side difference of 2.1 mm and 4.7 mm, respectively). The functional scores were not significantly different between the BPTB and STG reconstructions. Patients without chondrosis at time of surgery and patients operated within the first year from injury had significantly better functional results at final follow-up (P <. 05).

Conclusion

Arthroscopically assisted reconstructions of the anterolateral bundle of the PCL in patients with symptomatic isolated grade II to IV PCL-deficient knees lead to significantly improved functional results at long term if there is no cartilage damage at time of surgery. Nonoperative treatment should not be extended more than 1 year from injury. Graft choice did not significantly influence the functional outcome at long term.
An Evaluation of Videoconferencing as a Supportive Technology for Practicum Supervision
Authors: Dymond Stacy K. , Renzaglia Adelle , Halle James W. , Chadsey Janis , Bentz Johnell L.
Published: May 2009

In this study, the authors determine the efficacy of videoconferencing to supervise pre-service special education teachers. Efficacy is determined by (a) assessing interobserver reliability between on-site and off-site observers and (b) evaluating the feasibility and practicality of the videoconferencing technology. Data are collected in two elementary schools using the Skill Monitoring Checklist. Participants include pre-service teachers and university supervisors. Using point-by-point agreement scores, interobserver reliability is found to be 86% between on-site supervisors who observed face-to-face and off-site supervisors who observed via videoconferencing. Challenges related to feasibility are identified in the areas of equipment setup, Internet connection, visual field, and sound quality. Findings from this study suggest that videoconferencing is a promising practice for pre-service teacher practicum supervision.
Assistive Technology Training at the Pre-Service Level
Authors: Judge Sharon , Simms Kathryn A.
Published: May 2009

The Individuals with Disabilities Improvement Act mandates that every student with an Individualized Education Program be considered for assistive technology (AT). As a result, future special educators need to have the knowledge and skills regarding AT. In this article, the authors report findings from a national study of special education teacher preparation programs using archival document analysis on the current practice of AT course delivery for the preparation of special educators. Findings indicate that AT training at the pre-service level may not be adequately addressed. Approximately one third of undergraduate special teacher licensure programs, 28% of initial postbaccalaureate licensure programs, and less than 25% of master'sdegree programs require AT coursework. In addition, licensure in severe and moderate disabilities requires an AT course more frequently than other types of certification programs. The findings have important implications for future practices in special education teacher preparation.
Perspectives on Induction of Beginning Special Educators
Authors: Bay Mary , Parker-Katz Michelle
Published: May 2009

The call to provide beginning special educators with induction support is widespread, due in part to teacher turnover and the need to develop a highly qualified teaching force. The scholarly foundation for induction and the current state of induction support is unclear. In this article, the authors summarize the empirical studies pertaining to induction for special educators, describe key features of effective programs, summarize state-level policy initiatives, and offer recommendations. Findings include the importance of learning more about mentoring, connecting induction to developing good practices that support student learning, and strengthening the research agenda by further developing the list of research questions and using additional methods for data collection and analysis.
The 2003 War in Iraq
Authors: Blankemeyer Maureen , Walker Kathleen , Svitak Erika
Published: May 2009

This research incorporated an ecological approach to examine American and Northern Irish children's understanding of the 2003 war in Iraq and the sources of information from which they acquired that understanding. Responses to interviews indicated that the children from the two countries had some common conceptions of and sources of information about the war. However, American and Northern Irish children also differed on several items, suggesting that the macrosystem (e.g. sociopolitical context) plays an important role in children's conceptions of the war. Additionally, the exosystem (media) also played an integral role, as did the microsystem (parents), although to a lesser extent.
Welsh Children's Views On Government and Participation
Authors: Drakeford Mark , Scourfield Jonathan , Holland Sally , Davies Andrew
Published: May 2009

Qualitative research from Wales sought to explore aspects of children's views on government and participation. The research project was conducted in 2001 with 105 children aged 8—11 from a diverse sample of schools across Wales. The article first reports the children's perspectives on different levels (and places) of government: the UK parliament and the Welsh Assembly. Second, there is discussion of how the children see government as affecting their lives. The third section of the article presents the children's views on the extent to which they should have a say in local and national political decisions, the examples being the building of a new road in their community and going to war. The children, while declaring a lack of interest in politics in general, in fact engaged enthusiastically in discussion of specific issues that they saw affecting their lives. There was a general expectation that they should be consulted on issues that affect them directly and they saw the potential for their views to be fed into decision-making via intermediaries. Very few, however, expected their own views to be decisive, but rather most believed that their views ought to be considered alongside others.
Interface microstructure analysis of SiO2 glass ceramic and Ti–6Al–4V alloy joint brazed with Ti–Zr–Ni–Cu alloy
Authors: Liu H. B. , Zhang L. X. , Liu D. , He P. , Feng J. C.
Published: May 2009

In the present paper, SiO2 glass ceramic was joined to Ti–6Al–4V alloy with 35Ti–35Zr–10Ni–15Cu (wt-%) filler foil. The whole brazing process was performed under vacuum circumstances at different temperatures (850–1000°C) for several holding times (1–30 min). According to results of scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive spectrometry, electron probe X-ray microanalysis and X-ray diffraction analysis, the reaction products of the interface are Ti2O, Zr3Si2, Ti5Si3, Ti based solid solution and Ti2(Cu,Ni). There is residual TiZrNiCu braze alloy on the SiO2 glass ceramic/Ti–6Al–4V alloy interface after brazing. Besides, the interface evolution model of the joint was described by four stages: diffusion and solution among atoms, formation of reaction products, precipitation and growth of reaction layers respectively.
Atrocity in Mid Eighteenth-Century War Literature
Authors: Richardson John
Published: May 2009

The martial literature of the eighteenth century shows an increasing preoccupation with atrocity. By the middle decades of the century, writers imagining war routinely include narratives in which cruel enemy soldiers brutally mistreat and kill innocent civilians. The development reflects an affective ethical attitude towards war, according to which individual actors are responsible for its effects as well as leaders. It combines sympathy and moral outrage with a strong desire for retribution.
Facile Preparation of Red Luminescent Silicon Nanocrystals via Controlled Chemical Etching
Authors: Sato Keisuke , Tsuji Hiroaki , Fukata Naoki , Hirakuri Kenji , Yamauchi Yusuke
Published: May 2009

Silicon nanocrystals with excellent red luminescence properties are prepared by applying controlled chemical etching, which is promising as a high-volume manufacturing technique in the future.
Alkylated 2,6-Bis(dicyanomethylene)-2,6-dihydrobenzo[1,2-b:4,5-b′]dithiophenes: New Soluble n-Channel Organic Semiconductors for Air-stable OFETs
Authors: Kashiki Tomoya , Miyazaki Eigo , Takimiya Kazuo
Published: May 2009

New solution-prosessable n-channel organic semiconductors were developed based on a 2,6-bis(dicyanomethylene)-2,6-dihydrobenzo[1,2-b:4,5-b′]dithiophene core. The OFETs showed n-channel transistor characteristics under ambient conditions with electron field-effect mobility up to 6.3×10−3 cm2 V−1 s−1.
Ruthenium Nanoparticles Supported on Carbon Nanotubes for Selective Hydrogenolysis of Glycerol to Glycols
Authors: Wang Juan , Shen Sihe , Li Bodong , Lin Haiqiang , Yuan Youzhu
Published: May 2009

Ru nanoparticles supported on carbon nanotubes showed efficient reactivity for hydrogenolysis of aqueous glycerol solution to produce glycols of 1,2-propanediol and ethylene glycol. The glycerol conversion along with the product selectivity depended essentially on the mean size of Ru nanoparticles. The Ru mean size around 5 nm showed the highest yield of glycols. The results indicated that the hydrogenolysis of glycerol catalyzed by the supported Ru nanoparticles might be structure-sensitive.
Tin–Chromium-modified Nickel/Activated Carbon Catalyst for Vapor-phase Carbonylation of Methyl Acetate to Acetic Anhydride
Authors: Jia Qinglong , Tan Yisheng , Han Yizhuo
Published: May 2009

In the present work, a series of Ni/AC, Ni–Sn/AC, and Ni–Sn–Cr/AC catalysts were prepared by incipient wetness impregnation. Activity tests were performed in a continuous flow fixed-bed reactor. The conversion of methyl acetate and selectivity of acetic anhydride reached 81.1 and 38.8% respectively over the screened Ni–Sn–Cr/AC catalyst under optimal reaction conditions. Catalysts were characterized by means of BET and XRD.
Droplet Size Dependence of Line Tension for an Ionic Liquid on a Smooth Silane Coating
Authors: Furuta Tsutomu , Nakajima Akira , Sakai Munetoshi , Isobe Toshihiro , Kameshima Yoshikazu , Okada Kiyoshi
Published: May 2009

Line tension was measured for microliter-scale and sub-nanoliter-scale droplets of an ionic liquid on a highly smooth and homogeneous fluoroalkylsilane coating. Values for microliter-scale droplets were two orders larger than those for subnanoliter-scale droplets despite their identical combinations of solid surfaces and liquid. Scale factors related to this measurement and hydrostatic pressure from the liquid play an important role in the discrepancy.
Near Infrared Reflectance Measurement of the Digestible Energy Content of Cereals for Growing Pigs
Authors: van Barneveld R.J. , Nuttall J.D. , Flinn P.C. , Osborne B.G.
Published: May 2009

Near infrared (NIR) spectroscopy is in widespread use at grain receival silos and stockfeed mills to determine the protein and moisture contents of cereals used in livestock feeds. These parameters alone, however, are only the first step in the definition of nutritive value, which is best determined by accounting for the inevitable losses that occur following digestion and absorption within animals. When formulating diets for growing pigs, the greatest cost pressure is against the cost per unit of energy and, hence, digestible energy (DE) is a valuable measure of the nutritive value of cereals for this class of livestock. The DE content of cereals for pigs can vary considerably within a cereal type (in excess of 3 MJ kg−1 DM) and a rapid means of assessing this parameter would improve the accuracy of diet formulations for growing pigs and reduce the cost of the diets. To date the use of NIR to predict DE has been limited by the cost associated with obtaining a sufficient number of samples with in vivo measurements over an adequate range necessary to develop a robust NIR calibration. To overcome this problem, a range of cereals (wheat, barley, sorghum, triticale, maize) that had been fed to pigs experimentally, to determine their DE contents were sourced from Australia, Canada, France and New Zealand. NIR spectra of both whole and milled grain were recorded and used to derive calibrations for DE. A disadvantage of this approach is the influence of interlaboratory variation on the reference sample set and the resulting calibration. This study has, for the first time, demonstrated the value of indicator variables in detecting the presence of, and compensating for, interlaboratory variability in a set of animal nutrition data.
Non-Destructive Analysis of Photo-Degradation of Poly(Methyl Methacrylate) by near Infrared Light-Fibre Spectroscopy and Chemometrics
Authors: Shimoyama M. , Matsukawa K. , Inoue H. , Ninomiya T. , Ozaki Y.
Published: May 2009

Photo-degradation of poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) has been analysed in situ by the use of near infrared (NIR) light-fibre spectroscopy. Fourier transform (FT) NIR spectra have been measured for PMMA plates irradiated by a high-pressure mercury lamp (450 W) for 0, 30, 60, 90, 120, 150, 180 and 210 min. Principal component analysis (PCA) has been carried out for the FT-NIR spectra pretreated by multiplicative scatter correction (MSC) or second derivative. A principal component (PC) weight loadings plot of factor 1 shows that the irradiation time is strongly correlated with the band due to the second overtone of the C=O stretching mode. Partial least squares (PLS) regression has enabled us to propose a calibration model which predicts the irradiation time of the PMMA plates, with a correlation coefficient and the mean square error of cross validation ( RMSECV) of 0.995 and 7.2 min, respectively.
Near Infrared On-Line Measurement of Degree of Cook in Extrusion Processing of Wheat Flour
Authors: Evans A.J. , Huang S. , Osborne B.G. , Kotwal Z. , Wesley I.J.
Published: May 2009

Product texture in extrusion processing of cereals is controlled by the extent of depolymerisation of the starch, referred to as degree of cook. On-line measurement of degree of cook would enable improved process control. An NIRSystems Process Analytic Analyser with transmittance fibre optic probes has been used to measure the degree of cook on-line during the extrusion processing of wheat flour. The absorbance of the second derivative of the peak minimum in the region 1400–1450 nm in the transmission spectrum of extrudate melts has been shown to follow changes in degree of cook when three process parameters were varied in a factorial design. The r2 between on-line minimum absorbance and degree of cook as measured by shear rate of the corresponding dispersed powdered extrudate sample was 0.77.
Microbolometers with Corrugated Bridges
Authors: Laou P. , Shih I. , Qiu S.N. , Phong L. Ngo
Published: May 2009

Nickel microbolometers with corrugated bridges, which provide higher radiation collection efficiency, show significant large responsivity compared to that with normal planar bridges.
Mid- versus near Infrared Spectroscopic Analysis of Diversely Treated Feedstuffs
Authors: Reeves James B.
Published: May 2009

The objectives of this study were to determine the advantages and disadvantages of using mid-infrared diffuse reflectance spectroscopy versus near infrared for the analysis of diversely-treated forages and by-products, and to compare the relative merits of calibration development using multi-linear regression versus partial least squares regression for such samples. Study samples (325) were randomly selected from 2808 possible sample–treatment combinations generated using 18 feedstuffs, 26 treatments (acids, bases, oxidising and reducing agents, heat etc.), and six levels of reagent for each treatment. Neutral detergent fibre and crude protein were determined on all samples and calculated on an organic dry matter basis. Neat samples were scanned (256 co-added scans) from 4000 to 400 cm−1 at 4 and 16 cm−1 resolutions on a Fourier transform infrared spectrometer equipped with a sample transport device, and in the near infrared (1100–2498 nm) using a scanning monochromator (64 co-added scans). Calibration results using 4 cm−1 resolution mid-infrared spectra were equal to those obtained using near infrared spectra. While the results for both spectral regions using partial least squares regression were an improvement over those using multi-linear regression, neither region produced calibrations equal to those obtained for less diversely treated or non-treated samples. The results obtained also showed that: (1) visual determination of likely compositional or spectral outliers is not obviously feasible using either near or mid-infrared spectra; (2) changes in spectra due to treatment can be much more easily attributed to compositional components using mid- as opposed to near infrared spectra; (3) examination of either mid-infrared PLS or PCR factors can be useful in determining compositional changes caused by treatments, while near infrared PLS and PCR factors appear to be dominated by moisture differences.
Non-Invasive Fermentation Analysis Using an Artificial Neural Network Algorithm for Processing near Infrared Spectra
Authors: Li Yue , Brown Chris W. , Sun Fang-Ming , McCrady James W. , Traxler Richard W. , Lo Su-Chin
Published: May 2009

The feasibility of using Artificial Neural Networks (ANN) to improve the performance of a fibre optic, near infrared (NIR) spectroscopic probe for monitoring fermentation processes was investigated. A miniature diode array spectrometer, operating between 1100 and 1450 nm, was used for on-line, in situ fermentation monitoring by placing a bifurcated fibre bundle inside a fermentation vessel. Non-linearities in the spectral response were complicated by the combined effects of spectral variations in the OH vibrational bands due to temperature fluctuations and pH variation. As the fermentation proceeds interferences from other absorbing molecules and cell masses increase at an exponential rate. The feasibility of accurately predicting both glucose and ethanol concentrations simultaneously during a fermentation process were assessed by applying Partial Least Squares (PLS) and Artificial Neural Networks (ANN) to the NIR spectral data. For a 5% glucose fermentation, a PLS model was able to predict “on-line” concentrations with standard errors of prediction ( SEP) of 0.19% for glucose and 0.11% for ethanol. Three separate on-line fermentation experiments were performed in order to determine the possibility of using a model developed from one experiment to predict the concentrations of another experiment. PLS models produced an average SEP of 0.21% when used to predict different fermentation experiments. The ANN algorithm produced an average SEP of 0.13% on the same data.
The Development of near Infrared Reflectance Spectroscopy Calibrations for Undried Grass Silage and Their Transfer to Another Instrument Using Multiple and Single Sample Standardisation
Authors: Park R.S. , Agnew R.E. , Barnes R.J.
Published: May 2009

This study was undertaken to explore the possibility of developing accurate, robust near infrared (NIR) spectroscopy calibrations for undried grass silage (a very heterogeneous, high moisture forage) without costly or lengthy pre-treatment of the sample. This was achieved by scanning a large surface area of the sample using a coarse transport cell in conjunction with a Foss NIRSystems 6500 scanning monochromator, which moves the sample vertically past the light source. Equations were produced for alcohol corrected toluene dry matter, pH, N2, neutral detergent fibre, acid detergent fibre, D-value (digestible organic matter in the dry matter) and potential metabolic intake with accuracy comparable to finely comminuted undried grass silage. The second objective of this study was to examine the possibility of transferring the undried grass silage calibrations developed on the 6500 spectrophotometer across NIR instruments and cell types. The cloning technique of Shenk was used to match spectrally the 6500 spectrophotometer and a Foss NIRSystems 5000 NIR spectrophotometer. Seventy undried grass silage samples, typical of the calibration set, were scanned through both instruments using a coarse transport cell and a natural product cell. Cloning was based on (a) 30 samples and (b) one central sample. Standardisation files were produced (using the ISI software) and applied to the spectra of the remaining 40 validation samples, scanned on the 5000 spectrophotometer (regarded as the slave instrument). These standardised spectra were predicted by the master equations developed on the 6500 instrument and the results compared to the corresponding master validation spectra ( n = 40) scanned in the coarse transport cell and predicted by the master equations (regarded as the reference values). An alternative approach of standardising the master calibration set spectra, to look like they were scanned in a natural product cell and rerunning the calibrations, was also performed and the master natural product spectra predicted using the new natural product equations and compared to the reference values. In all instances, this cloning technique proved very successful, clearly indicating that undried grass silage calibrations can be transferred across these NIR instruments with little loss in accuracy of prediction.
Standardisation of near Infrared Spectrometers Using Artificial Neural Networks
Authors: Duponchel L. , Ruckebusch C. , Huvenne J.P. , Legrand P.
Published: May 2009

The use of chemometrics procedures with near infrared spectroscopic data to produce calibration equations for analytical chemistry has been very successful. A large increase in prediction error is observed when the calibration equation developed on one instrument is used directly on another. Since many spectral differences can exist between two spectrometers, a standardisation procedure is a requirement for the long-term use of quantitative or qualitative models. In this work, an original neural network approach is proposed in order to correct for spectral differences. Spectral response of a given instrument is modelled from another before the use of the calibration equations. In this way, the time-consuming step of recalibration for the second spectrometer is avoided and the initial error prediction level is retrieved.