bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Airway inflammation and lung function decline in childhood post‐infectious bronchiolitis obliterans
Authors: Cazzato Salvatore , Poletti Venerino , Bernardi Filippo , Loroni Leonardo , Bertelli Luca , Colonna Stefano , Zappulla Franco , Timoncini Giuseppe , Cicognani Alessandro
Published: February 2008

Post‐infectious bronchiolitis obliterans (PBO) is a rare form of chronic obstructive lung disease in children with few data on the pulmonary function outcome and underlying inflammatory process. The aim of this study was to determine the change in lung function over time and to investigate by bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) the inflammatory characteristics of pulmonary involvement.

Eleven Caucasian children with PBO were evaluated to estimate the average rate of change in lung function indices using a mixed model. The differential cytology and lymphocyte subsets of BAL fluid were analyzed.

The median follow‐up was 10.2 (IQR 3.2–12) years. The estimated forced expiratory volume in 1 sec (FEV1) had a baseline intercept of 57% predicted (62% predicted after bronchodilator) at 10 years of age which fell at a rate of 1.01% per year whereas the estimated forced expiratory flow 25–75 (FEF25–75) had a baseline intercept of 36% predicted (42% predicted after bronchodilator) at 10 years of age which fell at a rate of 1.04% per year. The estimated FEV1/FVC ratio had a baseline intercept of 70% (74% after bronchodilator) at 10 years of age which declined with an average slope of 1.02% per year (−1.10% per year after bronchodilator). Although the baseline and post‐bronchodilator level of estimated FVC was abnormal (68% and 69% predicted, respectively) it did not change significantly with time.

The median disease duration at BAL evaluation was 3.7 (IQR 0.7–8) years. The percentage differential cell counts were characterized by a significant increase in neutrophils (median 50%, IQR 1–66%), and a slight increase of lymphocytes (median 14%, IQR 7.5–15%).

In conclusion, pulmonary function in childhood PBO is characterized by significant airway obstruction which deteriorates over time. The presence of an ongoing inflammatory process could explain the decline in lung function over time. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2008; 43:381–390. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Neonatal pulmonary sequestration: Clinical experience with transumbilical arterial embolization
Authors: Lee Byong Sop , Kim Jin Taek , Kim Ellen Ai‐Rhan , Kim Ki‐Soo , Pi Soo‐Young , Sung Kyu‐Bo , Yoon Chong Hyun , Goo Hyun Woo
Published: February 2008

Pulmonary sequestration (PS) is a rare congenital malformation of the lower respiratory tract. The exact natural course of PS is not well understood and there are no well‐established treatment guidelines for antenatally diagnosed PS. The aim of this study was to describe clinical outcomes in neonates with PS and to evaluate the efficacy of transumbilical arterial embolization (TUE). From 1998 to 2006, total 30 neonatal cases were included. Serial antenatal ultrasound in 26 cases found 6 (23%) regressed lesions, all of which were demonstrated on postnatal chest CT. Six (20%) cases were classified as mixed‐type (combined cystic) lesions. Surgery was performed early (during initial hospitalization) in two cases and lately (after the neonatal period) in four cases. TUE was performed for 17 (57%) cases of intrapulmonary PS. Follow‐up images obtained a median of 19 months (range, 4–51) after TUE demonstrated complete (9, 53%), partial (5, 29%), and no (3, 18%) regression. The regression rate was significantly higher in solid‐type lesions (13/13, 100%) than in mixed‐type (1/4, 25%) (P = 0.006). Complications included transient hypertension (two cases, 12%), post‐embolization fever (two cases, 12%) and migration of a microcoil (one case, 6%), without long‐term morbidities. Natural courses could be observed in 10 cases of extralobar PS and regression was observed in 2 cases (20%) during a median follow‐up of 12 months (range, 6–45). A well‐designed comparative study is warranted to evaluate the long‐term efficacy and safety of TUE. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2008; 43:404–413. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Longitudinal analysis of androgen deprivation of prostate cancer cells identifies pathways to androgen independence
Authors: D'Antonio Jason M. , Ma Changqing , Monzon Federico A. , Pflug Beth R.
Published: February 2008

BACKGROUND

Following androgen ablation therapy, the majority of prostate cancer patients develop treatment resistance with a median time of 18–24 months to disease progression.

METHODS

To identify molecular targets that promote prostate cancer cell survival and contribute to androgen independence, we evaluated changes in LNCaP cell gene expression during 12 months of androgen deprivation. At time points reflecting critical growth and phenotypic changes, we performed Affymetrix expression array analysis to examine the effects of androgen deprivation during the acute response, during the period of apparent quiescence, and following the emergence of a highly proliferative, androgen‐independent prostate cancer cell phenotype (LNCaP‐AI).

RESULTS

We discovered alterations in gene expression for molecules associated with promoting prostate cancer cell growth and survival, and regulating cell cycle progression and apoptosis. Additionally, expression of AR co‐regulators, adrenal androgen metabolizing enzymes, and markers of neuroendocrine disease were significantly altered.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings contribute greatly to our understanding of androgen‐independent prostate cancer. The value of this longitudinal approach lies in the ability to examine gene expression changes throughout the adaptive response to androgen deprivation; it provides a more dynamic illustration of genes which contribute to disease progression in addition to specific genes which constitute an androgen‐independent phenotype. Prostate 68: 698–714, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Histopathological evidence for an association of inflammation with ductal pin‐like lesions but not with ductal adenocarcinoma in the prostate of the noble rat
Authors: Bernoulli Jenni , Yatkin Emrah , Laakso Arto , Anttinen Mikael , Bosland Maarten , Vega Katherine , Kallajoki Markku , Santti Risto , Pylkkänen Liisa
Published: February 2008

BACKGROUND

Chronic inflammation may contribute to the development of prostate cancer. The goal of this study was to determine the possible association of prostatic inflammation, prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia (PIN)‐like lesion, and prostate cancer, and to assess the androgen and estrogen dependency of the early steps of carcinogenesis.

METHODS

Noble rats were treated with testosterone and estradiol implants for 13, 18, or 26 weeks. Hormone dependency of the lesions was studied in a subset of animals by removing hormone implants for 3 weeks after 15 weeks treatment time.

RESULTS

After treatment for 13 weeks, acute and chronic inflammation was found in the dorsolateral prostate lobes and both inflammation and PIN‐like lesions were present in the periurethal area of the prostate in all animals (n = 8). Following hormone exposure for 18 and 26 weeks, inflammation in the prostate remained, and adenocarcinomas in the periurethal prostate area with no adjacent inflammation were observed in all 18 animals studied. When both hormone implants were removed after 15 weeks, PIN‐like lesions progressed further to adenocarcinoma only in two of seven animals. When only the estradiol implants were removed, three of five animals developed adenocarcinomas.

CONCLUSIONS

Even though adenocarcinomas were not morphologically associated with inflammation, PIN‐like lesions preceding adenocarcinoma were found in close association with inflammation, pointing towards a possible initiator role of inflammation in the early steps of prostatic carcinogenesis. Further, these results indicate that both androgens and estrogens together play a significant role in the induction of inflammation and prostatic cancer in this model. Prostate 68: 728–739, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Increased spermine oxidase expression in human prostate cancer and prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia tissues
Authors: Goodwin Andrew C. , Jadallah Sana , Toubaji Antoun , Lecksell Kristen , Hicks Jessica L. , Kowalski Jeanne , Bova G. Steven , De Marzo Angelo M. , Netto George J. , Casero Robert A.
Published: February 2008

BACKGROUND

Inflammation has been strongly implicated in prostate carcinogenesis, but the precise molecular mechanisms linking inflammation and carcinogenic DNA damage are not known. Induction of the polyamine catabolic enzyme, spermine oxidase (SMO) has been linked to increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) and DNA damage in human gastric and lung epithelial cells and suggest direct mechanistic links between inflammation, SMO activity, ROS production, and epithelial carcinogenesis that are likely relevant in prostate cancer.

METHODS

Tissue microarrays consisting of matched normal and diseased specimens from patients diagnosed with prostate cancer, prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia (PIN), or proliferative inflammatory atrophy (PIA), as well as unaffected individuals, were stained for SMO expression and analyzed using image analysis techniques and TMAJ software tools.

RESULTS

Average SMO staining was significantly higher in prostate cancer and PIN tissues compared to patient‐matched benign tissues. Benign tissues from prostate cancer, PIN, and PIA patients also exhibited significantly higher mean SMO expression versus tissues from prostate disease‐free patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Tissues from patients diagnosed with prostate cancer and PIN exhibit, on average, locally increased SMO expression in regions of prostatic disease and higher overall SMO expression in prostatic epithelial cells compared to healthy individuals. Further studies are warranted to directly examine the role of SMO‐produced ROS in prostate carcinogenesis. Prostate 68: 766–772, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Diagnosis and management of constipation in older people
Authors: Ewan Victoria , Newton Julia
Published: February 2008

Our series Prescribing in older people gives practical advice for successful management of the special problems experienced by this patient group. Here, the authors define constipation and describe assessment and management in older patients. Copyright © 2008 Wiley Interface Ltd
Quantum Monte Carlo and genetic algorithm study of the potential energy surface of the H molecule
Authors: e Silva Geraldo M. , Gargano Ricardo , da Silva Washington B. , Roncaratti Luiz F. , Acioli Paulo H.
Published: February 2008

In this article we present a characterization of the vibrational spectrum of the H molecule using the correlation function quantum Monte Carlo (CFQMC) method and a genetic algorithm study of the topology of the potential energy surface (PES) used. The vibrational modes associated with the H‐H2 torsion and stretching possess very flat minima. As a consequence the fundamental frequencies corresponding to these modes are poorly described in the harmonic approximation. In our genetic algorithm study of the PES using Cartesian coordinates we have found some unexpected minima. A careful analysis shows that, in the curvilinear coordinates in which the potential is described, some of these minima have identical coordinates. Nevertheless, they represent nonequivalent molecular geometries. The vibrational frequencies obtained in this work are not in good agreement with available experimental data as well as other computational methods. It shows that our method of detailed analysis of PESs could reveal shortcomings introduced by the use of curvilinear coordinates. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2008
Quantum reactive study of a potential energy surface obtained via genetic algorithm
Authors: Salviano Lucas R. , Silva Geraldo M. E , Martins João B. L. , Gargano Ricardo
Published: February 2008

In this work, we performed a quantum reactive study using a new potential energy surface (PES) fitted to the Na + HF→NaF + H reaction. The new PES was obtained using the genetic algorithm optimization technique (GAOT). We calculated the reactive probabilities (RP) of the Na + HF system using the new PES. The GAOT RP are compared with the obtained RP using two other PES found to the Na + HF system: Bond Order 5 (BO5) and the generalized simulated annealing (GSA) PES. We found that the GAOT RP are in excellent agreement with the GSA and BO5 RP. It should be point out that the BO5 RP are considered the benchmark of literature. Therefore, the GAOT is shown to be an appropriate method to fit PES of reactive systems. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2008
Tautomeric preferences and electron delocalization in biurets, thiobiurets, and dithiobiurets: Anab initiostudy
Authors: Adane Legesse , Bharatam Prasad V.
Published: February 2008

In several literature reports biuret and its sulfur analogs are reported to exist in their diketo form with general formula H2NCXNHCYNH2(X = O, Y = O, biuret; X = Y = S, dithiobiuret; and X = O, Y = S, thiobiuret). On the other hand, recently reported results on the electronic structure of biguanide analogs (X = Y = NH)demonstrated that a form equivalent to diketo is not the preferred structure. Thus, a systematicab initiostudy on the tautomeric preferences of biuret and its sulfur analogs (dithiobiuret and thiobiuret) has been carried out. The results indicate that an interplay of conjugative stabilization and intramolecular hydrogen bonding to play a role in tautomeric preferences. Energy and geometric parameters, natural bond orbital analyses have been employed to understand the chemistry of the title compounds. The results indicate that unlike biguanides, these compounds prefer diketo forms containing hydrogen on the bridging nitrogen (N4) and in atrans‐arrangement (1a–4a). However, tautomerization of these keto forms to the corresponding enol isomers was also found to be highly probable. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2008
Characterization of perfluoroalkyl acrylic oligomers by electrospray ionization time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry
Authors: Romack Timothy J. , Danell Allison S. , Cottone Tara M. , Dutta Subodh K.
Published: February 2008

Electrospray ionization time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (ESI‐ToF‐MS) has been successfully employed for the characterization of molecular weight, molecular weight distribution and end groups for bromine‐terminated perfluoroalkyl acrylate oligomers prepared using atom transfer radical polymerization. Intact oligomers and smaller quantities of common side products were observed from m/z 1000 to 4000 cationized with a sodium ion, a difluorobenzyl cation or a proton with a minimum of multiply charged species. Number average molecular weight and weight average molecular weight for both the samples that were characterized were in reasonable agreement with independent measurements conducted using GPC‐MALS and 1H NMR spectroscopy. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Advanced Cantilevers for Magnetic Force Microscopy and High Frequency Magnetic Force Microscopy
Authors: Koblischka M. R. , Wei J. D. , Richter C. , Sulzbach T. H. , Hartmann U.
Published: February 2008

In order to improve the spatial resolution achieved by magnetic force microscopy (MFM) technique and its derivatives, we employ here advanced MFM tips fabricated by means of focused ion beam (FIB) milling. The magnetic coating applied on these tips is a CoCr film of 10 nm thickness. The MFM measurements on hard disk test samples reveal the achieved high resolution, and the measurement on a garnet film demonstrates the low invasiveness. High‐frequency MFM (HF‐MFM) is a development of the MFM technique to observe the HF stray fields emerging from magnetic recording writer poles at their operating conditions. By means of HF‐MFM, magnetic recording writer poles are characterized in the frequency range 100–1,000 MHz. Up to now, all HF‐MFM experiments conducted were using standard MFM cantilevers. From the HF‐MFM images obtained using the advanced MFM cantilevers, it is clearly seen that the spatial resolution is considerably improved over the images obtained using standard MFM tips. However, the 10 nm thick magnetic coating of the cantilevers is found to work properly only at frequencies of up to about 500 MHz. SCANNING 30: 27–34, 2008. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Theory Experiment Comparison of the Electron Backscattering Factor from Solids at Low Electron Energy (250–5,000 eV)
Authors: EL Gomati M. M. , Walker C. G. H. , Assa'd A. M. D. , ZadraŽil M.
Published: February 2008

The electron backscattering factor was measured from 24 different elements at low primary beam energy (250–5,000 eV). The results were compared with Monte Carlo simulations from a variety of freely available programs and an in‐house developed program. The results suggest that a thin film of oxide can modify the backscattering factor at low primary energy. In addition, a number of problems have been identified with the freely available programs. SCANNING 30: 2–15, 2008. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Three‐dimensional Image Correction of Tilted Samples Through Coordinate Transformation
Authors: Fu Joseph , Chu Wei , Dixson Ronald , Vorburger Theodore
Published: February 2008

In scanned probe measurements of micrometer‐ or nanometer‐scale lines, it is nearly impossible to maintain the sample in a perfectly level position, and even a small amount of tilt can contribute to the accuracy of the result of the measurand such as linewidth or step height. The current practice in image processing to deal with this problem is to conduct a line‐by‐line analysis to find the best fit of the substrate profile and subtract this background from all data points, thus describing 3D plane turns as a series of lines and processing them in succession in the x‐ or y‐direction.

In this paper a coordinate transformation method is proposed. The new coordinate system can be established on the basis of the inclined angle of the sample as well as the translation of three axes between the old coordinate system and the new coordinate system. The method can mathematically derive and hence correct all tilts around the x‐, y‐ and z‐axes and produce a leveled image simultaneously. Feature dimensions such as width, height, sidewall angle and pitch are calculated on the basis of simulated images using the coordinate transformation method and other methods. The result shows the advantage of the proposed method. SCANNING 30: 41–46, 2008. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Grafting and characterization of protein on polyaniline surface for biosensor applications
Authors: de Crombrugghe A. , Yunus S. , Bertrand P.
Published: February 2008

Polyaniline is an electroactive polymer, which presents attractive properties for its use as a transducer in electro‐biosensors. Covalent binding of bioreceptors on the polymeric surface is necessary to perform selective and efficient bioanalyte detection. To achieve this goal, acrylic acid (AAc) is grafted on polyaniline films. Acrylic grafting on polyaniline introduces a new access to its biochemical functionalization. Carboxylic groups can be used for covalent immobilization of proteins, like ICHA antigen, by means of standard coupling agents (carbodiimide and succinimide). Surface analysis shows that there is a higher amount of antigen immobilized on the surface as compared with simple physical adsorption. The composition and structure of the modified surfaces are characterized by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) at each step of the process. Time‐of‐flight‐secondary ion mass spectrometry (Tof‐SIMS) is also used to analyze acrylic grafted polyaniline surfaces. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Developing legacy system migration methods and tools for technology transfer
Authors: De Lucia Andrea , Francese Rita , Scanniello Giuseppe , Tortora Genoveffa
Published: February 2008

This paper presents the research results of an ongoing technology transfer project carried out in cooperation between the University of Salerno and a small software company. The project is aimed at developing and transferring migration technology to the industrial partner. The partner should be enabled to migrate monolithic multi‐user COBOL legacy systems to a multi‐tier Web‐based architecture. The assessment of the legacy systems of the partner company revealed that these systems had a very low level of decomposability with spaghetti‐like code and embedded control flow and database accesses within the user interface descriptions. For this reason, it was decided to adopt an incremental migration strategy based on the reengineering of the user interface using Web technology, on the transformation of interactive legacy programs into batch programs, and the wrapping of the legacy programs. A middleware framework links the new Web‐based user interface with the Wrapped Legacy System. An Eclipse plug‐in, named MELIS (migration environment for legacy information systems), was also developed to support the migration process. Both the migration strategy and the tool have been applied to two essential subsystems of the most business critical legacy system of the partner company. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Using computer animation and illustration activities to improve high school students' achievement in molecular genetics
Authors: Marbach‐Ad Gili , Rotbain Yosi , Stavy Ruth
Published: February 2008

Our main goal in this study was to determine whether the use of computer animation and illustration activities in high school can contribute to student achievement in molecular genetics. Three comparable groups of eleventh‐ and twelfth‐grade students participated: the control group (116 students) was taught in the traditional lecture format, whereas the experimental groups received instructions that integrated a computer animation (61 students) or illustration (71 students) activities. We used three research instruments: a multiple‐choice questionnaire; an open‐ended, written questionnaire; and personal interviews. Five of the multiple‐choice questions were also given to students before they received their genetics instruction (pretest). We found that students who participate in the experimental groups improved their knowledge in molecular genetics compared with the control group. However, the open‐ended questions revealed that the computer animation activity was significantly more effective than the illustration activity. On the basis of these findings, we conclude that it is advisable to use computer animations in molecular genetics, especially when teaching about dynamic processes; however, engaging students in illustration activities can still improve their achievement in comparison to traditional instruction. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Res Sci Teach 45: 273–292, 2008
What do science teachers consider when selecting formative assessment tasks?
Authors: Tomanek Debra , Talanquer Vicente , Novodvorsky Ingrid
Published: February 2008

The purpose of this qualitative exploratory study was to identify factors that influenced prospective and experienced secondary level science teachers' reasoning as they evaluated or selected tasks to formatively assess their students' understanding of scientific concepts. The analysis of the coded written responses revealed two categories of factors that influenced the teachers' reasoning: (1) characteristics of the task and (2) characteristics of students or the curriculum. Characteristics of the task related to qualities of the task regardless of the learning environment in which it would be used, such as the level of student thinking demanded by a task. Characteristics of the students and the curriculum related to the learning environment in which an assessment task would be implemented, such as students' abilities to complete the task. Both prospective and experienced teachers' task evaluations were influenced by the same factors related to the characteristics of the task, although their interpretations of the meaning of each factor varied. In addition, experienced teachers' task evaluations were more likely than prospective teachers to be influenced by factors related to characteristics of students and the curriculum. The findings are discussed as a conceptual framework that presents the identified factors along three different dimensions: (1) the influence of task, student, and curriculum characteristics, (2) the influence of expectations for success, and (3) the influence of teaching experience. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Res Sci Teach 45: 1113–1130, 2008
Attitudes towards science of intellectually gifted and mainstream upper primary students in Singapore
Authors: Caleon Imelda S. , Subramaniam R.
Published: February 2008

The attitudes towards science of upper‐primary students in three ability strands (average, above average, and gifted) were investigated. A total of 580 upper primary students from co‐educational government and government‐aided schools in Singapore were involved in this study. The attitude subscales investigated were enjoyment of science, preference for science careers, and appreciation of the social implications of science. Gender and ability were found to have statistically significant effects on the variations in the mean score for each attitude subscale. Boys, in general, had more positive views about science than girls. Overall, above‐average and gifted students had comparable attitudes towards science; both of them consistently showed more positive attitudes than average ability students. At least 18% of the sample, with greater percentage being boys, reported “not sure” responses in 50% or more of the total attitude items. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Res Sci Teach 45: 940–954, 2008
The Fate of Homograft Tracheal Transplants in Sheep
Authors: Behrend Matthias , Kluge Eva
Published: February 2008

Objective

An established method of tracheal substitution is not yet available, but homograft tracheal transplantation might provide a realistic tracheal replacement. With the objective of sequentially examining the healing of tracheal homografts, we have established a suitable large‐animal model.

Methods

Five sheep received orthotopic tracheal transplantation of a 4‐cm cervical tracheal homograft. The trachea was supported for 6 weeks with a self‐expanding polyester stent. The plan was to euthanize the animals after 2, 4, 8, 12 and 16 weeks, or whenever complications occurred.

Results

The implantation itself was performed without complications. After 2 weeks the homograft was firmly encapsulated by connective tissue, without signs of necrosis or abscess. The original mucous membrane no longer existed; the cartilage rings were exposed. In all animals that were euthanized at the later dates, the homografts were completely absorbed and replaced by inflammatory scar tissue. This, in turn, was covered with a shiny cellular surface layer.

Conclusions

The results from this animal experiment reveal—contrary to data published to date—that tracheal homografts are not incorporated but absorbed. They are replaced by scar/granulation tissue that cannot secure the stability of the trachea. Therefore, further experiments with respect to the biocompatability of homografts appear to be necessary.
Relationship between resource selection, distribution, and abundance: a test with implications to theory and conservation
Authors: Johnson Chris J. , Seip Dale R.
Published: February 2008

Much of applied and theoretical ecology is concerned with the interactions of habitat quality, animal distribution, and population abundance. We tested a technique that uses resource selection functions (RSF) to scale animal density to the relative probability of selecting a patch of habitat. Following an accurate survey of a reference block, the habitat‐based density estimator can be used to predict population abundance for other areas with no or unreliable survey data. We parameterized and tested the technique using multiple years of radiotelemetry locations and survey data collected for woodland caribou across four landscape‐level survey blocks. The habitat‐based density estimator performed poorly. Predictions were no better than those of a simple area estimator and in some cases deviated from the observed by a factor of 10. We developed a simulation model to investigate factors that might influence prediction success. We experimentally manipulated population density, caribou distribution, ability of animals to track carrying capacity, and precision of the estimation equation. Our simulations suggested that interactions between population density, the size of the reference block, and the pattern of distribution can lead to large discrepancies between observed and predicted population numbers. Over‐ or undermatching patch carrying capacity and precision of the estimator can influence predictions, but the effect is much less extreme. Although there is some empirical and theoretical evidence to support a relationship between animal abundance and resource selection, our study suggests that a number of factors can seriously confound these relationships. Habitat‐based density estimators might be effective where a stable, isolated population at equilibrium is used to generate predictions for areas with similar population parameters and ecological conditions.
Involvement of advanced glycation end products in the pathogenesis of diabetic complications: the protective role of regular physical activity
Authors: Magalhães P. M. , Appell H. J. , Duarte J. A.
Published: February 2008

Advanced glycation end products (AGEs) may play an important role in the pathogenesis of chronic diabetic complications and in the natural process of biological aging. In fact, maintained hyperglycaemia favours the formation of AGEs at the tissue level in diabetic patients, which may influence the triggering of different chronic pathologies of diabetes such as retinopathy, nephropathy, neuropathy and macro- and micro-vascular diseases. Moreover, the literature has also demonstrated the involvement of AGEs in biological aging, which may explain the accelerated process of aging in diabetic patients. The practice of regular physical activity appears to positively influence glycaemic control, particularly in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients. This occurs through the diminution of fasting glycaemia, with a consequent reduction of glycation of plasmatic components suggested by the normalisation of HbA1c plasmatic levels. This exercise-induced positive effect is evident in the blood of diabetic patients and may also reach the endothelium and connective tissues of different organs, such as the kidneys and eyes, and systems, such as the cardiovascular and nervous systems, with a local reduction of AGEs production and further deceleration of organ dysfunction. The aim of this paper was to review the literature concerning this topic to coherently describe the harmful effects of AGEs in organ dysfunction induced by diabetes in advanced age as well as the mechanisms behind the apparent protection given by the practice of regular physical activity.
Nonunion of fractures of the femoral neck in children
Authors: Neto Pedro F. Tucci , dos Reis Fernando Baldy , Filho José Laredo , Fernandes Helio J. A. , Fujiki Edison Noboru , Bensahel Henri , Milani Carlo
Published: February 2008

The authors present the prospective clinical outcome of nine pseudoarthroses resulting from surgical treatment carried out in nine children, whose ages varied from 6 years and 2 months to 14 years and 2 months (mean 10 years and 2 months), who had fractures of the femoral neck. Five were classified as type II, according to the Delbet classification modified by Colonna, and four were type III. The initial fractures were caused by high-energy traumas, such as trampling, bicycle falls, and car accidents. Treatment of choice was valgus osteotomy of the femoral neck associated or not with insertion of bony graft. The mean time of follow-up was 38 months, ranging from 23 to 71 months, and the mean time of pseudoarthrosis consolidation after osteotomy was 76.6 days, varying from 45 to 240 days. In this study, all the pseudoarthroses consolidated. For final analysis of clinical and radiographic results, the Ratliff's classification was used. We obtained three cases as good results, five as fair and one as poor. The authors concluded that valgus osteotomy is a good option for treatment of pseudoarthrosis in the femoral neck fractures in children.
APPROXIMATING THE STIELTJES INTEGRAL FOR (φ,Φ)-LIPSCHITZIAN INTEGRATORS
Authors: DRAGOMIR S. S.
Published: February 2008

Approximations for the Stieltjes integral with (φ,Φ)-Lipschitzian integrators are given. Applications for the Riemann integral of a product and for the generalized trapezoid and Ostrowski inequalities are also provided.
A PROPERTY OF CLOSED FINITE TYPE CURVES
Authors: PETROVIĆ-TORGAŠEV MIROSLAVA
Published: February 2008

In the paper we prove that any closed finite type curve in the Euclidean space En(n≥2) lies in a null-space of a non-trivial polynomial P=P(x1,…,xn) of variables x1,…,xn, and thus lies on a surface of finite degree.
Inhibition of bone turnover by milk intake in postmenopausal women
Authors: Bonjour Jean-Philippe , Brandolini-Bunlon Marion , Boirie Yves , Morel-Laporte Françoise , Braesco Véronique , Bertière Marie-Claude , Souberbielle Jean-Claude
Published: February 2008

Increased postmenopausal bone turnover leads to bone loss and fragility fracture risk. In the absence of osteoporosis, risk preventive measures, particularly those modifying nutritional lifestyle, are appropriate. We tested the hypothesis that milk supplementation affects bone turnover related to biochemical markers in a direction that, in the long term, may be expected to reduce postmenopausal bone loss. Thirty healthy postmenopausal women aged 59·3 (sd3·3) years were enrolled in a prospective crossover trial of 16 weeks. After a 4-week period of adaptation with diet providing 600 mg calcium plus 300 mg ingested as 250 ml semi-skimmed milk, participants were maintained during 6 weeks under the same 600 mg calcium diet and randomized to receive either 500 ml semi-skimmed milk, thus providing a total of 1200 mg calcium, or no milk supplement. In the next 6 weeks they were switched to the alternative regimen. At the end of the each period, i.e. after 4, 10 and 16 weeks, blood and urinary samples were collected. The changes in blood variables between the periods of 6 weeks without and with milk supplementation were: for parathyroid hormone, − 3·2 pg/ml (P = 0·0054); for crosslinked telopeptide of type I collagen, − 624 pg/ml (P < 0·0001); for propeptide of type I procollagen, − 5·5 ng/ml (P = 0·0092); for osteocalcin, − 2·8 ng/ml (P = 0·0014). In conclusion, a 6-week period of milk supplementation induced a decrease in several biochemical variables compatible with diminished bone turnover mediated by reduction in parathyroid hormone secretion. This nutritional approach to postmenopausal alteration in bone metabolism may be a valuable measure in the primary prevention of osteoporosis.
Use of SIMSDAIRY modelling framework system to compare the scope on the sustainability of a dairy farm of animal and plant genetic-based improvements with management-based changes
Authors: PRADO A. del , SCHOLEFIELD D.
Published: February 2008

Currently, society awareness, legislations and competing markets demand dairy farming systems which are sustainable. In the near future, farm management and animal genetics will be key elements in developing such sustainability. Although the effect of farm management on some attributes of sustainability has already been studied, the impacts and scope for realizing goals of agricultural multifunctionality through genetic changes are still to be tested. Sustainable and Integrated Management Systems for Dairy Production (SIMSDAIRY) is a new farm level modelling framework which integrates these concepts to practical actions and brings all of this complexity into an operational and scientific modus operandi.

The current paper provides a brief description of the structure of SIMSDAIRY and an example of how it can be used to compare the scope for improving the overall sustainability of a dairy farm by: (i) future system changes aimed at improving genetic characteristics of plants and animals with (ii) current system structural changes aimed at improving nutrient management efficiency. In order to do this comparison, management factors and new genetic traits from plants or/and animals, acting singly or in combination, are evaluated against a baseline dairy farm scenario. Sustainability is measured in terms of targets associated with: (i) the Nitrates Directive, (ii) phosphorus (P) threshold for eutrophication, (iii) the Kyoto Protocol, (iv) the Gothenburg Protocol, (v) an adequate net farm income for standard of living and acceptable standards of (vi) quality of milk, (vii) animal welfare, (viii) level of biodiversity, (ix) landscape aesthetics and (x) soil quality.

Results suggest that genetic-based changes offer greater scope than management-based ones to improve sustainability up to an acceptable level. Costs associated with management changes are often too high within current socio-economics circumstances. Optimizing nitrogen (N) mineral fertilizer rate and timing was the only management-based measure that, while improving most of the environmental and biodiversity indices, resulted in improved economic results. Some genetic-based changes offered substantial scope for reducing environmental losses while having economic benefits. However, only those decreasing the crude protein (CP) of the plant and increasing the diet N cow partition into milk seemed to result in non-significant pollution swapping and be achievable in the nearby future.
THE HISTORY OF THE WORD FOR CACAO IN ANCIENT MESOAMERICA
Authors: Kaufman Terrence , Justeson John
Published: February 2008

The word *kakaw(a)(‘cacao’,Theobroma cacao) was widely diffused among Mesoamerican languages, and from there to much of lower Central America. This study provides evidence establishing beyond reasonable doubt that this word originated in the Mije-Sokean family; that it spread from the Mije-Sokean languages in or around the Olmec heartland into southeastern Mesoamerican languages; that its diffusion into Mayan languages took place between about 200 B.C. and A.D. 400; and that it spread from a Mije-Sokean language in or near the Basin of Mexico into languages in the region. It shows that each of the arguments presented by Dakin and Wichmann (2000) against a Mije-Sokean origin is either unworkable, is based upon false premises, or is not relevant; and that their proposed alternative — that it originated in and spread from Nawa into other Mesoamerican languages — conflicts with the mass of evidence relevant to the issue.

This study also discusses the linguistic details of vocabulary for drinks made from cacao; shows that no proposed etymology for the word chocolate is correct, but agrees with Dakin and Wichmann that its proximate source is a Nawa formchikola:tl;and discusses the history of words forTheobroma bicolor(‘Nicaragua chocolate tree;pataxte’) and their use.

The linguistic data are pertinent to issues of intergroup interaction in pre-Columbian Mesoamerica, but do not shed light on the nature or the cultural context of the diffusion of cacao in Mesoamerica, nor on its uses.
Monad compositions II: Kleisli strength
Authors: MANES ERNIE , MULRY PHILIP
Published: February 2008

In this paper we introduce the concept of Kleisli strength for monads in an arbitrary symmetric monoidal category. This generalises the notion of commutative monad and gives us new examples, even in the cartesian-closed category of sets. We exploit the presence of Kleisli strength to derive methods for generating distributive laws. We also introduce linear equations to extend the results to certain quotient monads. Mechanisms are described for finding strengths that produce a large collection of new distributive laws, and consequently monad compositions, including the composition of monadic data types such as lists, trees, exceptions and state.
ANATOMY OF ECHINODORUS (ALISMATACEAE) SCAPES FROM NORTHEASTERN BRAZIL AS APPLIED TO TAXONOMY
Authors: Matias L. Q. , Soares A. , Scatena V. L.
Published: February 2008

The anatomical characters of the scape of Echinodorus glandulosus, E. lanceolatus, E. palaefolius, E. paniculatus, E. pubescens and E. subalatus subsp. subalatus (Alismataceae) were examined. These six sympatric species occur in northeastern Brazil and demonstrate great morphological similarity. The aim of the present study was to identify anatomical characters of taxonomic importance. Scapes possess a uniseriate epidermis composed of thin-walled tabular cells. The scapes of most species have differentiated epidermis, cortex, and vascular cylinders. There are several layers of regular chlorenchyma cells immediately below the epidermis, intercalated with collateral vascular bundles, in all species. There are also laticiferous ducts throughout the scape, and aerenchyma in both the cortex and pith. The shape and outline of scapes, the presence and position of winged extensions, the absence of differentiated vascular cylinders or cortex, and the number of vascular bundles are important characters for differentiating species in Echinodorus. An identification key employing the features analysed is provided.
A NEW SPECIES OF CATASETUM (ORCHIDACEAE) FOR THE STATE OF MATO GROSSO, BRAZIL
Authors: Petini-Benelli A. , Grade A.
Published: February 2008

A new species of Catasetum Rich. ex Kunth (Orchidaceae), Catasetum apolloi Benelli & Grade, from the municipality of Carlinda in the State of Mato Grosso, Brazil is described and illustrated. The plant was discovered in a pasture near the Teles Pires River growing epiphytically under the palm Maximiliana regia Mart. A discussion and consideration of possible related species is presented.
TAXONOMY OF MANNIA CONTROVERSA (MARCHANTIIDAE, AYTONIACEAE) INCLUDING A NEW SUBSPECIES FROM EAST ASIA
Authors: Schill D. B. , Long D. G. , Köckinger H.
Published: February 2008

Mannia controversa (Meyl.) Schill comb. nov. (Marchantiidae, Aytoniaceae), a long-forgotten European taxon, is fully redescribed and a lectotype selected. It is reported from its original localities in the Swiss Alps and new sites in the Austrian and French Alps. A series of specimens from eastern Asia are closely related and are described as Mannia controversa subsp. asiatica Schill & D.G.Long. For the species, differences with other Mannia species are summarised and for its two subspecies, descriptions, illustrations (including SEM images) and a key are provided along with notes on ecology and distribution maps.
Evidence for pre‐folding vein development in the Oligo‐Miocene Asmari Formation in the Central Zagros Fold Belt, Iran
Authors: Ahmadhadi Faram , Daniel Jean‐Marc , Azzizadeh Mehran , Lacombe Olivier
Published: February 2008

In order to understand the interplay between vein development and folding in the carbonates of the Oligo‐Miocene Asmari Formation (one of the main hydrocarbon reservoir rocks) in Iran, several anticlines have been investigated in the central part of the Zagros folded belt. Combining observations of relative chronology between veins based on calcite‐filling phases and crosscutting/abutting relationships, as well as aerial/satellite image interpretation on several anticlines allowed proposing a tectonic model highlighting the widespread development of veins and other extensional micro/meso‐structures in the Central Zagros folded belt. Our data suggest that most of the veins affecting the Asmari formation predated the main Miocene‐Pliocene folding episode. An early regional vein set striking N50° marked the onset of collisional stress build‐up in the region. Then, N150° and N20° trending vein sets were initiated in response to local extension caused by large‐scale flexure/drape folds above N‐S and N140° basement faults reactivated under the regional NE compression. At the onset and during Miocene‐Pliocene folding of the sedimentary cover, the early formed veins were reactivated (reopened and/or sheared) while duplexes, low angle reverse faults and thrusts formed. Beyond regional implications, this study puts emphasis on the need of carefully considering regional/local vein development predating folding as well as influence of underlying basement faults in models of folded‐fractured reservoirs in fold‐thrust belts.
Atlantic forced component of the Indian monsoon interannual variability
Authors: Kucharski F. , Bracco A. , Yoo J. H. , Molteni F.
Published: February 2008

The Indian monsoon interannual variability is modulated by the El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO), with a drier than normal monsoon season usually preceding peak El Niño conditions, and vice versa for La Niña phase. Pacific sea surface temperature (SST) anomalies, however, are not the only player. Building upon our recent discovery that atmospheric teleconnections between the tropical Atlantic and the Indian basin contributed to the weakening of the ENSO‐monsoon anticorrelation during the '80s and '90s, we investigate the role of south equatorial Atlantic SSTs in forcing the Indian monsoon rainfall (IMR). Using two observational data sets and two ensembles of simulations we show that the residual in the IMR time series for observed and modeled data, obtained by subtracting the ENSO‐forced component of the IMR that is linearly related to the NINO34 index, is significantly correlated with south equatorial Atlantic SSTs. Our results have important implications for seasonal forecast efforts.
Particulate gravity currents on Venus
Authors: Waltham Dave , Pickering Kevin T. , Bray Veronica J.
Published: February 2008

Canali are moderately sinuous channels, typically a few kilometers wide and hundreds of kilometers long, that occur principally on the plains of Venus. Plausible hypotheses for their formation include the following: open channels cut by exotic, low‐viscosity lavas; roofed‐over basaltic lava channels; or water on a cooler, wetter ancient Venus. Although it is accepted that a fluid cut these channels, none of these hypotheses are entirely satisfactory. It is therefore prudent to investigate other explanations. A particulate gravity current is a rapidly moving, sediment‐laden flow that moves downslope as a result of its high density compared to the ambient fluid. This high density is produced by suspension of dense particles in a lower‐density fluid. As these flows are largely driven by slope, rather than by momentum, they are potentially capable of traveling great distances, producing extensive channel systems. We apply this process to Venus, exploring its channel‐forming potential via mathematical modeling and morphological comparison of submarine channels on Earth to canali on Venus. Results of our modeling show that atmospheric particulate gravity currents are physically and geologically plausible on Venus. The potential of this process to form channels of great length is such that particulate gravity currents can be considered as an alternate explanation for canali genesis.
Paleoproductivity, ventilation, and organic carbon burial in the Santa Barbara Basin (ODP Site 893, off California) since the last glacial
Authors: Nederbragt Alexandra J. , Thurow Jürgen W. , Bown Paul R.
Published: February 2008

Biogenic burial rates and coccolith assemblage data were generated for the past 16 ka at ODP Site 893 in the Santa Barbara Basin, off California, to determine if dysoxic events in the basin were related to changes in marine productivity. Coccolith abundance data show that changes in surface water conditions did indeed change in concert with oxygen levels at the sea floor. However, organic carbon burial rates varied independently, indicating that oxygenation of the water column is related mainly to intermediate water ventilation. A strong correlation of organic carbon burial rates with lithogenic, and to a lesser extent with carbonate and opal accumulation rates confirms recent conclusions that the export of organic carbon from the sea surface is largely controlled by the presence of ballast minerals.