bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Are feeding preferences of white‐tailed deer related to plant constituents?
Authors: Dostaler Simon , Ouellet Jean‐Pierre , Therrien Jean‐François , Côté Steeve D.
Published: June 2011

Controlled feeding experiments can provide valuable insights into food selection of herbivores. We conducted cafeteria trials on captive yearling white‐tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) during 2 years to determine feeding preferences in relation to plant chemical constituents, i.e., nitrogen and fibers. We simultaneously offered 8 species of cultivated and wild plants in monthly foraging trials conducted from June to October. We predicted that species preferences would be positively related to protein content from June to August and to digestible energy in September and October. As predicted, crude protein (CP) was positively related to feeding preferences, particularly as summer progressed. Feeding preferences were also negatively related to fiber content, especially in early summer. Our results indicate high protein needs over the complete growing season for yearling deer but a decrease in overall plant selectivity as summer progresses. Our results also suggest that deer browsing on cultivated plants might be due to higher CP content of cultivated plants than wild plants. To prevent deer impact on crops, managers should favor regeneration of plants rich in CP content in forests. © 2011 The Wildlife Society.
A novel method to improve individual animal identification based on camera‐trapping data
Authors: Mendoza Eduardo , Martineau Pierre R. , Brenner Elliott , Dirzo Rodolfo
Published: June 2011

We present a novel method to improve individual identification of animals based on camera‐trapping data. The method combines computer tools and human visual recognition to help multiple users to reach identification agreement. Application of this method to a bobcat (Lynx rufus) picture database from the Jasper Ridge Biological Preserve resulted in a progressive increase in identification agreement between 2 users, as measured by the adjusted Rand index (ARI). An initial ARI value of 0.28 increased to a final value of 0.84 (1 = maximum agreement). In contrast, comparisons involving random picture groupings consistently rendered low ARI values (≤0.05). The numbers of individuals named by the 2 users decreased from initial values of 46 and 43 to final values of 25 and 29, respectively. The tool presented here will help researchers and wildlife managers to identify individual mammals and monitor populations. © 2011 The Wildlife Society.
Effect of mast production on home range use of Japanese black bears
Authors: Kozakai Chinatsu , Yamazaki Koji , Nemoto Yui , Nakajima Ami , Koike Shinsuke , Abe Shin , Masaki Takashi , Kaji Koichi
Published: June 2011

Although bears may expand their home ranges in times of low food availability, it is unclear what mechanisms directly affect home range extension in times of low mast production in Japanese forests. To clarify the relationship between home range utilization by Japanese black bears (Ursus thibetanus) and abundance and distribution of mast production, we collected data on habitat use from 13 bears (6 M and 7 F) fitted with Global Positioning System (GPS) collars equipped with activity sensors in the Ashio‐Nikko Mountains on the eastern part of Honshu Island, Japan, during 2006–2008. We also collected data on mast production by 5 Fagaceae species. We categorized each fall as either poor (2006) or relatively‐good (2007 and 2008) based on mast production. Bears used small patches in their large home ranges and the distances between core areas increased in the fall of 2006, when the mast of Japanese oak (Quercus crispula) were poorly distributed. Our findings suggest that localized patches of Japanese oak are the staple food for bears in our study area, even in poor mast years. However, in the fall of 2006, we also found that bears moved to lower elevations, relative to 2007 and 2008, in search of alternative foods (e.g., Konara oak [Q. serrata] and Japanese chestnut [Castanea crenata]), which were mostly at lower elevations and produced mast consistently over the study period. Our results suggest that dispersion and elevational distribution of mast‐producing trees affect bear habitat use in fall, as well as amount of mast. © 2011 The Wildlife Society.
Occupancy and abundance of wintering birds in a dynamic agricultural landscape
Authors: Miller Mark W. , Pearlstine Elise V. , Dorazio Robert M. , Mazzotti Frank J.
Published: June 2011

Assessing wildlife management action requires monitoring populations, and abundance often is the parameter monitored. Recent methodological advances have enabled estimation of mean abundance within a habitat using presence–absence or count data obtained via repeated visits to a sample of sites. These methods assume populations are closed and intuitively assume habitats within sites change little during a field season. However, many habitats are highly variable over short periods. We developed a variation of existing occupancy and abundance models that allows for extreme spatio‐temporal differences in habitat, and resulting changes in wildlife abundance, among sites and among visits to a site within a field season. We conducted our study in sugarcane habitat within the Everglades Agricultural Area southeast of Lake Okeechobee in south Florida. We counted wintering birds, primarily passerines, within 245 sites usually 5 times at each site during December 2006–March 2007. We estimated occupancy and mean abundance of birds in 6 vegetation states during the sugarcane harvest and allowed these parameters to vary temporally or spatially within a vegetation state. Occupancy and mean abundance of the common yellowthroat (Geothlypis trichas) was affected by structure of sugarcane and uncultivated edge vegetation (occupancy = 1.00 [${\rm 95\%}\,{\rm C\mathord{\buildrel{\lower3pt\hbox{$\scriptscriptstyle\frown$}}\over I} }$ = 0.96–1.00] and mean abundance = 7.9 [${\rm 95\%}\,{\rm C\mathord{\buildrel{\lower3pt\hbox{$\scriptscriptstyle\frown$}}\over I} }$ = 3.2–19.5] in tall sugarcane with tall edge vegetation versus 0.20 [${\rm 95\%}\,{\rm C\mathord{\buildrel{\lower3pt\hbox{$\scriptscriptstyle\frown$}}\over I} }$ = 0.04–0.71] and 0.22 [${\rm 95\%}\,{\rm C\mathord{\buildrel{\lower3pt\hbox{$\scriptscriptstyle\frown$}}\over I} }$ = 0.04–1.2], respectively, in short sugarcane with short edge vegetation in one half of the study area). Occupancy and mean abundance of palm warblers (Dendroica palmarum) were constant (occupancy = 1.00,${\rm 95\%}\,{\rm C\mathord{\buildrel{\lower3pt\hbox{$\scriptscriptstyle\frown$}}\over I} }$ = 0.69–1.00; mean abundance = 18,${\rm 95\%}\,{\rm C\mathord{\buildrel{\lower3pt\hbox{$\scriptscriptstyle\frown$}}\over I} }$ = 1–270). Our model may enable wildlife managers to assess rigorously effects of future edge habitat management on avian distribution and abundance within agricultural landscapes during winter or the breeding season. The model may also help wildlife managers make similar management decisions involving other dynamic habitats such as wetlands, prairies, and even forested areas if forest management or fires occur during the field season. © 2011 The Wildlife Society.
Leadership and the power of framing
Authors: Fairhurst Gail T.
Published: June 2011

When an organizational vision or change initiative fails in an organization, it is usually not because the CEO or some senior vice president has suddenly decided not to pursue it any longer, Gail T. Fairhurst argues. “On the contrary, the death‐knell sounds gradually” each time a leader loses an opportunity to frame the vision or initiative to daily reality or “the situation here and now.” Fairhurst shows how successful leaders “manage meaning” by carefully interpreting uncertainty and framing “the situation here and now” in ways that connect with others.
Layer‐by‐Layer Assembled Multilayer Films of Methoxypoly(ethylene glycol)‐block‐poly(α,L‐glutamic acid) and Chitosan with Reduced Cell Adhesion
Authors: Cao Bin , Yan Shifeng , Zhang Kunxi , Song Zhijiang , Chen Xuesi , Cui Lei , Yin Jingbo
Published: June 2011

A methoxypoly(ethylene glycol)‐block‐poly(α,L‐glutamic acid) (mPEGGA) diblock copolymer is synthesized. Using QCM measurements, it is shown that (CS/mPEGGA)n film construction takes place over two build‐up stages (exponential‐to‐linear). UV‐vis spectra reveal the regular increase of the multilayer film growth at different molecular weights of mPEGGA. Contact angle and surface morphology investigation prove that the hydrophilicity of CS/mPEGGA multilayer film‐modified substrate becomes better and the surface becomes rough. Significantly reduced cell adhesion is observed on the CS/mPEGGA multilayer film coated surface.

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Gold Nanoparticle/Carbazole Dendron Hybrids
Authors: Danda Chaitanya , Ponnapati Ramakrishna , Dutta Pampa , Taranekar Prasad , Patterson Gary , Advincula Rigoberto C.
Published: June 2011

The synthesis, spectral properties, and electropolymerization of hybrid gold nanoparticle core/carbazole dendron shells are reported. Ligand exchange of short‐chain alkane thiol stabilized Au‐NP is compared with direct synthesis using peripheral carbazole dendron ligands. Optical spectra, light scattering, TEM, and electron diffraction data confirm size, polydispersity, and composition. The direct synthesis route yields higher carbazole surface functionality. Higher dendron generation yields larger carbazole species on the surface. The advantage of a larger Au‐NP core is highlighted in terms of conformational mobility and electropolymerizability to form π‐conjugated polycarbazole species. Absorption and fluorescence shift is observed with the electropolymerized film.

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Newton‐Hodge filtration for self‐dual F‐crystals
Authors: Csima N. E.
Published: June 2011

In this paper we study F‐crystals with self‐dual structure over base schemes of characteristic p. We generalize Katz's Newton‐Hodge Filtration Theorem to F‐crystals with self‐dual structure. © 2011 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim
Ricci solitons of compact real hypersurfaces in Kähler manifolds
Authors: Cho Jong Taek , Kimura Makoto
Published: June 2011

If a compact real hypersurface of contact‐type in a complex number space admits a Ricci soliton, then it is a sphere. A compact Hopf hypersurface in a non‐flat complex space form does not admit a Ricci soliton. © 2011 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim
Graft‐crosslinked Copolymers Based on Poly(arylene ether ketone)‐gc‐sulfonated Poly(arylene ether sulfone) for PEMFC Applications
Authors: Zhang Xuan , Hu Zhaoxia , Luo Linqiang , Chen Shanshan , Liu Jianmei , Chen Shouwen , Wang Lianjun
Published: June 2011

Novel poly(arylene ether ketone) polymers with fluorophenyl pendants and phenoxide‐terminated wholly sulfonated poly(arylene ether sulfone) oligomers are prepared via Ni(0)‐catalyzed and nucleophilic polymerization, respectively, and subsequently used as starting materials to obtain graft‐crosslinked membranes as polymer electrolyte membranes. The phenoxide‐terminated sulfonated moieties are introduced as hydrophilic parts as well as crosslinking units. The chemical structure and morphology of the obtained membranes are confirmed by 1H NMR and tapping‐mode AFM. The properties required for fuel cell applications, including water uptake and dimensional change, as well as proton conductivity, are investigated. AFM results show a clear nanoscale phase‐separation microstructure of the obtained membranes. The membranes show good dimensional stability and reasonably high proton conductivities under 30–90% relative humidity. The anisotropic proton conductivity ratios (σ⟂/||) of the membranes in water are in the range 0.65–0.92, and increase with an increase in hydrophilic block length. The results indicate that the graft‐crosslinked membranes are promising candidates for applications as polymer electrolyte membranes.

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XIAP‐associated factor 1 (XAF1), a novel target of p53, enhances p53‐mediated apoptosis via post‐translational modification
Authors: Zou Bing , Chim Chor S. , Pang Roberta , Zeng Hui , Dai Yun , Zhang Rongxin , Lam Colin S.C. , Tan Victoria P.Y. , Hung Ivan F.N. , Lan Hui Y. , Wong Benjamin C.Y.
Published: June 2011

The role of X chromosome‐linked inhibitor of apoptosis protein (XIAP)‐associated factor 1 (XAF1) in mediating apoptosis has been reported but the underlying mechanism remains unclear. The present study was designed to examine the putative interaction between XAF1 and p53 and the functional importance of this interaction in regulation of apoptosis in human gastric and colon cancer cells. We first identified XAF1 as a novel target gene of p53 by the chromatin immunoprecipitation (CHIP) assay and demonstrated that wild‐type p53, but not mutant p53, down‐regulated XAF1 at both mRNA and protein levels, which acted mostly under the condition of high expression of XAF1 and was associated with the physical interaction between p53 and the XAF1 promoter. We also found that the over‐expression of XAF1 led to activation of wild‐type p53 via post‐translational modification in cells with or without DNA damage, which resulting in p53 nuclear accumulation and its increased transcriptional activity and enhancing p53‐dependent apoptosis. These findings suggest that a potential novel feedback loop exists between XAF1 and wild‐type p53. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Constitutive AhR activation leads to concomitant ABCG2‐mediated multidrug resistance in cisplatin‐resistant esophageal carcinoma cells
Authors: To Kenneth K.W. , Yu Le , Liu Shuwen , Fu Jianhua , Cho Chi Hin
Published: June 2011

Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is a highly malignant disease that is generally not responding to chemotherapy. It is particularly predominant in China. Although ESCC is significantly associated with cigarette smoking, the relationship between its molecular pathogenesis and responsiveness to chemotherapy and cigarette smoke remains elusive. This study reported the constitutive activation of aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR), leading to ABCG2 upregulation and the multidrug resistance (MDR) phenotype, in ESCC cell lines with acquired cisplatin resistance. Reporter gene assay, chromatin immunoprecipitation analysis and specific gene knockdown confirmed that the enhanced AhR binding to a xenobiotic response element (XRE) within the ABCG2 promoter is responsible for ABCG2 overexpression. A HSP90 inhibitor (17‐AAG) and two AhR antagonists (kaempferol and salicylamide) were shown to inhibit ABCG2 upregulation, thereby reversing the ABCG2‐mediated MDR. Our data therefore advocate the use of these inhibitors as novel chemosensitizers for the treatment of esophageal cancer. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
QUantitative Imaging of eXtraction of oxygen and TIssue consumption (QUIXOTIC) using venular‐targeted velocity‐selective spin labeling
Authors: Bolar D. S. , Rosen B. R. , Sorensen A. G. , Adalsteinsson E.
Published: June 2011

While oxygen extraction fraction (OEF) and cerebral metabolic rate of oxygen (CMRO2) are fundamental parameters of brain health and function, a robust MRI‐based mapping of OEF and CMRO2 amenable to functional MRI (fMRI) has not been established. To address this issue, a novel method called QUantitative Imaging of eXtraction of Oxygen and TIssue Consumption, or QUIXOTIC, is introduced. The key innovation in QUIXOTIC is the use of velocity‐selective spin labeling to isolate MR signal exclusively from postcapillary venular blood on a voxel‐by‐voxel basis. Measuring the T2 of this venular‐targeted blood allows calibration to venular oxygen saturation (Yv) via theoretical and experimental T2 versus blood oxygen saturation relationships. Yv is converted to OEF, and baseline CMRO2 is subsequently estimated from OEF and additional cerebral blood flow and hematocrit measurements. Theory behind the QUIXOTIC technique is presented, and implications of cutoff velocity (VCUTOFF) and outflow time parameters are discussed. Cortical gray matter values obtained with QUIXOTIC in 10 healthy volunteers are Yv = 0.73 ± 0.02, OEF = 0.26 ± 0.02, and CMRO2 = 125 ± 15 μmol/100 g min. Results are compared to global measures obtained with the T2 relaxation under spin tagging (TRUST) technique. The preliminary data presented suggest that QUIXOTIC will be useful for mapping Yv, OEF, and CMRO2, in both clinical and functional MRI settings. Magn Reson Med, 2011. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A novel small deletion in PMP22 causes a mild hereditary neuropathy with liability to pressure palsies phenotype
Authors: Casasnovas Carlos , Banchs Isabel , De Jorge Laura , Antónia albertí Maria , Martínez–Campo Yolanda , Povedano Mónica , Montero Jordi , Volpini Victor
Published: June 2011

Introduction: In this study we examined a family with electrophysiological findings of hereditary neuropathy with liability to pressure palsies (HNPP) and a mild clinical presentation.Methods: Four members of a family were referred for diagnosis of HNPP. Electrophysiological studies included motor and sensory nerve conduction studies in the upper and lower extremities. Investigations of microsatellites, using polymorphic repeat markers flanking the gene, and multiplex ligation‐dependent probe amplification (MLPA) were performed for molecular studies. Results: The initial study of microsatellites did not detect any change, but MLPA demonstrated a small deletion of exon 5 in the PMP22 gene. Conclusion: Our findings demonstrate the important role of small deletions in the PMP22 gene in the etiology of HNPP with a normal microsatellite study. Muscle Nerve 45: 135–138, 2012
Reproducibility of MUNIX in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Nandedkar Sanjeev D. , Barkhaus Paul E. , Stålberg Erik V.
Published: June 2011

Introduction: In this study we investigated the reproducibility of motor unit number index (MUNIX) in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Methods: MUNIX was recorded in patients with ALS. Studies were performed in 18 thenar and 18 hypothenar muscles by two operators. The reproducibility was assessed using mean MUNIX values, linear regression, correlation coefficient, and coefficient of variation (COV) in individual studies. Results: The mean values showed no significant difference. The linear regression showed a strong correlation. Most patients had low COV. A high COV was seen when MUNIX was very low. The COV was higher in thenar than in hypothenar muscles. Conclusions: MUNIX has very good reproducibility in ALS patients. COV may exaggerate interoperator variation when MUNIX is very low. The higher variability in the thenar muscle is also due to variability in compound muscle action potential amplitude. Although both muscles show good reproducibility, the hypothenar is better suited for serial studies in individual patients Muscle Nerve, 2011
Prevalence and risk factors of muscle complications secondary to statins
Authors: El‐Salem Khalid , Ababneh Bashar , Rudnicki Stacy , Malkawi Ahmad , Alrefai Ali , Khader Yousef , Saadeh Ruba , Saydam Mohammad
Published: June 2011

Introduction: The aim of the study was to investigate the prevalence and risk factors of muscle complications among patients using statins. Methods: We conducted a prospective comparative study on 345 patients receiving statins and compared the findings with an age‐ and gender‐matched control group of 85 subjects. Univariate and multivariate analyses with logistic regression models were used to study the association of different patient and disease characteristics with muscle complications. Results: Adverse reactions were reported by 21% of patients and 5.9% of controls (P = 0.0013). Objective weakness was found in 15% of the patients who reported muscle symptoms (3.2% of the total cohort), but not in controls. Older age, longer duration of statin use, diabetes, stroke, and lower body mass index were associated with increased risk of developing these symptoms. Conclusions: Adverse reactions to statins may be more common than previously reported, and they may be affected by specific patient and disease characteristics. Muscle Nerve 2011
Variability of urodynamic parameters in patients with overactive bladder
Authors: Frenkl Tara L. , Railkar Radha , Palcza John , Scott Boyd B. , Alon Achilles , Green Stuart , Schaefer Werner
Published: June 2011

Aims

To report interpatient, intrapatient, and study site variability of urodynamic study (UDS) parameters in patients with overactive bladder (OAB).

Methods

Fifty‐eight patients with OAB participated in a randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, urodynamic trial of an experimental OAB drug. Patients underwent 3 serial cystometries (CMGs) at three times: screening, pre‐dose, and 4‐hr postdose. This post hoc analysis describes intrapatient, interpatient, and site variability for the 6 CMGs prior to administration of study drug. Sites were given standard procedures for equipment calibration and UDS technique. Instilled volumes and pressures were recorded at first sensation of filling, first desire to void (FDV), strong desire to void (SDV), and maximum cystometric capacity (MCC).

Results

The UDS volume endpoint with the smallest observed within‐patient variability based on coefficient of variation (%CV) was MCC (%CV 24). Pressure measurements of all bladder sensations had larger within‐patient variability than volume (MCC %CV 105). The between‐patient variability was greater than within‐patient variability for all bladder sensation volumes. Between‐patient MCC variability for the 6 pre‐treatment CMGs ranged from %CV of 50 to 58, whereas the within‐patient %CV for MCC was 21–23. Excellent reproducibility was observed for bladder volume for MCC (intraclass correlation coefficients, range: 0.80–0.84). The between‐site variability was large, as demonstrated by the mean volumes by site for MCC (132–397 ml).

Conclusions

MCC was the most reproducible sensation. Pressure measurements were substantially more variable than volume. Between‐patient variability was substantially greater than within‐patient variability. The observed intersite variability suggests that despite detailed instructions, sensations may not have been measured in a consistent manner across sites. Neurourol. Urodynam. Neurourol. Urodynam. 30: 1565–1569, 2011. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Managing unsatisfactory outcome after mid‐urethral tape insertion
Authors: Smith Anthony R.B. , Artibani Walter , Drake Marcus J.
Published: June 2011

This article reviews the literature on the assessment and management of women whose previous mid‐urethral tape surgery to manage stress urinary incontinence symptoms has failed to produce a satisfactory outcome. In many areas the literature is deficient and the article includes consensus statements drawn from the International Continence Society Research Society meeting in Bristol in June 2010. The need for a structured approach to assessment and management is highlighted, so that further research into areas of uncertainty can be prioritized. The article concludes with a number of research recommendations. Neurourol. Urodynam. Neurourol. Urodynam. 30:771–774, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Detrusor underactivity: A plea for new approaches to a common bladder dysfunction
Authors: van Koeveringe G.A. , Vahabi B. , Andersson K.E. , Kirschner‐Herrmans R. , Oelke M.
Published: June 2011

Aims

Detrusor underactivity (DU) is defined by the International Continence Society as a contraction of reduced strength and/or duration resulting in prolonged or incomplete emptying of the bladder but has yet received only little attention. The purpose of this report is to summarize the ICI‐RS meeting in Bristol in 2010 exploring current knowledge on DU and outline directions for future research.

Methods

A think tank discussion was held and the summary of discussions was presented to all ICI‐RS participants. This report is based on the final discussions.

Results

The understanding of the pathophysiology, epidemiology, assessment, and treatment of DU remains rudimentary. DU is defined by pressure‐flow analysis but no consensus exists regarding which of the available formulae should be used for quantification of detrusor work. DU is likely to be multifactorial. Aging causes a decay in detrusor activity but other concomitant causes, either myogenic or neurogenic, may aggravate the problem resulting in decrease of detrusor contractility. No effective pharmacotherapy for the condition exists. Only a few surgical therapeutic strategies have been explored, such as neuromodulation and skeletal muscle myoplasties. Consequently, the management of affected individuals remains unsatisfactory.

Conclusions

Future directions recommended by the ICI‐RS panel include assessment of pathogenesis by developing novel animal models in addition to new non‐invasive tests allowing longitudinal trials. Furthermore, optimizing the existing evaluation algorithms to support standard testing for DU and further epidemiological studies to quantify the size of the problem are required for the development of future treatment modalities. Neurourol. Urodynam. Neurourol. Urodynam. 30:723–728, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Determining the optimal pelvic floor muscle training regimen for women with stress urinary incontinence
Authors: Dumoulin Chantale , Glazener Cathryn , Jenkinson David
Published: June 2011

Pelvic floor muscle (PFM) training has received Level‐A evidence rating in the treatment of stress urinary incontinence (SUI) in women, based on meta‐analysis of numerous randomized control trials (RCTs) and is recommended in many published guidelines. However, the actual regimen of PFM training used varies widely in these RCTs. Hence, to date, the optimal PFM training regimen for achieving continence remains unknown and the following questions persist: how often should women attend PFM training sessions and how many contractions should they perform for maximal effect? Is a regimen of strengthening exercises better than a motor control strategy or functional retraining? Is it better to administer a PFM training regimen to an individual or are group sessions equally effective, or better? Which is better, PFM training by itself or in combination with biofeedback, neuromuscular electrical stimulation, and/or vaginal cones? Should we use improvement or cure as the ultimate outcome to determine which regimen is the best? The questions are endless. As a starting point in our endeavour to identify optimal PFM training regimens, the aim of this study is (a) to review the present evidence in terms of the effectiveness of different PFM training regimens in women with SUI and (b) to discuss the current literature on PFM dysfunction in SUI women, including the up‐to‐date evidence on skeletal muscle training theory and other factors known to impact on women's participation in and adherence to PFM training. Neurourol. Urodynam. Neurourol. Urodynam. 30:746–753, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Rodent models for urodynamic investigation
Authors: Andersson Karl‐Erik , Soler Roberto , Füllhase Claudius
Published: June 2011

Rodents, most commonly rats, mice, and guinea pigs are widely used to investigate urinary storage and voiding functions, both in normal animals and in models of disease. An often used methodology is cystometry. Micturitions in rodents and humans differ significantly and this must be considered when cystometry is used to interpret voiding in rodent models. Cystometry in humans requires active participation of the investigated patient (subject), and this can for obvious reasons not be achieved in the animals. Cystometric parameters in rodents are often poorly defined and do not correspond to those used in humans. This means that it is important that the terminology used for description of what is measured should be defined, and that the specific terminology used in human cystometry should be avoided. Available disease models in rodents have limited translational value, but despite many limitations, rodent cystometry may give important information on bladder physiology and pharmacology. The present review discusses the principles of urodynamics in rodents, techniques, and terminology, as well as some commonly used disease models, and their translational value. Neurourol. Urodynam. Neurourol. Urodynam. 30:636–646, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Sophisticated models and methods for studying neurogenic bladder dysfunction
Authors: Kanai Anthony , Zabbarova Irina , Ikeda Youko , Yoshimura Naoki , Birder Lori , Hanna‐Mitchell Ann , de Groat William
Published: June 2011

Aim

To describe how the use of new and established animal models and methods can generate vital and far reaching experimental data in the study of mechanism underlying neurogenic bladder overactivity.

Methods

Bladder and colonic irradiated mice and those with upper and lower motor neuron lesions were used to study neurogenic bladder overactivity. Methods included cystometry, tension measurements, afferent nerve recordings and optical mapping of action potentials and intracellular Ca2+ transients. Recordings were made in a number of innovative preparations including in‐line cultured cells, bladder‐urethra sheets and cross‐sections, spinal cord slices and the cerebral cortex.

Results

The animal models and methods used allow for the study of peripheral and central mechanisms of neurogenic overactivity. While colonic irradiation results in solely neurogenic dysfunction, spinal cord lesions also induce non‐neural changes resulting in increased spontaneous detrusor contractions that can directly stimulate afferent nerves. Imaging of cultured bladder interstitial cells reveals spontaneous firing that could contribute to detrusor overactivity, while optical imaging of the spinal cord and brain could identify changes in central pathways that underlie lower urinary tract dysfunction.

Conclusions

The animal models and methods described allow for the study of neurogenic overactivity at the peripheral, spinal and cortical levels. This may lead to greater understanding of sensory and motor mechanisms involved in incontinence, the contributions of interstitial cells and spontaneous detrusor contractions, and the involvement of the cortex. Neurourol. Urodynam. 30:658–667, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Is sensory testing during lead placement crucial for achieving positive outcomes after sacral neuromodulation?
Authors: Peters Kenneth M. , Killinger Kim A. , Boura Judith A.
Published: June 2011

Aims

Motor and sensory responses help guide lead placement during staged neuromodulation procedures. However, eliciting sensory responses requires lighter anesthesia. We evaluated the impact of assessing sensory responses during quadripolar tined lead placement on outcomes in subjects with refractory voiding symptoms.

Methods

Adults who had a sacral lead placed were identified from our prospective neuromodulation database and grouped by whether they had intraoperative sensory testing or not. History, operative data, and implantable permanent generator (IPG) implant, lead revision and device explant rates were collected from medical records. Symptoms were evaluated with the Interstitial Cystitis Symptom Index/Problem Index (ICSI‐PI) and scaled global response assessments (GRA) for the first 24 months post IPG placement. Data were analyzed using Pearson's Chi‐square, Fisher's Exact, or Wilcoxon rank test.

Results

Of 141 subjects (82% female), 86 (61%) had sensory testing and 55 (39%) did not. Sensory and no sensory testing groups were not significantly different on demographics, urologic diagnosis, IPG implant rates (76/84; 90% and 48/55; 87% respectively) or mean operative time (37.9 ± 13.9 minutes vs. 35.5 ± 11.6). Within 4 years, 19/141 (13.5%) were revised and/or explanted. For explant alone, 11/86 (13%) in the sensory and only 3/55 (5.5%) in the no sensory group (P = 0.16) were explanted. Overall, ICSI‐PI scores improved over time (P < 0.0001) and most reported improvement on the GRA at each time point, but no differences were seen between groups.

Conclusions

Intraoperative sensory testing during sacral lead placement does not necessarily improve IPG implantation rates or clinical outcomes of neuromodulation. Neurourol. Urodynam. 30: 1489–1492, 2011. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Nocturia: New Directions
Authors: Weiss Jeffrey P. , Wein Alan J. , van Kerrebroeck Philip , Dmochowski Roger , Fitzgerald Marypat , Tikkinen Kari A.O. , Abrams Paul
Published: June 2011

The Nocturia Think Tank (TT) met during the 2010 meeting of the International Consultation on Incontinence‐Research Society to discuss present knowledge and future directions in care and research of this prominent component of the spectrum of lower urinary tract symptoms. Questions raised included whether nocturia should be re‐defined as a function of its bother, effects on quality of life, and economic impact upon society. At issue is the need to delineate the determinants of successful nocturia management. The multifactorial nature of nocturia requires that progress in its treatment will be dependent upon the cooperative investigation on the part of urologists, urogynecologists, geriatricians, epidemiologists, medical economists and pharma. Areas for future avenues of research were outlined at the conclusion of the meeting. Neurourol. Urodynam. Neurourol. Urodynam. 30:700–703, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Quality control in urodynamics and the role of software support in the QC procedure
Authors: Hogan S. , Jarvis P. , Gammie A. , Abrams P.
Published: June 2011

Aims

This article aims to identify quality control (QC) best practice, to review published QC audits in order to identify how closely good practice is followed, and to carry out a market survey of the software features that support QC offered by urodynamics machines available in the UK.

Methods and Results

All UK distributors of urodynamic systems were contacted and asked to provide information on the software features relating to data quality of the products they supply. The results of the market survey show that the features offered by manufacturers differ greatly. Automated features, which can be turned off in most cases, include: cough recognition, detrusor contraction detection, and high pressure alerts. There are currently no systems that assess data quality based on published guidelines.

A literature review of current QC guidelines for urodynamics was carried out; QC audits were included in the literature review to see how closely guidelines were being followed. This review highlights the fact that basic QC is not being carried out effectively by urodynamicists.

Conclusion

Based on the software features currently available and the results of the literature review there is both the need and capacity for a greater degree of automation in relation to urodynamic data quality and accuracy assessment. Some progress has been made in this area and certain manufacturers have already developed automated cough detection. Neurourol. Urodynam. Neurourol. Urodynam. 30: 1557–1564, 2011. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Measuring leadership in multisector health care alliances
Authors: Alexander Jeffrey A. , Hearld Larry R. , Mittler Jessica
Published: June 2011

Whereas many aspects of community health alliances have received attention by researchers and practitioners, leadership has consistently been highlighted as essential to their success. However, much of the writing on alliance leadership remains anecdotal and prescriptive, leaving the fundamental nature and assessment of alliance leadership unexamined. Using qualitative and survey data collected from two large studies of community health alliances, we describe aspects of leadership in alliances, construct a survey‐based scale to assess leadership in community health care alliances, and provide initial psychometric assessment and validation of this new measure. Results of the reliability and validity assessments suggest considerable support for the survey‐based measure. Although further psychometric testing is needed, the leadership measure holds the potential for researchers to go beyond anecdotal evidence by providing a more objective and comparable basis for assessing the contribution of leadership in health care alliances.
Will this voluntary project be successful?: Validation of an instrumental model of volunteering behavior
Authors: Lindenmeier Jörg , Dietrich Martin
Published: June 2011

This study examines whether instrumental considerations influence people's decision to start volunteering. Using social dilemma theory as a basis, the authors assume that the decision to start volunteering is contingent on whether a voluntary program will be successful in achieving a collective goal. The study's findings underscore the importance of anticipated success likelihood perceptions, which appear to have a major impact on potential volunteers' decision‐making process. Furthermore, social consensus beliefs relating to proximate referents have a more distinct impact than do social consensus beliefs relating to distant referents. Finally, the study reveals interesting gender‐specific differences. On the basis of the results from the empirical analysis, the study offers implications for management and avenues for further research.
A discussion of the differences in volunteering rates in the panel study of income dynamics, the current population survey, and independent sector volunteering studies
Authors: Nesbit Rebecca Ann
Published: June 2011

In this research note, I seek to explain differences in volunteering rates in three major volunteering studies—the Panel Study of Income Dynamics Philanthropy Module (known as the COPPS data), the Current Population Survey's volunteering supplement (CPS), and the Independent Sector's (IS) study, Giving and Volunteering in the United States. I compare each study in terms of survey methodology and volunteering questionnaire content. Then I discuss reasons for differences in the volunteering rates of these surveys based on methodology and questionnaire content.
Development of an upwinding particle interaction kernel for simulating incompressible Navier‐Stokes equations
Authors: Huang Chinlong , Sheu Tony W.H.
Published: June 2011

In this study, we are aimed to derive a kernel function, which accounts for the interaction among particles, within the framework of particle method. To get a computationally more accurate solution for the incompressible Navier‐Stokes equations, determination of kernel function is a key to success in the developed interaction model. In the light of the underlying fact that the smoothed quantity for a scalar or a vector at a particle location is mathematically identical to its collocated value provided that the kernel function is chosen as the Dirac delta function, our guideline is to make the modified kernel function closer to the Dirac delta function as much as possible in flow conditions when diffusion dominates convection. As convection prevailingly dominates its diffusion counterpart, particle interaction at the upstream side should be favorably taken into account to avoid numerical oscillations resulting from the convective instability. The proposed particle interaction model featuring with the newly developed kernel function will be validated through several scalar transport and Navier‐Stokes problems which have either analytical or benchmark solutions. The stability condition and the spatial accuracy order of the proposed particle interaction model will be also analyzed in details in this article for the sake of completeness. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Numer Methods Partial Differential Eq 2012
Continuous interior penalty finite element methods for Sobolev equations with convection‐dominated term
Authors: Zhang Xianqiang , Wang Wenqia , Lu Tongchao
Published: June 2011

We consider implicit and semi‐implicit time‐stepping methods for continuous interior penalty (CIP) finite element approximations of Sobolev equations with convection‐dominated term. Stability is obtained by adding an interior penalty term giving L2 ‐control of the jump of the gradient over element faces. Several
$\cal {A}$
‐stable time‐stepping methods are analyzed and shown to be unconditionally stable and optimally convergent. We show that the contribution from the gradient jumps leading to an extended matrix pattern may be extrapolated from previous time steps, and hence handled explicitly without loss of stability and accuracy. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Numer Methods Partial Differential Eq 2012
Dissipative control for singular Markovian jump systems with time delay
Authors: Wang Guoliang , Zhang Qingling , Yang Chunyu
Published: June 2011

This paper focuses on the problem of dissipative control for continuous‐time singular time‐delayed systems with Markovian jump parameters. Different from usually mode‐dependent or mode‐independent controller design methods, a partially mode‐dependent dissipative controller is firstly proposed via using a mode‐dependent Lyapunov function. The stochastic property of the mode available to a controller operation is taken into consideration in the corresponding controller design. Moreover, the existence of the established controller is given in terms of strict linear matrix inequalities. Finally, numerical examples are used to demonstrate the effectiveness of the given theoretical results. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Functional properties of microwave‐absorbent nanocomposite coatings based on thermoplastic polyurethane‐based and hybrid carbon‐based nanofillers
Authors: Bhattacharyya A. , Joshi M.
Published: June 2011

This paper describes the effect of nanofillers, such as nanographite, nickel–zinc ferrite (NiZnFerrite), and in‐house developed hybrid nanographite particles (i.e. iron‐coated nanographite [FeNG] and iron–nickel co‐deposited nanographite [FeNiNG] particles), on microwave‐absorption properties of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) based nanocomposite coatings on textile substrate. The flexible coatings were tested for various functional properties such as microwave absorbency, gas barrier property, impedance, and weather resistance. The comparison has also been made with other fillers such as bulk graphite (G) and iron powder (Fe) and carbon nanofiber (CNF) in coating form. The nanoparticles' dispersion was observed through optical microscope and phase image analysis on atomic force microscopy. The impedance behavior of such coated samples with 10 wt% nanofillers is frequency dependent except for CNF, which shows frequency‐independent behavior even at 2 wt% loading. The gas barrier property of the FeNG‐based and FeNiNG‐based coatings is better than that of pure TPU; however, G‐based, NG‐based, and NiZnFerrite‐based coatings show excellent barrier property. The coatings were evaluated for their microwave absorbency at low‐frequency (from 0.3 to 1.5 GHz) as well as high‐frequency (8–18 GHz) ranges. The FeNG‐based and FeNiNG‐based nanocomposite coatings showed good absorbency over a frequency range of 8 to 14 GHz as compared with those of others. The flexibility of the nanocomposite films is almost retained even at 10 wt% nanofiller loading. The weather resistance of the films was also evaluated, and the FeNiNG‐based coating outperformed the FeNG‐based coating as the latter is prone to oxidation on exposure to environment. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Electrochromic properties of the polyethylene terephthalate derivative film‐modified electrode
Authors: Watanabe Yuichi , Nakamura Kazuki , Kobayashi Norihisa
Published: June 2011

We studied the electrochromic (EC) properties of the cross‐linked phthalate polymer [polyethylene terephthalate (PET) derivative]‐modified electrode. PET showed a vivid color change from clear colorless to magenta by electrochemical reduction as similar to dimethyl terephthalate (DMT) reported previously, because PET contains DMT moieties in the main chain. The PET film‐modified electrode exhibited better coloring and memory properties than DMT. Cross‐linked PET‐modified electrode achieved good coloring characteristics and switching stability. It is revealed that phthalate polymer showed good EC properties than phthalate monomer. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Childhood cancer survivorship educational resources in North American pediatric hematology/oncology fellowship training programs: A survey study
Authors: Nathan Paul C. , Schiffman Joshua D. , Huang Sujuan , Landier Wendy , Bhatia Smita , Eshelman‐Kent Debra , Wright Jennifer , Oeffinger Kevin C. , Hudson Melissa M.
Published: June 2011

Background

Childhood cancer survivors require life‐long care by clinicians with an understanding of the specific risks arising from the prior cancer and its therapy. We surveyed North American pediatric hematology/oncology training programs to evaluate their resources and capacity for educating medical trainees about survivorship.

Procedure

An Internet survey was sent to training program directors and long‐term follow‐up clinic (LTFU) directors at the 56 US and Canadian centers with pediatric hematology/oncology fellowship programs. Perceptions regarding barriers to and optimal methods of delivering survivorship education were compared among training program and LTFU clinic directors.

Results

Responses were received from 45/56 institutions of which 37/45 (82%) programs require that pediatric hematology/oncology fellows complete a mandatory rotation focused on survivorship. The rotation is 4 weeks or less in 21 programs. Most (36/45; 80%) offer didactic lectures on survivorship as part of their training curriculum, and these are considered mandatory for pediatric hematology/oncology fellows at 26/36 (72.2%). Only 10 programs (22%) provide training to medical specialty trainees other than pediatric hematology/oncology fellows. Respondents identified lack of time for trainees to spend learning about late effects as the most significant barrier to providing survivorship teaching. LTFU clinic directors were more likely than training program directors to identify lack of interest in survivorship among trainees and survivorship not being a formal or expected part of the fellowship training program as barriers.

Conclusions

The results of this survey highlight the need to establish standard training requirements to promote the achievement of basic survivorship competencies by pediatric hematology/oncology fellows. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2011; 57: 1186–1190. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
High‐grade brain tumors in siblings with biallelic MSH6 mutations
Authors: Ilencikova Denisa , Sejnova Daniela , Jindrova Jana , Babal Pavel
Published: June 2011

Biallelic germline mutations of Constitutional mismatch repair‐deficiency syndrome (CMMR‐D) genes, MLH1, MSH2, MSH6, and PMS2 are characterized by increased risk of childhood malignancy. We report a case with CMMR‐D caused by novel homozygous MSH6 mutations leading to gliomatosis cerebri and T‐ALL in an 11‐year‐old female and glioblastoma multiforme in her 10‐year‐old brother, both with rapid progression of the diseases. A literature review on brain tumors in CMMR‐D families shows that they are treatment‐resistant and lead to early death. Identification of patients with CMMR‐D is critical, and specific cancer screening programs with early surgery are recommended. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2011; 57: 1067–1070. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.