bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of social networks derived from ecological data: implications for inferring infectious disease dynamics
Authors: Perkins Sarah E. , Cagnacci Francesca , Stradiotto Anna , Arnoldi Daniele , Hudson Peter J.
Published: May 2009

1. Social network analyses tend to focus on human interactions. However, there is a burgeoning interest in applying graph theory to ecological data from animal populations. Here we show how radio‐tracking and capture–mark–recapture data collated from wild rodent populations can be used to generate contact networks.

2. Both radio‐tracking and capture–mark–recapture were undertaken simultaneously. Contact networks were derived and the following statistics estimated: mean‐contact rate, edge distribution, connectance and centrality.

3. Capture–mark–recapture networks produced more informative and complete networks when the rodent density was high and radio‐tracking produced more informative networks when the density was low. Different data collection methods provide more data when certain ecological characteristics of the population prevail.

4. Both sets of data produced networks with comparable edge (contact) distributions that were best described by a negative binomial distribution. Connectance and closeness were statistically different between the two data sets. Only betweenness was comparable. The differences between the networks have important consequences for the transmission of infectious diseases. Care should be taken when extrapolating social networks to transmission networks for inferring disease dynamics.
Irritable bowel syndrome is more frequent in patients hospitalized for ischaemic colitis: results of a case–control study
Authors: Hervé S. , Beaugerie L. , Bouhnik Y. , Savoye G. , Colombel J.‐f. , Dyard F. , Hourmand‐ollivier I. , Dao T. , Vial M. , Lerebours E.
Published: May 2009

Abstract  It has been suspected that there is an epidemiological link between irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and ischaemic colitis (IC). We performed a retrospective case–control study to compare the frequency of IBS in patients hospitalized for IC compared with that of patients with peptic ulcer bleeding. Cases were patients with a first episode of IC and controls were patients with a first episode of peptic ulcer bleeding, matched to cases for sex and 10‐year age‐class. Diagnosis of IBS was based on medical information extracted from hospital medical files and a standard self‐questionnaire. The association between IBS and IC was tested using Mc Nemar’s paired odds ratio (OR); confidence interval at 95% (CI 95%) was calculated; Mantel–Haenzel’s Chi2 was applied. A total of 113 cases and 113 matched controls were studied. There were 37 males and 76 females and the mean age was 69 ± 15 years in each group. The prevalence of IBS in cases was 16.9%vs 1.8% in controls. The risk of IBS was 11.05 times higher among cases than in controls (P < 0.001); CI 95%: (2.45–49.74). A total of 87 pairs with complete data were used for OR calculation. The risk of IBS was 7.5 times higher in cases than in controls (P = 0.002); CI 95%: (1.72–32.80). This case–control study shows that IBS is more frequent in IC patients than in controls.
Expression of NKCC2 in the rat gastrointestinal tract
Authors: Xue H. , Liu S. , Ji T. , Ren W. , Zhang X. H. , Zheng L. F. , Wood J. D. , Zhu J. X.
Published: May 2009

Abstract  NKCC2, an isoform of Na+–K+–2Cl− cotransporter, is principally present in the kidney and plays a critical role in salt reabsorption. Expression of NKCC2 has been found in the apical membrane of intestinal epithelial cells in a number of marine fish, however, details for expression in the mammalian gastrointestinal tract are lacking. RT‐PCR, Western blotting and immunohistochemistry were used to study the expression and localization of NKCC2 in the rat gastrointestinal tract. We found that mRNA transcripts, protein and immunoreactivity (IR) for NKCC2 were expressed in the stomach, small and large intestine of adult rats. NKCC2 IR was localized to the base of the gastric glands, intestinal epithelia, myenteric and submucosal plexuses. NKCC2 IR was expressed strongly in the apical membranes and weakly in the basolateral membranes of intestinal epithelial cells. In the enteric nervous system, NKCC2 IR was widely distributed and localized to enteric neurons with cholinergic, calretinin and nitrergic neuronal immunochemical codes in the myenteric plexus. It was localized to non‐cholinergic secretomotor neurons in the submucosal plexus. In conclusion, this study for the first time clearly detected the expression of NKCC2 in the gastrointestinal tract of a mammalian species. Expression of NKCC2 in gastrointestinal epithelial cells suggested that this cation chloride cotransporter might be involved in gastrointestinal ion transport. Expression of NKCC2 in enteric neurons might contribute to the accumulation of Cl− and a more depolarized ECl− in enteric neurons.
Protracted course of juvenile ceroid lipofuscinosis associated with a novel CLN3 mutation (p.Y199X)
Authors: Sarpong A , Schottmann G , Rüther K , Stoltenburg G , Kohlschütter A , Hübner C , Schuelke M
Published: May 2009

The juvenile neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis (JNCL, Batten disease, MIM 204200), is an autosomal recessive lysosomal storage disease, which is characterized by ubiquitous accumulation of the lipopigment material ceroid‐lipofuscin. It manifests with loss of vision in childhood due to retinal degeneration, followed by seizures and parkinsonism leading to premature death at around 30 years. Eighty‐five percent of JNCL patients carry a disease‐causing 1.02 kb deletion in the CLN3 gene on chromosome 16. Here we report on a large consanguineous Lebanese family with five affected siblings. Electron microscopy of lymphocytes revealed the presence of fingerprint profiles suggesting JNCL. However, disease progression, especially of mental and motor function was slower as expected for ‘classic’ JNCL. We thus confirmed the diagnosis by genetic testing and found a new c.597C>A transversion in exon 8, homozygous in all affected family members and not present in 200 alleles of normal controls. The mutation generates a premature termination codon (p.Y199X) truncating the CLN3 protein by 55%. In heterozygous state mutant mRNA transcripts are expressed at the same levels as the wild‐type ones, suggesting the absence of nonsense mediated messenger decay. We discuss a potential residual catalytic function of the truncated protein as a cause for the mild phenotype.
Aspergillus infection limited to the anastomosed artery following renal transplantation: a report of 4 cases
Authors: Wang R. , Wu J. , Wang Y. , Huang H. , He Q. , Chen J.
Published: May 2009

Abstract: We present 4 cases of Aspergillus fumigatus infection limited to the anastomosed artery following renal transplantation. All grafts were nephrectomized. Two patients received 2 weeks of itraconazole therapy; both showing recurrence of pseudoaneurysms following discontinuation of therapy. Another 2 patients received 3 months of itraconazole therapy without recurrence of pseudoaneurysms. Surgical interventions were life saving. Resection of infected tissues and 3 months of antifungal therapy seemed to give better results than shorter antifungal strategies.
Sixteen years on: Has quality of care for rural and non‐compensable traumatic brain injury clients improved?
Authors: O'Callaghan Anna M. , McAllister Lindy , Wilson Linda
Published: May 2009

This review focuses on two factors that influence client access to care following head injury. These factors, namely the degree of rurality of a client's home town and the funding model to which they are allocated, are discussed in light of the results of the ‘Head Injury Impact Project’. National and international publications, anecdotal reports and clinical experience illustrating current practices in care provision both nationally and internationally are then described. Finally, future research is proposed investigating perceived variations in access to services according to location, funding and other factors.
Relationships between body fatness, small‐screen sedentary activity and regionality among schoolchildren in Victoria, Australia
Authors: Aucote Helen M. , Cooper Andrew
Published: May 2009

Objective:  To examine the difference in body fatness and engagement in small‐screen activities across children living in different degrees of regionality, and to examine the relationship between child body fatness and small‐screen activities.

Design:  Cross‐sectional study design.

Participants:  Grade 5–6 schoolchildren (n = 393) from central and metropolitan Victoria, and a parent/guardian of each child (n = 393).

Main outcome measures:  Parents completed a questionnaire on their child's engagement in television (TV) viewing and video game playing (VGP). Children's weight and height were measured by a researcher. Body mass index (BMI) (kg/m2) was calculated and adjusted for age and sex. Regionality (metropolitan, population > 100 000; regional, 100 000 > population < 20 000; and rural, population < 10 000) and socioeconomic status (socioeconomic indexes for areas: index of disadvantage) were assigned according to school attended.

Results:  BMI did not differ across regionality or sex. Boys engaged in more VGP than girls, and metropolitan children engaged in more VGP than rural and regional children. TV viewing did not differ across sex or regionality. VGP did not predict BMI, and TV viewing did not predict girls' BMI. Three to four per cent of the variance in boys' BMI was predicted by TV viewing.

Conclusions:  Boys and metropolitan children engage in more VGP. Boys', but not girls', BMI is related to TV viewing. Interventions designed to decrease engagement in TV viewing should be targeting boys.
Stress and help‐seeking for drought‐stricken citrus growers in the Riverland of South Australia
Authors: Staniford Alice K. , Dollard Maureen F. , Guerin Bernard
Published: May 2009

Objective:  To explore the psychological impact of a problematic industrial climate for citrus growers, their help‐seeking behaviour and perspectives on ways to encourage better use of rural mental health services.

Design:  Thematic analysis of in‐depth interviews.

Setting:  The Riverland of South Australia.

Participants:  Sixteen citrus growers (12 male, 4 female) from eight Riverland towns.

Main outcome measures:  Citrus growers' perceived factors relating to psychological stress, coping behaviours, impact of stress on well‐being, help‐seeking behaviours, barriers to help‐seeking and ways to encourage better use of rural mental health services.

Results:  Work‐related stresses grouped under broad themes, including ‘Uncontrollable events’, ‘Financial hardship’ and ‘Pressure’, had negative effects on participants' well‐being. Furthermore, it was found that significant difficulties arise because many of the stresses which growers endure are not controllable, and that the alleviation of strain with the help of mental health professionals is uncommon because of barriers preventing help‐seeking. Five broad themes of barriers to help‐seeking were extracted from the data: ‘Self‐reliance’, ‘Social image’, ‘Lack of knowledge’, ‘Negative perceptions of health professionals' efficacy’ and ‘Restrictive lifestyle factors’. A specialised model of occupational health for citrus growers was proposed.

Conclusions:  These results highlight the practical need to address the identified issues in delivery and promotion of health services when facilitating help‐seeking within this group. The findings also add to our knowledge of occupational health psychology broadly.
Connectivity and patch area in a coastal marine landscape: Disentangling their influence on local species richness and composition
Authors: BORTHAGARAY ANA INÉS , BRAZEIRO ALEJANDRO , GIMÉNEZ LUIS
Published: May 2009

Landscape ecology emerged as a terrestrial discipline to evaluate the effect of spatial configuration of natural systems on ecological patterns. The advances in marine systems have been comparatively scarce perhaps as a consequence of a long‐standing view about the greater dispersal potential of marine species and its effect on the spatial homogenization of marine landscapes. Herein we used an intertidal rocky system as a model to analyse the effect of landscape attributes on local species richness and composition. We evaluated the effect of patch area, landscape connectivity and salinity gradient on local species richness of macro‐invertebrates, and the effect of geographic distance on species similarity. We sampled 19 rocky patches along the Uruguayan Atlantic coast one time during the spring of 2003. The relative contribution of the variables assessed on specific richness of sessile, mobile and total macrofauna was analysed with a stepwise multiple linear regression. For the mobile macrofaunal richness, we also incorporated the sessile macrofaunal richness as another independent variable. The effect of geographic distance on biological similarity was assessed by a Mantel test. We showed that landscape connectivity, as a descriptor of the average physical isolation of a biological community in the landscape, is an important factor explaining the community species richness for sessile macrofauna, what indirectly increases the mobile macrofaunal richness. The geographic distance between sites was negatively related to species similarity. We suggest that at the landscape scale, connectivity among sites can be important to understand the local structure of marine communities, particularly in rocky intertidal systems. Also the distance‐decay of similarity in community composition provides a useful descriptor of how biological composition varies along a physical gradient. Our results contribute to reinforce the view that mesoscale connectivity (101–2 km) in coastal marine landscapes plays a more important role in local community structure than previously assumed.
Why do some species in arid lands increase under grazing? Mechanisms that favour increased abundance of Maireana pyramidata in overgrazed chenopod shrublands of South Australia
Authors: FACELLI JOSÉ M. , SPRINGBETT HEATHER
Published: May 2009

While the abundance of some plant species decreases under high grazing intensity, others become more abundant. Release from competition by decreaser species contributes to this pattern in mesic systems, but this may not be the case in xeric systems where competition may be less intense. Here we examine three mechanisms that may be involved: (i) increased recruitment and growth because of soil changes produced by grazing, for example, increased soil nutrient availability through dung accumulation; (ii) increased recruitment favoured by the breaking up of the lichen crust; and (iii) reduced competition because of the decline of decreaser species. We used field and glasshouse experiments to determine the possible contribution of these mechanisms to the increase of the chenopod Maireana pyramidata around a watering point in a chenopod shrubland of South Australia. There was no evidence of nutrient accumulation close to the watering point, and while seedlings of M. pyramidata responded to nutrient addition, their growth was the same in soil collected from areas with different grazing intensity. While a broken lichen crust increased the emergence of both M. pyramidata and the decreaser Atriplex vesicaria, the effect was larger for the former. We found no competition between seedlings of the two species or between juveniles of A. vesicaria and seedlings of M. pyramidata in glasshouse experiments. Adult plants of both A. vesicaria and M. pyramidata produced similar growth reduction in seedlings of M. pyramidata. Furthermore, a field removal experiment failed to detect any competitive effect of A. vesicaria on M. pyramidata. Our data indicate that the disintegration of the soil crust by grazer activities can be a major factor controlling floristic changes in overgrazed rangelands. These results imply that factors that control establishment may be more important than competition in shaping shrub population dynamics in these systems. Ground surface itself can affect establishment opportunities, and this should be taken into account in management and restoration efforts in arid lands.
Off‐label use of rituximab in a tertiary Queensland hospital
Authors: Butterly S. J. , Pillans P. , Horn B. , Miles R. , Sturtevant J.
Published: May 2009

Background:  Rituximab is a monoclonal antibody directed against CD20, a pan B lymphocyte marker. It is approved in Australia for treatment of CD20‐positive B cell non‐Hodgkin lymphoma and rheumatoid arthritis. There is increasing off‐label use of rituximab in conditions where B cells and autoantibodies play a role in the pathophysiology. Rituximab is not only expensive, but its safety in unregistered indications is uncertain.

Methods:  We performed a retrospective review of the off‐label use of rituximab approved by the High Cost Drug Subcommittee at the Princess Alexandra Hospital between 2005 and 2008. Cases of post transplant lymphoproliferative disorder were excluded.

Results:  A total of 28 patients received rituximab for a variety of off‐label indications. There were no reported cases of serious infusion reactions or other notable adverse events. The most favourable outcomes were seen in myasthenia gravis, shrinking lung syndrome, thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura, prevention and treatment of renal transplant rejection and lupus nephritis. No benefit was observed in cases of focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (primary or post‐transplant recurrence) and post‐transplant recurrence of haemolytic uremic syndrome. There was limited benefit in cryoglobulinaemic vasculitis. The cost of off‐label use was in excess of $210 000.

Conclusion:  In the absence of formal clinical trials, decisions regarding off‐label use of rituximab are difficult. Our cases contribute to the published literature and should help provide clinicians with greater insights into which conditions are likely to respond. As can be seen in our series, rituximab benefits people with certain conditions; longevity and cost‐effectiveness are currently unknown.
Atrial fibrillation and the risk of death in patients with heart failure: a literature‐based meta‐analysis
Authors: Wasywich C. A. , Pope A. J. , Somaratne J. , Poppe K. K. , Whalley G. A. , Doughty R. N.
Published: May 2009

Background: Heart failure (HF) and atrial fibrillation (AF) are common, associated with significant morbidity and mortality, and frequently coexist. It is uncertain from published data if the presence of AF in patients with HF is associated with an incremental adverse outcome. The aim of this study was to combine the results of all studies investigating prognosis for patients with HF and AF compared with those in sinus rhythm (SR) to asses the mortality risk associated with this arrhythmia.

Methods: Electronic databases were searched (Biological Abstracts, Current Contents, EMBASE, Medline, Medline In‐progress, PubMed and Scopus), to 31 December 2006, using the key words congestive heart failure, heart failure, ventricular dysfunction, atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter, sinus rhythm, prognosis, outcome, death and hospitalization. Bibliographies of retrieved publications were hand searched. Studies were eligible if they included a HF population and if outcomes were reported by cardiac rhythm (AF or SR). Studies were reviewed by predetermined protocol (including quality assessment). Data were pooled using a random effects model.

Results: Twenty studies were included (from 3380 initially identified) representing 32946 patients (10819 deaths). Nine randomized controlled trials (RCT) were included. The prevalence of AF was 15%, crude mortality rates were 46% (AF) and 33% (SR). The odds ratio for death was 1.33 (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.12–1.59) for AF compared with SR. Eleven observational studies were included. The prevalence of AF was 23%, crude mortality rates were 38% (AF) and 25% (SR). The odds ratio for death was 1.57 (95% CI 1.20–2.05) for AF compared with SR.

Conclusion: This meta‐analysis demonstrates that AF is associated with worse outcomes for patients with HF compared with those with SR. Further research is required to determine whether the adverse outcome associated with AF is related to the arrhythmia itself, or to variables, such as HF severity, patient age and comorbidity.
Involvement of hypothalamic peptides in the anorectic action of the CB1 receptor antagonist rimonabant (SR 141716)
Authors: Verty Aaron N. A. , Boon Wee M. , Mallet Paul E. , McGregor Iain S. , Oldfield Brian J.
Published: May 2009

Numerous studies have demonstrated that administration of rimonabant (SR 141716), a CB1 receptor antagonist, causes a decrease in energy intake. However, the mechanisms by which rimonabant exerts its anorectic actions are unclear. The main focus of the study reported here was to establish the chemical identity of neurons that may subserve the anorectic effects of rimonabant. As such three approaches were utilised: (i) the identification of rimonabant‐activated neurons using Fos as a marker of neuronal activity; (ii) the identification of the chemical phenotype of rimonabant‐activated neurons by combining immunocytochemical identification of Fos and feeding‐related peptides; and (iii) the evaluation of the effect of rimonabant on messenger RNA (mRNA) and protein for a number of feeding‐related peptides. Rimonabant‐induced Fos‐positive nuclei were localized within a range of discrete hypothalamic regions with a predominance in the parvocellular part of the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus, dorsomedial hypothalamus, arcuate nucleus and lateral hypothalamic area. Furthermore, Fos labelling within these hypothalamic regions was colocalized with anorexigenic and orexigenic peptides including melanin‐concentrating hormone (MCH), orexin, cocaine‐ and amphetamine‐regulated transcript (CART) and alpha‐melanocyte‐stimulating hormone (α‐MSH). Rimonabant specifically induced a decrease in NPY and an increase in CART and α‐MSH mRNA and protein, consistent with its effect in reducing food intake and increasing energy expenditure. As such these data provide insights into the mechanisms of action that may underpin rimonabant’s effects on energy balance and body weight.
Comparison between spontaneous and kainate‐induced gamma oscillations in the mouse hippocampus in vitro
Authors: Pietersen Alexander N.J. , Patel Nisha , Jefferys John G.R. , Vreugdenhil Martin
Published: May 2009

Neuronal synchronization at gamma frequency, implicated in cognition, can be evoked in hippocampal slices by pharmacological activation. We characterized spontaneous small‐amplitude gamma oscillations (SγO) recorded in area CA3 of mouse hippocampal slices and compared it with kainate‐induced gamma oscillations (KγO). SγO had a lower peak frequency, a more sinusoidal waveform and was spatially less coherent than KγO, irrespective of oscillation amplitude. CA3a had the smallest oscillation power, phase‐led CA3c by ∼4 ms and had the highest SγO frequency in isolated subslices. During SγO CA3c neurons fired at the rebound of inhibitory postsynaptic potentials (IPSPs) that were associated with a current source in stratum lucidum, whereas CA3a neurons often fired from spikelets, 3–4 ms earlier in the cycle, and had smaller IPSPs. Kainate induced faster/larger IPSPs that were associated with an earlier current source in stratum pyramidale. SγO and KγO power were dependent on α‐amino‐3‐hydroxy‐5‐methyl‐4‐isoxazolepropionic acid (AMPA) receptors, gap junctions and γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA)A receptors. SγO was suppressed by elevating extracellular KCl, blocking N‐methyl‐d‐aspartate (NMDA) receptors or muscarinic receptors, or activating GluR5‐containing kainate receptors. SγO was not affected by blocking metabotropic glutamate receptors or hyperpolarization‐activated currents. The adenosine A1 receptor antagonist 8‐cyclopentyl‐1,3‐dimethoxyxanthine (8‐CPT) and the CB1 cannabinoid receptor antagonist N‐(piperidin‐1‐yl)‐5‐(4‐iodophenyl)‐1‐(2,4‐dichlorophenyl)‐4‐methyl‐1H‐pyrazole‐3‐carboxamide (AM251) increased SγO power, indicating that endogenous adenosine and/or endocannabinoids suppress or prevent SγO in vitro. SγO emerges from a similar basic network as KγO, but differs in involvement of somatically projecting interneurons and pharmacological modulation profile. These observations advocate the use of SγO as a natural model for hippocampal gamma oscillations, particularly during less activated behavioural states.
Occurrence and distribution of sesamoid bones in squamates: a comparative approach
Authors: Jerez Adriana , Mangione Susana , Abdala Virginia
Published: May 2009

Jerez, A., Mangione, S. and Abdala, V. 2010. Occurrence and distribution of sesamoid bones in squamates: a comparative approach.—Acta Zoologica (Stockholm) 91: 295–305

Sesamoids are defined as skeletal elements that develop within a continuous band of regular dense connective tissue (tendon or ligament) adjacent to an articulation or joint. In this work, we discuss developmental data on two squamate species, provide data on the onset of the squamate sesamoids and the muscles they are associated to. Our results show that Mabuya mabouya and Liolaemus albiceps exhibited rather similar ontogenetic patterns and that the first sesamoids appear in embryos. The ossifying sesamoid timing is different between M. mabouya and L. albiceps, being faster in the former. In adults, we found 41 sesamoids, considering both fore and hindlimbs. We did not find any intrataxonomic differences, or any differences between the right and left side of the specimens in relation to the sesamoid presence. We recognize four types of sesamoids: (1) embedded sesamoids; (2) interosseus sesamoids; (3) glide sesamoids; and (4) supporting sesamoids. A table is included with a preliminary survey of the sesamoid distribution pattern in 10 Squamate clades.
Parallel increase of plasma apoproteins C‐II and C‐III in Type 2 diabetic patients
Authors: Béliard S. , Nogueira J. P. , Maraninchi M. , Lairon D. , Nicolay A. , Giral P. , Portugal H. , Vialettes B. , Valéro R.
Published: May 2009

Aims  To determine plasma levels of apoprotein (apo) C‐II and apoprotein C‐III in Type 2 diabetic patients and to examine the clinical and biological factors that are associated with elevated apoC concentrations.

Methods  We measured apoC‐II and apoC‐III in total plasma and in non‐high‐density lipoprotein fractions by an immunoturbidimetric assay in 88 Caucasian Type 2 diabetic patients and in 138 healthy control subjects.

Results  Plasma levels of both apoC‐II and apoC‐III were increased in Type 2 diabetic patients. The clinical conditions associated with an increase of plasma apoC‐II and apoC‐III were abdominal obesity, body mass index, poor glycaemic control and lack of insulin treatment. However, when multivariate analysis was used, plasma apoCs levels correlated with triglyceride levels only. The apoC‐III/apoC‐II ratio was similar in the Type 2 diabetic and control subjects.

Conclusions  Our study shows the parallel increase of apoC‐II and C‐III in Type 2 diabetic patients. This parallel increase is related to hypertriglyceridaemia only.
Validation of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) core set for diabetes mellitus from the patient perspective using focus groups
Authors: Kirchberger I. , Coenen M. , Hierl F. X. , Dieterle C. , Seissler J. , Stucki G. , Cieza A.
Published: May 2009

Aims The Comprehensive ICF Core Set for diabetes mellitus (DM) is a specific application of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) of the World Health Organization for clinical and research purposes involving the disorder. It represents the typical spectrum of functional problems in patients with DM. The objective of the study was to validate the Comprehensive ICF Core Set for DM from the perspective of patients. The specific aims were to explore the aspects of function and health important to patients with DM using focus group methodology and to examine to what extent these aspects are represented by the Comprehensive ICF Core Set for DM.

Methods A qualitative study using focus group methodology was conducted. Sampling of patients followed the maximum variation strategy. Sample size was determined by saturation. The focus group discussions were digitally recorded and transcribed verbatim. The meaning condensation procedure was used for data analysis. The resulting meaningful concepts were linked to ICF categories according to established linking rules.

Results Forty patients participated in eight focus groups. Seventy‐five of the 85 ICF categories contained in the Comprehensive ICF Core Set for DM were identified by the patients. Forty‐seven additional categories that are not covered by the Comprehensive ICF Core Set for DM were identified.

Conclusions The Comprehensive ICF Core Set for DM could be largely confirmed by the focus groups. Categories currently not covered by the Comprehensive ICF Core Set for DM should be investigated further.
Relative contributions of nine genes in the pathway of histidine biosynthesis to the control of free histidine concentrations inArabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Rees Jonathan D. , Ingle Robert A. , Smith J. Andrew C.
Published: May 2009

Despite the functional importance of histidine (His) as an essential amino acid in proteins and as a metal‐coordinating ligand, comparatively little is known about the regulation of its biosynthesis in plants and the potential for metabolic engineering of this pathway. To investigate the contribution of different steps in the pathway to overall control of His biosynthesis, nine His biosynthetic genes were individually over‐expressed inArabidopsis thalianato determine their effects on free amino acid pools. Constitutive, CaMV35S‐driven over‐expression of the cDNAs encoding either isoform of ATP‐phosphoribosyltransferase (ATP‐PRT), the first enzyme in the pathway, was sufficient to increase the pool of free His by up to 42‐fold in shoot tissue ofArabidopsis, with negligible effect on any other amino acid. In contrast, over‐expression of cDNAs for seven other enzymes in the biosynthetic pathway had no effect on His content, suggesting that control of the pool of free His resides largely with ATP‐PRT activity. Over‐expression of ATP‐PRT and increased His content had a negative pleiotropic effect on plant biomass production in35S:PRT1lines, but this effect was not observed in35S:PRT2lines. In the presence of 100 µM Ni, which was inhibitory to wild‐type plants, a strong positive correlation was observed between free His content and biomass production, indicating that the metabolic cost of His overproduction was outweighed by the benefit of increased tolerance to Ni. His‐overproducing plants also displayed somewhat elevated tolerance to Co and Zn, but not to Cd or Cu, indicating chemical selectivity in intracellular metal binding by His.
PARTIALLY LINEAR MODEL SELECTION BY THE BOOTSTRAP
Authors: Müller Samuel , Vial Céline
Published: May 2009

We propose a new approach to the selection of partially linear models based on the conditional expected prediction square loss function, which is estimated using the bootstrap. Because of the different speeds of convergence of the linear and the nonlinear parts, a key idea is to select each part separately. In the first step, we select the nonlinear components using an ‘m‐out‐of‐n’ residual bootstrap that ensures good properties for the nonparametric bootstrap estimator. The second step selects the linear components from the remaining explanatory variables, and the non‐zero parameters are selected based on a two‐level residual bootstrap. We show that the model selection procedure is consistent under some conditions, and our simulations suggest that it selects the true model most often than the other selection procedures considered.
Attribute‐Domain Matrix: A Reverse Engineering Method for Innovation
Authors: Hentschel Claudia
Published: May 2009

An innovative idea is a beautiful thing, but most innovative ideas do not become successful new products. For products that are successful, there is a variety of examples over more than 150 years of situations where customers used them in ways never planned by the designer. Only few companies are systematically exploiting non‐conventional use as a method to generate ideas for new product outcomes and problem solutions. TRIZ awareness of analogies systematizes the search for available alternate situations: the attribute‐domain matrix actively transfers product attributes to unexpected application domains, breaks the functional fixedness pattern and helps make aware the resources that are available in any product or system.
Linking Contradictions and Laws of Engineering System Evolution within the TRIZ Framework
Authors: Cavallucci Denis , Rousselot François , Zanni Cecilia
Published: May 2009

Tools and methods developed during the era of quality and optimization have shown their limitations and become inappropriate in the context of the requirements of innovation. Nowadays the need to rebuild design practices in enterprises is strongly felt both in terms of human skills and methodological expertise. In part, a way to face the innovation era's difficulties has been provided through the theory of inventive problem solving. This theory represents a significant breakthrough in driving problem statement and solving in a direction that is expressed through the idea that technical systems are driven by objective laws. A second postulate concerns the notion of contradiction, but so far only few contributions have addressed the relations between laws and contradictions. This paper, through a qualitative approach, presents a solution to this limitation and proposes a possible use of laws within the choice of the appropriate conflicting pair, prior to the use of any TRIZ solving techniques. Tests to observe the impact of the proposed approach were conducted in a French engineering ‘grande école’ during three semesters with 180 engineers. The contribution of this paper is twofold. On the one hand, there is a theoretical contribution to the theory of inventive problem solving. In addition, the proposed method offers especially TRIZ practitioners new ways for problem understanding and problem formulation.
The Product Piracy Conflict Matrix – Finding Solutions to Prevent Product Piracy
Authors: Schuh Günther , Kreysa Jennifer , Haag Christoph
Published: May 2009

Product and brand piracy has developed into a worldwide mass phenomenon. Affected companies are not only burdened with commercial losses such as lost sales volume and lower sales prices, but also by decreasing brand value and company reputation, lower licence revenues and, finally, costs for counteracting product piracy. Companies are gradually facing up to the challenge and taking action. Besides legal measures, an increasing number of firms are also willing to implement strategic and technical measures in their organizations or products respectively. A number of non‐legal mechanisms have recently been identified, and efforts to structure these mechanisms are in progress. However, so far systematic, methodological guidance in matching mechanisms with specific products and corporate boundary conditions is basically non‐existent. Focusing on this issue, the paper introduces a new TRIZ‐based method to create solutions concerning product piracy. The so‐called Product Piracy Conflict matrix (PPC matrix) resembles the well‐established TRIZ contradiction table and has been designed to help companies create powerful protection concepts while avoiding undesired or harmful effects within their own value chains.
Individual Differences in Course Choice Result in Underestimation of the Validity of College Admissions Systems
Authors: Berry Christopher M. , Sackett Paul R.
Published: May 2009

We demonstrate that the validity of SAT scores and high school grade point averages (GPAs) as predictors of academic performance has been underestimated because of previous studies' reliance on flawed performance indicators (i.e., college GPA) that are contaminated by the effects of individual differences in course choice. We controlled for this contamination by predicting individual course grades, instead of GPAs, in a data set containing more than 5 million college grades for 167,816 students. Percentage of variance accounted for by SAT scores and high school GPAs was 30 to 40% lower when the criteria were freshman and cumulative GPAs than when the criteria were individual course grades. SAT scores and high school GPAs together accounted for between 44 and 62% of the variance in college grades. This study provides new estimates of the criterion-related validity of SAT scores and high school GPAs, and highlights the care that must be taken in choosing appropriate criteria in validity studies.
GATT/WTO Promotes Trade Strongly: Sample Selection and Model Specification
Authors: Liu Xuepeng
Published: May 2009

Some recent empirical studies examine the impact of the GATT/WTO on trade. This paper investigates the sample selection bias and the gravity model specification issues in the literature. First, the GATT/WTO not only makes existing trading partners trade more at the intensive margin, but also creates new trading relationships at the extensive margin. Most existing papers exclude zero trade observations and hence ignore the extensive margin. Secondly, due to the violation of some maintained assumptions, the traditional log‐linear gravity regressions fail to uncover the role of the GATT/WTO even at the intensive margin. Using a large bilateral panel dataset including zero trade flows and a more appropriate econometric method, this paper finds that the GATT/WTO has been very effective in promoting world trade at both the intensive and extensive margins.
Population Ageing and the Labour Market: Evidence from Italy
Authors: Mosca Irene
Published: May 2009

Individual data from eight waves of the European Community Household Panel are used to investigate the impact of cohort size on age‐earnings and employment profiles of Italian male workers. Evidence that over the life cycle cohort size depresses employment opportunities of men with low education and earnings and employment rates of men with intermediate and high qualifications born into large cohorts is found. These results are used to carry out a simple simulation where the average future wages of Italian male workers are projected for the next 4.5 decades. According to this simulation, the wages of Italian male workers will follow a hump‐shaped pattern in the next three decades, before slightly increasing again.
The Structure of Wages by Firm Size: A Comparison of Canada and the USA
Authors: Lluis Stéphanie
Published: May 2009

Cross‐country comparisons of the skill premium between USA and Canada show differences in the returns to higher education between the two countries since the 1980s. This paper analyses whether such differences could be related to differences in skill distribution and worker sorting across firm size between the two countries. Estimation of the wage structure by size for male non‐unionized workers in the private sector reveals that selectivity effects on wages are present and similar in both countries. There are significant and substantial cross‐country differences in the returns to education among large firms, especially for younger workers.
Endogenous Contracts in Unionized Oligopoly
Authors: Kesavayuth Dusanee , Zikos Vasileios
Published: May 2009

We study the endogenous determination of contracts in a unionized oligopoly and the welfare implications thereof. Alternative contracts specify the sequencing in the selection of R&D and wages. They can be classified as ‘fixed’ when the unions set wages before the firms make their R&D decisions or ‘floating’ when the sequencing of these choices is reversed. If the unions are highly employment‐oriented, we find that either all firm–union pairs choose floating‐wage contracts or both contract types may coexist depending on the degree of technological spillovers. However, when the unions have stronger preference over attaining a good wage deal, then it becomes very likely that fixed‐wage contracts will endogenously emerge because they can serve as an insurance device against oppor tunistic wage increases. Our welfare analysis suggests that welfare‐improving contracts may nevertheless not always arise in equilibrium.
New karyotypic data for Asian rodents (Rodentia, Muridae) with the first report of B‐chromosomes in the genus Mus
Authors: Badenhorst D. , Herbreteau V. , Chaval Y. , Pagès M. , Robinson T. J. , Rerkamnuaychoke W. , Morand S. , Hugot J.‐P. , Dobigny G.
Published: May 2009

Karyotypes of 18 rodent species collected in various localities in Thailand were analysed as part of an epidemiological survey of the region using conventional cytogenetic techniques. The aim was to re‐assess the reliability of karyotype‐based diagnoses of Thai rodents using an updated taxonomic framework. The species examined include Menetes berdmorei (Sciuridae), Mus caroli, Mus cervicolor and Mus cookii, Hapalomys delacouri, Chiropodomys gliroides, as well as several representatives of most of the lineages of the Rattini tribe, that is Rattus exulans, Rattus losea, Rattus tanezumi, Leopoldamys edwardsi, Leopoldamys neilli, Maxomys surifer, Niviventer fulvescens, Berylmys berdmorei, Berylmys bowersi, Bandicota indica and Bandicota savilei (Muridae). The first descriptions of G‐ and/or C‐banding karyotypes are provided for several of these, that is, B. savilei, L. edwardsi, M. surifer, B. berdmorei, B. bowersi, N. fulvescens and H. delacouri. Although largely in agreement with available data, our findings on chromosome morphology differ slightly from those published for L. edwardsi, M. surifer, B. savilei and the two Berylmys species, B. berdmorei and B. bowersi. In addition, we document the novel finding of B‐chromosomes in the genera Berylmys, Bandicota and the emblematic Mus. Importantly, few species‐specific chromosomal characteristic could be identified within most of the genera investigated in our study and, in contrast to previous claims, the usefulness of karyotypes for diagnosing these Asian murid species appears to be limited.
Interaction between cannabinoid CB1receptors and endogenous ATP in the control of spontaneous mechanical activity in mouse ileum
Authors: Baldassano S , Zizzo MG , Serio R , Mulè F
Published: May 2009

Background and purpose: Although it is well accepted that cannabinoids modulate intestinal motility by reducing cholinergic neurotransmission mediated by CB1receptors, it is not known whether the endocannabinoids are involved in more complex circuits and if they interact with other systems. The aim of the present study was to examine possible interactions between cannabinoid CB1receptors and purines in the control of spontaneous contractility of longitudinal muscle in mouse ileum.

Experimental approach: The mechanical activity of longitudinally oriented ileal segments from mice was recorded as isometric contractions.

Key results: The selective CB1receptor agonist, N‐(2‐chloroethyl)5,8,11,14‐eicosaetraenamide (ACEA) reduced, concentration dependently, spontaneous contractions in mouse ileum. This effect was almost abolished by tetrodotoxin (TTX) or atropine. Inhibition by ACEA was not affected by theophylline (P1 receptor antagonist) or by P2Y receptor desensitization with adenosine 5′[β‐thio]diphosphate trilithium salt, but was significantly reversed by pyridoxal phosphate‐6‐azo(benzene‐2,4‐disulphonic acid) (P2 receptor antagonist), by P2X receptor desensitization with α,β‐methyleneadenosine 5′‐triphosphate lithium salt (α,β‐MeATP) or by 8,8′‐[carbonylbis(imino‐4,1‐phenylenecarbonylimino‐4,1‐phenylenecarbonylimino) bis(1,3,5‐naphthalenetrisulphonic acid)] (P2X receptor antagonist). Contractile responses to α,β‐MeATP (P2X receptor agonist) were virtually abolished by TTX or atropine, suggesting that they were mediated by acetylcholine released from neurones, and significantly reduced by ACEA.

Conclusion and implications: In mouse ileum, activation of CB1receptors, apart from reducing acetylcholine release from cholinergic nerves, was able to modulate negatively, endogenous purinergic effects, mediated by P2X receptors, on cholinergic neurons. Our study provides evidence for a role of cannabinoids in the modulation of interneuronal purinergic transmission.
Last Glacial Maximum equilibrium‐line altitude trends and precipitation patterns in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, southern Colorado, USA
Authors: REFSNIDER KURT A. , BRUGGER KEITH A. , LEONARD ERIC M. , McCALPIN JAMES P. , ARMSTRONG PHILIP P.
Published: May 2009

Precipitation patterns during the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM) in the Rocky Mountains varied due to the influence of the continental ice sheets and pluvial lakes. However, no constraints have been placed on potential changes of southeasterly Gulf of Mexico‐derived moisture that today contributes considerable precipitation to the easternmost ranges of the southern and middle Rocky Mountains. The Sangre de Cristo Mountains of southern Colorado are ideally situated to assess the relative importance of westerly and southeasterly‐derived moisture during the LGM. Based on reconstructions of 30 palaeoglaciers in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, we find that LGM equilibrium‐line altitudes (ELAs) on the east side of the range were systematically 100–200 m lower than ELAs on the west side. The observed ELA pattern is strikingly similar to modern precipitation patterns in the study area, suggesting that southeasterly‐derived precipitation had a significant influence on the mass balances of LGM glaciers.
Regeneration of functional sweat gland‐like structures by transplanted differentiated bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Sheng Zhiyong , Fu Xiaobing , Cai Sa , Lei Yonghong , Sun Tongzhu , Bai Xiaodong , Chen Minliang
Published: May 2009

Regeneration of sweat glands after deep burns has been an unsolved problem. Owing to lack of perspiration, survivors of an extensive deep burn injury are leading a miserable life in sultry months. It was our contemplation to solve this problem by inducing bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) to acquire the phenotype of sweat gland cells in vitro. Then these cells were transplanted into fresh skin wounds resulting from excision of anhydrotic scars after healing of deep burn injury in five patients. Two to 12 months after the procedure, it was proved that there was recovery of perspiration function in all the MSCs' transplanted areas, as evidenced by positive iodine–starch perspiration test. Histological and biochemical observation confirmed the involvement of MSCs transformed sweat gland cells in the recovery of functional sweat glands, and the components of sweat collected from these areas were similar to that collected from normal skin. This is the first report of successful transplantation of MSCs in regenerating functional sweat glands, which may help solve the problem of depletion of sweat glands in patients surviving extensive deep burns in the future.
α1‐Antichymotrypsin activity correlates with and may modulate matrix metalloproteinase‐9 in human acute wounds
Authors: Reiss Matthew J. , Han Yuan‐Ping , Garner Warren L.
Published: May 2009

Matrix metalloproteinase‐9 (MMP‐9) plays a central role in many physiologic processes including acute and the chronic wounds. MMP‐9 is not routinely expressed in healthy tissues but is promptly expressed as a proenzyme and converted into active enzyme after tissue injury. The mechanisms involved, including the activators and inhibitors for this enzyme in human tissue remain largely obscure. We recently identified α1‐antichymotrypsin (α1‐ACT), an acute phase factor, as a potent inhibitor controlling activation of pro‐MMP‐9 by human skin. The aim of this study is to establish the clinical relevance of the inhibitor in cutaneous wound healing. Fluids from acute burn blisters and conditioned media from skin explants of burn patients were analyzed. We observed that the presence pro‐MMP‐9 and its activation correlated with the proximity to and degree of injury. Early after trauma, massive levels of wound α1‐ACT were associated with an absence of pro‐MMP‐9 activation. Conversely, the active MMP‐9 occurs simultaneously with inactivation of α1‐ACT. Our results suggest a role for α1‐ACT as a physiologic inhibitor of MMP‐9 activation in human wound healing.