bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Differential proteomic analysis of bovine conceptus fluid proteins in pregnancies generated by assisted reproductive technologies
Authors: Riding George A. , Hill Jonathan R. , Jones Alun , Holland Michael K. , Josh Peter F. , Lehnert Sigrid A.
Published: July 2008

Proteomic analysis of bovine conceptus fluid proteins during early pregnancy has the potential to expose protein species indicative of both the overall health of the fetal‐maternal environment and fetal developmental status. In this study, we examined the differential abundance of bovine conceptus fluid proteins (5–50 kDa fraction) from naturally conceived, in vitro fertilisation (IVF) and somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT)‐derived pregnancies at days 45 and 90 of gestation. In day 45 allantoic fluid (AllF) samples, an atypical cluster of low molecular weight (∼14–16 kDa), low pI (between 3.0 and 4.5 pH units) protein species was increased in three of four IVF samples (30–100‐fold increase in protein spot volumes compared to normal). These proteins were identified as paralogs of the bovine cathelicidin antimicrobial protein (CAMP) by MALDI‐TOF MS peptide mass fingerprint and MALDI‐TOF MS/MS peptide sequence analysis. Peptidoglycan recognition protein and serine (or cysteine) proteinase inhibitor clade B1, were also significantly increased in the corresponding IVF samples. In two of four SCNT AllF samples, a 2–10‐fold increase in CAMP protein spot volumes were detected. No aberrant abundance levels of individual protein species were observed in amniotic fluid samples, or in day 90 IVF AllF samples. Identification of unique protein species present in the normal bovine AllF proteome at day 45 is also reported.
2‐D DIGE analyses of enriched secretory lysosomes reveal heterogeneous profiles of functionally relevant proteins in leukemic and activated human NK cells
Authors: Schmidt Hendrik , Gelhaus Christoph , Nebendahl Melanie , Lettau Marcus , Watzl Carsten , Kabelitz Dieter , Leippe Matthias , Janssen Ottmar
Published: July 2008

As part of the innate immune system, natural killer (NK) cells detect and lyse tumor and virus‐infected cells without prior antigen‐dependent recognition and expansion. To this end, they utilize dual‐function organelles that combine properties of conventional lysosomes and exocytotic vesicles. Upon stimulation, these secretory lysosomes (SLs) release their cytotoxic molecules into the immunological synapse. In addition, several molecules associated with secretory vesicles become exposed on the plasma membrane. Recent studies often took advantage of the few established NK cell lines, for instance to analyze the exocytotic machinery associated with NK cell vesicles. NK cell lines and primary NK cells differ, however, substantially in the expression of “typical” surface receptors and their requirements to induce target cell lysis. Here, we directly compared the lysosomal compartments of different NK cell populations. We enriched SLs of two leukemic cell lines (YTS and NKL) and IL‐2‐expanded NK cells by subcellular fractionation and characterized their proteome by 2‐D difference gel electrophoresis and MS. Although the overall protein composition of the lysosomal preparations was very similar and more than 90% of the proteins were present at comparable levels, we define a cell line‐specific setup of functionally relevant proteins involved in antigen presentation and cytotoxic effector function.
Isothermal crystallization kinetics of polypropylene/POSS composites
Authors: Zhou Zhiyong , Cui Limei , Zhang Yong , Zhang Yinxi , Yin Nianwei
Published: July 2008

Polypropylene (PP)/octavinyl polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (POSS) composites were prepared by two different processing methods: reactive blending and physical blending, and the crystallization behavior of PP and PP/POSS composites was studied by means of differential scanning calorimetry and polarized optical microscope. The results showed that the crystallization of PP in PP/POSS composites was strongly influenced by the different processing methods. POSS particles can act as effective nucleating agent, accelerating the crystallization of PP. The crystallization rate increased more dramatically for the reactive blending composite due to the stronger nucleating effect of PP grafted POSS. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 46: 1762–1772, 2008
Evaluation of ammonium terminated PMMA as compatibilizers for monomer casting polyamide6/clay nanocomposites
Authors: Wu Tongfei , Liu Andong , Xie Tingxiu , Yang Guisheng
Published: July 2008

The compatibilization effects provided by ammonium terminated PMMA(PMMA‐t‐NH3+) on monomer casting polyamide6 (MCPA6)/clay(pristine sodium montmorillonite) nanocomposites were studied in this article. PMMA‐t‐NH3+ used in this study was prepared by radical polymerization using 2‐aminoethanethiol hydrochloride as chain transfer agent. MCPA6/clay/PMMA‐t‐NH3+ nanocomposites were prepared by in situ anionic ring‐opening polymerization of ε‐caprolactam. X‐ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy plus rheological measurement were used to characterize those nanocomposites. The results indicated that PMMA‐t‐NH3+ would be a good compatibilizer for this system. With PMMA‐t‐NH3+ content increasing, a better dispersion of clay was successfully achieved in the MCPA6 matrix. Furthermore, analysis using differential scanning calorimetry indicated that well dispersed clay layers limited the mobility of the MCPA6 molecule chains to crystallize, reduce the crystalline degree, and favor the formation of the γ‐crystalline form of the MCPA6 matrix. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 46: 1802–1810, 2008
Lectures on scattering amplitudes via AdS/CFT
Authors: Alday L.F.
Published: July 2008

We review recent progress on computing scattering amplitudes of planar 𝒩 = 4 super Yang‐Mills at strong coupling by using the AdS/CFT duality. We consider in detail the scattering of four gluons and do explicit computations by using both, dimensional regularization and a cut‐off in the radial direction. The later scheme is particularly appropriate for understanding the conformal properties of the amplitudes.
Non‐unimodular reductions and N = 4 gauged supergravities
Authors: Petropoulos P.M.
Published: July 2008

We analyze the class of four‐dimensional N = 4 supergravities obtained by gauging the axionic shift and axionic rescaling symmetries. These theories are formulated with the machinery of embedding tensors and shown to be deducible from higher dimensions using a Scherk–Schwarz reduction with a twist by a non‐compact symmetry. This allows to evade the usual unimodularity requirement and completes the dictionary between heterotic gaugings and fluxes, at least for the “geometric sector”.
A and B branes from N = 2 superspace
Authors: Sevrin A. , Staessens W. , Wijns A.
Published: July 2008

We present a manifestly supersymmetric description of A and B branes on Kähler manifolds using a completely local N = 2 superspace formulation of the world‐sheet nonlinear σ‐model in the presence of a boundary. In particular, we show that an N = 2 superspace description of type A boundaries is possible. This leads to a concrete realization of the still poorly understood coisotropic A branes. We also discuss briefly how the superspace description of a B brane provides an efficient way to compute higher loop β‐functions. In particular, we sketch how one obtains the fourth order derivative correction to the Born‐Infeld action by using a β‐function method.
Attractors in black
Authors: Bellucci S. , Ferrara S. , Marrani A.
Published: July 2008

We review recent results in the study of attractor horizon geometries (with non‐vanishing Bekenstein‐Hawking entropy) of dyonic extremal d = 4 black holes in supergravity. We focus on 𝒩 = 2, d = 4 ungauged supergravity coupled to a number nVof Abelian vector multiplets, outlining the fundamentals of the special Kähler geometry of the vector multiplets' scalar manifold (of complex dimension nV), and studying the${1 \over 2}$‐BPS attractors, as well as the non‐BPS (non‐supersymmetric) ones with non‐vanishing central charge. For symmetric special Kähler geometries, we present the complete classification of the orbits in the symplectic representation of the classical U‐duality group (spanned by the black hole charge configuration supporting the attractors), as well as of the moduli spaces of non‐BPS attractors (spanned by the scalars which are not stabilized at the black hole event horizon). Finally, we report on an analogous classification for 𝒩 >2‐extended, d = 4 ungauged supergravities, in which also the 1/𝒩‐BPS attractors yield a related moduli space.
Both β‐actin and GAPDH are useful reference genes for normalization of quantitative RT‐PCR in human FFPE tissue samples of prostate cancer
Authors: Mori Ryutaro , Wang Qingcai , Danenberg Kathleen D. , Pinski Jacek K. , Danenberg Peter V.
Published: July 2008

BACKGROUND

β‐Actin and glyceraldehyde‐3‐phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH) have been frequently considered as constitutive house keeping genes for RT‐PCR and used to normalize changes in specific gene expressions. However, these expressions have been shown to be affected by the sample type and experimental conditions. We investigated which housekeeping gene is useful to study gene expression of paraffin embedded human tissue samples of prostate cancer.

METHODS

Fifteen pairs of cancer and corresponding normal tissue were obtained from patients with prostate cancer. We evaluated gene expression of β‐actin, GAPDH, androgen receptor (AR), and heat‐shock 70‐kd protein 5 (HSPA5) using laser captured microdissection and quantitative RT‐PCR. AR and HSPA5 gene expression were normalized to each of these reference genes using the 2−ΔΔCt method of relative quantification. The quantity 2Ct(normal)−Ct(cancer) divided by ratio of cDNA(cancer)/cDNA (normal) was used for comparing differences between cancer and normal tissue in GAPDH and β‐actin expression.

RESULTS

Ct value of β‐actin was significantly correlated with that of GAPDH (r = 0.443, P = 0.014). AR and HSPA5 gene expression levels using β‐actin for normalization were significantly correlated with these gene expression levels using GAPDH (AR; r = 0.689, P = 0.004, HSPA5; r = 0.879, P < 0.001). Both reference genes were expressed more highly in cancer tissue than in normal tissue, with that of GAPDH being significantly different between cancer tissue and normal tissue (P = 0.029).

CONCLUSIONS

The good correlation between gene expression values obtained when using β‐actin and GAPDH as reference genes suggests that either gene is a valid denominator for gene expression studies in prostate cancer.Prostate 68: 1555–1560, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Geographical mobility over the life course: motivations and implications
Authors: Geist Claudia , McManus Patricia A.
Published: July 2008

Studies of geographical mobility are typically divided into studies of residential mobility, which are assumed to be motivated by family factors, and studies of migration, which are assumed to be motivated by the opportunities for realising economic gains as a result of the move. We use a life course approach and data from the 1999–2005 March Annual Social and Economic Supplement of the Current Population Survey to investigate the age trajectories of both residential mobility and migration among American adults. We find that mobility trajectories and motivations for moves vary by economic status and family status; that quality of life motivations and family factors account for a substantial proportion of long‐distance as well as short‐distance moves; and that both residential mobility and migration are associated with an increased risk of economic instability and family and employment changes in the year following the move. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Spectral response characterization of a‐Si:H‐based MIS‐type photosensors
Authors: Fernandes M. , Vygranenko Y. , Fantoni A. , Martins R. , Vieira M.
Published: July 2008

This paper reports on a method and a test setup developed to measure the transient dark current and the spectral response characteristics of a‐Si:H MIS photosensors. Using this method the segmented‐gate/SiNx/a Si:H/n+/ITO structures have been characterized under different biasing conditions. The dependences of the dark and light signals on the refresh pulse amplitude, offset voltage and pulse width were measured and analyzed. It is found that the amplitude of the timedependent component of the leakage current associated with charge trapping at the insulator‐semiconductor interface can be significantly reduced by adjusting the offset voltage. The observed bias dependence of the spectral response characteristics is explained by analyzing the charge carrier transport in the absorption layer at different wavelengths of the incident light. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Rapid and sensitive screening and characterization of phenolic acids, phthalides, saponins and isoflavonoids in Danggui Buxue Tang by rapid resolution liquid chromatography/diode‐array detection coupled with time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry
Authors: Qi Lian‐Wen , Wen Xiao‐Dong , Cao Jun , Li Chang‐Yin , Li Ping , Yi Ling , Wang Yu‐Xia , Cheng Xiao‐Lan , Ge Xiao‐Xiao
Published: July 2008

A novel rapid resolution liquid chromatography (RRLC) method coupled with diode‐array detection (DAD) and time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (TOFMS) in both positive and negative modes has been developed for quick and sensitive identification of the major compounds in Danggui Buxue Tang (DBT) preparation. Significant advantages of the use of RRLC with 1.8‐µm porous particles include the much higher speed of chromatographic separation and great enhancement in sensitivity, compared with the conventional high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). With dynamic adjustment of the key role as fragmentor voltage in TOFMS, an efficient transmission of the ions was achieved to obtain the best sensitivity for providing the molecular formula for each analyte, and abundant fragment ions for structural information. The structural characterization of the major compounds in DBT was elucidated with authentic standards by DAD‐TOF/MS, including phenolic acids, phthalides, saponins and isoflavonoids. The targets were rapidly screened from the complicated DBT matrix using a narrow mass window of 0.01 Da to restructure extracted ion chromatograms. By accurate mass measurements within 3 ppm error for each molecular ion and subsequent fragment ions, ten phenolic acids and phthalides including three groups of isomers, thirteen major saponins with a 20,24‐epoxy‐9,19‐cyclolanostane‐3,6,16,25‐tetrol skeleton, sixteen isoflavonoids, corresponding glycosides, malonylglycosides, and acetylglycosides were identified in DBT preparation. The appropriate fragmentation pathways for them were also proposed based on definite elemental composition of the fragment ions. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Profiling and biomarker identification in plasma from different Zucker rat strains via high mass accuracy multistage mass spectrometric analysis using liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry with a quadrupole ion trap‐time of flight mass spectrometer
Authors: Loftus Neil , Miseki Kozo , Iida Junko , Gika Helen G. , Theodoridis Georgios , Wilson Ian D.
Published: July 2008

High mass accuracy electrospray ionisation multistage tandem mass spectrometry (MSn) was applied to metabolite profiling studies on plasma samples derived from two strains of rat (the Zucker (fa/fa) obese strain and the normal wild type). Using a quadrupole ion trap time‐of‐flight (QIT‐TOF) mass spectrometer, metabolite profiling software was applied to locate components of biological significance that could account for the differences between the two strains of rat and a formula prediction software tool was used to help identify individual components. The primary factor discriminating between the two populations was the concentration of endogenous lipids. In the Zucker (fa/fa) obese strain, the dominant ion signals and MSn spectra were in agreement with lysoglycerophosphocholine components such as palmitoyllysophosphatidylcholine, 1‐oleoylglycerophosphocholine, 1‐octadecyl‐sn‐glycero‐3‐phosphocholine and 1‐stearoylglycerophosphocholine and these were found in relatively higher concentrations compared to the normal wild type. Components were identified using high mass accuracy MSn data, formula prediction software and by agreement with published mass spectra through internet databases, rather than using a conventional approach with authentic standards. This application shows that the use of high mass accuracy electrospray ionisation MSn together with a software tool can be used effectively to detect and characterise unknown analytes in complex matrices, and represents a promising approach for future profiling studies. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Clinical features and treatment of adenovirus infections
Authors: Lenaerts Liesbeth , De Clercq Erik , Naesens Lieve
Published: July 2008

Adenoviruses (Ads) are common opportunistic pathogens that are rarely associated with severe clinical symptoms in healthy individuals. In contrast, in patients with compromised immunity, Ad infections often result in disseminated and potentially life‐threatening disease. Among these are AIDS patients, individuals with hereditary immunodeficiencies and recipients of solid organ or haematopoietic stem cell transplants (HSCT) who receive immunosuppressive therapy. The latter account for the largest number of severe Ad infections. There is currently no formally approved antiviral therapy for the treatment of severe Ad keratoconjunctivitis and life‐threatening Ad infections in immunocompromised patients. Here we update current knowledge on Ad biology, the clinical features observed in different patient groups and specific immune responses towards Ad infections. In addition, we review current and future treatment options, including: (i) the antiviral drugs cidofovir, ribavirin and new investigational compounds, as evaluated in the clinic or in relevant animal models, as well as (ii) novel immunotherapeutic strategies. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Continuous decompression with intramedullary nailing for the treatment of unicameral bone cysts
Authors: Masquijo Julio Javier , Baroni Eduardo , Miscione Horacio
Published: July 2008

Purpose

To evaluate the efficacy of decompression of unicameral bone cysts (UBCs) of the long bones with intramedullary nailing and to compare responses to treatment according to location.

Materials and methods

We evaluated 48 consecutive patients treated between January 1988 and June 2000. Mean age was 10.3 years. Mean follow-up was 9.8 years. Evaluation was performed according to the radiographic criteria of Capanna.

Results

UBCs were located in the proximal humerus ( n = 24), humeral shaft ( n = 2), proximal femur ( n = 19), distal tibia ( n = 2) and fibula ( n = 1). A total of 62.5% presented a pathological fracture. Successful results were observed in 89.5% (26 total healing, 17 healing with residual radiolucent areas), and there were four recurrences and, in one case, no response to treatment. There was more healing in the humerus than in the femur (92.3% versus 84.2%), and more tendency to restitution ad integrum, although the difference was not statistically significant ( P = 0.1499).

Conclusions

Intramedullary nailing is a minimally invasive method, which permits early stability and decompresses the cyst allowing healing. Significant differences were not observed among results from different locations.
Atomic force microscopy reveals binding of mRNA to microtubules mediated by two major mRNP proteins YB‐1 and PABP
Authors: Chernov Konstantin G. , Curmi Patrick A. , Hamon Loic , Mechulam Alain , Ovchinnikov Lev P. , Pastré David
Published: July 2008

A significant fraction of mRNAs is known to be associated in the form of mRNPs with microtubules for active transport. However, little is known about the interaction between mRNPs and microtubules and most of previous works were focused on molecular motor:microtubule interactions. Here, we have identified, via high resolution atomic force microscopy imaging, a significant binding of mRNA to microtubules mediated by two major mRNP proteins, YB‐1 and PABP. This interaction with microtubules could be of critical importance for active mRNP traffic and for mRNP granule formation. A similar role may be fulfilled by other cationic mRNA partners.
On the BP-homology of 2e × 2e
Authors: Zárate Leticia
Published: July 2008

We study υ0- and υ1-divisibility properties of the [2e]-series associated to the universal 2-typical formal group law. This allows us to identify elements annihilating the toral class τ in BP*(2e × 2e). We conjecture that these elements form a minimal system of generators of the annihilator ideal of τ. This would provide a Landweber-type presentation for the BP-homology of 2e × 2e from which the relation hom:dimBP (Z2e × Z2e) = 2 would be an easy consequence.
COMMUNITY PERCEPTIONS ON THE COMMUNITY-DIRECTED TREATMENT AND SCHOOL-BASED APPROACHES FOR THE CONTROL OF SCHISTOSOMIASIS AND SOIL-TRANSMITTED HELMINTHIASIS AMONG SCHOOL-AGE CHILDREN IN LUSHOTO DISTRICT, TANZANIA
Authors: MASSA K. , MAGNUSSEN P. , SHESHE A. , NTAKAMULENGA R. , NDAWI B. , OLSEN A.
Published: July 2008

The success of the Community-Directed Treatment (ComDT) approach in the control of onchocerciasis and filariasis has caught the attention of other disease control programmes. In this study the ComDT approach was implemented and compared with the school-based approach for control of schistosomiasis and soil-transmitted helminthiasis among school-age children in Lushoto District, Tanzania. This was a qualitative study, consisting of in-depth interviews with village leaders, community drug distributors (CDDs) and schoolteachers, as well as focus group discussions with separate groups of mothers and fathers to assess the perceptions and experiences of the villagers on the implementation of the two approaches. It was found that the villagers accepted the ComDT approach and took the responsibility of selecting the CDDs, organizing and implementing their own method of distributing drugs to the school-age children in their villages. The ComDT approach was well received and was successfully implemented in the villages. Although the villagers pointed out the limitation in reaching the non-enrolled children in the school-based approach, they also expressed satisfaction with this approach. This study suggests that the ComDT approach is well accepted and can be implemented effectively to ensure better coverage of especially non-enrolled school-age children.
SOCIOECONOMIC AND DEMOGRAPHIC DIVERSITY IN THE HEALTH STATUS OF ELDERLY PEOPLE IN A TRANSITIONAL SOCIETY, KERALA, INDIA
Authors: MINI G. K.
Published: July 2008

Kerala State in India is the most advanced in terms of demographic and epidemiological transition and has the highest proportion of elderly population. The study examines the socio-demographic correlates of health status of elderly persons in Kerala in terms of three components: perceived health status, physical mobility and morbidity level. Overall health status was measured by combining the above three components of health status. Data from the 60th National Sample Survey Organization (NSSO) on Condition and Health Care of the Aged in Kerala in 2004 was used for the study. Significant socio-demographic differentials in health status were noted. While women report less morbidity, perceived well-being and physical mobility was better for men. This anomaly can be explained by variations in the components of socio-demographic factors. The findings call for urgent health care strategies for elderly persons in different socio-demographic groups in transitional Indian states like Kerala.
On the use of experimental diets for physiological studies of hydrozoans
Authors: Dudgeon Steve , Benes Kylla M. , Krueger Stacy A. , Kübler Janet , Mroz Paul , Slaughter Christin T.
Published: July 2008

Recent studies of hydrozoans suggest that metabolic factors associated with the physiology of gastrovascular fluid transport play a role in regulating morphogenetic development of colonies. In that context, the objective of this study was to develop a system to experimentally control diets of hydrozoans in culture that could be used to test effects of specific compounds. This diet delivery system consisted of a known concentration of homogenate of brine shrimp nauplii that was solidified in a 1% agar block cut to the size of, and containing the equivalent of, a single, 2-day old brine shrimp nauplius larva. We tested the utility of this system by comparing the frequencies of ingestion, and rates of gastrovascular transport and growth following feeding, between polyps ofPodocoryna carneafed either a single brine shrimp nauplius (controls) or an agar cube including brine shrimp homogenate. Polyps fed experimental diets showed similar rates of gastrovascular transport (6 and 12 h after feeding) and growth (24 h after feeding) to those of polyps fed a brine shrimp nauplius suggesting that no significant artefacts existed associated with these response variables. However, the frequency of ingestion of experimental foods by polyps was much less than that by control polyps. These results imply that this system of delivery of experimental diets has potential as a means to manipulate physiological state and assay the effects on morphogenesis of hydrozoan colonies, but must first overcome limitations of low ingestion frequency.
Significance of isolated antibody to hepatitis B core antigen in Dutch national vaccination campaign of behavioural high-risk groups
Authors: KOENE R. P. M. , GOTZ H. M. , VAN DEN HOEK J. A. R. , HEIJNEN M. L. A. , VAN STEENBERGEN J. A. , KROES A. C. M.
Published: July 2008

In the Dutch national vaccination campaign for behavioural risk groups, anti-HBcore is used as the primary HBV screening test. Samples with positive results undergo testing for active infection (HBsAg) but are otherwise accepted as indicating past infection, thereby assuming immunity. This study evaluated evidence for immunity in the target population screened on the basis of this algorithm, by re-analysing 1000 anti-HBcore-positive blood samples equally divided among risk groups: 14·7% of confirmed anti-HBcore lacked anti-HBs (‘isolated’ anti-HBcore). Independent risk factors for isolated anti-HBcore were risk group, HCV infection in hard-drug users (DU) and origin from Sub-Saharan Africa. After extrapolation, the proportion of participants who were said to be immune but lacked any additional evidence of immunity amounted to 9·6% (ranging from 12·5% in DU to 6·5% in men who have sex with men). It is recommended that as a minimum anti-HBs screening is included in testing algorithms used to determine vaccination programmes for risk groups, in particular in DU.
A continuous common-source outbreak of campylobacteriosis associated with changes to the preparation of chicken liver pâté
Authors: O'LEARY M. C. , HARDING O. , FISHER L. , COWDEN J.
Published: July 2008

In December 2006 an outbreak of Campylobacter infection occurred in Forth Valley, Scotland, affecting 48 people over a 3-week period. All cases dined at restaurant A. We conducted a cohort study in a party of 30 who ate lunch at restaurant A on 21 December to identify the vehicle of infection. Of 29 respondents, the attack rate in those who ate chicken liver pâté was 86% (6/7) compared to 0% (0/22) for those who did not. Between 1 December and 1.30 p.m. on 21 December the restaurant had used a different method of cooking the pâté. No cases reported dining at the restaurant after this time. The outbreak's duration suggested a continuous source. This is the first continuous source outbreak of Campylobacter documented in Scotland. Chicken liver pâté was the most likely vehicle of infection. This outbreak illustrates the hazards associated with undercooking Campylobacter-contaminated food.
Comparison of the effects of four commercially available weight-loss programmes on lipid-based cardiovascular risk factors
Authors: Morgan LM , Griffin BA , Millward DJ , DeLooy A , Fox KR , Baic S , Bonham MP , Wallace JMW , MacDonald I , Taylor MA , Truby H
Published: July 2008

Objective

To investigate the relative efficacy of four popular weight-loss programmes on plasma lipids and lipoproteins as measures of CVD risk.

Design

A multi-centred, randomised, controlled trial of four diets – Dr Atkins’ New Diet Revolution, The Slim-Fast Plan, Weight Watchers Pure Points programme and Rosemary Conley’s ‘Eat yourself Slim’ Diet and Fitness Plan – against a control diet, in parallel for 6 months.

Setting and subjects

The trial was conducted at five universities across the UK (Surrey, Nottingham, Ulster (Coleraine), Bristol and Edinburgh (Queen Margaret University College)) and involved the participation of 300 overweight and obese males and females aged 21–60 years in a community setting.

Results

Significant weight loss was achieved by all dieting groups (5–9 kg at 6 months) but no significant difference was observed between diets at 6 months. The Weight Watchers and Rosemary Conley (low-fat) diets were followed by significant reductions in plasma LDL cholesterol (both −12·2 % after 6 months,P< 0·01), whereas the Atkins (low-carbohydrate) and Weight Watchers diets were followed by marked reductions in plasma TAG (–38·2 % and –22·6 % at 6 months respectively,P< 0·01). These latter two diets were associated with an increase in LDL particle size, a change that has been linked to reduced CVD risk.

Conclusions

Overall, these results demonstrate the favourable effects of weight loss on lipid-mediated CVD risk factors that can be achieved through commercially available weight-loss programmes. No detrimental effects on lipid-based CVD risk factors were observed in participants consuming a low-carbohydrate diet.
Hyperlipidaemia and its risk factors in the Guangxi Bai Ku Yao and Han populations
Authors: Ruixing Yin , Dezhai Yang , Shuquan Li , Yuming Chen , Hanjun Yang , Qiming Feng , Shangling Pan , Weixiong Lin , Jing Tan , Yiyang Li
Published: July 2008

Objective

To compare the differences in hyperlipidaemia prevalence and its risk factors between the Guangxi Bai Ku Yao and Han populations.

Design

Cross-sectional study of hyperlipidaemia.

Setting

Both populations were from Lihu and Baxu villages in Nandan County, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, People’s Republic of China.

Subjects

A total of 1170 healthy subjects of Bai Ku Yao and 1173 participants of Han Chinese aged 15–89 years were surveyed by a stratified randomized cluster sampling. Information on demographic, dietary and lifestyle characteristics was collected by standard questionnaires. Blood pressure, height, weight, waist circumference, serum lipids and apolipoproteins were measured, and BMI (kg/m2) was calculated as weight divided by the square of height.

Results

The prevalence rates of hypercholesterolaemia, hypertriacylglycerolaemia and hyperlipidaemia in Bai Ku Yao and Han were 12·4 % v. 26·2 % (P < 0·001), 15·0 % v. 14·8 % (P > 0·05) and 24·4 % v. 33·9 % (P < 0·001), respectively. Hyperlipidaemia was positively correlated with BMI, waist circumference, total energy and total fat intakes, and negatively associated with physical activity and total dietary fibre intake in Bai Ku Yao (P < 0·05 to 0·001). Hyperlipidaemia was positively associated with age, alcohol consumption, BMI, waist circumference, total energy and total fat intakes, and inversely correlated with physical activity and total dietary fibre intake in Han (P < 0·05 to 0·001).

Conclusions

The prevalence of hypercholesterolaemia and hyperlipidaemia was significantly lower in the Bai Ku Yao than in the Han population, which might result from different dietary habits, lifestyle choices and physical activity level, as well as genetic factors between the two ethnic groups.
Impact of a school-based food garden on attitudes and identification skills regarding vegetables and fruit: a 12-month intervention trial
Authors: Somerset Shawn , Markwell Katherine
Published: July 2008

Objective

To determine changes in ability to identify specific vegetables and fruits, and attitudes towards vegetables and fruit, associated with the introduction of a school-based food garden.

Design

A 12-month intervention trial using a historical control (controln132, interventionn120), class-based, self-administered questionnaires requiring one-word answers and 3-point Likert scale responses.

Setting

A state primary school (grades 4 to 7) in a low socio-economic area of Brisbane, Australia.

Intervention

The introduction of a school-based food garden, including the funding of a teacher coordinator for 11 h/week to facilitate integration of garden activities into the curriculum.

Main outcome measures

Ability to identify a series of vegetables and fruits, attitudes towards vegetables and fruit.

Analysis

Frequency distributions for each item were generated andχ2analyses were used to determine statistical significance. Exploratory factor analysis was employed to detect major trends in data.

Results

The intervention led to enhanced ability to identify individual vegetables and fruits, greater attention to origins of produce (garden-grown and fresh), changes to perceived consumption of vegetables and fruits, and enhanced confidence in preparing fruit and vegetable snacks, but decreased interest in trying new fruits.

Conclusions

The introduction of this school-based food garden was associated with skill and attitudinal changes conducive to enhancing vegetable and fruit consumption. The ways in which such changes might impact on dietary behaviours and intake require further analysis.
50 Jahre Neurologie in Bern
Authors: Mumenthaler M. , Ludin H.-P.
Published: July 2008

Im Jahre 1958 wurde am Inselspital in Bern eine Neurologische Abteilung im Rahmen der Medizinischen Klinik gegründet. Acht Jahre später wurde sie zur selbstständigen Klinik. Aus bescheidenen Anfängen hat sich die Neurologie im Rahmen der zunehmenden Bedeutung der Neurowissenschaften zu einer bedeutenden und renommierten Institution entwickelt. Von 1958 bis zu seinem frühzeitigen Tod 1960 lag die Leitung in den Händen von Rolf Magun. Von 1962 bis 1990 wurde sie von Marco Mumenthaler und seither von Christian W. Hess geleitet.
«Little Hedgehogs of Doubts» – die Insulinschocktherapie in den 1930er bis 1950er Jahren
Authors: Grychtol R.
Published: July 2008

Die Insulinschocktherapie war eine der grossen somatischen Therapiemethoden der 1930er Jahre. Obwohl risikoreich, teuer und ohne theoretische Grundlage, verbreitete sie sich innerhalb weniger Jahre in der gesamten industrialisierten Welt. Entscheidend hierfür war die Entstehung von Zentren, wie z.B. die Wiener Psychiatrisch-neurologische Universitätsklinik und die Schweizer Anstalt Münsingen, von wo aus sich die Therapie durch Gastärzte verbreitete. Auch jüdische Emigranten aus Deutschland und Österreich trugen hierzu bei. Ein weiterer Grund für den Erfolg der Therapie lag in dem Reiz einer «körperlichen» Therapie für die «Geisteskrankheit» Schizophrenie, was schon lange vorhandene Bestrebungen der Psychiatrie nach einem Anschluss an die zunehmend naturwissenschaftlich begründete Medizin zu erfüllen schien. Der Diskurs über die Insulinschocktherapie zeigt jedoch, dass sich das grundlegende Verständnis des therapeutischen Handelns erst mit der Entdeckung der Psychopharmaka «biologisierte».
Pulmonale Rundherde unter Steroid-Dauertherapie
Authors: Hurni Ch. , Rauch A. , Trost N. , Perrig M. , Bürgi U. , Schoenenberger A. W.
Published: July 2008

Wir berichten von einer Patientin, welche unter chronischer Steroidtherapie zeitgleich eine pulmonale Nokardiose und einen Weichteil-⁄Knocheninfekt mit Mycobacterium abscessus entwickelte. Beide Infektionen sind selten, treten jedoch bei immunkompromittierten Patienten gehäuft auf. Unter adäquater antibiotischer Therapie während 12 Monaten konnte die Patientin geheilt werden.
Die Job-Angst-Skala (JAS). Ein Fragebogen zur Erfassung arbeitsplatzbezogener Ängste
Authors: Linden Michael , Muschalla Beate , Olbrich Dieter
Published: July 2008

Die „Job-Angst-Skala (JAS)“ ist ein neuer Fragebogen zur Erfassung und klinischen Differenzierung verschiedener Formen arbeitsplatzbezogener Ängste. Die Skala besteht aus 70 Items mit 14 Subskalen, die in fünf Hauptdimensionen zusammengefasst werden können: Stimulusbezogene Ängste und Vermeidungsverhalten; Soziale Ängste und Beeinträchtigungskognitionen; Gesundheits- und körperbezogene Ängste; Insuffizienzerleben; Arbeitsplatzbezogene generalisierte Sorgen. Eine Untersuchung der psychometrischen Qualität erfolgte an 190 Patienten einer orthopädischen und psychosomatischen Rehabilitationsklinik. Die interne Konsistenz (Cronbachs alpha) beträgt .98. Die Retestreliabilität der Gesamtskala beträgt .815. Faktorenanalytisch ergeben sich fünf inhaltlich interpretierbare Dimensionen entsprechend der zugrunde liegenden Theorie. Die durchschnittliche Inter-Item-Korrelation der Gesamtskala beträgt .389. Es fand sich ein signifikanter Zusammenhang zwischen der JAS und dem generelle Ängstlichkeit messenden STAI-Trait, was als Hinweis auf die Validität der JAS angesehen werden kann.
Feedback, Emotionen und Handlungstendenzen: Emotionale Konsequenzen von Feedback durch den Vorgesetzten
Authors: Belschak Frank D. , Jacobs Gabriele , Den Hartog Deanne N.
Published: July 2008

Die vorliegende Studie untersucht emotionale Reaktionen von Mitarbeitern auf positives versus negatives Leistungsfeedback von ihrem Vorgesetzten sowie daraus resultierende Handlungstendenzen. Der Fokus liegt auf Extra-Rollen-Verhalten (positiv: Organizational Citizenship Behaviors; negativ: Kontraproduktives Arbeitsverhalten, Kündigungsabsicht). Es wurde eine Studie unter 101 Arbeitnehmern durchgeführt. Teilnehmern wurde ein Szenario vorgelegt, in dem sie von ihrem Vorgesetzten für ihre Arbeitsleistung gelobt oder getadelt wurden. Die Ergebnisse zeigen, dass Feedback Emotionen beim Empfänger hervorruft, die die Beziehung zwischen Feedback und Extra-Rollen-Verhalten mediieren. Positives Leistungsfeedback durch den Vorgesetzten führt zu positiven Emotionen, die zu positivem Extra-Rollen-Verhalten ermutigen. Negatives Leistungsfeedback führt zu negativen Emotionen, die negatives Extra-Rollen-Verhalten stimulieren.
Persönlichkeitsstörungen im Kindes- und Jugendalter?
Authors: Schmid Marc , Schmeck Klaus , Petermann Franz
Published: July 2008

Durch die Fortschritte bei der Behandlung von Persönlichkeitsstörungen im Erwachsenenalter wird die Übertragung dieser Konzepte auf das Kindes- und Jugendalter heute intensiv diskutiert. Argumente für und gegen eine Vergabe von Persönlichkeitsstörungsdiagnosen im Kindes- und Jugendalter werden diskutiert. Es werden aktuelle Erkenntnisse zur Diagnostik und dem Verlauf von Persönlichkeitsstörungen berichtet. Das Pro und Contra einer Diagnosestellung wird vor diesem Hintergrund gegenübergestellt.
Führungsstile als Stressbarrieren
Authors: Rowold Jens , Heinitz Kathrin
Published: July 2008

Zusammenfassung Stress hat in Organisationen weitreichende Konsequenzen. Die Vermeidung von Stress kann sich günstig auf den organisationalen Alltag sowie die Effektivität des Unternehmens auswirken. Das Verhalten der Führungskräfte kann hierbei eine Möglichkeit zum Abbau oder zur Vorbeugung von Stress darstellen. Die Frage, welche einzelnen Führungsstile relevant in Bezug auf Stress sind, wurde jedoch bisher unzureichend empirisch überprüft. Die vorliegende Arbeit untersucht daher die Zusammenhänge unterschiedlicher Führungsstile mit diversen Stressindikatoren. Die Ergebnisse zweier Studien (N = 1311 und N = 101) weisen auf eine unterschiedliche Wirkung transformationaler, transaktionaler sowie mitarbeiter- und aufgabenorientierter Führungsverhaltensweisen in Abhängigkeit vom jeweiligen Stressindikator hin. Mitarbeiterorientierung zeigte durchgängig negative Zusammenhänge zu Stressindikatoren. Transaktionale Führung stand kurzfristig in einem positiven, längerfristig in einem negativen Verhältnis mit Indikatoren von Stress. Für die transformationale Führung waren die Ergebnisse entgegengesetzt. Implikationen für Theorie und Praxis werden diskutiert.
Tests und Tools
Authors: Schmidt-Atzert Lothar
Published: July 2008

Zusammenfassung. Die AZUBI-TH soll die Intelligenz von jungen Menschen, die sich für handwerkliche oder technische Berufe bewerben oder sich für solche Berufe interessieren, mit arbeitsprobenähnlichen Aufgaben messen. Die fünf Subtests erfassen räumliches Vorstellungsvermögen, Rechenfähigkeit, technisches Verständnis und Rechtschreibkenntnisse und können auch zu einem Gesamtwert verrechnet werden. Der Test ist objektiv und weist eine hohe Reliabilität auf. Es liegen zahlreiche Ergebnisse zur Konstrukt- und Kriteriumsvalidität vor. Diese sprechen dafür, dass es sich bei der AZUBI-TH um ein Maß der allgemeinen Intelligenz handelt, das eine hohe prognostische Validität für Ausbildungserfolg in technischen und handwerklichen Berufen aufweist. Personen, die den Test durchgeführt haben, beurteilen seine Relevanz, Akzeptanz und Fairness positiv.
Segmentation of the Blanco Transform Fault Zone from earthquake analysis: Complex tectonics of an oceanic transform fault
Authors: Braunmiller Jochen , Nábělek John
Published: July 2008

The Blanco Transform Fault Zone (BTFZ) forms the ∼350 km long Pacific–Juan de Fuca plate boundary between the Gorda and Juan de Fuca ridges. Nearby broadband seismic networks provide a unique framework for a detailed, long‐term seismotectonic study of an entire oceanic transform fault (OTF) system. We use regional waveforms to determine 129 earthquake source parameters; combined with 28 Harvard moment tensors, they represent the largest waveform derived OTF source parameter data set. Joint epicenter determination removes the northeasterly routine location bias. Projecting seismicity onto the BTFZ, we determine along‐fault seismic slip rate variations. Earthquake source parameters and morphology indicate several transform segments separated by extensional step overs. The eastern segment from Gorda Ridge to Gorda Depression is a pull‐apart basin. The longest transform (∼150 km) following Blanco Ridge from the Gorda to Cascadia depression is seismically very active, seismically fully coupled, has a wider seismic zone (∼9 km) than other BTFZ transform segments and accommodates the largest (Mw 6.4–6.5) BTFZ earthquakes. Interpretation of Cascadia Depression as spreading ridge is supported by plate motion parallel normal faulting T axes. Spreading is currently tectonic; 9 km deep earthquakes indicate a deep source for intermittent intrusives and rapid postemplacement cooling. A short transform connects to the pull‐apart Surveyor Depression. Widely spread seismicity along the western BTFZ reflects complex morphology indicating ongoing plate boundary reorganization along short, narrow width subparallel faults. Seismic coupling is low in extensional (≤15%) compared to transform areas (35–100%), implying different mechanical properties. Centroid depth variations are consistent with seismic slip cutoff near 600°C.
Evolution of bubble microstructure in sheared rhyolite: Formation of a channel‐like bubble network
Authors: Okumura Satoshi , Nakamura Michihiko , Tsuchiyama Akira , Nakano Tsukasa , Uesugi Kentaro
Published: July 2008

The microstructure of bubbles in magma controls the dynamics of magma flow in a volcanic conduit. To investigate the shear‐induced evolution of bubble microstructures, we performed a series of deformation experiments on vesiculated rhyolitic melts by twisting columnar obsidians at a temperature of 975°C and at rotation rates of 0.3–0.5 rpm for up to 10 rotations. Three‐dimensional shapes of the run products were analyzed using X ray–computed tomography. The experimental results demonstrate that shear strain and strain rate control the degree of bubble deformation and coalescence. The bubble connectivity, defined as the ratio of the volume of the largest bubble to the total bubble volume, starts to increase for a vesicularity of 20–30 vol%. A connectivity of >80% was achieved for a vesicularity of approximately 40 vol% and 10 rotations at 0.5 rpm, corresponding to a maximum strain of 30 at a strain rate of 0.025 s−1. These conditions are identical to those in a volcanic conduit near the conduit wall, and a vesicularity of 40 vol% is accomplished below a depth of several hundred meters. Therefore, we infer that the bubbles form large interconnecting channelized networks near the conduit wall before the magma reaches to this depth. Below this, the fracturing of magma by shear stress cannot occur under a realistic strain rate. This implies that brittle fracture of magma should occur after the formation of channel‐like bubble networks, and permeable degassing along this network would be the only effective degassing mechanism at such a depth.
Borehole packer tests at multiple depths resolve distinct hydrologic intervals in 3.5‐Ma upper oceanic crust on the eastern flank of Juan de Fuca Ridge
Authors: Becker K. , Fisher A. T.
Published: July 2008

Single‐hole hydrogeologic experiments were conducted with a drillstring packer in Integrated Ocean Drilling Program Hole 1301B, which penetrates 318 m into 3.5‐Ma upper oceanic basement on the eastern flank of the Juan de Fuca Ridge. Seven constant‐rate injection tests were conducted in open hole, with the packer inflated at three depths in the deepest 166 m of the basement section. The primary pressure data recorded in the test intervals required correction for local variations in seafloor pressure (mainly tides), as well as for changes in the “baseline” pressures during individual tests, probably owing to downhole flow of ocean bottom water induced by drilling. The corrected pressure records were fit to standard, idealized models of borehole response during pumping, leading to estimated basement permeabilities within the upper 318 m of basaltic crust near Hole 1301B of the order of 1 to 3 × 10−12 m2. The upper 207 m of basement around Hole 1301B appears to be more transmissive than the 111 m below this depth. Permeability within the upper interval may be as high as 5 × 10−12 m2, and permeability within a 30‐m‐thick zone between packer setting depths may be as great as 2 × 10−11 m2. Comparison of the results to packer and thermal data from uppermost basement in nearby Holes 1026B and 1027C suggests that the most transmissive part of the upper crust in this area may be located not immediately adjacent to the sediment‐basement transition but deeper in the section.
Intraseasonal meridional current variability in the eastern equatorial Indian Ocean
Authors: Ogata Tomomichi , Sasaki Hideharu , Murty V. S. N. , Sarma M. S. S. , Masumoto Yukio
Published: July 2008

Intraseasonal variability in meridional current in the eastern equatorial Indian Ocean is investigated by use of results from a high‐resolution ocean general circulation model. Both the simulated and observed meridional current variability demonstrate energy peaks in two distinct time‐scales; one in the biweekly (6–8 d) period above the thermocline and the other in lower frequency band (20–70 d) within the subsurface layer. In addition, the intraseasonal current variability can be seen even in the deep ocean at 2000 m and 4000 m depths. Composite analysis of the biweekly current field demonstrates that the horizontal structure is consistent with the one for the Mixed Rossby‐gravity wave, with the phase speed and wavelength close to theoretical values of the Mixed Rossby‐gravity wave at 15‐d period. This meridional current variability shows large coherence with the local meridional wind stress, suggesting the upper‐ocean responses to the local wind‐forcing. A part of the energy of the biweekly variability penetrates into the deeper layer along the raypath of the 15‐d Mixed Rossby‐gravity wave, causing the intraseasonal variability observed in the current meter data at 4000 m depth. On the other hand, the lower frequency intraseasonal variability in the subsurface layer is also captured in the model simulation forced by climatological winds. Large barotropic energy conversion rate appears during boreal autumn and early winter in a region southeast of Sri Lanka, suggesting importance of instability due to the seasonally changing current systems to generate mesoscale eddy‐like disturbances that result in the subsurface meridional current variability.