bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pathogenic and genetic variation among isolates of Corynespora cassiicola in Japan
Authors: Shimomoto Y. , Sato T. , Hojo H. , Morita Y. , Takeuchi S. , Mizumoto H. , Kiba A. , Hikichi Y.
Published: October 2010

In order to develop a method for discrimination of Corynespora cassiicola isolates pathogenic to sweet pepper among Japanese isolates, this study analysed pathogenic variations of 64 Japanese isolates of C. cassiicola on perilla, cucumber, tomato, aubergine and sweet pepper, and their multigene phylogeny. Japanese isolates were divided into seven pathogenicity groups (PG1–PG7). The virulence of isolates in PG1–PG5 was restricted to perilla, cucumber, tomato, aubergine and sweet pepper, respectively. Isolates in PG6 were virulent to sweet pepper, tomato and aubergine. Isolates in PG7 were avirulent to all tested plants. Multigene phylogenetic analysis of the isolates based on β‐tubulin, translation elongation factor 1‐α, calmodulin and actin genes showed three divergent clusters, MP‐A, MP‐B and MP‐C. These clusters included all isolates in PG1, PG2, PG8 and PG9 (MP‐A), PG3 and PG5 (MP‐B) and PG4 and PG6 (MP‐C). Isolates in PG7 were distributed amongst all clusters. Furthermore, random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) analysis using universal primers, Q17 (5′‐GAAGCCCTTG‐3′) and Q13 (5′‐GGAGTGGACA‐3′), facilitated discrimination of isolates virulent on sweet pepper amongst isolates in MP‐B and MP‐C, respectively. Together, a combination of the multigene analysis and the RAPD technique allowed the discrimination of the isolates virulent to sweet pepper.
Evidence that wheat cultivars differ in their ability to build up inoculum of the take‐all fungus, Gaeumannomyces graminis var. tritici, under a first wheat crop
Authors: McMillan V. E. , Hammond‐Kosack K. E. , Gutteridge R. J.
Published: October 2010

The effect of wheat cultivar on the build‐up of take‐all inoculum during a first wheat crop was measured after harvest using a soil core bioassay in field experiments over five growing seasons (2003–2008). Cultivar differences in individual years were explored by analysis of variance and a cross‐season Residual Maximum Likelihood (REML) variance components analysis was used to compare differences in those cultivars present in all years. Differences between cultivars in the build‐up of inoculum were close to or at significance in two of the five trial years (2004 P < 0·05; 2006 P < 0·07), and current commercially listed cultivars were represented at both extremes of the range. In 2007 and 2008, when environmental conditions were most favourable for inoculum build‐up, differences were not significant (P < 0·3). In 2005 the presence of Phialophora spp. at the trial site restricted the build‐up of take‐all inoculum under all cultivars. The cross season REML variance components analysis detected significant differences (range: 3·4–47·8% roots infected in the soil core bioassay; P < 0·01) between the nine cultivars present in all years (excluding 2005). This is the first evidence of relatively consistent differences between hexaploid wheat cultivars in their interactions with the take‐all fungus, and this could give an indication of those cultivars that could be grown as a first wheat crop, in order to reduce the risk of damaging take‐all in a second wheat crop. This phenomenon has been named the take‐all inoculum build‐up (TAB) trait.
Interaction between root rot basidiomycetes and Phytophthora species on pedunculate oak
Authors: Marçais B. , Caël O. , Delatour C.
Published: October 2010

Forest declines are usually complex multifactorial phenomena that involve interactions between different factors. The possible interaction between different types of mycelial pathogens was investigated through artificial inoculation of oak seedlings, involving two root rot basidiomycetes, Collybia fusipes and Armillaria mellea, and two Phytophthora species, P. cinnamomi and P. cambivora. These pathogens were inoculated onto young Quercus robur saplings in greenhouse conditions, either alone or combining a root rot basidiomycete with a Phytophthora species. Three out of the four Phytophthora spp.*root rot basidiomycete combinations tested resulted in significantly greater damage to the oak host than the sum of the damages induced by the individual pathogens. This positive interaction could be significant in oak decline syndrome.
Climatic modulation of seismicity in the Alpine–Himalayan mountain ranges
Authors: Panza Giuliano F. , Peresan Antonella , Zuccolo Elisa
Published: October 2010

Terra Nova, 23, 19–25, 2011

A significant seasonal modulation of seismicity, with a peak in spring and summer, is evidenced in the Himalaya and the Alps, two regions characterized by present day mountain building and glacial retreat. In addition, a secular modulation of seismicity, which can be correlated with surface atmospheric temperature changes in the Northern Hemisphere, is found over the last ten centuries. Therefore, secular variations in permanent glacial dimensions, naturally associated with long‐term average surface atmospheric temperature changes, and seasonal snow load may cause crustal deformations that modulate seismicity.
Lens culinaris agglutinin‐reactive fraction of AFP is a useful prognostic biomarker for survival after repeat hepatic resection for HCC
Authors: Matsuda Masanori , Asakawa Masami , Amemiya Hidetake , Fujii Hideki
Published: October 2010

Background and Aim:  Repeat hepatic resection for recurrent hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is effective in improving long‐term outcome in selected patients. In the present study, we attempted to identify the prognostic factors influencing overall and recurrence‐free survival after the second hepatic resection.

Methods:  From 1 September 1997 to 30 September 2009, 329 consecutive patients with HCC underwent surgical exploration at Yamanashi University Hospital, Japan. Of these, 35 patients underwent curative, second hepatic resection. The survival results in the 35 patients were analyzed retrospectively, and prognostic factors were determined.

Results:  The univariate analysis revealed that Child–Pugh B, a Lens culinaris agglutinin‐reactive fraction of α‐fetoprotein (AFP‐L3) value more than 15%, and multiple tumors, were associated with significantly worse overall survival (P = 0.010, P = 0.0003, and P = 0.037, respectively) and only AFP‐L3 >15% was associated with significantly worse recurrence‐free survival after the second hepatic resection (P = 0.008). By multivariate analysis, only AFP‐L3 >15% was an independent predictor of adverse overall survival. The 1‐, 3‐, and 5‐year survival rates after the second hepatic resection of 27 HCC patients with low AFP‐L3 (≤15%) were 100%, 100%, and 91.7%, respectively, whereas the corresponding survival rates of eight HCC patients with high AFP‐L3 (>15%) were 100%, 47.6%, and 23.8%, respectively.

Conclusions:  The preoperative AFP‐L3 level was a useful prognostic biomarker for survival after repeat hepatic resection.
Common variants in NOD2 and IL23R are not associated with inflammatory bowel disease in Indians
Authors: Mahurkar Swapna , Banerjee Rupa , Rani Vasantha S , Thakur Nikita , Venkat Rao Guduru , Nageshwar Reddy Duvvuru , Chandak Giriraj R
Published: October 2010

Background and Aim:  Ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease (CD) are two major phenotypes of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that present with inflammation of the colon or the entire gastrointestinal tract, respectively. Genome‐wide association studies have confirmed the role of nucleotide‐binding oligomerization domain protein‐2 (NOD2) variants and identified several other genes associated with IBD. We investigated whether variants in NOD2 and interleukin‐23 receptor (IL23R) are associated with IBD in a well‐characterized case‐control cohort from southern India.

Methods:  We recruited 652 patients (411 UC and 241 CD) using established diagnostic criteria and 442 age‐, sex‐, and ethnically‐matched, normal individuals. By direct sequencing, we screened the complete NOD2 gene and genotyped the R381Q variant in IL23R, and performed an association analysis and genotype–phenotype correlation analysis.

Results:  The clinical presentation of UC and CD patients did not differ significantly from the Europeans. We observed a monomorphic status for three common disease‐susceptible variants, R702W, G908R, and 1007fs in NOD2; three other single nucleotide polymorphisms, P268S, R459R, and R587R, had a comparable minor allele frequency in patients and controls. Compared to Europeans, we found a low frequency (∼1%) of the protective allele at R381Q in IL23R and no statistically‐significant association with IBD (odds ratio = 0.87; 95% confidence interval = 0.26–2.86; P > 0.05).

Conclusions:  Our study suggests that variants in the NOD2 gene and the protective variant R381Q in IL23R are not associated with IBD in Indians. Additional variants in these or other candidate genes might play a major role in the pathophysiology of IBD in Indians.
Mechanical ventilation in the newborn; a simplified approach. Part 1: Intermittent positive pressure ventilation
Authors: Muhlethaler Vincent , Malcolm Girvan
Published: October 2010

Positive pressure ventilation (PPV) is a frequent intervention in the neonatal intensive care unit. This article is directed towards paediatricians in training and attempts to cover the basics of PPV without being too technical. To do so we have employed an extensive use of graphics to illustrate the underlying principles.
Trial of a developmental screening tool in remote Australian Aboriginal communities: A cautionary tale
Authors: D'Aprano Anita L , Carapetis Jonathan R , Andrews Ross
Published: October 2010

Aim:  To trial the Brigance developmental screening tool as an instrument for identifying Australian Aboriginal children at risk of developmental disability and requiring diagnostic developmental assessment.

Methods:  We conducted a cross‐sectional study of Australian Aboriginal children, aged 3–7 years, resident in three remote communities in the Northern Territory. Following informed consent, children were screened by a paediatrician using the Brigance screen.

Results:  There were 195 children identified as eligible, and 124 (64%) participated. All children screened, scored below the cut‐off for detecting children likely to have developmental disabilities or academic delays. Furthermore, all children scored below the at‐risk cut‐offs that indicate high probability of disabilities in at‐risk children.

Conclusions:  The Brigance screen identified all children in these high‐risk Aboriginal communities as well behind their age peers. Language and cultural relevance, and the method of administration limit the use of this screening tool. However, we cannot ignore the uniformly poor performance on a mainstream tool used with children expected to succeed in a mainstream educational setting. Recommendations include adapting an appropriate instrument to guide developmental surveillance and monitoring in remote Australian Aboriginal communities. This study further supports the pressing need for quality early childhood services that address the significant risk confronting Aboriginal children and prepare them in a way that ensures school and future success.
Health‐related quality of life in children with achalasia
Authors: Marlais Matko , Fishman Julia R , Fell John ME , Rawat David J , Haddad Munther J
Published: October 2010

Aims:  To assess self‐reported QoL in children with achalasia aged 5–18 and compare this with both disease and healthy control children in a prospective study.

Methods:  All children diagnosed with achalasia at one hospital were asked to participate in this study by completing the self‐report module of the validated PedsQL™ generic QoL assessment. All children attending a tertiary paediatric gastroenterology clinic from February 2009 to May 2009 with chronic constipation or inflammatory bowel disease were asked to participate in this study as disease controls. The PedsQL™ considers physical, emotional, social and school domains and is scored from 0–100. Healthy children were also recruited from the same site. Groups were compared using Analysis of Variance with Tukey's post‐hoc test.

Results:  One hundred and sixty one children completed the assessment (90 (56%) male, mean age 11.3 yrs ± 3.4 years) including 17 children with achalasia, 44 with chronic constipation, 59 with inflammatory bowel disease and 41 healthy children. QoL was significantly lower in the achalasia group compared to both children with IBD (73 vs. 82, p = 0.035) and healthy children (73 vs. 84, p = 0.005), and was comparable to that of children with chronic constipation (73 vs. 74, p = 0.99).

Conclusion:  Children with achalasia report a significantly lower QoL compared to children with inflammatory bowel disease and healthy children.
Drowning for love: the aquatic victim‐instead‐of‐rescuer syndrome: drowning fatalities involving those attempting to rescue a child
Authors: Franklin Richard C , Pearn John H
Published: October 2010

Introduction:  Non‐intentional child drowning remains a leading cause of child mortality. A related and secondary syndrome is composed of those who drown in impulsive, altruistic attempts to go to the aid of a drowning child. Such ‘rescuers’ who attempt to save a drowning child may themselves drown, a tragic event we term the AVIR syndrome or aquatic victim‐instead‐of‐rescuer.

Methods:  This study is composed of a five‐year (1 July 2002 to 30 June 2007) total population Australian survey, using the National Coroners Information System to identify cases and an analysis of every immersion rescuer–victim dyad where the primary ‘victim’ was a child and where the ‘rescuer’ drowned.

Results:  In Australia (2002–2007), 17 rescuers drowned in 15 incidents in which the primary victim was a drowning child. In 93% of the incidents, the primary ‘child–victim’ survived, 82% of the victims were unfamiliar with the aquatic location (i.e. were a visitor) and 76% of the victims were a male parent, partner of first‐degree relative. Alcohol was not generally involved.

Conclusion:  We define the AVIR syndrome as one that typically involves the following: a male, parent, partner or relative; an unfamiliar water hazard; a ‘rescuer’ who is a tourist; alcohol is not usually involved; and the primary victim usually survives. We posit that an increased awareness of such risks, the promotion of rudimentary rescue skills (e.g. being able to throw a lifeline) and increased advocacy for parents to learn the simple and basic life‐saving skills of non‐contact rescue will help reduce these drowning tragedies.
The importance of physical education classes in pre‐school children
Authors: Vale Susana , Santos Rute , Soares‐Miranda Luísa , Silva Pedro , Mota Jorge
Published: October 2010

Aim:  The purpose of this study was to analyse differences between total physical activity (TPA) and moderate‐to‐vigorous PA (MVPA) of pre‐school children during daily school hours when they attended the physical education class (PED) and school days without PE class (NPED) and to assess the contribution of PE classes to TPA in school hours.

Methods:  The sample was composed of 193 pre‐school healthy children (96 girls) aged from three to five years old and was conducted between February and December of 2008. Children wore accelerometers for at least four consecutive days during school hours. Data were analysed with specific software, age‐specific counts‐per‐minute cut‐off points and a 5 s epoch were used. Independent and general linear model repeated measures were used to assess differences between gender and differences between different days within each gender, respectively.

Results:  Boys engaged more MVPA than girls (P < 0.05). During PED, pre‐school children engaged significantly more in TPA and MVPA than during NPED (P < 0.05). PE class contributed, on average, 27.7% for the TPA and 32.8% of daily MVPA during PED in both gender.

Conclusion:  The results of this study suggest that structured PA such as a PE class increased the daily TPA and MVPA level of pre‐school children.
Lifestyle and demographic correlates of poor mental health in early adolescence
Authors: Robinson Monique , Kendall Garth E , Jacoby Peter , Hands Beth , Beilin Lawrie J , Silburn Sven R , Zubrick Stephen R , Oddy Wendy H
Published: October 2010

Aim:  To determine the constellation of lifestyle and demographic factors that are associated with poor mental health in an adolescent population.

Methods:  The Raine Study 14‐year follow‐up involved primary care givers and their adolescent children (n= 1860). The Child Behaviour Checklist (CBCL) was used to assess adolescent mental health. We examined diet, socio‐demographic data, family functioning, physical activity, screen use and risk‐taking behaviours with mental health outcomes using linear regression.

Results:  Adolescents with higher intakes of meat and meat alternatives and ‘extras’ foods had poorer mental health status. Adverse socio‐economic conditions, higher hours of screen use and ever partaking in the health risk behaviours of smoking and early sexual activity were significantly associated with increasing CBCL scores, indicative of poorer functioning.

Conclusions:  By identifying the lifestyle and demographic factors that accompany poorer mental health in early adolescence, we are able to better understand the context of mental health problems as they occur within an adolescent population.
Culture‐independent characterization of a novel, uncultivated magnetotactic member of theNitrospiraephylum
Authors: Lefèvre Christopher T. , Frankel Richard B. , Abreu Fernanda , Lins Ulysses , Bazylinski Dennis A.
Published: October 2010

A magnetotactic bacterium, designated strain LO‐1, of theNitrospiraephylum was detected and concentrated from a number of freshwater and slightly brackish aquatic environments in southern Nevada. The closest phylogenetic relative to LO‐1 isCandidatusMagnetobacterium bavaricum based on a 91.2% identity in their 16S rRNA gene sequence. Chemical and cell profiles of a microcosm containing water and sediment show that cells of strain LO‐1 are confined to the oxic–anoxic interface and the upper regions of the anaerobic zone which in this case, occurred in the sediment. This microorganism is relatively large, ovoid in morphology and usually biomineralizes three braid‐like bundles of multiple chains of bullet‐shaped magnetosomes that appeared to be enclosed in a magnetosome membrane. Cells of LO‐1 had an unusual three‐layered unit membrane cell wall and contained several types of inclusions, some of which are sulfur‐rich. Strain LO‐1 is motile by means of a single bundle of sheathed flagella and exhibits the typical ‘wobbling’ motility and helical swimming (‘flight’) path of the magnetotactic cocci. This study and reports from others suggest that LO‐1‐like organisms are widespread in sediments of freshwater to brackish natural aquatic environments.
Alcohol consumption in sport: The influence of sporting idols, friends and normative drinking practices
Authors: O'BRIEN KERRY S. , KOLT GREGORY S. , WEBBER ANDREW , HUNTER JOHN A.
Published: October 2010

Introduction and Aims. High‐profile sportspeople are posited as role models for others. We examine whether university sportspeople and non‐sportspeople's perceptions of high‐profile sportspeople's (sports stars) and friends perceived drinking behaviours are related to their own drinking behaviours. Further, we examine the importance of drinking with competitors after sports events. Design and Methods. A convenience sample of 1028 participants (58% females, n = 652 sportspeople) from two Australian universities were approached at sporting and university venues. Participants completed a survey booklet containing demographic questions, the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT, alcohol measure), perceived drinking of high‐profile sportspeople and friends (social norms), and for sportspeople only, items assessing the importance of drinking with competitors. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were used to assess relationships. Results. Both sporting and non‐sporting participants perceived high‐profile sportspeople to drink less than themselves and their friends. Small significant bivariate relationships were found between high‐profile sportspeople's perceived drinking and self‐reported drinking for sportspeople (r = 0.20, P < 0.0005). However, in multivariate regression models the perceived drinking behaviours of high‐profile sportspeople were not significant predictors of sportspeople's drinking, and were negatively related to non‐sportspeople's drinking. The practice of drinking with competitors after sports and games accounted for an additional 6.1% of the unique variance in AUDIT‐scores (P < 0.0005). Discussion and Conclusions. Sports stars are touted as negative role models when it comes to drinking. Contrary to expectations high‐profile sportspeople were not perceived to be heavy drinkers and their perceived drinking was not predictive of others drinking. Friends' and normative drinking practices were predictors of drinking.[O'Brien KS, Kolt GS, Webber A, Hunter JA. Alcohol consumption in sport: The influence of sporting idols, friends and normative drinking practices. Drug Alcohol Rev 2010;29;676–683]
Breaking new ground in the study and practice of alcohol brief interventions
Authors: HEATHER NICK
Published: October 2010

This article amplifies the decision to subtitle the INEBRIA2009 Conference ‘Breaking New Ground’. The effectiveness of screening and brief intervention (SBI) for hazardous and harmful drinking is now well‐established for primary health care and is promising for other medical settings. In addition, significant advances in the implementation of SBI are being made in various parts of the world. But, because of the need to establish efficacy and effectiveness, and perhaps too because of a preoccupation with meta‐analysis of existing research findings, progress in other aspects of the theory and practice of SBI has been slower than ideal. There may also be a risk of complacency in the SBI field of study. For these reasons and others, the Conference Organizing Committee decided to focus the conference and invite presentations on a number of specific topics in the field of alcohol SBI and these are listed here followed by a discussion of other areas in which new ground needs to be broken.[Heather N. Breaking new ground in the study and practice of alcohol brief interventions. Drug Alcohol Rev 2010;29;584–588]
Alcohol identification and brief advice in England: A major plank in alcohol harm reduction policy
Authors: LAVOIE DON
Published: October 2010

Screening and brief interventions form a vital plank in England's plans to reduce alcohol‐related harm. This article clarifies the use of terminology in England to describe various drinking categories and screening and brief interventions. It details efforts to implement these interventions, including recent incentive packages that have been put in place to encourage primary care to implement these interventions. It describes the Screening and Intervention Programme for Sensible Drinking research program that is underway to clarify tools and methods to introduce and support these interventions.[Lavoie D. Alcohol identification and brief advice in England: A major plank in alcohol harm reduction policy. Drug Alcohol Rev 2010;29;608–611]
Community pharmacy service users' views and perceptions of alcohol screening and brief intervention
Authors: DHITAL RANJITA , WHITTLESEA CATE M. , NORMAN IAN J. , MILLIGAN PETER
Published: October 2010

Introduction and Aims. Community pharmacists have the potential to deliver alcohol screening and brief interventions (SBI) to pharmacy users. However, little is known if SBI would be utilised and views of people who might use the service. Therefore, the aim was to investigate potential barriers and enablers of pharmacy SBI.

Design and Methods. Purposive sampling was used to select four pharmacies within the London borough of Westminster, UK. Semistructured interview schedule recorded participants' views of pharmacy SBI. The Alcohol Use Disorder Identification Test‐Consumption (AUDIT‐C) was incorporated to record views of high and low‐risk drinkers. Categorical data were analysed and content analysis undertaken.

Results. Of the 237 participants (149 female) approached 102 (43%) agreed to be interviewed (63 female). Of these 98 completed AUDIT‐C, with 51 (52%) identified as risky drinkers. Risky drinkers were significantly identified among the younger age group (χ2 = 11.03, P = 0.004), professional occupations (χ2 = 10.41, P = 0.015), with higher qualifications (χ2 = 10.46, P = 0.033), were least frequent visitors to a pharmacy (χ2 = 11.58, P = 0.021) and more frequently identified in multiple pharmacy establishments than independents (χ2 = 8.52, P = 0.004). Most were willing to discuss drinking (97, 96%) and accept written information (99, 98%). Accessibility and anonymity were reported as positive aspects and concerns were expressed about lack of privacy and time (pharmacist and user).

Discussion and Conclusions. This study reports the first results of pharmacy users' views on SBI. Regardless of drinking status, most were willing to utilise the service and positive about pharmacists' involvement.[Dhital R, Whittlesea CM, Norman IJ, Milligan P. Community pharmacy service users' views and perceptions of alcohol screening and brief intervention. Drug Alcohol Rev 2010;29;596–602]
Attention trajectories, mechanisms and outcomes: at the interface between developing cognition and environment
Authors: Scerif Gaia
Published: October 2010

Attentional processes play a crucial role in prioritizing information for further processing and they therefore sit at the interface between internal goals and the challenges presented by the environment. How does attentional control interact with the changing constraints imposed by the developing cognitive system? Emerging work in this area has employed a range of complementary techniques, from increasingly refined neurocognitive measures in typically developing individuals, to the investigation of risk or protective factors influencing attention trajectories in developmental disorders. A growing corpus of data suggests that, while attentional biases for specific input characteristics (e.g. suddenly appearing stimuli, emotional expressions) are in place from infancy, it is the interplay between these predispositions, genetic and environmental factors that drives attention development over time. With the advent of multidisciplinary approaches to the developmental cognitive neuroscience of attention, unravelling these complex dynamics from infancy and their outcome on learning is increasingly within reach.
Simulation models of obesity: a review of the literature and implications for research and policy
Authors: Levy D. T. , Mabry P. L. , Wang Y. C. , Gortmaker S. , Huang T. T.‐K. , Marsh T. , Moodie M. , Swinburn B.
Published: October 2010

Simulation models (SMs) combine information from a variety of sources to provide a useful tool for examining how the effects of obesity unfold over time and impact population health. SMs can aid in the understanding of the complex interaction of the drivers of diet and activity and their relation to health outcomes. As emphasized in a recently released report of the Institute or Medicine, SMs can be especially useful for considering the potential impact of an array of policies that will be required to tackle the obesity problem. The purpose of this paper is to present an overview of existing SMs for obesity. First, a background section introduces the different types of models, explains how models are constructed, shows the utility of SMs and discusses their strengths and weaknesses. Using these typologies, we then briefly review extant obesity SMs. We categorize these models according to their focus: health and economic outcomes, trends in obesity as a function of past trends, physiologically based behavioural models, environmental contributors to obesity and policy interventions. Finally, we suggest directions for future research.
A systematic analysis of childhood obesity prevention interventions targeting Hispanic children: lessons learned from the previous decade
Authors: Branscum P. , Sharma M.
Published: October 2010

Hispanic children suffer from the highest overall rates of prevalence for overweight and obesity in the US. In the last decade some interventions for prevention of childhood obesity have been developed and tailored to target this subgroup. The purpose of this review is to systematically analyze and summarize findings for health education and promotion interventions aimed at the prevention of childhood overweight and obesity among primarily Hispanic children. A systematic review of PubMed, CINAHL, and ERIC was done for the time period 2000 to May 2010. A posteriori effect size for the primary outcome of each intervention was calculated using G*Power. A total of nine interventions were located; five randomized controlled trials and four were either quasi‐experimental or pilot studies. Among these studies, only four had significant findings, and calculated effect sizes (Cohen's f) ranged from small to medium with the highest f = 0.26. Interventions were more likely to be successful when participants were at higher risk for obesity, a parental component was included, the intervention contained theoretical underpinnings, the intervention was delivered by a dedicated staff, the intervention served older children and the intervention was longer in duration. More interventions need to be developed for Hispanic children. Future interventions should also develop and utilize culturally appropriate and sensitive materials and approaches.
The levelling off of the obesity epidemic since the year 1999 – a review of evidence and perspectives
Authors: Rokholm B. , Baker J. L. , Sørensen T. I. A.
Published: October 2010

The purpose was to investigate a possible levelling off in the obesity epidemic, by systematically reviewing literature and web‐based sources. Eligible studies and data sources were required to have at least two measures of obesity prevalence since 1999. A literature and Internet search resulted in 52 studies from 25 different countries. The findings supported an overall levelling off of the epidemic in children and adolescents from Australia, Europe, Japan and the USA. In adults, stability was found in the USA, while increases were still observed in some European and Asian countries. Some evidence for heterogeneity in the obesity trends across socioeconomic status (SES) groups was found. The levelling off was less evident in the lower‐SES groups. No obvious differences between genders were identified. We discussed potential explanations for a levelling off and the utility of investigating obesity trends to identify the driving forces behind the epidemic. It is important to emphasize that the levelling off is not tantamount to calling off the epidemic. Additionally, it is worthwhile to keep in mind that previous stable phases have been followed by further increases in the prevalence of obesity. Therefore, research into the causes, prevention and treatment of obesity should remain a priority.
Metabolic flexibility and obesity in children and youth
Authors: Aucouturier J. , Duché P. , Timmons B. W.
Published: October 2010

The concept of metabolic flexibility describes the ability of skeletal muscle to switch between the oxidation of lipid as a fuel during fasting periods to the oxidation of carbohydrate during insulin stimulated period. Alterations in energy metabolism in adults with obesity, insulin resistance and/or type 2 diabetes induce a state of impaired metabolic flexibility, or metabolic inflexibility. Despite the increase in the prevalence of type 2 diabetes in obese children and youth, less is known about the factors involved in the development of metabolic inflexibility in the paediatric population. Metabolic flexibility is conditioned by nutrient partitioning in response to feeding, substrate mobilization and delivery to skeletal muscle during fasting or exercising condition, and skeletal muscle oxidative capacity. Our aim in this review was to identify among these factors those making obese children at risk of metabolic inflexibility. The development of ectopic rather than peripheral fat storage appears to be a factor strongly linked with a reduced metabolic flexibility. Tissue growth and maturation are determinants of impaired energy metabolism later in life but also as a promising way to reverse metabolic inflexibility given the plasticity of many tissues in youth. Finally, we have attempted to identify perspectives for future investigations of metabolic flexibility in obese children that will improve our understanding of the genesis of metabolic diseases associated with obesity.
Obesity as a poverty‐related emerging nutrition problems: the case of Indonesia
Authors: Usfar A. A. , Lebenthal E. , Atmarita  , Achadi E. , Soekirman  , Hadi H.
Published: October 2010

Obesity is a major contributor to the global burden of chronic disease and disability. In developing countries like Indonesia, obesity often co‐exists with undernutrition. Data from national basic health research 2007 showed that overnutrition was found among all age groups, on a double digit scale, with similar magnitude in urban and rural areas and higher prevalence in adult female. In contrary to 14% undernourished children under the age of 5 years, 12% of their counterparts were overnourished; for 6–14 years 10% vs. 6%; and for 15 years and above 15% vs. 19%. The purpose of the review is to raise awareness on the increasing obesity problem and to set recommendations to prevent obesity. Stunted adults in developing countries are 1.2 times more likely to be overweight than non‐stunted adults. Approaches to overcoming obesity in adulthood emphasize dietary changes, increasing physical activity and behaviour modification. It is important for Indonesia to target nutrition intervention for female adolescents, pregnant woman to first 2 years of life, initiate nutrition education for school‐age children and disseminate Holistic Healthy Framework Approach with key message ‘Initiate healthier food choices’. Prompt Nutrition Guidelines and the use of lower body mass index cut‐off should be considered.
Planting an Asylum for Religion: Berkeley's Bermuda Scheme and the Transmission of Virtue in the Eighteenth‐Century Atlantic World
Authors: BREUNINGER SCOTT
Published: October 2010

Following the aftermath of the South Sea bubble, George Berkeley grew disenchanted with British morality and turned his attention to a new project: a missionary college in Bermuda. Not only did he personally lobby friends and government officials, but he also worked tirelessly to persuade the public of his scheme's value. To this end, he published his plan under the title A Proposal for the Better Supplying of Churches in Our Foreign Plantations (1724) and at the height of this enthusiasm wrote his only (existent) poem “America, or the Muse's Refuge” (1725/26). These verses were premised upon a classical commonplace, the notion of a translatio imperii and translatio religionis: the belief in the constant westward migration of empire and religion that provided the foundation of his plan. Through a contextual reading of these two pieces, this paper examines Berkeley's contributions to early eighteent‐century missionary activity in the Atlantic world.
Joint Modelling of Survival and Cognitive Decline in the Australian Longitudinal Study of Ageing
Authors: Graham Petra L. , Ryan Louise M. , Luszcz Mary A.
Published: October 2010

The paper describes the use of a longitudinal tobit model to characterize cognitive decline over a 13-year period in a cohort of 2087 elderly Australians. Use of a tobit formulation allows for the so-called ‘ceiling effect’ wherein many subjects achieve perfect test scores. A Bayesian hierarchical joint model is presented that allows for random subject-specific intercepts and slopes, as well as for informative dropout. Results suggest several potential areas of intervention. For example, there is a clear dose–response effect of exercise whereby increasing levels of exercise are associated with higher cognitive scores.
Understanding Complex Legislative and Judicial Behaviour via Hierarchical Ideal Point Estimation
Authors: Lu Ying , Wang Xiaohui
Published: October 2010

Ideal point estimation is an important tool to study legislative and judicial voting behaviours. We propose a hierarchical ideal point estimation framework that directly models complex voting behaviours on the basis of the characteristics of the political actors and the votes that they cast. Through simulations and empirical examples we show that this framework holds good promise for resolving many unsettled issues, such as the multi-dimensional aspects of ideology, and the effects of political parties. As a companion to this paper, we offer an easy-to-use R package that implements the methods discussed.
Fast Bayesian Analysis of Spatial Dynamic Factor Models for Multitemporal Remotely Sensed Imagery
Authors: Strickland C. M. , Simpson D. P. , Turner I. W. , Denham R. , Mengersen K. L.
Published: October 2010

Remote sensing is one example where data sets that vary across space and time have become so large that ‘standard’ approaches employed by statistical modellers for applied analysis are no longer feasible. We present a Bayesian methodology, which makes use of recently developed algorithms in applied mathematics, for the analysis of large space–time data sets. In particular, a Markov chain Monte Carlo algorithm is proposed for the efficient estimation of spatial dynamic factor models. The spatial dynamic factor model is specified whereby spatial dependence is modelled though the columns of the factor loadings matrix by using a Gaussian Markov random field. Krylov subspace methods are used to take advantage of the sparse matrix structures that are inherent in the model. The methodology is used to analyse remotely sensed data from the Moderate Imaging Spectroradiometer satellite. In particular, the methodology proposed is used in conjunction with high resolution imagery for the classification, in terms of land type, of two regions in central Queensland, Australia.
Using Integrated Nested Laplace Approximations for the Evaluation of Veterinary Surveillance Data from Switzerland: A Case-Study
Authors: Schrödle Birgit , Held Leonhard , Riebler Andrea , Danuser Jürg
Published: October 2010

Spatiotemporal disease mapping models have been used extensively to describe the pattern of surveillance data. They are usually formulated in a hierarchical Bayesian framework and posterior marginals are not available in closed form. Hence, the standard method for parameter estimation is Markov chain Monte Carlo algorithms. A new method for approximate Bayesian inference in latent Gaussian models using integrated nested Laplace approximations has recently been proposed as an alternative. This approach promises very precise results in short computational time. The aim of the paper is to show how integrated nested Laplace approximations can be used as an inferential tool for a variety of spatiotemporal models for the analysis of reported cases of bovine viral diarrhoea in cattle from Switzerland. Conclusions concerning the problem of under-reporting in the data are drawn via a multilevel modelling strategy. Furthermore, a comparison with Markov chain Monte Carlo methods with regard to the accuracy of the parameter estimates and the usability of both approaches in practice is conducted. Approaches to model choice using integrated nested Laplace approximations are also presented.
Missing Data in a Stochastic Dollo Model for Binary Trait Data, and its Application to the Dating of Proto-Indo-European
Authors: Ryder Robin J. , Nicholls Geoff K.
Published: October 2010

Nicholls and Gray have described a phylogenetic model for trait data. They used their model to estimate branching times on Indo-European language trees from lexical data. Alekseyenko and co-workers extended the model and gave applications in genetics. We extend the inference to handle data missing at random. When trait data are gathered, traits are thinned in a way that depends on both the trait and the missing data content. Nicholls and Gray treated missing records as absent traits. Hittite has 12% missing trait records. Its age is poorly predicted in their cross-validation. Our prediction is consistent with the historical record. Nicholls and Gray dropped seven languages with too much missing data. We fit all 24 languages in the lexical data of Ringe and co-workers. To model spatiotemporal rate heterogeneity we add a catastrophe process to the model. When a language passes through a catastrophe, many traits change at the same time. We fit the full model in a Bayesian setting, via Markov chain Monte Carlo sampling. We validate our fit by using Bayes factors to test known age constraints. We reject three of 30 historically attested constraints. Our main result is a unimodal posterior distribution for the age of Proto-Indo-European centred at 8400 years before Present with 95% highest posterior density interval equal to 7100–9800 years before Present.
Radon and radium content of some cold and thermal aquifers from Bihor County (northwestern Romania)
Authors: ROBA C. A. , CODREA V. , MOLDOVAN M. , BACIU C. , COSMA C.
Published: October 2010

In the present study, two of the major naturally occurring radionuclides (226Ra and 222Rn) were analyzed in water samples from shallow, medium‐depth, and deep geothermal aquifers, all of which are located in Bihor County, northwestern Romania. Here, the results of radon and radium measurements, performed from 2008 to 2009 in 50 locations, are reported. Radon proved to have a wide range of activity, with values from 4.5 to 110.8 Bq l−1 for shallow aquifers, from 9.3 to 106.0 Bq l−1 for medium‐depth aquifers, and from 10.1 to 34.8 Bq l−1 for deep geothermal aquifers. The shallow aquifers have lower radium concentrations (0.06 to 0.48 Bq l−1), compared to medium‐depth aquifers (0.1 to 0.52 Bq l−1) and deep geothermal aquifers (0.27 to 1.8 Bq l−1). The principal aim was a thorough investigation into the possible correlations between the occurrence of radon and radium in different aquifers and the hydrogeological, hydrogeochemical, and geothermal features of the area. Besides the direct link between the occurrence of uranium and thorium and the 226Ra and 222Rn contents in groundwater, the measurements we performed have allowed us to identify a secondary control on radionuclide distributions caused by the adsorption of dissolved radium onto clay minerals in exchange for sodium (for the sandy clay aquifer of Săcuieni), the high competition for adsorption sites in aquifers with high concentrations of dissolved calcium and magnesium (for the limestone dolomite aquifer of Oradea), and the role of thermal processes.
Sexual dimorphism and growth trade‐offs in Blue Tit Cyanistes caeruleus nestlings
Authors: MAINWARING MARK C. , DICKENS MEGAN , HARTLEY IAN R.
Published: October 2010

The outcome of sibling competition for food is often determined by variation in body size within the brood and involves trade‐offs; traits that enhance competitive ability within the nest may be developed at the expense of traits that enable effective flight at fledging, or vice versa. We quantified growth of skeletal, body mass and feather traits in male and female Blue Tit Cyanistes caeruleus nestlings. Males were significantly heavier, had longer tarsi and tended to have greater head–bill lengths than females, whereas females were similar to males in wing flight feather growth. These differences in growth may result from sexual differences in selection of the traits. Females are likely to prioritize feather growth to facilitate synchronized fledging with the rest of the brood, and to enhance escape from predators. We suggest that males are heavier and develop longer tarsi because body size is an important determinant of male reproductive success.
Discrete cue‐conditioned alcohol‐seeking after protracted abstinence: pattern of neural activation and involvement of orexin1 receptors
Authors: Jupp B , Krstew E , Dezsi G , Lawrence AJ
Published: October 2010

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE The enduring propensity for alcoholics to relapse even following years of abstinence presents a major hurdle for treatment. Here we report a model of relapse following protracted abstinence and investigate the pattern of neuronal activation following cue‐induced reinstatement and administration of the orexin1 receptor antagonist SB‐334867 in inbred alcohol‐preferring rats.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Rats were trained to self‐administer alcohol under operant conditions and divided into two groups: immediate (reinstated immediately following extinction) and delayed (extinguished and then housed for 5 months before reinstatement). Prior to reinstatement, animals were treated with vehicle (immediate n= 11, delayed n= 11) or SB‐334867 (20 mg·kg−1 i.p.; immediate n= 6, delayed n= 11). Fos expression was compared between each group and to animals that underwent extinction only.

KEY RESULTS SB‐334867 significantly attenuated cue‐induced reinstatement in both groups. Immediate reinstatement increased Fos expression in the nucleus accumbens (NAc), infra‐limbic (IL), pre‐limbic (PrL), orbitofrontal (OFC) and piriform cortices, the lateral and dorsomedial hypothalamus, central amygdala and basolateral amygdala (BLA), and the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis. Following delayed reinstatement, Fos expression was further elevated in cortical structures. Concurrent with preventing reinstatement, SB‐334867 decreased Fos in NAc core, PrL and OFC following immediate reinstatement. Following protracted abstinence, SB‐334867 treatment decreased reinstatement‐induced Fos in the PrL, OFC and piriform cortices.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Cue‐induced alcohol seeking can be triggered following protracted abstinence in rats. The effects of SB‐334867 on both behaviour and Fos expression suggest that the orexin system is implicated in cue‐induced reinstatement, although some loci may shift following protracted abstinence.
Effects of β‐adrenoceptor stimulation on delayed rectifier K+ currents in canine ventricular cardiomyocytes
Authors: Harmati G , Bányász T , Bárándi L , Szentandrássy N , Horváth B , Szabó G , Szentmiklósi JA , Szénási G , Nánási PP , Magyar J
Published: October 2010

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE While the slow delayed rectifier K+ current (IKs) is known to be enhanced by the stimulation of β‐adrenoceptors in several mammalian species, phosphorylation‐dependent regulation of the rapid delayed rectifier K+ current (IKr) is controversial.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH In the present study, therefore, the effect of isoprenaline (ISO), activators and inhibitors of the protein kinase A (PKA) pathway on IKr and IKs was studied in canine ventricular myocytes using the whole cell patch clamp technique.

KEY RESULTS I
Kr was significantly increased (by 30–50%) following superfusion with ISO, forskolin or intracellular application of PKA activator cAMP analogues (cAMP, 8‐Br‐cAMP, 6‐Bnz‐cAMP). Inhibition of PKA by Rp‐8‐Br‐cAMP had no effect on baseline IKr. The stimulating effect of ISO on IKr was completely inhibited by selective β1‐adrenoceptor antagonists (metoprolol and CGP‐20712A), by the PKA inhibitor Rp‐8‐Br‐cAMP and by the PKA activator cAMP analogues, but not by the EPAC activator 8‐pCPT‐2'‐O‐Me‐cAMP. In comparison, IKs was increased threefold by the activation of PKA (by ISO or 8‐Br‐cAMP), and strongly reduced by the PKA inhibitor Rp‐8‐Br‐cAMP. The ISO‐induced enhancement of IKs was decreased by Rp‐8‐Br‐cAMP and completely inhibited by 8‐Br‐cAMP.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS The results indicate that the stimulation of β1‐adrenoceptors increases IKr, similar to IKs, via the activation of PKA in canine ventricular cells.