bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Intestinal parasites of endangered orangutans(Pongo pygmaeus) in Central and East Kalimantan, Borneo, Indonesia
Authors: LABES E. M. , HEGGLIN D. , GRIMM F. , NURCAHYO W. , HARRISON M. E. , BASTIAN M. L. , DEPLAZES P. 
Published: September 2009

SUMMARYFaecal samples from 163 captive and semi-captive individuals, 61 samples from wild individuals and 38 samples from captive groups of Bornean orangutans (Pongo pygmaeus) in Kalimantan, Indonesia, were collected during one rainy season (November 2005–May 2006) and screened for intestinal parasites using sodium acetate-acetic acid-formalin-concentration (SAFC), sedimentation, flotation, McMaster- and Baermann techniques. We aimed to identify factors influencing infection risk for specific intestinal parasites in wild orangutans and individuals living in captivity. Various genera of Protozoa (includingEntamoeba, Endolimax, Iodamoeba,Balantidium,GiardiaandBlastocystis), nematodes (such asStrongyloides,Trichuris,Ascaris, Enterobius,Trichostrongylusand hookworms) and one trematode (a dicrocoeliid) were identified. For the first time, the cestodeHymenolepiswas detected in orangutans. Highest prevalences were found forStrongyloides(individuals 37%; groups 58%), hookworms (41%; 58%),Balantidium(40%; 61%),Entamoeba coli(29%; 53%) and a trichostrongylid (13%; 32%). In re-introduction centres, infants were at higher risk of infection withStrongyloidesthan adults. Infection risk for hookworms was significantly higher in wild males compared with females. In groups, the centres themselves had a significant influence on the infection risk forBalantidium. Ranging patterns of wild orangutans, overcrowding in captivity and a shift of age composition in favour of immatures seemed to be the most likely factors leading to these results.
Determination of singularities of some 4-DOF parallel manipulators by translational/rotational Jacobian matrices
Authors: Lu Yi , Shi Yan , Yu Jianping 
Published: September 2009

SUMMARYA novel analytic approach is proposed for determining the singularities of some four degree of freedom (DOF) parallel manipulators (PMs). First, the constraint and displacement of a general 4-DOF PM are analyzed. Second, a common 3 × 4 translational Jacobian matrix Jν and a common 3 × 4 rotational Jacobian matrix Jω are derived, and a 4 × 4 general Jacobian matrix J of the 4-DOF PMs is derived from Jν and Jω. Since a complicated process to determine singularities from the 4 × 6 Jacobian matrix is transformed into a simple process to determine singularity from J, the singularities of the some 4-DOF PMs with 3 translations and 1 rotation, or with 3 rotations and 1 translation, or with combined translation–rotations are analyzed and determined easily by this approach.
Seventy-five years of estimating the force of infection from current status data
Authors: HENS N. , AERTS M. , FAES C. , SHKEDY Z. , LEJEUNE O. , VAN DAMME P. , BEUTELS P. 
Published: September 2009

SUMMARYThe force of infection, describing the rate at which a susceptible person acquires an infection, is a key parameter in models estimating the infectious disease burden, and the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of infectious disease prevention. Since Muench formulated the first catalytic model to estimate the force of infection from current status data in 1934, exactly 75 years ago, several authors addressed the estimation of this parameter by more advanced statistical methods, while applying these to seroprevalence and reported incidence/case notification data. In this paper we present an historical overview, discussing the relevance of Muench's work, and we explain the wide array of newer methods with illustrations on pre-vaccination serological survey data of two airborne infections: rubella and parvovirus B19. We also provide guidance on deciding which method(s) to apply to estimate the force of infection, given a particular set of data.
Intentional cognitive control impairments in schizophrenia: Generalized or specific?
Authors: PAULIK GEORGIE , BADCOCK JOHANNA C. , MAYBERY MURRAY T. 
Published: September 2009

AbstractImpairments in intentional—but not unintentional—inhibition have been found in schizophrenia, and are thought to contribute to the presence of psychotic symptoms. However, it was previously unknown whether this intentional cognitive control impairment extends to intentional resistance to interference—another form of cognitive control. The current study resolved this issue through administering two cognitive control measures: one with a high intentional resistance to interference demand and the other with a high unintentional inhibition demand, to schizophrenia (n = 61) and healthy control (n = 34) participants. Consistent with previous findings, schizophrenia participants’ performance on the measures with a high unintentional inhibition demand was intact; however, they were impaired on the task with high intentional resistance to interference demands compared with controls. This latter finding suggests that intentional cognitive control impairments previously found in schizophrenia are not specific to inhibition, but instead are more general, including both processes requiring inhibition (as consistently reported in the literature) and resistance to interference (as found in the current study). (JINS, 2009, 15, 982–989.)
Animal exchange ratios: an alternative point of view
Authors: Kinyua P. I. D. , Njoka J. T. 
Published: September 2009

AbstractAn alternative interpretation is provided of the concepts of carrying capacity and exchange ratios, particularly suitable for game animal species, based on management models for a given area of rangeland or pasture. It involves modelling animal population dynamics as discrete‐time logistic equations. Carrying capacity is then generated endogenously using rainfall as a proxy. The model interaction parameters, also generated endogenously, represent the animal exchange ratios. Because these two parameters are generated endogenously, this approach takes into account all the animals' habitat requirements (food, cover, water and space) simultaneously, unlike other approaches that tend to consider food requirements only. This makes the approach amenable to multi‐species situations. It also captures the ecological definition of population growth models where the realized rather than the theoretical carrying capacity is determined endogenously.
Factors affecting the distribution and abundance of Cloeon and Caenis (Ephemeroptera) larvae in a tropical impounded river, Nigeria
Authors: Ogbogu Sylvester Sunday 
Published: September 2009

AbstractImpoundment of rivers affects the mayfly (Ephemeroptera) fauna inhabiting such water bodies, especially with respect to their distribution and abundance. A two‐year study of the mayfly fauna and some of the physicochemical parameters of the Opa stream–reservoir revealed that there are two mayfly genera inhabiting it, Cloeon and Caenis. The number of Cloeon larvae collected was 10,930 while the number of Caenis larvae was 450. It was observed that although both genera occurred at all the sampling stations, their numbers were reduced in the stream below the dam due to increased water current velocity. There were significant differences in the abundance of Cloeon among the stations, but none for Caenis. Submerged aquatic plants and water current velocity were found to be the major factors responsible for the significant differences. There were significant correlations between the number of Cloeon larvae and pH as well as between dissolved oxygen concentration and Caenis. These findings are discussed with reference to inter‐specific differences in patterns of response to environmental parameters. A species‐specific approach is suggested for studies on the strategies that enable mayfly species maintain their populations in stressed and unstable aquatic ecosystems.
Adipokines in type 1 diabetes after successful pancreas transplantation: normal visfatin and retinol‐binding‐protein‐4, but increased total adiponectin fasting concentrations
Authors: Stadler Marietta , Storka Angela , Theuer Eva Anna , Krebs Michael , Vojtassakova Elena , Nowotny Peter , Pacini Giovanni , Kästenbauer Thomas , Luger Anton , Prager Rudolf , Wolzt Michael , Anderwald Christian 
Published: September 2009

SummaryObjective  In type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM), the release of many hormones, not only from beta‐cells, but also from adipocytes (adipokines) may be altered. After successful pancreas–kidney‐transplantation (PKTx), T1DM patients can revert to a nondiabetic metabolism, but it is unclear whether alterations of adipokines are still present after PKTx.Design, patients and measurements  Concentrations of adipokines [visfatin, retinol‐binding protein‐4 (RBP‐4), adiponectin, high molecular weight (HMW) adiponectin] were measured at fasting in 10 PKTx and in 19 T1DM. Nondiabetic healthy controls (CON, n = 9) and six nondiabetic patients after kidney transplantation (KTx) were examined as control groups. In PKTx, KTx and CON, indices of insulin sensitivity (OGIS) and beta cell function (adaptation index, AI) were calculated from 75 g oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) data.Results  Fasting serum visfatin (T1DM: 56 ± 4 μg/l, PKTx: 42 ± 6 μg/l, KTx: 39 ± 3 μg/l, CON: 40 ± 3 μg/l) and RBP‐4 (T1DM: 490 ± 26 μg/l, PKTx: 346 ± 39 μg/l, KTx: 401 ± 13 μg/l, CON: 359 ± 36 μg/l) was increased by 40% and 36%, respectively (each P < 0·03) in T1DM only. Levels were positively correlated with HbA1c in all subjects (visfatin: r = 0·43, P < 0·004; RBP‐4: r = 0·46, P < 0·03). Fasting plasma adiponectin was 80% higher in T1DM and in PKTx (T1DM: 18 ± 2 mg/l, PKTx: 18 ± 3 mg/l, KTx: 12 ± 3 mg/l, CON: 10 ± 1 mg/l; P < 0·04) and was positively correlated with diabetes duration (r = 0·37, P < 0·02). HMW/total adiponectin ratio was increased in T1DM (P < 0·02). PKTx displayed a normoglycaemic metabolism as insulin sensitive as CON, but AI was lower than in CON and KT (P < 0·01).Conclusions  T1DM after successful PKTx show normal fasting visfatin and RBP‐4 levels and HMW‐adiponectin/adiponectin‐ratio, which are elevated in T1DM, whereas total adiponectin levels are similarly increased in T1DM and PKTx patients.
The effect of growth hormone (GH) replacement on muscle strength in patients with GH‐deficiency: a meta‐analysis
Authors: Matthew Widdowson W. , Gibney James 
Published: September 2009

SummaryContext/objectives  GH replacement increases muscle mass and reduces body fat in growth hormone deficiency (GHD) adults. A recent meta‐analysis has demonstrated that this improvement in body composition is associated with improved exercise performance. The current meta‐analysis was carried out to determine whether high‐quality evidence exists to support a beneficial effect of GH replacement on strength.Design/methods  An extensive Medline search/literature review identified eight studies with utilizable, robust data, involving 231 patients in nine cohorts. Previously unpublished data were sought from authors and obtained in two cases. All studies included were randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, of parallel or cross‐over design and of an average 6·7 months duration. Information was retrieved in uniform format, with data pertaining to patient numbers, study‐design, GH‐dose, mean age, IGF‐I levels and muscle strength measurements (isometric or isokinetic quadriceps strength) recorded. Data were analysed using a fixed‐effects model, utilizing continuous data measured on different scales. A summary effect measure (ds) was derived for individual strength variables, whereas an overall summary effect was derived from the sum of all studies incorporating different variables; 95% CIs were calculated from the weighted variances of individual study effects.Results  Analysis revealed no significant improvement, neither when all studies were combined (ds = +0·01 ± 0·26) nor when measured individually (isometric quadriceps strength, ds = +0·02 ± 0·32 and isokinetic quadriceps strength, ds = 0·00 ± 0·45).Conclusions  Evidence from short‐term controlled studies fails to support a benefit on muscle strength of GH replacement in GHD patients, which is likely to occur over a longer time‐course, as seen in open‐label studies.
Two different CC‐NBS‐LRR genes are required for Lr10‐mediated leaf rust resistance in tetraploid and hexaploid wheat
Authors: Loutre Caroline , Wicker Thomas , Travella Silvia , Galli Paolo , Scofield Steve , Fahima Tzion , Feuillet Catherine , Keller Beat 
Published: September 2009

SummaryComparative study of disease resistance genes in crop plants and their relatives provides insight on resistance gene function, evolution and diversity. Here, we studied the allelic diversity of the Lr10 leaf rust resistance gene, a CC‐NBS‐LRR coding gene originally isolated from hexaploid wheat, in 20 diploid and tetraploid wheat lines. Besides a gene in the tetraploid wheat variety ‘Altar’ that is identical to the hexaploid wheat Lr10, two additional, functional resistance alleles showing sequence diversity were identified by virus‐induced gene silencing in tetraploid wheat lines. In contrast to most described NBS‐LRR proteins, the N‐terminal CC domain of LR10 was found to be under strong diversifying selection. A second NBS‐LRR gene at the Lr10 locus, RGA2, was shown through silencing to be essential for Lr10 function. Interestingly, RGA2 showed much less sequence diversity than Lr10. These data demonstrate allelic diversity of functional genes at the Lr10 locus in tetraploid wheat, and these new genes can now be analyzed for agronomic relevance. Lr10‐based resistance is highly unusual both in its dependence on two, only distantly, related CC‐NBS‐LRR proteins, as well as in the pattern of diversifying selection in the N‐terminal domain. This indicates a new and complex molecular mechanism of pathogen detection and signal transduction.
Community structure of bathyal decapod crustaceans off South‐Eastern Sardinian deep‐waters (Central‐Western Mediterranean)
Authors: Follesa Maria Cristina , Porcu Cristina , Gastoni Alice , Mulas Antonello , Sabatini Andrea , Cau Angelo 
Published: September 2009

AbstractCommunity structure and faunal composition of bathyal decapod crustaceans off South‐Eastern Sardinian deep‐waters (Central‐Western Mediterranean) were investigated. Samples were collected during 32 hauls between 793 and 1598 m in depth over the 2003–2007 period. A total of 1900 decapod specimens belonging to 23 species were collected. Multivariate analysis revealed the occurrence of three faunistic assemblages related to depth: (i) an upper slope community at depths of 793–1002 m; (ii) a middle slope community at depths of 1007–1212 m and (iii) a lower slope community at depths greater 1420 m. In the upper and middle slopes the benthic (Polycheles typhlops) and epibenthic–endobenthic feeders (mainly Aristeus antennatus and Geryon longipes), which eat infaunal prey, were dominant, followed by the macroplankton–epibenthic feeders such as Acanthephyra eximia and Plesionika acanthonotus. In the deepest stratum, the most remarkable feature was the prevalence of macroplankton–epibenthic feeders (A. eximia and P. acanthonotus). A small percentage of the benthic deep‐sea lobster Polycheles sculptus was also present. The biomass presented higher values in the middle slope and declined strongly in the lower slope. There was no general pattern of mean individual weight/size versus depth among decapods, and the changes seemed to be species‐specific with different trends.
Spartina maritima (cordgrass) rhizosediment extracellular enzymatic activity and its role in organic matter decomposition processes and metal speciation
Authors: Duarte Bernardo , Almeida Pedro R. , Caçador Isabel 
Published: September 2009

AbstractSeasonal monitoring was carried out to investigate the influence of extracellular enzymatic activity (EEA) on metal speciation and organic matter cycling in the rhizosediment of Spartina maritima. Heavy metal speciation was achieved by the Tessier scheme, and showed a similar pattern of variation of the organic‐bound fraction, indicating a decomposition process in progress. Both humic acid and organic matter showed the same seasonal pattern. The basal respiration of the rhizosediments also presented a similar seasonal pattern, indicating a microbial degradation of organic matter. The high organic‐bound fraction found in the summer gradually decreased towards the winter. This decrease was found to be related to the increase of activity of peroxidase, β‐N‐acetylglucosaminidase and protease. Also the activity of sulphatase was found to be related to the depletion on the exchangeable fraction, probably due to sulphide formation and consequent mobilization. The results show an interaction between several microbial activities, affecting metal speciation.
Stroke in China
Authors: Jia Qian , Liu Li‐Ping , Wang Yong‐Jun 
Published: September 2009

Summary1. Following rapid economic development in China, the epidemiological characteristics, management and prevention strategies for stroke are changing. In the present article, we review recent epidemiological data, as well as studies into the management and prevention of stroke in China.2. The main findings of the studies reviewed suggest that stroke mortality in China has been reduced significantly. The percentage of haemorrhagic strokes in China is significantly higher than that reported in Western countries. The incidence and subtype of stroke varied widely in different regions in China. Some of the modifiable risk factors for stroke are on the increase in China, including hypertension.3. Management of stroke is slowly being developed and standardized, as evidenced by the establishment of stroke units and improvements in emergency care. Studies on primary and secondary stroke prevention remain insufficient. Well‐designed epidemiological surveys and clinical trials for stroke prevention and management are urgently needed in China.
Lowering of blood pressure during chronic suppression of central sympathetic outflow: Insight from computer simulations
Authors: Iliescu Radu , Lohmeier Thomas E 
Published: September 2009

Summary1. Chronic electrical stimulation of the carotid sinuses has provided unique insight into the mechanisms that cause sustained reductions in blood pressure during chronic suppression of central sympathetic outflow.2. Because renal denervation does not abolish the sustained fall in arterial pressure in response to baroreflex activation, this observation has seemingly challenged the concept that the kidneys play a critical role in the long‐term control of arterial pressure during chronic changes in sympathetic activity. The aim of the present study was to use computer simulations to provide a more comprehensive understanding of physiological mechanisms that mediate sustained reductions in arterial pressure during prolonged baroreflex‐mediated suppression of central sympathetic outflow.3. Physiological responses to baroreflex activation under different conditions were simulated by an established mathematical model of human physiology (QHP2008; see Supporting Information (Appendix S1) provided in the online version of this article and/or http://groups.google.com/group/modelingworkshop). The model closely reproduced empirical data, providing important validation of its accuracy.4. The simulations indicated that baroreflex‐mediated suppression of renal sympathetic nerve activity does chronically increase renal excretory function but that, in addition, hormonal and haemodynamic mechanisms also contribute to this natriuretic response. The contribution of these redundant natriuretic mechanisms to the chronic lowering of blood pressure is of increased importance when suppression of renal adrenergic activity is prevented, such as after renal denervation. Activation of these redundant natriuretic mechanisms occurs at the expense of excessive fluid retention.5. More broadly, the present study illustrates the value of numerical simulations in elucidating physiological mechanisms that are not obvious intuitively and, in some cases, not readily testable in experimental studies.
Guidewire cannulation increases the success rate of needle‐knife fistulotomy for difficult bile duct access
Authors: Yoon Kyoung W , Park Chang H , Park Seon Y , Cho Sung B , Lee Wan S , Joo Young E , Kim Hyeun S , Choi Sung K , Rew Jong S 
Published: September 2009

AbstractBackground and Aim:  Selective bile duct cannulation is a prerequisite for performing therapeutic endoscopic biliary intervention. This study aimed to evaluate if using a soft‐tipped guidewire to cannulate the bile duct would increase the success rate of needle‐knife fistulotomy for difficult bile duct access.Methods:  We reviewed sixty 60 patients with difficult bile duct access who underwent conventional cannulation with radiocontrast dye (29) or guidewire cannulation (31) after needle‐knife fistulotomy.Results:  There were no significant differences in the demographic data between the two groups. The initial success rate of selective bile duct cannulation was significantly higher in the guidewire cannulation group compared with the conventional cannulation group: 100% versus 79.3%, P = 0.009. The success rate of selective biliary cannulation in the patients with non‐dilated common bile duct (< 8 mm) was significantly higher in the guidewire cannulation group compared with the conventional cannulation group: 100% versus 68.4%, P = 0.003. The incidence of post‐endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography pancreatitis was not significantly different between the two groups. No serious complications occurred in either group.Conclusions:  In this retrospective and small case series, guidewire cannulation after needle‐knife fistulotomy increased the success rate of selective bile duct cannulation in patients with difficult bile duct access.
Micropulse diode laser photocoagulation for central serous chorio‐retinopathy
Authors: Gupta Bhaskar , Elagouz Mohammed , McHugh Dominic , Chong Victor , Sivaprasad Sobha 
Published: September 2009

AbstractPurpose:  Central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC) is usually characterized by a localized detachment of the neurosensory retina that is self‐limiting. However, some cases may persist or recur leading to degenerative changes of the retinal pigment epithelium and the neurosensory retina resulting in severe visual loss and requiring intervention.Methods:  This retrospective case series reports the long‐term visual outcome of the use of micropulse laser photocoagulation for this condition with a review of literature.Results:  The mean follow up was 17.1 months. Four of the five patients had complete resolution of symptoms whereas one patient had recurrent CSC from a new leak that failed to resolve after repeat micropulse treatment despite improvement in symptoms.Discussion:  The outcomes in this case series confirm the long‐term efficacy of micropulse laser in the management of CSC. It produces therapeutic effects that appear comparable to those of conventional photocoagulation with no detectable signs of laser‐induced iatrogenic damage.