bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Relationship between maternal sodium intake and blood lead concentration during pregnancy
Authors: Lee Yo A. , Hwang Ji-Yun , Kim Hyesook , Kim Ki Nam , Ha Eun-Hee , Park Hyesook , Ha Mina , Kim Yangho , Hong Yun-Chul , Chang Namsoo 
Published: July 2012

Pb is released from bone stores during pregnancy, which constitutes a period of increased bone resorption. A high Na intake has been found to be negatively associated with Ca and adversely associated with bone metabolism. It is possible that a high Na intake during pregnancy increases the blood Pb concentration; however, no previous study has reported on the relationship between Na intake and blood Pb concentration. We thus have investigated this relationship between Na intake and blood Pb concentrations, and examined whether this relationship differs with Ca intake in pregnant Korean women. Blood Pb concentrations were analysed in 1090 pregnant women at mid-pregnancy. Dietary intakes during mid-pregnancy were estimated by a 24 h recall method covering the use of dietary supplements. Blood Pb concentrations in whole-blood samples were analysed using graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Multiple regression analysis performed after adjustment for covariates revealed that maternal Na intake was positively associated with blood Pb concentration during pregnancy, but only when Ca intake was below the estimated average requirement for pregnant Korean women (P= 0·001). The findings of the present study suggest that blood Pb concentration during pregnancy could be minimised by dietary recommendations that include decreased Na and increased Ca intakes.
Anatomical variations of the external branch of the superior laryngeal nerve in relation to the inferior constrictor muscle: cadaveric dissection study
Authors: Patnaik U , Nilakantan A , Shrivastava T 
Published: July 2012

AbstractObjectives:To determine anatomical variations in the external branch of the superior laryngeal nerve in relation to the inferior constrictor muscle, and to propose a rational approach for the preservation of the nerve in thyroid surgery based on anatomical principles.Method:A cadaveric dissection study of the anatomy of the external branch of the superior laryngeal nerve in relation to the inferior constrictor muscle was conducted. Twenty-nine formalin-fixed cadavers of both sexes (age 50–70 years), with normal necks, were examined.Results:In relation to the Friedman classification, three anatomical variations of the external branch of the superior laryngeal nerve were found. Type 1 variation was found in 57.1 per cent of cases, type 2 in 26.8 per cent and type 3 in 16 per cent.Conclusion:The prevalence of type 3 variation of the external branch of the superior laryngeal nerve suggests that the nerve will not be encountered in a certain percentage of individuals as it lies under the cover of the inferior constrictor. Therefore, there is no justification for attempting to identify the nerve in all cases.
First branchial arch abnormality: diagnostic dilemma and excision with facial nerve preservation
Authors: Joice P , Sudarshan T , Hussain S S M 
Published: July 2012

AbstractObjective:To report a case of first branchial arch abnormality and the problems associated with misdiagnosis. A succinct literature review is included.Setting:Teaching hospital in Scotland.Methods:A 10-year-old girl presented with localised erythema and swelling in the left parotid region. This was treated with antibiotics and incision and drainage. She re-presented four years later with a history of recurrent discharge. A first branchial arch abnormality was suspected and a magnetic resonance imaging scan arranged.Results:Imaging showed a fluid-filled sinus tract originating adjacent to the anterior wall of the cartilaginous left external auditory canal. The sinus tract was seen to extend anteriorly and inferiorly through the superficial lobe of the left parotid, and to open onto the left cheek lateral to the left masseter. The tract was explored and excised under general anaesthesia, via two separate incisions, with preservation of the facial nerve.Conclusion:The diagnosis of a first branchial arch abnormality is generally based on a high index of clinical suspicion, when a neck swelling is noted in a child. Magnetic resonance imaging is a useful modality for investigation, and helps to delineate the position of the tract and its relationship to the facial nerve.
ON THE SEPARATION OF POWERS: LIBERAL AND PROGRESSIVE CONSTITUTIONALISM
Authors: Zuckert Michael 
Published: July 2012

AbstractOne of the main targets of Progressive constitutional critique was the system of separation of powers. Woodrow Wilson was especially critical of that feature of American constitutionalism. As has been noted by others, Wilson wanted to replace the separation of powers with the conceptual and institutional distinction between politics and administration. Wilson, however, had an extremely truncated and on the whole inaccurate view of the point and intended operation of separation of powers, as an examination of the doctrine in the philosophy of John Locke demonstrates.
Recloned transgenic pigs possess normal reproductive performance and stable genetic transmission capacity
Authors: Cao Zubing , Li Yan , Wen Xiao , Li Zhiyuan , Mi Changsheng , Zhang Zaihu , Li Ning , Li Qiuyan 
Published: July 2012

SummaryThe present study investigated whether a recloning procedure would affect the reproductive performance or the germline transmission capacity of recloned transgenic pigs. This study has also laid the foundation for the development of elite transgenic swine breeds in the future. Recloned transgenic pigs were developed from ear tissue fibroblasts of primary transgenic cloned pigs using a recloning procedure, and their reproductive performance and exogenous gene transmission were analyzed. Two transgenic cell lines with different genetic backgrounds (derived from a female miniature pig and a male Landrace pig) with stable expression of green fluorescent protein (GFP) were established successfully. Furthermore, recloned transgenic embryos were developed to full term successfully. One female Chinese experimental miniature piglet (CEMP) (GFP+) and three male Landrace piglets (GFP+) were delivered naturally. Furthermore, the index values for the reproductive characteristics of the recloned transgenic pigs, such as puberty, gestation period, sperm volume and sperm concentration, were not significantly different from those of conventionally bred pigs. In addition, 53% of the F1 offspring of the recloned transgenic pigs were GFP positive. These results demonstrate that ear tissue fibroblasts from primary transgenic cloned pigs efficiently support the full-term development of recloned transgenic embryos. Furthermore, recloned transgenic pigs maintain normal reproductive performance and stable germline (genetic) transmission capacities.
Toxic effects of Hoechst staining and UV irradiation on preimplantation development of parthenogenetically activated mouse oocytes
Authors: Versieren Karen , Heindryckx Björn , Qian Chen , Gerris Jan , De Sutter Petra 
Published: July 2012

SummaryParthenogenetic activation of oocytes is a helpful tool to obtain blastocysts, of which the inner cell mass may be used for derivation of embryonic stem cells. In order to improve activation and embryonic development after parthenogenesis, we tried to use sperm injection and subsequent removal of the sperm head to mimic the natural Ca2+increases by release of the oocyte activating factor. Visualization of the sperm could be accomplished by Hoechst staining and ultraviolet (UV) light irradiation. To exclude negative effects of this treatment, we examined toxicity on activated mouse oocytes. After activation, oocytes were incubated in Hoechst 33342 or 33258 stain and exposed to UV irradiation. The effects on embryonic development were evaluated. Our results showed that both types of Hoechst combined with UV irradiation have toxic effects on parthenogenetically activated mouse oocytes. Although activation and cleavage rate were not affected, blastocyst formation was significantly reduced. Secondly, we used MitoTracker staining for removal of the sperm. Sperm heads were stained before injection and removed again after 1 h. However, staining was not visible anymore in all oocytes after intracytoplasmic sperm injection. In case the sperm could be removed, most oocytes died after 1 day. As MitoTracker was also not successful, alternative methods for sperm identification should be investigated.
Oxidative stress and fertility: incorrect assumptions and ineffective solutions?
Authors: Ménézo Yves , Entezami Frida , Lichtblau Isabelle , Belloc Stephanie , Cohen Marc , Dale Brian 
Published: July 2012

SummaryOne of the most important concerns in assisted reproduction (ART), and in particular ICSI, is the quality of sperm DNA. Oxidative stress is one of the major causes of damage to DNA and attempting to reduce generation of DNA damage related to reactive oxygen species (ROS) through consumption of antioxidants is often tempting. However, current antioxidant treatments, given irrespectively of clinically quantified deficiencies, are poorly efficient, potentially detrimental and over-exposure is risky. Here we discuss new treatments in relation to present day concepts on oxidative stress. This discussion includes stimulation of endogenous anti-ROS defense i.e. glutathione synthesis and recycling of homocysteine, the epicentre of multiple ROS-linked pathologies.
Explosions and Human Health: The Long-Term Effects of Blast Injury
Authors: Finlay Sarah E. , Earby Michelle , Baker David J. , Murray Virginia S.G. 
Published: July 2012

AbstractThe immediate patterns of injury from explosions are well documented, from both military and civil experience. However, few studies have focused on less immediately apparent health consequences and latent effects of explosions in survivors, emergency responders and the surrounding community. This review aimed to analyze the risks to health following an explosion in a civil setting.A comprehensive review of the open literature was conducted, and data on 10 relevant military, civilian and industrial events were collected. Events were selected according to availability of published studies and involvement of large numbers of people injured. In addition, structured interviews with experts in the field were conducted, and existing national guidelines reviewed.The review revealed significant and potentially long-term health implications affecting various body systems and psychological well-being following exposure to an explosion. An awareness of the short- and long-term health effects of explosions is essential in screening for blast injuries, and identifying latent pathologies that could otherwise be overlooked in stressful situations with other visually distracting injuries and, often, mass casualties. Such knowledge would guide responsible medical staff in implementing early appropriate interventions to reduce the burden of long-term sequelae. Effective planning and response strategies would ensure accessibility of appropriate health care resources and evidence-based information in the aftermath of an explosion.Finlay SE, Earby M, Baker DJ, Murray VSG. Explosions and human health: the long-term effects of blast injury.Prehosp Disaster Med. 2012;27(4):1-7.
Kognitive, sprachliche, mathematische und sozial-emotionale Kompetenzen als Prädiktoren späterer schulischer Leistungen:
Authors: Gut Janine , Reimann Giselle , Grob Alexander 
Published: July 2012

Zusammenfassung: Basierend auf der Annahme, dass Schulleistungen sowohl durch kognitive als auch sozial-emotionale Schülermerkmale bedingt sind, untersuchte die vorliegende Studie längsschnittlich anhand einer Stichprobe von 263 Kindern (M Alter = 7.4 Jahre, SD = 0.65 Jahre, Altersspanne 5–10 Jahre; 52 % Mädchen) ob kognitive, sprachliche, mathematische und sozial-emotionale Kompetenzen erfasst anhand der Intelligence Development Scales (IDS) die Schulnoten in den Fächern Mathematik, Deutsch und Sachkunde drei Jahre später vorhersagen können. Die Ergebnisse der Studie zeigten, dass sowohl die kognitiven, als auch die sprachlichen und mathematischen Kompetenzen zuverlässige Prädiktoren für die späteren Schulnoten in allen Fächern darstellten. Darüber hinaus bestätigte die Studie, dass hohe sozial-emotionale Kompetenzen relative Defizite in den kognitiven und sprachlichen Kompetenzen im Hinblick auf die Schulnoten zu kompensieren vermögen.
Protein-SIP enables time-resolved analysis of the carbon flux in a sulfate-reducing, benzene-degrading microbial consortium
Authors: Taubert Martin , Vogt Carsten , Wubet Tesfaye , Kleinsteuber Sabine , Tarkka Mika T , Harms Hauke , Buscot François , Richnow Hans-Hermann , von Bergen Martin , Seifert Jana 
Published: July 2012

Abstract
Benzene is a major contaminant in various environments, but the mechanisms behind its biodegradation under strictly anoxic conditions are not yet entirely clear. Here we analyzed a benzene-degrading, sulfate-reducing enrichment culture originating from a benzene-contaminated aquifer by a metagenome-based functional metaproteomic approach, using protein-based stable isotope probing (protein-SIP). The time-resolved, quantitative analysis of carbon fluxes within the community supplied with either 13C-labeled benzene or 13C-labeled carbonate yielded different functional groups of organisms, with their peptides showing specific time dependencies of 13C relative isotope abundance indicating different carbon utilization. Through a detailed analysis of the mass spectrometric (MS) data, it was possible to quantify the utilization of the initial carbon source and the metabolic intermediates. The functional groups were affiliated to Clostridiales, Deltaproteobacteria and Bacteroidetes/Chlorobi. The Clostridiales-related organisms were involved in benzene degradation, putatively by fermentation, and additionally used significant amounts of carbonate as a carbon source. The other groups of organisms were found to perform diverse functions, with Deltaproteobacteria degrading fermentation products and Bacteroidetes/Chlorobi being putative scavengers feeding on dead cells. A functional classification of identified proteins supported this allocation and gave further insights into the metabolic pathways and the interactions between the community members. This example shows how protein-SIP can be applied to obtain temporal and phylogenetic information about functional interdependencies within microbial communities.
High-resolution imaging in a deep turbid medium based on an ultrasound-switchable fluorescence technique
Authors: Yuan Baohong , Uchiyama Seiichi , Liu Yuan , Nguyen Kytai T. , Alexandrakis George 
Published: July 2012

The spatial resolution of fluorescence imaging techniques in deep optically turbid media such as tissues is limited by photon diffusion. To break the diffusion limit and achieve high-resolution and deep-tissue fluorescence imaging, a fundamentally different method was demonstrated based on a concept of ultrasound-switchable fluorescence. The results showed that a small fluorescent tube with a diameter of ∼180 μm at a depth of ∼20 mm in an optical scattering medium (μs′≈3.2 and μa≈0.026 cm−1) can be clearly imaged with a size of ∼260 μm. The depth-to-resolution ratio is shown to be about one order of magnitude better than other deep-tissue fluorescence imaging techniques.
Observation of scalar nuclear spin–spin coupling in van der Waals complexes
Authors: Ledbetter Micah P. , Saielli Giacomo , Bagno Alessandro , Tran Nhan , Romalis Michael V. 
Published: July 2012

Scalar couplings between covalently bound nuclear spins are a ubiquitous feature in nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) experiments, imparting valuable information to NMR spectra regarding molecular structure and conformation. Such couplings arise due to a second-order hyperfine interaction, and, in principle, the same mechanism should lead to scalar couplings between nuclear spins in unbound van der Waals complexes. Here, we report the first observation of scalar couplings between nuclei in van der Waals complexes. Our measurements are performed in a solution of hyperpolarized
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Xe and pentane, using superconducting quantum interference devices to detect NMR in 10 mG fields, and are in good agreement with calculations based on density functional theory. van der Waals forces play an important role in many physical phenomena. The techniques presented here may provide a new method for probing such interactions.
Effects of Maternal Growth on Fecundity and Egg Quality of Wild and Captive Atka Mackerel
Authors: McDermott Susanne F. , Cooper Daniel W. , Guthridge Jared L. , Spies Ingrid B. , Canino Mike F. , Woods Pamela , Hillgruber Nicola 
Published: July 2012

Abstract
Trade-offs in energy allocation between growth and reproduction can result in variations in reproductive potential in fish with differing growth patterns. Spawning biomass is often used as a proxy for reproductive potential on the assumption that fecundity is directly proportional to body weight. We examined variations in the reproductive potential of Atka mackerel Pleurogrammus monopterygius by studying the effect of differential growth and condition patterns on fecundity, atresia, and egg energy. Fecundity and egg energy were determined for fish from two geographic areas, Seguam Pass and Amchitka Island, Alaska, and compared with those of fish held in captivity. These Atka mackerel showed distinct differences in growth and condition, with weight at length and length at age being the highest among captive fish, intermediate among fish from Seguam Pass, and lowest among fish from Amchitka Island. Realized fecundity showed that on average captive fish spawned seven batches, fish from Seguam Pass six batches, and fish from Amchitka Island five batches. For wild fish, potential and realized fecundity at length or age was significantly higher at Seguam Pass than at Amchitka Island, whereas the fecundity-at-weight relationship did not differ by area, suggesting that weight is a better predictor of fecundity than length or age. Atresia and batch fecundity by length or weight did not differ by area, suggesting that the variation in fecundity is better explained by the variation in batch number than by batch size. Oocyte dry weight was higher for captive fish than for wild fish, whereas batch order did not significantly affect oocyte dry weight. Increased potential fecundity, realized fecundity, and oocyte quality in Atka mackerel females were strongly related to body size, indicating that growth differences and maternal feeding success impact the fecundity and oocyte quality of Atka mackerel. Therefore, changes in growth and condition patterns need to be taken into account to accurately estimate the reproductive potential of this species.
Received August 21, 2010; accepted March 2, 2011
Rice Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase Interactome Analysis Using the Yeast Two-Hybrid System
Authors: Singh Raksha , Lee Mi-Ok , Lee Jae-Eun , Choi Jihyun , Park Ji Hun , Kim Eun Hye , Yoo Ran Hee , Cho Jung-Il , Jeon Jong-Seong , Rakwal Randeep , Agrawal Ganesh Kumar , Moon Jae Sun , Jwa Nam-Soo 
Published: July 2012

Abstract
Mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) cascades support the flow of extracellular signals to intracellular target molecules and ultimately drive a diverse array of physiological functions in cells, tissues, and organisms by interacting with other proteins. Yet, our knowledge of the global physical MAPK interactome in plants remains largely fragmented. Here, we utilized the yeast two-hybrid system and coimmunoprecipitation, pull-down, bimolecular fluorescence complementation, subcellular localization, and kinase assay experiments in the model crop rice (Oryza sativa) to systematically map what is to our knowledge the first plant MAPK-interacting proteins. We identified 80 nonredundant interacting protein pairs (74 nonredundant interactors) for rice MAPKs and elucidated the novel proteome-wide network of MAPK interactors. The established interactome contains four membrane-associated proteins, seven MAP2Ks (for MAPK kinase), four MAPKs, and 59 putative substrates, including 18 transcription factors. Several interactors were also validated by experimental approaches (in vivo and in vitro) and literature survey. Our results highlight the importance of OsMPK1, an ortholog of tobacco (Nicotiana benthamiana) salicyclic acid-induced protein kinase and Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) AtMPK6, among the rice MAPKs, as it alone interacts with 41 unique proteins (51.2% of the mapped MAPK interaction network). Additionally, Gene Ontology classification of interacting proteins into 34 functional categories suggested MAPK participation in diverse physiological functions. Together, the results obtained essentially enhance our knowledge of the MAPK-interacting protein network and provide a valuable research resource for developing a nearly complete map of the rice MAPK interactome.
Adherence with health regimens of patients on warfarin therapy
Authors: Kääriäinen Maria , Paukama Merja , Kyngäs Helvi 
Published: July 2012

Aims and objectives.  To explore adherence with health regimens and factors influencing it of patients on warfarin therapy.Background.  Adherence to health regimens is a crucial factor for patients on long‐term warfarin therapy. Approximately 50% of patients with chronic conditions have good adherence. This study covers a more extensive perspective on patients’ adherence to warfarin therapy than earlier studies, which focus mainly on adherence to medication.Design.  A descriptive cross‐sectional design was used.Methods.  A survey of 139 patients was conducted in 2008. A self‐reported Adherence of people with Chronic Disease Instrument questionnaire was used to assess adherence to health regimens and factors influencing it. Chi‐squared test, Mann–Whitney U‐test and Kruskal–Wallis test were used to analyse the data.Results.  About half (51%) of the respondents complied well with health regimens, while 74% had good adherence with warfarin therapy. Females had better adherence than males. The highest degree of adherence was reported by patients who had venous thrombosis and whose therapy had lasted from one to three years. Patients who adhered well to warfarin therapy also had good adherence with other health regimens such as diet, exercise, attending international normalised ratio tests and collaboration with health care. There was also a statistically significant difference between adherence to health regimens and motivation and sense of normality.Conclusions.  Good adherence to health regimens had an impact on good adherence to warfarin therapy. Collaboration with health care professionals, motivation and patients’ sense of normality are crucial factors to improve adherence.Relevance to clinical practice.  To improve adherence to health regimens, collaboration between patients and health professionals should be strengthened. Furthermore, discussion with patients can aid in understanding problems of motivation and help health care professionals provide support. Tailoring treatment and care as a part of patients’ life helps them gain a sense of normality and improve adherence.