bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A Comparison of White-Winged DoveZenaida asiaticaDensities Estimated During Morning and Evening Surveys
Authors: Small Michael F. , Veech Joseph A. , Baccus John T. 
Published: December 2011

AbstractSurveying bird populations through visual observation is generally limited to morning. The focus on morning surveys is based on the reasonable assumption that detection is more likely when birds are most active. However, population surveys could become more time- and cost-efficient if both morning and evening sampling were equally effective, particularly for game birds, such as white-winged dove Zenaida asiatica. Texas Parks and Wildlife Department has recently implemented distance sampling to estimate population sizes and monitor an ongoing range expansion of this species. We compared morning vs. evening density estimates for white-winged doves sampled in Mason, Texas, on six separate occasions during summer 2006. Program DISTANCE (version 5.0) calculated similar detection probabilities and density estimates between paired morning and evening sampling periods. Probability of detection ranged from 0.27 to 0.46 for both morning and evening samples. Densities, in individuals/ha, ranged from 2.54 to 4.02 for morning sampling and 2.48 to 4.31 for evening sampling. In addition, variables (number of observations, cluster size, distance to cluster) used by DISTANCE did not vary substantially between morning and evening surveys. Our results suggest evening surveys are as effective as the conventional protocol of surveying white-winged doves only in the morning. Additional studies, using Program DISTANCE, should be conducted to similarly evaluate other species.
Anergic CD8+ T Lymphocytes Have Impaired NF-κB Activation with Defects in p65 Phosphorylation and Acetylation
Authors: Clavijo Paúl E. , Frauwirth Kenneth A. 
Published: December 2011

Abstract
Because of the cytotoxic potential of CD8+ T cells, maintenance of CD8+ peripheral tolerance is extremely important. A major peripheral tolerance mechanism is the induction of anergy, a refractory state in which proliferation and IL-2 production are inhibited. We used a TCR transgenic mouse model to investigate the signaling defects in CD8+ T cells rendered anergic in vivo. In addition to a previously reported alteration in calcium/NFAT signaling, we also found a defect in NF-κB–mediated gene transcription. This was not due to blockade of early NF-κB activation events, including IκB degradation and NF-κB nuclear translocation, as these occurred normally in tolerant T cells. However, we discovered that anergic cells failed to phosphorylate the NF-κB p65 subunit at Ser311 and also failed to acetylate p65 at Lys310. Both of these modifications have been implicated as critical for NF-κB transactivation capacity, and thus, our results suggest that defects in key phosphorylation and acetylation events are important for the inhibition of NF-κB activity (and subsequent T cell function) in anergic CD8+ T cells.
Evaluation of a Worksite Self-Help Smoking Cessation Program for Registered Nurses
Authors: Gritz Ellen R. , Marcus Alfred C. , Berman Barbara A. , Read Laura L. , Kanim Linda E. A. , Reeder Sharon J. 
Published: December 2011

Cigarette smoking among nurses remains a public health concern despite a recent decline in current smoking prevalence. We recruited 149 registered nurses into a no-cost, targeted, self-help smoking cessation program supplemented by a supportive worksite environmental module. The study was designed to expand understanding of nurses' smoking and to measure program effectiveness. Follow-ups were conducted at one, six and 12 months post-intervention to assess self-reported smoking status (92% objectively validated) and predictors of cessation. Point prevalence abstinence at these time points (22.5%, 21.5% and 19.5%), continuous abstinence (12. 7%), and an ever-quit rate of 57% (i.e., quit for at least 48 hours), compare favorably to population quit rates and to rates reported for other self-help programs. Logistic regression analyses were utilized to identify predictors of short-term cessation [time before needing a cigarette, concern regarding the health hazards of smoking, working in a critical care setting, use of targeted weight manual] and long-term cessation [dosage (inverse relationship), use of standard American Lung Association maintenance manual, working with dying patients, and M. D. s' opposition to upgrading nursing service (inverse relationship)].
Formative Research Conducted in Rural Appalachia to Inform a Community Physical Activity Intervention
Authors: Kruger Tina M. , Swanson Mark , Davis Rian E. , Wright Sherry , Dollarhide Katie , Schoenberg Nancy E. 
Published: December 2011

Purpose. Despite the well-established benefits of physical activity (PA), most Americans, especially those in rural, traditionally underserved areas, engage in considerably less PA than recommended. This study examines perceived barriers to and facilitators of PA and promising organized PA programs among rural Appalachians. Design. Eight focus groups and seven group key informant interviews were conducted. Setting. This study was conducted in eastern Kentucky, in central Appalachia. Subjects. One hundred and fourteen rural Appalachian residents (74% female, 91% white) participated. Measures. Open-ended, semistructured, and structured questions regarding perceptions of, barriers to/facilitators of, and examples of successful/failed PA programs were asked. Analysis. Qualitative data analysis was conducted, including codebook development and steps taken to ensure rigor and transferability. Interrater reliability was over 94%. Results. In addition to barriers that are consistent with those found in other populations, rural Appalachian residents indicated that travel time, family commitments, and inadequate community resources undermine PA. Suggested avenues to increase PA include partnership with churches and the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Cooperative Extension Service; programs that include families, are well advertised, and focus on health rather than appearance; and, underlying all suggestions, culturally relevant yet nonstereotyping activities. Conclusions. When developing PA interventions in rural Appalachia, it is important to employ community-based participatory approaches that leverage unique assets of the population and show potential in overcoming challenges to PA.
Social Influence and Motivation to Change Health Behaviors among Mexican-Origin Adults: Implications for Diet and Physical Activity
Authors: Ashida Sato , Wilkinson Anna V. , Koehly Laura M. 
Published: December 2011

Purpose. To evaluate whether influence from social network members is associated with motivation to change dietary and physical activity behaviors. Design. Baseline assessment followed by mailing of family health history–based personalized messages (2 weeks) and follow-up assessment (3 months). Setting. Families from an ongoing population-based cohort in Houston, Texas. Subjects. 475 adults from 161 Mexican-origin families. Out of 347 households contacted, 162 (47%) participated. Measures. Family health history, social networks, and motivation to change behaviors. Analysis. Two-level logistic regression modeling. Results. Having at least one network member who encourages one to eat more fruits and vegetables (p = .010) and to engage in regular physical activity (p = .046) was associated with motivation to change the relevant behavior. About 40% of the participants did not have encouragers for these behaviors. Conclusions. Identification of new encouragers within networks and targeting natural encouragers (e.g., children, spouses) may increase the efficacy of interventions to motivate behavioral changes among Mexican-origin adults.
Use of Robotics in Spinal Cord Injury: A Case Report
Authors: Sledziewski Lori , Schaaf Roseann C. , Mount Julie 
Published: December 2011

AbstractOBJECTIVE. We examined the use of robotics to treat upper-extremity (UE) dysfunction in tetraplegic patients with spinal cord injury (SCI).METHOD. A 51-yr-old man with an incomplete SCI participated in an occupational therapy program that combined traditional occupational therapy with Reo Go®, a comprehensive therapy platform that includes a robotic guide featuring a telescopic arm to enable high repetitions of functionally relevant UE exercises.RESULTS. The participant demonstrated measurable improvements in active range of motion, muscle strength as measured through manual muscle testing, perceived right UE function, and self-care performance as measured by the FIM™.CONCLUSION. The findings from this case are promising and demonstrate the Reo Go’s utility in combination with traditional occupational therapy. However, more research and specific protocols that are easily reproducible with robots such as the Reo Go are needed to validate this evolving treatment area.
Certified Driver Rehabilitation Specialists’ Preferred Situations for Driving Simulator Scenarios
Authors: Yuen Hon K. , Brooks Johnell O. , Azuero Andres , Burik Jerry K. 
Published: December 2011

Abstract
The use of driving simulators is increasing in clinical settings that provide driving evaluation and rehabilitation. To identify the driving simulator scenarios desired by certified driver rehabilitation specialists (CDRSs), we developed a questionnaire consisting of 22 driving scenario situations. A total of 164 CDRSs rated each situation in terms of its importance for inclusion in simulator-based driving. The four situations they identified as most critical were turning left across oncoming traffic, navigating four-way intersections with traffic lights or signs, driving in multiple lanes with traffic on both sides, and reacting to unexpected events that require emergency braking or aggressive maneuvers to prevent an accident. We conducted exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses to group the 22 driving scenario situations. The model with the best fit included 11 situations forming three factors: (1) Intersections, (2) Roadway and Traffic Conditions, and (3) Environmental Conditions. Future studies should include these factors in driving simulator scenarios and evaluate their clinical efficacy in driving evaluation and rehabilitation.
Genetic regulation of heart valve development: Clinical implications
Authors: Hitz Marc-Phillip , Brand Thomas , Andelfinger Gregor 
Published: December 2011

AbstractCardiac malformations, most commonly valve defects, are some of the predominant causes of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality worldwide. Up to a third of all patients with complex congenital heart defects and numerous syndromic conditions, as well as a significant amount of the general population, exhibit valve defects. These observations have not only major implications in infancy; they also have a major impact on the adult population and the growing number of adults with congenital malformations. Over recent years, a large number of Mendelian inheritance patterns and syndromic causes have been identified, shedding light on the importance of genes encoding components of the extracelluar matrix in valve disease. Nevertheless, we still know little about the genetic origin of sporadic and more complex family traits. It is unclear to what extent genetic variations play a role in disease pathogenesis and influences phenotypes rooted in early development. Such knowledge would be greatly beneficial for counseling and treatment of patients. Therefore, this review summarizes the findings in human non-syndromic and syndromic valve disease with a special focus on extracellular matrix proteins, and discusses them in the context of vertebrate valve development.
Verification of Performance Specifications for a US Food and Drug Administration–Approved Molecular Microbiology Test: Clostridium difficile Cytotoxin B Using the Becton, Dickinson and Company GeneOhm Cdiff Assay
Authors: Schlaberg Robert , Mitchell Michael J , Taggart Edward W , She Rosemary C ,   for the Microbiology Resource Committee of the College of American Pathologists
Published: December 2011

Context.—US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)–approved diagnostic tests based on molecular genetic technologies are becoming available for an increasing number of microbial pathogens. Advances in technology and lower costs have moved molecular diagnostic tests formerly performed for research purposes only into much wider use in clinical microbiology laboratories.Objective.—To provide an example of laboratory studies performed to verify the performance of an FDA-approved assay for the detection of Clostridium difficile cytotoxin B compared with the manufacturer's performance standards.Design.—We describe the process and protocols used by a laboratory for verification of an FDA-approved assay, assess data from the verification studies, and implement the assay after verification.Results.—Performance data from the verification studies conducted by the laboratory were consistent with the manufacturer's performance standards and the assay was implemented into the laboratory's test menu.Conclusion.—Verification studies are required for FDA-approved diagnostic assays prior to use in patient care. Laboratories should develop a standardized approach to verification studies that can be adapted and applied to different types of assays. We describe the verification of an FDA-approved real-time polymerase chain reaction assay for the detection of a toxin gene in a bacterial pathogen.
Sea Peoples
Authors: Bachhuber Christoph 
Published: December 2011

AbstractThe primary corpus of evidence for the Sea Peoples includes wall reliefs on the mortuary temple of Rameses III at Medinet Habu inluxor, Egypt. The wall reliefs (normally referred to as the ”Year 8 reliefs”) and associated hieroglyphic inscriptions record an invasion of Egypt by a coalition of six groups during the reign of Rameses III (ca. 1187–1156bce). The Year 8 reliefs and inscriptions record Rameses III repelling the invasion in two battles, one naval and one on land. An associated Year 8 inscription records: ”Their confederation consisting of the Peleset, Tjeker, Shekelesh, Denyen, and Weshesh, lands united.” Another group, the Sherden, is indicated by a caption above a captive invader in the Year 8 reliefs that reads: ”Sherden of the Sea.” Three additional groups, the Ekwesh, Teresh, and Lukka, were allied with Libya in a war against Egypt during the reign of Merneptah (ca. 1224–1214), recorded in the ”Year 5” inscription on a stela commemorating his victories. The Ekwesh, Teresh, and Lukka are generally included in the collective of the Sea Peoples, though they are not recorded in the Year 8 inscriptions of Rameses III.
Edict, magistrate's
Authors: Peachin Michael 
Published: December 2011

AbstractDuring the Roman Republican period, theedictum perpetuumof the urbanpraetorwas crucial to the development of civil law (seeedict, praetor's). Though thepraetor'sedict was by far and away the most influential in this respect, several other officers of state, who functioned in the capital, also possessed theius edicendi: dictators, censors, consuls,aediles, quaestors, tribunes of the plebs, and thepontifex maximus. The edicts of these magistrates (and thepontifex)were issued annually, at the moment when the newly elected officers began their terms, as was the case with thepraetors. The intent of these other annualedictaseems to have been to communicate publicly, and in broad terms, the manner in which these individuals would function while in office (cf. Wieacker 1988: 407).
Activation Energy Spectra: Insights into Transport Limitations of Organic Semiconductors and Photovoltaic Cells
Authors: Liang Ziqi , Nardes Alexandre M. , van de Lagemaat Jao , Gregg Brian A. 
Published: December 2011

AbstractSome mechanisms of charge transport in organic semiconductors and organic photovoltaic (OPV) cells can be distinguished by their predicted change in activation energy for the current, Ea, versus applied field, F. Ea versus F is measured first in pure films of commercially available regioregular poly(3‐hexylthiophene) (P3HT) and in the same P3HT treated to reduce its charged defect density. The former shows a Poole–Frenkel (PF)‐like decrease in Ea at low F, which then plateaus at higher F. The low defect material does not exhibit PF behavior and Ea remains approximately constant. Upon addition of [6,6]‐phenyl‐C61‐butyric acid methyl ester (PCBM), however, both materials show a large increase in Ea and exhibit PF‐like behavior over the entire field range. These results are explained with a previously proposed model of transport that considers both the localized random disorder in the energy levels and the long‐range electrostatic fluctuations resulting from charged defects. Activation energy spectra in working OPV cells show that the current is injection‐limited over most of the voltage range but becomes transport‐limited, with a large peak in Ea, near the open circuit photovoltage. This causes a decrease in fill factor, which may be a general limitation in such solar cells.
Stability of Polymer Solar Cells
Authors: Jørgensen Mikkel , Norrman Kion , Gevorgyan Suren A. , Tromholt Thomas , Andreasen Birgitta , Krebs Frederik C. 
Published: December 2011

AbstractOrganic photovoltaics (OPVs) evolve in an exponential manner in the two key areas of efficiency and stability. The power conversion efficiency (PCE) has in the last decade been increased by almost a factor of ten approaching 10%. A main concern has been the stability that was previously measured in minutes, but can now, in favorable circumstances, exceed many thousands of hours. This astonishing achievement is the subject of this article, which reviews the developments in stability/degradation of OPVs in the last five years. This progress has been gained by several developments, such as inverted device structures of the bulk heterojunction geometry device, which allows for more stable metal electrodes, the choice of more photostable active materials, the introduction of interfacial layers, and roll‐to‐roll fabrication, which promises fast and cheap production methods while creating its own challenges in terms of stability.
Determination of human platelet antigen typing by molecular methods: Importance in diagnosis and early treatment of neonatal alloimmune thrombocytopenia
Authors: Arinsburg Suzanne A. , Shaz Beth H. , Westhoff Connie , Cushing Melissa M. 
Published: December 2011

AbstractNeonatal alloimmune thrombocytopenia (NAIT) is the most common cause of severe thrombocytopenia and intracranial hemorrhage in the perinatal period. While the gold standard for making a diagnosis of NAIT is detection of a human platelet antigen (HPA)‐specific antibody in maternal serum, together with identifying an incompatibility between the parents for the cognate HPA antigen, platelet genotyping is the gold standard method for HPA typing. Platelet genotyping is critical in screening at‐risk fetuses for the presence ofthe HPA corresponding to the maternal antibody. In addition, platelet genotyping may play a role in population screening to identify women at risk for sensitization, and thus, fetuses at risk for NAIT. The most commonly used methods of platelet genotyping are sequence‐specific primer‐polymerase chain reaction (PCR‐SSP), restriction fragment length polymorphism‐PCR (PCR‐RFLP), and TaqMan real‐time PCR. PCR‐SSP and PCR‐RFLP are relatively inexpensive and technically simple methods, but they are not easily automated and require expertise for reliable interpretation of results. Newer methods that allow for multiplexing, automation, and easily interpretable results, such as bead arrays, are currently in development and available for research purposes. Am. J. Hematol. 87:525–528, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Regional expression of epithelial MDR1/P‐glycoprotein in chronic rhinosinusitis with and without nasal polyposis
Authors: Bleier Benjamin S. 
Published: December 2011

AbstractBackground:P‐glycoprotein (P‐gp) is a 170‐kDa transmembrane glycoprotein encoded by the MDR1 (ABCB1) gene and is constitutively expressed on lower airway epithelium. P‐gp has been shown to function as an immunomodulator regulating efflux of T‐helper 1/T‐helper 2 (Th1/Th2) cytokines from its host cell; however, its association with sinonasal inflammation has not been described. The purpose of this study is to determine the pattern and degree of epithelial P‐gp expression in chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) with nasal polyposis (CRSwNP) or CRS without nasal polyposis (CRSsNP).Methods:Institutional Review Board (IRB)‐approved study utilizing sinus, septal, and inferior turbinate mucosa in patients with no disease, CRS, and CRSwNP (n = 4 each). Quantitative fluorescent immunohistochemistry (Q‐FIHC) was performed using an anti‐P‐gp antibody and a secondary fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)‐conjugated Fc specific fragment. Protein expression was quantified by calculating the epithelial to nonspecific background intensity ratio (4 images/subsite). Scores less than 1 suggested negligible expression. Staining ratios between patient groups and subsites were compared using a 2‐tailed Student t test.Results:Among the sinus mucosa, P‐gp expression in CRSwNP (1.570 ± 0.354) was significantly greater than both CRS (1.224 ± 0.248) and control (0.762 ± 0.128) (p < 0.001, p = 0.002; respectively). CRS scores were significantly greater than control (p = 0.002). Among the septal mucosa, there was no significant difference between CRSwNP (0.914 ± 0.264), CRS (1.126 ± 0.476), or control (0.966 ± 0.327). Among the inferior turbinate mucosa, there was no significant difference between CRSwNP (1.047 ± 0.157), CRS (1.099 ± 0.362), or control (0.824 ± 0.181).Conclusion:MDR1/P‐gp is overexpressed in the epithelial layer of sinus mucosa in patients with both CRSwNP and CRS relative to other sinonasal subsites. Expression in healthy mucosa is negligible. Given its known immunomodulatory function this suggests that P‐gp may play a role in the pathogenesis or maintenance of chronic sinonasal inflammation. © 2011 ARS‐AAOA, LLC.
Endoscopic endonasal approach for resection of ventral skull base keratinaceous cysts
Authors: McCoul Edward D. , Chow Samuel , Lee Dennis L.Y. , Anand Vijay K. , Schwartz Theodore H. 
Published: December 2011

AbstractBackground:Epidermoid and dermoid cysts are uncommon entities that belong in the differential diagnosis of ventral skull base lesions. The endoscopic endonasal approach is an attractive option for management of these lesions with limited morbidity. The clinical characteristics and management course from our experience is reviewed along with the relevant literature.Methods:A prospective database of endoscopic endonasal skull base cases performed since 2003 at a tertiary referral center was reviewed for cases involving keratinaceous lesions. Data on the pathology, radiology and management of the disease was reviewed. A search of pertinent literature using Medline was performed to complement the discussion.Results:Three cases of intracranial keratinaceous cysts successfully managed with the endoscopic endonasal approach. All cases presented with headache, and 1 case presented with bitemporal hemianopsia. Characteristic appearance on magnetic resonance imaging was seen in each case. All lesions were intradural with variable involvement of the suprasellar, prepontine, and premedullary cisterns. Total resection was achieved in 2 cases and near total resection in 1 case. Postoperative cerebrospinal fluid leak occurred in one case, which was controlled after revision surgery using the “gasket‐seal” technique. There were no cranial nerve palsies or vascular events.Conclusion:The endoscopic endonasal approach allows the rhinologic surgeon to access the ventral midline skull base for the successful management of keratinaceous cysts without major complications. © 2011 ARS‐AAOA, LLC.