bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Blood oxygenation level–dependent activation in basal ganglia nuclei relates to specific symptoms in de novo Parkinson's disease
Authors: Prodoehl Janey , Spraker Mathew , Corcos Daniel , Comella Cynthia , Vaillancourt David 
Published: August 2010

AbstractTo aid the development of symptomatic and disease modifying therapies in Parkinson's disease (PD), there is a strong need to identify noninvasive measures of basal ganglia (BG) function that are sensitive to disease severity. This study examines the relation between blood oxygenation level–dependent (BOLD) activation in every nucleus of the BG and symptom‐specific disease severity in early stage de novo PD. BOLD activation measured at 3 T was compared between 20 early stage de novo PD patients and 20 controls during an established precision grip force task. In addition to the BG nuclei, activation in specific thalamic and cortical regions was examined. There were three novel findings. First, there were significant negative correlations between total motor Unified PD Rating Scale and BOLD activation in bilateral caudate, bilateral putamen, contralateral external segment of the globus pallidus, bilateral subthalamic nucleus, contralateral substantia nigra, and thalamus. Second, bradykinesia was the symptom that most consistently predicted BOLD activation in the BG and thalamus. Also, BOLD activation in the contralateral internal globus pallidus was related to tremor. Third, the reduced cortical activity in primary motor cortex and supplementary motor area in de novo PD did not relate to motor symptoms. These findings demonstrate that BOLD activity in nuclei of the BG relates most consistently to bradykinesia and functional magnetic resonance imaging has strong potential to serve as a noninvasive marker for the state of BG function in de novo PD. © 2010 Movement Disorder Society
Homogeneous Polymerization: Benefits Brought by Microprocess Technologies to the Synthesis and Production of Polymers
Authors: Bally Florence , Serra Christophe A. , Hessel Volker , Hadziioannou Georges 
Published: August 2010

AbstractIn this paper, different polymerization processes for the synthesis of polymers in homogeneous phase comprising some microsystems are reviewed. Due to their unique characteristics, microsystems allow rapid heat removal and mixing. This contributes to significantly improve the control over the polymerization by reducing or eliminating mass transfer limitations and hot spot formation. As a consequence macromolecules with better‐controlled characteristics are obtained like specific molecular weights and narrower molecular weight distributions. Most common microsystems include microchannel‐based and microtubular reactors used for heat‐transfer sensitive reactions. Micromixers are also an important class of microsystems from which polymerization processes sensitive to mixing masking can benefit a lot. The typical few milliseconds mixing achieved in these micromixers and the easy operation at high temperatures (and pressures) allow for new operating process windows (e.g. high temperatures combined with short reaction times, higher reactant concentrations) and selective reaction pathways. Therefore, higher yields and selectivities can be obtained. Additionally, these microsystems are useful tools for high‐throughput experiments (HTE) in order to generate libraries of (co)polymers and to rapidly assess different process parameters.magnified image
Symptom cluster and physical activity in relapsing‐remitting multiple sclerosis
Authors: Motl Robert W. , Weikert Madeline , Suh Yoojin , Dlugonski Deirdre 
Published: August 2010

AbstractWe compared the explanatory power of two symptom clusters that consisted of either three or five symptoms as correlates of physical activity in individuals with relapsing‐remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS; N = 218). The data were primarily analyzed using covariance modeling in Mplus 3.0. A symptom cluster of fatigue, depression, and pain had a moderate, negative relationship with physical activity, and this relationship was comparable in magnitude with a symptom cluster of fatigue, depression, pain, perceived cognitive dysfunction, and poor sleep quality. The relationships were attenuated after controlling for exercise history and neurological impairment. Such findings further support the consideration of a narrowly defined cluster of three symptoms as an independent correlate of physical activity in persons with RRMS. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Res Nurs Health 33:398–412, 2010
Key Aspects of Health Policy Development to Improve Surgical Services in Uganda
Authors: Luboga Sam , Galukande Moses , Mabweijano Jacqueline , Ozgediz Doruk , Jayaraman Sudha 
Published: August 2010

AbstractRecently, surgical services have been gaining greater attention as an integral part of public health in low‐income countries due to the significant volume and burden of surgical conditions, growing evidence of the cost‐effectiveness of surgical intervention, and global disparities in surgical care. Nonetheless, there has been limited discussion of the key aspects of health policy related to surgical services in low‐income countries. Uganda, like other low‐income sub‐Saharan African countries, bears a heavy burden of surgical conditions with low surgical output in health facilities and significant unmet need for surgical care. To address this lack of adequate surgical services in Uganda, a diverse group of local stakeholders met in Kampala, Uganda, in May 2008 to develop a roadmap of key policy actions that would improve surgical services at the national level. The group identified a list of health policy priorities to improve surgical services in Uganda. The priorities were classified into three areas: (1) human resources, (2) health systems, and (3) research and advocacy. This article is a critical discussion of these health policy priorities with references to recent literature. This was the first such multidisciplinary meeting in Uganda with a focus on surgical services and its output may have relevance to health policy development in other low‐income countries planning to improve delivery of surgical services.
Eleven‐Year Follow‐Up of a Randomized Study of Pectoral Fascia Preservation After Mastectomy for Early Breast Cancer
Authors: Dalberg Kristina , Krawiec Kamilla , Sandelin Kerstin 
Published: August 2010

AbstractBackgroundThe present study reports results of a randomized trial in which breast cancer patients operated with preserved pectoral fascia compared to removal of the pectoral fascia showed a trend toward an increased risk for chest wall recurrence The aim of the study was to assess whether the different procedural modes had any impact on survival or local control in breast cancer patients followed in the long term.MethodThe trial included 247 patients with breast cancer who underwent modified radical mastectomy in five Swedish hospitals between 1993 and 1997. The median follow‐up time was 11 years. The patients were randomized between removal (n = 122) versus preservation (n = 125) of the pectoral fascia.ResultsThe breast‐cancer‐specific survival at 10 years was 73%. Removal or preservation of the pectoral fascia had no significant impact on chest‐wall recurrence rate or breast‐cancer‐specific survival. A total of 18 patients with chest‐wall recurrence were seen in the group allocated to pectoral fascia preservation versus a total of 10 in patients allocated to pectoral fascia removal (hazard ratio = 1.8, 95% confidence interval = 0.8–4.0). The majority of the chest‐wall recurrences were detected 0–5 years postoperatively. The cumulative chest‐wall recurrence rates at 5 and at 10 years were 13 and 15%, respectively, in patients allocated to pectoral fascia preservation and 8 and 9% in patients allocated to pectoral fascia removal.ConclusionsWith long‐term follow‐up neither the chest wall recurrence rate nor the breast‐cancer‐specific survival was significantly influenced by the preservation of the pectoral fascia. A trend toward an increased risk for chest wall recurrence was observed in patients with preserved pectoral fascia. A hazard ratio of 1.8 for a chest‐wall recurrence in patients with preserved fascia indicates that fascia‐sparing mastectomy may negatively affect prognosis.
Indirect interactions in the microbial world: specificities and similarities to plant–insect systems
Authors: Miki Takeshi , Jacquet Stéphan 
Published: August 2010

AbstractTrophic interactions between bacteria, viruses, and protozoan predators play crucial roles in structuring aquatic microbial communities and regulating microbe‐mediated ecosystem functions (biogeochemical processes). In this microbial food web, protozoan predators and viruses share bacteria as a common resource, and protozoan predators can kill viruses [intraguild predation (IGP)] and vice versa, even though these latter processes are probably of less importance. However, protozoan predators (IG predator) and viruses (IG prey) generally occur together in various environments, and this cannot be fully explained by the classic IGP models. In addition, controlled experiments have often demonstrated that protozoan predators have apparently positive effects on viral activity. These surprising patterns can be explained by indirect interactions between them via induced trait changes in bacterial assemblages, which can be compared with trait‐mediated indirect interactions (TMIIs) in terrestrial plant–insect systems. Here, we review some trait changes in bacterial assemblages that may positively affect the activities and abundance of viruses. It has been suggested that in bacterial assemblages, protozoan predation may enhance growth conditions for individual bacteria and induce both phenotypic trait changes at the individual (e.g., filament‐forming bacteria) and group level as a result of changes in bacterial community composition (e.g., species dominance). We discuss the specificities of aquatic microbial systems and attempt find functional similarities between aquatic microbial systems and terrestrial plant–insect systems with regard to TMII function.
Linkages among trait‐mediated indirect effects: a new framework for the indirect interaction web
Authors: Utsumi Shunsuke , Ando Yoshino , Miki Takeshi 
Published: August 2010

AbstractPlants have diverse ways of responding to damage by herbivores, such as changes in allelochemistry, physiology, morphology, growth, and phenology. These responses form the mechanistic basis for trait‐mediated indirect interactions (TMIIs) between organisms on the plants. There is a growing appreciation that such TMIIs form complex networks (i.e., indirect interaction webs) in terrestrial plant‐associated arthropod communities. Almost all previous studies have had the same framework: examining trait‐mediated indirect effects within a single interactive unit consisting of one initiator of herbivore, a host plant as a mediator, and one receiver [trait‐mediated indirect interaction unit (TMIU)]. However, this framework is too simple to understand the dynamics of the indirect interaction web. Recent studies suggest that there is a wide variety of interactions among TMIUs within a community, which may largely affect the outcomes of indirect effects in each unit. Here, we review recent advance in studies of trait‐mediated indirect effects in plant‐associated arthropod communities and explore the mechanisms of linkages among TMIUs. Then, we argue the importance of examining linkages among TMIUs as a new framework for future studies on the indirect interaction web. Finally, we propose the hypothesis that linkages among TMIUs contribute to the maintenance of biodiversity.
Results of the European thematic network ageing and disability: improving the quality of life of elderly persons through more physical activity
Authors: Van Coppenolle Herman , Djobova S. , Niemiro A. , Dobreva I. , Leuven K. U. 
Published: August 2010

Abstract
Experts in Adapted Physical Activity (APA) for elderly persons from 66 higher education institutions of 29 European countries worked during 3 years together (2004–2007) in producing education materials to promote an active lifestyle, the content of an APA programme for the elderly at master and bachelor level, a motivational DVD (Never too old to be Active: The Joy of Movement and practical active ageing activity cards and a brochure with a European survey and recommendations. During the dissemination year (2009–2010) these materials were translated from English into 15 European languages and disseminated in all countries in institutions of Higher Education (physical education, physiotherapy, sport science), nursing homes for elderly persons and caregivers). In each country, as many as possible elderly persons were approached as well as the concerned ministries, sports organizations and the press. A consortium was created between the universities of Amiens (France), Groningen (The Netherlands) and Verona (Italy), to start up the European Masters programme in APA for the elderly and the motivating products disseminated the urgent message of the Thematic Network for all elderly persons with and without disabilities in Europe “Save yourself by more physical activity” This same approach applied in all European countries at the same time during these 4 years, gave a boost to the better education of students in this matter: stimulating the responsibility and motivation of elderly persons for bringing more physical activity in their daily schedule, during at least 30 min each day. The established cooperation between the actors of the network should however be continued through the European Master in APA for the elderly and further dissemination of the products through the website www.thenapa2.org
Sensitivity of Dielectric Properties to Wear Process on Carbon Nanofiber/High-Density Polyethylene Composites
Authors: Liu Tian , Wood Weston , Zhong Wei-Hong 
Published: August 2010

AbstractWe examined the correlation of wear effects with dielectric properties of carbon nanofibers (CNFs; untreated and organosilane-treated)-reinforced high-density polyethylene (HDPE) composites. Wear testing for the nanocomposites over up to 120 h was carried out, and then, dielectric permittivity and dielectric loss factor of the polymer composites with the increased wear time were studied. Scanning electron microscope and optical microscope observations were made to analyze the microstructure features of the nanocomposites. The results reveal that there exist approximate linear relationships of permittivity with wear coefficient for the nanocomposites. Composites containing silanized CNFs with the sufficiently thick coating exhibited high wear resistance. The change in permittivity was more sensitive to the increased wear coefficient for the nanocomposites with lower wear resistance. This work provides potential for further research on the application of dielectric signals to detect the effects of wear process on lifetime of polymeric materials.
Synthesis and Surface Active Properties of Novel Carbohydrate‐based Cationic Surfactants
Authors: Nowicki Janusz , Sokołowski Adam , Reksa Dagmara 
Published: August 2010

AbstractThe synthesis of new cationic carbohydrate surfactants is presented in this paper. The obtained surfactants have structures that are typical for saponins, which contain fatty amide hydrophobic chains and hydrophilic heads with cationic carbohydrate units. Their surface active properties and biodegradability have been studied. For two types, the biodegradability was above 85% and comparable to standard carbohydrate surfactants.
Persistent pain and sensory changes following cosmetic breast augmentation
Authors: von Sperlingl Marie L , Høimyrl Hilde , Finnerupl Kenneth , Jensenl Troels S , Finnerupl Nanna B 
Published: August 2010

AbstractBackground: Persistent postsurgical pain has been reported following cosmetic breast augmentation, but little is known about the underlying mechanisms.Aims: To describe the prevalence, character, and impact of sensory changes and chronic pain following cosmetic breast augmentation and to assess possible causes of pain.Methods: In September 2009, a detailed questionnaire was mailed to all 142 patients who underwent cosmetic breast augmentation at Viborg Private Hospital from 2004 to 2009.Results: Ninety‐five patients (66.9%) returned the questionnaire; mean age was 34.2 years (SD 9.3). All patients were operated by the same surgeon. Mean time since operation was 31.8 months. Forty‐two patients (44.2%) reported having pain as a consequence of the operation, 9.5% had moderate to severe pain, and 6.3% regretted the cosmetic surgery due to pain. Patients with pain were less satisfied with the surgery than those without pain. Seventy‐two patients (75.8%) had sensory changes over the breast. There was an increased risk for developing pain in those with hypoesthesia (OR 4.6 (1.7–12.8)) and hyperesthesia (OR 2.6 (1.1–6.2)). Sixty‐two percent had touch‐evoked pain and 38% used pain descriptors that met the neuropathic pain diagnostic questionnaire (DN4) cut‐off criteria for neuropathic pain.Conclusion: Sensory changes and persistent pain are common following cosmetic breast augmentation and may have a negative impact on daily activities and satisfaction after surgery. Findings suggest that neuropathic pain should be considered in these patients. Preoperative information about the risk of developing sensory changes and chronic pain after breast augmentation is important.
The price of doing good: Executive compensation in nonprofit organizations
Authors: Frumkin Peter , Keating Elizabeth K 
Published: August 2010

AbstractThis article examines foundational assumption that nonprofit organizations operate under a non-distribution constraint, which prohibits the paying out of excess earnings and requires instead their application to advancing the mission of the organization. We explore this topic through an examination of the determinants of nonprofit executive compensation. We find that the pay of nonprofit chief executive officers (CEOs) is strongly predicated on what managers in similar-sized organizations receive. Our analysis indicates that nonprofit executive compensation is only modestly effected by CEO performance, as measured either by improved fund-raising results or better administrative efficiency. We do find, however, evidence that CEO compensation is significantly higher in organizations where “free cash flows” are present. This finding is inconsistent with the principle of not distributing profits. We conclude by discussing the implications of this last finding on distinctive organizational identity of nonprofit organizations.
Bovine colostrum is superior to enriched formulas in stimulating intestinal function and necrotising enterocolitis resistance in preterm pigs
Authors: Møller Hanne K. , Thymann Thomas , Fink Lisbeth N. , Frokiaer Hanne , Kvistgaard Anne S. , Sangild Per T. 
Published: August 2010

Milk contains immunomodulatory compounds that may be important to protect the immature intestine in preterm neonates from harmful inflammatory reactions involved in disorders like necrotising enterocolitis (NEC). We hypothesised that bovine colostrum and milk formulas enriched with sialic acids (SL), gangliosides (Gang) or osteopontin (OPN) would improve gastrointestinal function and NEC resistance in preterm neonates. Forty-seven caesarean-delivered preterm pigs were given total parenteral nutrition for 2 d followed by 1·5 d of enteral feeding. In Expt 1, a control formula was compared with an OPN-enriched formula (n 13), while Expt 2 compared a control formula with bovine colostrum or formulas enriched with Gang or SL (n 4–6). OPN enrichment decreased NEC severity relative to control formula (P < 0·01), without any significant effects on NEC incidence, digestive enzyme activities and hexose absorption. Neither SL- nor Gang-enriched formulas improved NEC resistance or digestive functions, while all the intestinal functional parameters were significantly improved in pigs fed bovine colostrum, relative to formula. The effects in vivo were supported in vitro by bacteria- and dose-dependent modulation by colostrum whey of the cytokine response from bacteria-stimulated murine bone marrow-derived dendritic cells (DC). In conclusion, OPN had only moderate NEC-protective effects, while formulas enriched with Gang or SL were ineffective. The observed modulation of DC cytokine response by bovine colostrum whey in vitro may be due to a synergistic action of various milk bioactives, and it may explain its beneficial effects on NEC development and intestinal function in a piglet model of preterm infants.
Electron energization in lunar magnetospheres
Authors: BINGHAM R. , BAMFORD R. , KELLETT B. J. , SHAPIRO V. D. 
Published: August 2010

AbstractThe interaction of the solar wind with lunar surface magnetic fields produces a bow shock and a magnetosphere-like structure. In front of the shock wave energetic electrons up to keV energies are produced. This paper describes how resonant interactions between plasma turbulence in the form of lower-hybrid waves and electrons can result in field aligned electron acceleration. The turbulent wave fields close to the lower-hybrid resonant frequency are excited most probably by the modified two-stream instability, driven by the solar wind ions that are reflected and deflected by the low shock.
Wildlife hunting by indigenous tribes: a case study from Arunachal Pradesh, north-east India
Authors: Aiyadurai Ambika , Singh Navinder J. , Milner-Gulland E. J. 
Published: August 2010

AbstractHunting is a serious threat to wildlife worldwide. The rainforest-rich Arunachal Pradesh state of India, a biodiversity hotspot, is an area severely affected by indigenous hunting. The state has several indigenous tribes who hunt for food, trade, culture and leisure. Using semi-structured interviews and questionnaires we surveyed 184 individuals in 51 villages across four tribes for information on species hunted and hunting practices. A total of 33 mammalian species are reportedly hunted, of which only 11 were reported by hunters during formal interviews. The other 22 species were observed during casual visits, festivals and informal discussions. Of the species hunted 20 are Endangered, Vulnerable or Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List. Villagers now travel longer distances to hunt than they did a decade ago, suggesting a decline in wildlife populations around villages. The extent of offtake of mammals was related to the altitude of the village and the use of guns. Villagers living at higher altitudes and with guns appeared to hunt more. We also documented the importance of ritualistic hunting by some tribes. Additional research is required to estimate offtake and consumption rates of wild meat. Increasing conservation awareness and community-based conservation projects may assist in controlling the severity and extent of this hunting problem.
Inverse kinematics by numerical and analytical cyclic coordinate descent
Authors: Olsen Anders Lau , Petersen Henrik Gordon 
Published: August 2010

SUMMARYCyclic coordinate descent (CCD) inverse kinematics methods are traditionally derived only for manipulators with revolute and prismatic joints. We propose a new numerical CCD method for any differentiable type of joint and demonstrate its use for serial-chain manipulators with coupled joints. At the same time more general and simpler to derive, the method performs as well in experiments as the existing analytical CCD methods and is more robust with respect to parameter settings. Moreover, the numerical method can be applied to a wider range of cost functions.