bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Two‐year‐olds compute syntactic structure on‐line
Authors: Bernal Savita , Dehaene‐Lambertz Ghislaine , Millotte Séverine , Christophe Anne 
Published: June 2009

AbstractSyntax allows human beings to build an infinite number of new sentences from a finite stock of words. Because toddlers typically utter only one or two words at a time, they have been thought to have no syntax. Using event‐related potentials (ERPs), we demonstrated that 2‐year‐olds do compute syntactic structure when listening to spoken sentences. We observed an early left‐lateralized brain response when an expected verb was incorrectly replaced by a noun (or vice versa). Thus, toddlers build on‐line expectations as to the syntactic category of the next word in a sentence. In addition, the response topography was different for nouns and verbs, suggesting that different neural networks already underlie noun and verb processing in toddlers, as they do in adults.
Reduced chromatic discrimination in children with autism spectrum disorders
Authors: Franklin Anna , Sowden Paul , Notman Leslie , Gonzalez‐Dixon Melissa , West Dorotea , Alexander Iona , Loveday Stephen , White Alex 
Published: June 2009

AbstractAtypical perception in Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) is well documented (Dakin & Frith, 2005). However, relatively little is known about colour perception in ASD. Less accurate performance on certain colour tasks has led some to argue that chromatic discrimination is reduced in ASD relative to typical development (Franklin, Sowden, Burley, Notman & Alder, 2008). The current investigation assessed chromatic discrimination in children with high‐functioning autism (HFA) and typically developing (TD) children matched on age and non‐verbal cognitive ability, using the Farnsworth‐Munsell 100 hue test (Experiment 1) and a threshold discrimination task (Experiment 2). In Experiment 1, more errors on the chromatic discrimination task were made by the HFA than the TD group. Comparison with test norms revealed that performance for the HFA group was at a similar level to typically developing children around 3 years younger. In Experiment 2, chromatic thresholds were elevated for the HFA group relative to the TD group. For both experiments, reduced chromatic discrimination in ASD was due to a general reduction in chromatic sensitivity rather than a specific difficulty with either red–green or blue–yellow subsystems of colour vision. The absence of group differences on control tasks ruled out an explanation in terms of general task ability rather than chromatic sensitivity. Theories to account for the reduction in chromatic discrimination in HFA are discussed, and findings are related to cortical models of perceptual processing in ASD.
HHV‐6 infection in multiple sclerosis. A clinical and laboratory analysis
Authors: Pietiläinen J. , Virtanen J. O. , Uotila L. , Salonen O. , Koskiniemi M. , Färkkilä M. 
Published: June 2009

Background and purpose:  To elucidate the role of human herpesvirus‐6 (HHV‐6) in the development of multiple sclerosis (MS).Patients and methods:  Nine patients with MS and with acute or chronic HHV‐6 infection were evaluated.Results:  Intrathecal antibody production to HHV‐6 and oligoclonal IgG bands in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) was observed in two patients with a clinically definite MS and chronic HHV‐6 infection (based on the presence of HHV‐6 specific antibodies in the CSF). A temporal association between the symptoms of clinically possible MS and acute primary HHV‐6A infection (based on avidity of HHV‐6 specific antibodies) was observed in two patients.Conclusions:  Human herpesvirus‐6 infection may be an associated agent in some MS cases. Viral studies are needed to identify a possible viral etiology and give specific therapy.
An oral nutraceutical containing antioxidants, minerals and glycosaminoglycans improves skin roughness and fine wrinkles
Authors: Udompataikul M. , Sripiroj P. , Palungwachira P. 
Published: June 2009

SynopsisVarious nutraceuticals (dietary supplements) are claimed to have cutaneous antiageing properties, however, there are a limited number of research studies supporting these claims. The objective of this research was to study the effectiveness of an oral nutraceutical containing antioxidants, minerals and glycosaminoglycans on cutaneous ageing. In this double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial, 60 women aged 35–60 years were randomized to receive oral dietary supplement (n = 30) or placebo (n = 30), once daily for 12 weeks. The depth of skin roughness and fine wrinkles were measured using surface evaluation of skin parameters for living skin (Visioscan) at baseline, and at the 4, 8 and 12 weeks of treatment. Surface evaluation using a replica film (Visiometer) at baseline and at the 12th week of treatment was also carried out. Statistical differences in objective skin improvement were assessed by the independent t‐test. The volunteers’ satisfaction was tested using the chi‐squared test. The baseline depth of skin roughness and fine wrinkles in the treatment group and the placebo group were 100.5 and 100 μm, respectively. At the end of the study, the depth of skin roughness and fine wrinkles in the treatment group showed a 21.2% improvement, whereas improvement in the control group was 1.7%. This difference was statistically significant (P < 0.001). With regard to the volunteers’ satisfaction, there was no statistically significant decrease in the homogenization of skin colour, however, a statistically significant reduction in pore size and depth of skin roughness and fine wrinkles were observed (P < 0.05). No side effects were noted throughout the study. The oral dietary supplement containing antioxidants, minerals and glycosaminoglycans improved skin roughness and fine wrinkles but did not affect skin colour change in female volunteers.
Learning road safety skills in the classroom
Authors: Brown Freddy Jackson , Gillard Duncan 
Published: June 2009

Accessible summary

It is important for some disabled children to learn road safety skills.
Practicing crossing the road in the classroom with photographs of the outside road helped a young disabled child improve his road safety skills.
Improved road safety skills helped the child to be more independent and aware when crossing roads.

SummaryThis case study demonstrates the effectiveness of a classroom based learning programme in the acquisition of road safety skills. The participant, a child with severe learning disabilities, was taught road safety behaviours in the classroom with the aid of photograph cards. When he had mastered these skills in the classroom, he returned to the outdoor environment and showed higher levels of road safety competence than before the classroom training. The study also describes the generalisation of the road safety skills over time and with different support staff. The benefits of learning complex community skills in the classroom with simplified environmental stimuli (i.e. picture cards rather than in vivo) are discussed.
Across islands and continents, mammals are more successful invaders than birds (Reply to Rodriguez‐Cabal et al.)
Authors: Jeschke Jonathan M. 
Published: June 2009

AbstractIn their reply to Jeschke (2008), Rodriguez‐Cabal et al. (2009) argue that the underlying ‘data are inadequate to draw strong conclusions about the tens rule or invasibility of islands and continents’. They point out that especially for taxa such as insects or plants, many species introductions are unknown, hence fractions of species that have become established are often overestimated. I agree but would like to add that in Jeschke (2008), I analysed the two well‐studied taxa of mammals and birds. Even data from these taxa are imperfect, so they need to be analysed carefully. At least from my perspective, the analyses underlying Jeschke (2008) were done carefully. I thus stand by my original conclusions.
Temperature dependence of greenhouse gas emissions from three hydromorphic soils at different groundwater levels
Authors: VICCA S. , JANSSENS I. A. , FLESSA H. , FIEDLER S. , JUNGKUNST H. F. 
Published: June 2009

AbstractWetlands contribute considerably to the global greenhouse gas (GHG) balance. In these ecosystems, groundwater level (GWL) and temperature, two factors likely to be altered by climate change, exert important control over CO2, CH4 and N2O fluxes. However, little is known about the temperature sensitivity (Q10) of the combined GHG emissions from hydromorphic soils and how this Q10 varies with GWL. We performed a greenhouse experiment in which three different (plant‐free) hydromorphic soils from a temperate spruce forest were exposed to two GWLs (an intermediate GWL of −20 cm and a high GWL of −5 cm). Net CO2, CH4 and N2O fluxes were measured continuously. Here, we discuss how these fluxes responded to synoptic temperature fluctuations. Across all soils and GWLs, CO2 emissions responded similarly to temperature and Q10 was close to 2. The Q10 of the CH4 and N2O fluxes also was similar across soil types. GWL, on the other hand, significantly affected the Q10 of both CH4 and N2O emissions. The Q10 of the net CH4 fluxes increased from about 1 at GWL = −20 cm to 3 at GWL = −5 cm. For the N2O emissions, Q10 varied around 2 for GWL = −20 cm and around 4 for GWL = −5 cm. This substantial GWL‐effect on the Q10 of CH4 and N2O emissions was, however, hardly reflected in the Q10 of the total GHG emissions (which varied around 2), because the contribution of these gases was relatively small compared to that of CO2.
Urocortin promotes the development of vasculitis in a rat model of thromboangiitis obliterans via corticotrophin‐releasing factor type 1 receptors
Authors: Xu Youhua , Zhang Rongjian , Chen Jie , Zhang Qichun , Wang Juejin , Hu Jue , Guan Xiaowei , Jin Lai , Fu Hong , Gui Bo , Guo Yuanyuan , Li Shengnan 
Published: June 2009

Background and purpose: Urocortin is a locally expressed pro‐inflammatory peptide. Here we have examined the effects of urocortin on sodium laurate‐induced peripheral arterial vasculitis in rats, modelling the mechanisms of thromboangiitis obliterans (TAO).Experimental approach: Peripheral vasculitis in rats was induced by sodium laurate and graded by gross appearance on the 12th day after injection. Histological changes in rat femoral arteries were assessed by histopathology and transmission electron microscopy. Blood cell counts, blood rheology, blood coagulation and plasma urocortin, thromboxane B2, prostaglandin E2and soluble intercellular adhesion molecule‐1 levels were measured. Expression of urocortin, corticotrophin‐releasing factor (CRF1/2) receptors, cyclooxygenase (COX)‐2 and intercellular adhesion molecule‐1 (ICAM‐1) at both mRNA and protein levels were determined by RT‐PCR and Western blot.Key results: Rats showed grossly visible signs and symptoms of TAO on the 12th day after sodium laurate injection. In these rats, blood was in a hypercoagulable state; plasma urocortin, prostaglandin E2and soluble intercellular adhesion molecule‐1 levels were elevated; and the expression of urocortin, CRF1and CRF1α‐receptors, COX‐2 and ICAM‐1 in rat femoral arteries were markedly increased. Exogenous urocortin, given for 12 days after sodium laurate, exacerbated the hypercoagulable state and augmented expression of CRF1α‐receptors, COX‐2 and ICAM‐1. These effects were abolished by a CRF1‐receptor antagonist, NBI‐27914, or a non‐selective CRF‐receptor antagonist, astressin, but not by the CRF2‐receptor antagonist, antisauvagine‐30, given with exogenous urocortin.Conclusion and implications: Urocortin exacerbated the hypercoagulable state and vasculitis in a model of TAO induced by sodium laurate in rats, via CRF1‐receptors. COX‐2 and ICAM‐1 might also have contributed to this exacerbation.
The α1B/D‐adrenoceptor knockout mouse permits isolation of the vascular α1A‐adrenoceptor and elucidates its relationship to the other subtypes
Authors: Methven L , McBride M , Wallace GA , McGrath JC 
Published: June 2009

Background and purpose: Mesenteric and carotid arteries from the α1B/D‐adrenoceptor knockout (α1B/D‐KO) were employed to isolate α1A‐adrenoceptor pharmacology and location and to reveal these features in the wild‐type (WT) mouse.Experimental approach: Functional pharmacology by wire myography and receptor localization by confocal microscopy, using the fluorescent α1‐adrenoceptor ligand BODIPY FL‐Prazosin (QAPB), on mesenteric (an ‘α1A‐adrenoceptor’ tissue) and carotid (an ‘α1D‐adrenoceptor’ tissue) arteries.Key results: α1B/D‐KO mesenteric arteries showed straightforward α1A‐adrenoceptor agonist/antagonist pharmacology. WT had complex pharmacology with α1A‐ and α1D‐adrenoceptor components. α1B/D‐KO had a larger α1A‐adrenoceptor response suggesting compensatory up‐regulation: no increase in fluorescent ligand binding suggests up‐regulation of signalling. α1B/D‐KO carotid arteries had low efficacy α1A‐adrenoceptor responses. WT had complex pharmacology consistent with co‐activation of all three subtypes. Fluorescent binding had straightforward α1A‐adrenoceptor characteristics in both arteries of α1B/D‐KO. Fluorescent binding varied between cells in relative intracellular and surface distribution. Total fluorescence was reduced in the α1B/D‐KO due to fewer smooth muscle cells showing fluorescent binding. WT binding was greater and sensitive to α1A‐ and α1D‐adrenoceptor antagonists.Conclusions and implications: The straightforward pharmacology and fluorescent binding in the α1B/D‐KO was used to interpret the properties of the α1A‐adrenoceptor in the WT. Reduced total fluorescence in α1B/D‐KO arteries, despite a clear difference in the functionally dominant subtype, indicates that measurement of receptor protein is unlikely to correlate with function. Fewer cells bound QAPB in the α1B/D‐KO suggesting different cellular phenotypes of α1A‐adrenoceptor exist. The α1B/D‐KO provides robust assays for the α1A‐adrenoceptor and takes us closer to understanding multi‐receptor subtype interactions.
Optimal Pressure Regulation of the Pneumatic Ventricular Assist Device With Bellows‐Type Driver
Authors: Lee Jung Joo , Kim Bum Soo , Choi Jaesoon , Choi Hyuk , Ahn Chi Bum , Nam Kyoung Won , Jeong Gi Seok , Lim Choon Hak , Son Ho Sung , Sun Kyung 
Published: June 2009

AbstractThe bellows‐type pneumatic ventricular assist device (VAD) generates pneumatic pressure with compression of bellows instead of using an air compressor. This VAD driver has a small volume that is suitable for portable devices. However, improper pneumatic pressure setup can not only cause a lack of adequate flow generation, but also cause durability problems. In this study, a pneumatic pressure regulation system for optimal operation of the bellows‐type VAD has been developed. The optimal pneumatic pressure conditions according to various afterload conditions aiming for optimal flow rates were investigated, and an afterload estimation algorithm was developed. The developed regulation system, which consists of a pressure sensor and a two‐way solenoid valve, estimates the current afterload and regulates the pneumatic pressure to the optimal point for the current afterload condition. Experiments were performed in a mock circulation system. The afterload estimation algorithm showed sufficient performance with the standard deviation of error, 8.8 mm Hg. The flow rate could be stably regulated with a developed system under various afterload conditions. The shortcoming of a bellows‐type VAD could be handled with this simple pressure regulation system.
The Effects of Angiotensin Converting Enzyme Inhibitors on Potassium Homeostasis in Dialysis Patients With and Without Residual Renal Function
Authors: Garthwaite Elizabeth , Bhandari Sunil 
Published: June 2009

AbstractHyperkalemia is exacerbated by angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors (ACE‐I). Distal potassium (K+) secretion is negligible in anuric patients. ACE‐I therapy may reduce renal, peritoneal, and colonic K+ losses. We examined the effect of ACE‐I therapy on serum, urinary, and dialysate K+ in a cross‐section of peritoneal and hemodialysis patients. Serum, 24‐h urine K+, and peritoneal dialysate excretion K+ levels were measured and the results were compared in the various dialysis and treatment groups. Eighty‐one hemodialysis (HD) and 32 peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients were included. Serum K+ in HD patients with no residual renal function (RRF) was higher in those receiving ACE‐I therapy (P = 0.02). Serum K+ levels in HD patients receiving ACE‐I treatments with RRF was similar to that in oligoanuric HD patients not receiving an ACE‐I. Urinary K+ excretion was significantly reduced in those on ACE‐I therapy versus those not on an ACE‐I (P < 0.05). Mean serum K+ was lower in PD versus HD patients (P < 0.05). PD patients with no RRF on ACE‐I therapy had higher serum K+ concentrations (P =  0.002) and dialysate K+ excretion was lower (P = 0.05), in comparison with PD patients not on an ACE‐I. PD patients with RRF on ACE‐I therapy had higher serum K+ concentrations compared with those not on ACE‐I therapy (P =  0.03). Both urinary and dialysate K+ excretion were reduced (P = 0.001 and P = 0.002, respectively). ACE‐I therapy increases serum K+ concentration in dialysis patients. PD patients have relatively lower serum K+ levels compared with HD patients. In PD patients, ACE‐I therapy reduces dialysate K+. These changes may result from reduced peritoneal movement of K+.
VentrAssist Left Ventricular Assist Systems Long‐Term In Vitro Reliability
Authors: Stonehouse Alex , Cook Martin , Woodard John 
Published: June 2009

AbstractLeft ventricular assist systems (LVADs) are typically tested for long‐term reliability by using a simulated human cardiovascular system. In this study, 13 VentrAssist (Ventracor Ltd, Chatswood, NSW, Australia) systems are tested in mock loops with the aim of demonstrating in vitro continuous operational reliability of the pump subsystem greater than 80% (60% confidence) over 1 year. As of July 9, 2007, the total time on test of all 13 mock loop pumps is 29.36 years. In vitro reliability of the VentrAssist LVAD blood pump is 96.7% (60% confidence) at 1 year. No failures have been seen over 4.5 years of test, and testing is ongoing.
Nursing Home Resident Outcomes from the Res‐Care Intervention
Authors: Resnick Barbara , Gruber‐Baldini Ann L. , Zimmerman Sheryl , Galik Elizabeth , Pretzer‐Aboff Ingrid , Russ Karin , Hebel J. Richard 
Published: June 2009

OBJECTIVES: To test the effectiveness of a restorative care (Res‐Care) intervention on function, muscle strength, contractures, and quality of life of nursing home residents, with secondary aims focused on strengthening self‐efficacy and outcome expectations.DESIGN: A randomized controlled repeated‐measure design was used, and generalized estimating equations were used to evaluate status at baseline and 4 and 12 months after initiation of the Res‐Care intervention.SETTING: Twelve nursing homes in Maryland.PARTICIPANTS: Four hundred eighty‐seven residents consented and were eligible: 256 from treatment sites and 231 from control sites. The majority were female (389, 80.1%) and white (325, 66.8%); 85 (17.4%) were married and the remaining widowed, single, or divorced/separated. Mean age was 83.8 ± 8.2, and mean Mini‐Mental State Examination score was 20.4 ± 5.3.INTERVENTION: Res‐Care was a two‐tiered self‐efficacy‐based intervention focused on motivating nursing assistants and residents to engage in functional and physical activities.MEASUREMENTS: Barthel Index, Tinetti Gait and Balance, grip strength, Dementia Quality‐of‐Life Scale, self‐efficacy, and Outcome Expectations Scales for Function.RESULTS: Significant treatment‐by‐time interactions (P<.05) were found for the Tinetti Mobility Score and its gait and balance subscores and for walking, bathing, and stair climbing.CONCLUSION: The findings provide some evidence for the utility and safety of a Res‐Care intervention in terms of improving function in NH residents.
Evaluation of a Joint Distractor to Facilitate Arthroscopy of the Canine Stifle
Authors: GEMMILL TOBY J. , FARRELL MICHAEL 
Published: June 2009

Objectives— To assess a novel technique for arthroscopic evaluation of the canine stifle avoiding the need for fat pad debridement.Study Design— Prospective study.Sample Population— Cadaveric canine stifles (n=10); Client‐owned dogs (15).Methods— In cadaveric stifles, the femoropatellar space was assessed before placement of a joint distractor and examination of the femorotibial joint. Time to complete evaluation of the femoropatellar space, to observe the cruciate ligaments, and to completion of examination of the femorotibial joint were recorded. Distractor‐assisted arthroscopy was then performed in 15 consecutive clinical cases. Clinical information, time to complete joint evaluation, and ability to perform any additional arthroscopic surgery were recorded.Results— Observation and palpation of intra‐articular structures were possible in all cadaveric stifles. Mean time to evaluate the femoropatellar space was 3.2 minutes (range, 2–4 minutes); to observe the cruciate ligaments, 5.8 minutes (range, 3–8 minutes); and to completion of joint inspection, 9.1 minutes (range 6–13 minutes). In the clinical cases, observation of intra‐articular structures was also possible in all stifles. Mean time to complete joint inspection was 21 minutes (range, 10–40 minutes). Partial meniscectomy was performed successfully in 5 stifles.Conclusions— Use of a joint distractor allowed arthroscopic observation of all relevant structures. Partial meniscectomy was readily performed.Clinical Relevance— Use of a joint distractor may simplify arthroscopic assessment of the canine stifle and avoid potential morbidity associated with fat pad debridement.
Distal Interphalangeal Joint Arthrodesis in Seven Cattle Using the Acutrak Plus Screw
Authors: LEWIS ANDREW J. , SOD GARY A. , GILL MARJORIE S. , MITCHELL COLIN F. 
Published: June 2009

Objectives— To report a technique for arthrodesis of the distal interphalangeal joint (DIPJ) with two 6.5 mm Acutrak Plus (AP) compression screws from a solar approach and outcome in 7 cattle.Study Design— Case series.Animals— Cattle (n=7) with DIPJ arthritis.Methods— Retrieved data from medical records of cattle that had undergone DIPJ arthrodesis using 2 AP screws via a solar approach were signalment, history, clinical signs, preoperative blood work, preoperative radiographs, complications, postoperative radiographs, and postoperative lameness evaluation. Outcomes, assessed by owner interview 6–26 months after surgery, were classified as excellent, good, or poor.Results— Fusion of the DIPJ was evident by 6 months. All cattle returned to full function with minimal lameness and normal appearance to the distal aspect of the limb. Four thoracic limbs and 3 pelvic limbs were affected; 3 medial and 4 lateral claws. Complications included moderate lameness associated with implants (n=2) that resolved after screw removal.Clinical Relevance— Use of the AP screw system in cattle is an excellent option for DIPJ arthrodesis with minimal postoperative morbidity and excellent return to function.