bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Substrate influences mating success and transmission of courtship vibrations for the parasitoid Cotesia marginiventris
Authors: Joyce Andrea L. , Hunt Randy E. , Bernal Julio S. , Bradleigh Vinson S. 
Published: February 2008

AbstractThe influences of artificial and natural rearing substrates on mating success were investigated for the parasitoid wasp Cotesia marginiventris (Cresson) (Hymenoptera: Braconidae), a candidate for augmentative biological control of various lepidopteran pests. Five rearing substrates were tested: plastic, glass, chiffon fabric, and leaves of two host plants, bean [Vigna unguiculata (L.) (Fabaceae)] and maize [Zea mays L. (Poaceae)]. Mating success was highest on chiffon, lowest on plastic and glass, and intermediate on maize and bean. The transmission characteristics of one component (buzz 1) of the courtship vibrations produced by male wing fanning were investigated using laser vibrometry. The duration of buzz 1 was longer on maize, bean, and chiffon than on plastic and glass. The fundamental frequency of buzz 1 (~300 Hz) was lowest on bean and highest on glass, and intermediate among other substrates. The relative amplitude of buzz 1 was higher on chiffon than on plastic, glass, or bean, and intermediate on maize. The relative importance of airborne sound and substrate vibration as courtship signals was also investigated with experiments that manipulated the production of courtship vibrations and the mating substrates. The amplitude of courtship vibrations on chiffon was significantly higher for winged males than for dealated males. The mating success of males was impacted by both the presence of wings and the mating substrate. These findings suggest that mating success and transmission of courtship vibrations are influenced by the rearing substrate, and that courtship vibrations are critical to mating success in C. marginiventris. Future efforts to mass rear this parasitoid and other insects should consider the potential influences of rearing substrates on mating.
Mesenchymal stem cells: biology and clinical potential in type 1 diabetes therapy
Authors: Liu Meng , Han Zhong Chao 
Published: February 2008

Introduction
Biological characterization of mesenchymal stem cells
Aetiology and current treatment of type 1 diabetes
Mesenchymal stem cells in type 1 diabetes therapy
Concluding remarks
AbstractMesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) can be derived from adult bone marrow, fat and several foetal tissues. In vitro, MSCs have the capacity to differentiate into multiple mesodermal and non‐mesodermal cell lineages. Besides, MSCs possess immunosuppressive effects by modulating the immune function of the major cell populations involved in alloantigen recognition and elimination. The intriguing biology of MSCs makes them strong candidates for cell‐based therapy against various human diseases. Type 1 diabetes is caused by a cell‐mediated autoimmune destruction of pancreatic β‐cells. While insulin replacement remains the cornerstone treatment for type 1 diabetes, the transplantation of pancreatic islets of Langerhans provides a cure for this disorder. And yet, islet transplantation is limited by the lack of donor pancreas. Generation of insulin‐producing cells (IPCs) from MSCs represents an attractive alternative. On the one hand, MSCs from pancreas, bone marrow, adipose tissue, umbilical cord blood and cord tissue have the potential to differentiate into IPCs by genetic modification and/or defined culture conditions In vitro. On the other hand, MSCs are able to serve as a cellular vehicle for the expression of human insulin gene. Moreover, protein transduction technology could offer a novel approach for generating IPCs from stem cells including MSCs. In this review, we first summarize the current knowledge on the biological characterization of MSCs. Next, we consider MSCs as surrogate β‐cell source for islet transplantation, and present some basic requirements for these replacement cells. Finally, MSCs‐mediated therapeutic neovascularization in type 1 diabetes is discussed.
Corneal hysteresis using the Reichert ocular response analyser: findings pre‐ and post‐LASIK and LASEK
Authors: Kirwan Caitriona , O’Keefe Michael 
Published: February 2008

Abstract.Purpose:  To evaluate and compare corneal hysteresis in patients prior to and following laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) and laser‐assisted subepithelial keratectomy (LASEK) using the Reichert ocular response analyser (ORA).Methods:  Corneal hysteresis was recorded prior to and 3 months after corneal laser refractive surgery for myopia. Preoperative corneal hysteresis was correlated with age and preoperative central corneal thickness (CCT). Postoperative corneal hysteresis was correlated with postoperative CCT in both the LASIK and LASEK treatment groups. The correlations between postoperative change in hysteresis and stromal ablation depth, percentage of tissue ablated, optical zone and patient age were also examined.Results:  A total of 84 eyes of 84 patients were involved in the study. LASIK was performed in 63 eyes and LASEK in 21. Mean preoperative corneal hysteresis of all eyes was 10.8 ± 1.5 mmHg. Mean age, preoperative CCT, corneal hysteresis and ablation profile were similar in both groups. A statistically significant decrease in hysteresis occurred following LASIK (p < 0.01) and LASEK (p < 0.01) with similar decrements observed in both treatment groups. A moderate correlation was found between postoperative hysteresis and postoperative CCT in LASIK (r = 0.7) and LASEK (r = 0.7) treated eyes. A weak correlation was found between postoperative decrease in hysteresis and the parameters examined.Conclusion:  Corneal hysteresis decreased following LASIK and LASEK. Similar reductions occurred following both procedures, indicating that LASIK involving a thin 120‐μm flap did not induce additional biomechanical change. Postoperative reduction in hysteresis did not correlate with the amount or percentage of corneal tissue removed, nor with optical zone or patient age.
Five‐year retrospective review of guideline‐based management of fungal endophthalmitis
Authors: Narendran Niro , Balasubramaniam Balini , Johnson Elizabeth , Dick Andrew , Mayer Eric 
Published: February 2008

ABSTRACT.Purpose:  Guidelines were introduced in 2000 at the Bristol Eye Hospital (BEH) for the management of fungal endophthalmitis. A 5‐year retrospective audit re‐evaluated the guidelines and monitored the management of this rare condition. Clinical effectiveness and management costs were considered in light of visual outcome.Methods:  Cases were identified through a 5‐year retrospective review of theatre logbooks, Patient Administration System coded admissions with primary diagnosis of purulent endophthalmitis and pharmacy logbooks of patients receiving antifungal therapy. Data correlation and review of patient management were carried out in light of the findings.Results:  Twenty‐three cases were included, based on clinical disease and/or positive smears or cultures. Age range was 13–74 years, with a male : female ratio of 16 : 7 and right eye : left eye ratio of 14 : 9.Risk factors for fungal endophthalmitis included septicaemia caused by intravenous drug use (78%), presence of indwelling lines (9%), postocular surgery (9%) and post‐trauma (4%). Guidelines were rigidly followed in 56% of cases, with improved visual acuity in 9/13 patients compared to 4/10 where management deviated from guidelines. Deviation from guidelines occurred with incomplete use of the recommended drug regimen for the disease severity or use of drugs that were alternative to the suggested guidelines. Treatment was initiated on clinical judgement in 91% of cases and laboratory diagnosis in 9%.Conclusion:  The BEH guidelines provided a useful reference when managing this uncommon condition. Voriconazole, a newer broad‐spectrum agent with good ocular penetration (used in 9%), has been added to the revised guidelines. Monitoring rare conditions over prolonged time frames supports evidence‐based medicine.
Is recurrent parotitis in childhood still an enigma? A pilot experience
Authors: Bernkopf Edoardo , Colleselli Paolo , Broia Vanna , De Benedictis Fernando Maria 
Published: February 2008

AbstractAim: To test the hypothesis that dental malocclusion with mandibular misplacement may be a causative factor for recurrent parotitis (RP) through unbalancing of masticatory muscles.Methods: Thirteen patients (age 4–14 years) who were referred to a dental clinic for RP and malocclusion were treated by oral appliance positioning for a 6‐month period. Monthly visits were scheduled regularly.Results: Symptoms were clearly improved in nine children. No effect was obtained in three patients. One patient was lost at follow‐up.Conclusion: Occlusal intervention is effective in patients with RP and associated malocclusion. It should be considered an important option for the treatment of such intriguing disorder.
Neurodevelopmental outcome in prenatally diagnosed isolated agenesis of the corpus callosum
Authors: Chadie A , Radi S , Trestard L , Charollais A , Eurin D , Verspyck E , Marret S ,   for the Haute‐Normandie Perinatal Network
Published: February 2008

AbstractAim: To evaluate long‐term neurodevelopmental outcomes in children with prenatally diagnosed, isolated agenesis of the corpus callosum (ACC).Methods: We retrospectively reviewed data for 20 children born between January 1991 and November 2003 in the Haute‐Normandie region of France with a prenatal diagnosis of isolated ACC. We collected data on pre‐and postnatal neuroimaging findings, clinical features at birth and neurodevelopmental outcomes.Results: Follow‐up ranged from 3 to 16 years. ACC was complete in 11 patients (55%), partial in 2 (10%), hypoplastic in 3 (15%) and associated with an interhemispheric cyst in 4 (20%). Neurodevelopmental outcome was normal in 11 (55%) patients, including 8 with complete ACC; moderate disability was present in 5 (25%) patients and severe disability in 4 (20%) patients. In 3 of the 4 patients with severe disability, postnatal cerebral magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed additional major cerebral abnormalities.Conclusion: Neurodevelopmental outcome was good in most of our patients with isolated ACC, with 80% of patients having normal outcomes or moderate disabilities. A prenatal diagnosis of isolated ACC may not warrant termination of pregnancy. A carefully interpreted prenatal cerebral MRI is crucial to detect associated cerebral abnormalities; a longer follow‐up is necessary to look for moderate disabilities.
Measurement of the Thickness of the Urethrovaginal Space in Women with or without Vaginal Orgasm
Authors: Gravina Giovanni Luca , Brandetti Fulvia , Martini Paolo , Carosa Eleonora , Di Stasi Savino M. , Morano Susanna , Lenzi Andrea , Jannini Emmanuele A. 
Published: February 2008

ABSTRACTIntroductionThe physiology and anatomy of female sexual function are poorly understood. The differences in sexual function among women may be partly attributed to anatomical factors.AimThe purpose of this study was to use ultrasonography to evaluate the anatomical variability of the urethrovaginal space in women with and without vaginal orgasm.MethodsTwenty healthy, neurologically intact volunteers were recruited from a population of women who were a part of a previous published study. All women underwent a complete urodynamic evaluation and those with clinical and urodynamic urinary incontinence, idiopathic detrusor overactivity, or micturition disorders, as well as postmenopausal women and those with sexual dysfunction were excluded. The reported experience of vaginal orgasm was investigated.Main Outcome MeasureThe urethrovaginal space thickness as measured by ultrasound was chosen as the indicator of urogenital anatomical variability. Designated evaluators carried out the measurements in a blinded fashion.ResultsThe urethrovaginal space and distal, middle, and proximal urethrovaginal segments were thinner in women without vaginal orgasm. A direct correlation between the presence of vaginal orgasm and the thickness of urethrovaginal space was found. Women with a thicker urethrovaginal space were more likely to experience vaginal orgasm (r =0.884; P =0.015). A direct and significant correlation between the thickness of each urethrovaginal segment and the presence of vaginal orgasm was found, with the best correlation observed for the distal segment (r =0.863; P &lt;0.0001). Interobserver agreement between the designated evaluators was excellent (r =0.87; P &lt;0.001).ConclusionsThe measurement of the space within the anterior vaginal wall by ultrasonography is a simple tool to explore anatomical variability of the human clitoris-urethrovaginal complex, also known as the G-spot, which can be correlated to the ability to experience the vaginally activated orgasm.
Physician Attitudes Regarding Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder in a Primary Care Clinic: A Pilot Study
Authors: Harsh Veronica , McGarvey Elizabeth Lloyd , Clayton Anita H. 
Published: February 2008

ABSTRACT

Introduction
Female sexual dysfunction (FSD), in particular, complaints of low desire, affects many American women. Despite the impact FSD may have on these women, many do not present their symptoms to their physicians.

Aim
To determine physician attitudes and practices regarding hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) in the primary care setting.

Main Outcome Measures
A 10-item questionnaire regarding HSDD.

Methods
All residents and faculty in an academic primary care clinic were invited to participate in a web-based survey regarding HSDD. Return of the questionnaire was considered consent. Responses were downloaded into Excel and converted into an spss database.

Results
In total, 53 of 155 physicians responded (46% response rate—41.5% women, 58.5% men). Of respondents, 90% reported little confidence in making the diagnosis of HSDD, 90% of physicians had not screened a patient for HSDD, and 98% of the physicians had not prescribed medication for patients with HSDD. No significant gender differences among physicians were identified, but faculty providers had more confidence in diagnosing and treating HSDD than resident physicians.

Conclusions
These results indicate there is an opportunity to improve patient care and life satisfaction by offering physicians training on diagnosis and management of HSDD.
Role of Soybean GmbZIP132 under Abscisic Acid and Salt Stresses
Authors: Liao Yong , Zhang Jin‐Song , Chen Shou‐Yi , Zhang Wan‐Ke 
Published: February 2008

Abstract Plant basic‐leucine zipper (bZIP) transcription factors play important roles in many biological processes. In the present study, a bZIP gene, GmbZIP132, was cloned from soybean and its biological function under abiotic stresses was studied. The transcription of GmbZIP132 was induced by drought and high salt treatments. Among all of the organs analyzed, its expression was the highest in cotytledon and stems. GmbZIP132 could weakly bind to the GCN4‐like motif (GLM) (5′‐GTGAGTCAT‐3′) in yeast one‐hybrid assay. Compared with wild‐type (WT) Arabidopsis plants, transgenic plants overexpressing GmbZIP132 showed reduced abscisic acid sensitivity and increased water loss rate. At the stage of germination, transgenic plants were more tolerant to salt treatment than wild‐type plants. The expression of some abiotic stress‐related genes, such as rd29B, DREB2A, and P5CS, were upregulated in the transgenic plants. These results indicated that GmbZIP132 was an abiotic stress‐related gene, and its overexpression could increase the salt tolerance of transgenic Arabidopsis plants during germination, yet no significant difference of tolerance to abiotic stresses was found between transgenic and wild type plants at the seedling stage.
Nitric Oxide Reduces Hydrogen Peroxide Accumulation Involved in Water Stress‐induced Subcellular Anti‐oxidant Defense in Maize Plants
Authors: Sang Jianrong , Jiang Mingyi , Lin Fan , Xu Shucheng , Zhang Aying , Tan Mingpu 
Published: February 2008

Abstract Nitric oxide (NO) is a bioactive molecule involved in many biological events, and has been reported as pro‐oxidant as well as anti‐oxidant in plants. In the present study, the sources of NO production under water stress, the role of NO in water stress‐induced hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) accumulation and subcellular activities of anti‐oxidant enzymes in leaves of maize (Zea mays L.) plants were investigated. Water stress induced defense increases in the generation of NO in maize mesphyll cells and the activity of nitric oxide synthase (NOS) in the cytosolic and microsomal fractions of maize leaves. Water stress‐induced defense increases in the production of NO were blocked by pretreatments with inhibitors of NOS and nitrate reductase (NR), suggesting that NO is produced from NOS and NR in leaves of maize plants exposed to water stress. Water stress also induced increases in the activities of the chloroplastic and cytosolic anti‐oxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD), ascorbate peroxidase (APX), and glutathione reductase (GR), and the increases in the activities of anti‐oxidant enzymes were reduced by pretreatments with inhibitors of NOS and NR. Exogenous NO increases the activities of water stress‐induced subcellular anti‐oxidant enzymes, which decreases accumulation of H2O2. Our results suggest that NOS and NR are involved in water stress‐induced NO production and NOS is the major source of NO. The potential ability of NO to scavenge H2O2 is, at least in part, due to the induction of a subcellular anti‐oxidant defense.
FILTRATION AND REMOVAL OF FOODBORNE PATHOGENS USING DIELECTROPHORETIC PHENOMENA
Authors: WU VIVIAN C.H. , WU CHUNG‐CHUN 
Published: February 2008

ABSTRACT We tested dielectrophoresis (DEP) phenomena on removal of foodborne pathogens using a DEP chip. Also studied was the potential application of DEP in eliminating Escherichia coli O157:H7 from liquid samples by a circulating DEP filtration (DF) system. With voltage application, four types of foodborne bacteria were captured on the surface of glass beads (500 µm in diameter) in the DEP chip. Ten milliliters of bacteria in deionized water (8.6 × 107 cfu/mL) was circulated for 5 h in the DF system. Absorbance (560 nm) of the cell solution decreased from 0.125 to 0.015 after circulating DF. In contrast, absorbance of the cell solution without voltage application to the system had no significant change. Viable bacteria cells decreased to 9.9 × 101 cfu/mL after DF. Dielectrophoretic filtration efficiency (DFE) of the system was 85.71%. Total filtration efficiency including DFE and mechanic entrapment of the cells was 99.99%.PRACTICAL APPLICATIONSVarious types of filters are available in the food industry. Most of them are based on the principle that the pores of the filter mechanically trap contaminant particles. However, clogging causes an increase in the cost of operation and maintenance due to inevitable filter replacements. Filtration based on the principle of dielectrophoresis (DEP) can be an alternative because it does not need pores to capture contaminants and it is easy to apply in automatic or continuous systems. A DEP filtration (DF) system may have potential applications by spring water companies after scale‐up optimization.
Relationship of Anger, Stress, and Coping With School Connectedness in Fourth‐Grade Children
Authors: Rice Marti , Kang Duck‐Hee , Weaver Michael , Howell Carol C. 
Published: February 2008

ABSTRACTBackground:  High trait anger and stress, ineffective patterns of anger expression, and coping are risk factors for the development of disease and negative social behaviors in children and adults. School connectedness may be protective against negative consequences in adolescents, but less is known about this in school‐aged children. The purposes of this study were to characterize relationships between trait anger, stress, patterns of anger expression, resources for coping, and school connectedness and to determine if race and gender moderate these relationships in elementary school–aged children.Methods:  Using self‐report, standardized instruments, a convenience sample of 166 fourth graders in 4 elementary schools in 1 US school district was assessed in the fifth week of the school year.Results:  School connectedness was positively associated with social confidence and behavior control and negatively associated with trait anger, anger‐out, and stress. In multiple regression analyses to test for interactions, gender did not moderate the effects of school connectedness in any of the models, while race moderated the relationships between school connectedness and both stress and social confidence. Students with higher school connectedness had lower trait anger and anger‐out and higher behavior control, regardless of gender and/or race. White students higher in school connectedness had lower stress and higher social confidence.Conclusions:  Findings indicate the protective effect of school connectedness on trait anger, anger‐out, and behavior control in school‐aged children, regardless of race or gender. The protective effect of school connectedness on stress and social confidence may depend on race.
Passive Versus Active Parental Permission: Implications for the Ability of School‐Based Depression Screening to Reach Youth at Risk*
Authors: Chartier Maggie , Stoep Ann Vander , McCauley Elizabeth , Herting Jerald R. , Tracy Melissa , Lymp James 
Published: February 2008

ABSTRACTBackground:  Depression is prevalent among children and adolescents and often goes untreated with adverse effects on academic success and healthy development. Depression screening can facilitate early identification and timely referral to prevention and treatment programs. Conducting school‐based emotional health screening, however, raises the controversial issue of how to obtain informed parental permission.Methods:  During implementation of a depression screening program in an urban school district in the Pacific Northwest, the district’s parental permission protocol changed from passive (information provided to parents via a school mailer with parents having the option to actively decline their child’s participation) to active (information provided to parents via a school mailer requiring the written permission of the parents for their child’s participation). This change provided an opportunity to examine differences in participation under these 2 conditions.Results:  A total of 1533 students were enrolled in this program across both years. Compared to conditions of passive permission, participation was dramatically reduced when children were required to have written parental permission, dropping from 85% to 66% of eligible children. Furthermore, under conditions of active parental permission, participation decreased differentially among student subgroups with increased risk for depression.Conclusions:  Successful implementation of school‐based emotional health screening programs requires careful consideration of how to inform and obtain permission from parents.